NB-IoT is a Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) based wireless protocol for the Internet of Things (IoT). It was generated by the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) to facilitate a whole new range of services and devices based on NB-IoT for cellular wireless communication. NB-IoT forms one of the three principal LPWAN standards under 3GPP.
The NB-IoT communication standard allows IoT devices to operate through carrier networks, whether on an existing Global System for Mobile (GSM) communication carrier wave, in a free guard band between Long-Term Evolution (LTE) channels, or on their own.
The NB-IoT chipsets are simple to construct and involve lower component costs. NB-IoT delivers great value in terms of reliability and lower maintenance costs.
Globally, 133 service providers have deployed or commercially launched NB-IoT networks and 61 have launched Cat-M (cellular connectivity for “massive IoT). The total number of cellular IoT connections reached 3.4 billion at the end of 2023 and is forecasted to approach 4 billion at the end of 2024.
Benefits of NB IoT Technology
If you have been thinking about the reasons to opt for IoT app development services, here are a few reasons to consider:
# Unparalleled Indoor Coverage
Different parts of the world including rural areas can expect improved signal quality in their devices thanks to the advancements made by NB-IoT units in terms of their physical layer. An increase in coverage will be realized through an increase in signal density that has been achieved by the integration of more channels and signals into this new platform. The specificity of NB-IoT is such that it has an additional 20 dB of power thereby enabling its signal to penetrate buildings deeper and travel longer distances than with other Low power wide area networks (LPWANs).
Also Read:- Top 10 Reasons Why Node.js is Ideal for IoT App Development
# Extended Battery Life
NB-IoT is not like any other ordinary network that was made for huge data transmission from phones, unlike normal 4G LTE networks created to aid telephones shift copious amounts of Data. It enables small and lesser power consuming Devices free from the consumption of much battery thereby making them long and durable. Consequently, such a cut in expenses helps to bring down ownership expenses toward IOT gadgets directly.
# Cost-effective
Developing NB-IoT modules is easier and cheaper than manufacturing 4G LTE modules, so they are more convenient. Moreover, because of their low data consumption rates, using NB-IoT equipment has fewer mobile network charges. With the top IoT app development company you will be able to experience affordability with NB-IoT systems.
# Bandwidth
NB-IoT is built with a wide band efficiency consideration. It occupies a tiny part of the frequency space, which enables a number of NB-IoT networks to survive in similar environments without clash.
# NB-IoT vs 5G Technology
3GPP is in control of 5G and has added NB-IoT into the 5G specification. In fact, 3GPP intends to only support low power wide area (LPWA) standards for NB-IoT and LTE-M.
The use of millimeter wave frequencies in 5G allows it to transmit huge amounts of data at a much faster rate than before. The fifth generation of mobile networks, which is referred to as 5G, manipulates higher radio frequencies compared to earlier generations of networks like 4G.
However, one major disadvantage of millimeter wave technology is that its signals can be easily disturbed by environmental elements such as trees, buildings, or even weather elements.
Although NB-IoT does not support a high data transfer rate due to its limitation on bandwidth and speed, it does excel in transmitting signals over long distances including fields with obstacles between them like buildings. NB-IoT is one such technology among few others that can offer support for cellular LPWA networks hence supporting co-existence between 5G and NB-IoT is also possible.
However, it is essential to hire a top IoT app development company to get access to these benefits.
Also Read:- How to Select the Right IoT Database Architecture?
How does the NB-IoT Technology Work?
NB-IoT is a new 3GPP-powered data transmission standard for devices operating in mobile carrier networks. Existing GSM and LTE technologies are enabled for communication using low-bandwidth signals. The NB-IoT standard employs a small radio band of 200 kilohertz (kHz) particularly developed to support the use cases of IoT applications.
Additionally, NB-IoT app development services employ specifically engineered gadgets or sensors as major building blocks. These appliances gather data from the environment and send it to NB-IoT transmission nodes or base stations. Each base station connects with an IoT cloud application server and IoT gateways for centralized observance and information scrutiny.
NB-IoT uses a fresh physical layer with channels and signals to fulfill the long-range demand in the countryside far and within tall residential buildings, but keeping devices less complicated. Compared to GSM/General Packet Radio Services, its underlying technology is much simpler.
NB-IoT can work alongside 2G, 3G, 4G LTE-M, and 5G cellular networks supported by all major chipsets, mobile equipment, and module makers.
NB-IoT Applications Use Cases
NB-IoT networks caters to wide range of applications used by numerous industries across the world. NB-IoT networks support connectivity, remote monitoring and data insights. With a drastic expansion model, the energy-saving features of NB-IoT will help reduce emissions. Some of the most important applications include, kiosks and digital signage, agriculture, smart cities, healthcare, automotive, transportation, logistics, automation of home and buildings, and so on.
# Energy Saving
The application of automatic light-dimming motion sensors that are tied to an NB-IoT system within an office building is a means by which they can help save on devices that are always on.
# Smart Metering
For monitoring gas and water meters through standardized and reduced data transmissions, NB-IoT is an appropriate option. The main challenge in the implementation of smart metering relates to network coverage since meters are frequently placed deep down underground, inside cellars, or in isolated rural locations. NB-IoT coverage is capable of solving this problem.
# Smart Cities
Local authorities can manage street lighting, detect free parking areas, decide when waste cans should be emptied, keep an eye on environmental factors, and check road surfaces through the use of NB-IoT app development solutions in smart city installations.
# Tracking
NB-IoT, meant for animals, personal and asset tracking, provides an economical and safe approach when constant following is not needed. NB-IoT is appropriate to monitor those things that aren’t always moving.
# Smart farming
In order to alert farmers and rural areas about dangerous elements in the environment, NB-IoT connectivity allows them to collect data through environmental sensors equipped with NB-IoT modules. These sensors may be used for humidity and temperature measurement in soil, along with attributes such as land usage, pollution levels, noise detection, etc.
Conclusion
In our world today, IoT app development solutions are changing everything we do and NB-IoT is leading this process. A business can utilize Narrowband IoT in order to understand its functionality and promote innovation as well as improve efficiency. Some might argue that there are several drawbacks of NB-IoT but it is important to note that despite these NB-IOT advantages make it an attractive option for various Internet of Things applications including better coverage indoors, low costs, and long-lasting batteries.
When selecting NB-IoT solutions, look for a partner that can provide more than just hardware. Large-scale implementations require an end-to-end solution that enables remote monitoring and management and regular security updates. Shiv Technolabs offers deep expertise and ready-to-deploy solutions so you can install, manage, and support an NB-IoT network at any scale — anywhere, anytime.
Revolutionize Your Digital Presence with Our Mobile & Web Development Service. Trusted Expertise, Innovation, and Success Guaranteed.
