This solution combines Murata’s low-power hardware with cellular connectivity, cloud services, and a device Connectivity Management Platform (CMP) from providers, that helps to reduce the operational costs associated with globally distributed IoT applications.
At the moment, in many global IoT deployments, a complex coordination of hardware modules, CMPs, cloud services, and Connectivity Service Providers (CSPs) is needed in order to manage cellular IoT nodes spread across different regions.
Now, the ZENCROSS Alliance will provides a “turnkey” solution that enables companies ranging from start-ups to medium-size enterprises to simplify their cellular IoT deployments, reducing both initial development and ongoing running costs.
ZENCROSS Alliance provides a unified core network incorporating cloud infrastructure facilitated by Amazon Web Services (AWS) and to ensure a secure and efficient connection to the AWS IoT Core, ZENCROSS utilises Aeris’ connectivity platform with Tartabit, establishing a lightweight connection with zero-touch provisioning.
Aeris allows for the management of all globally distributed IoT assets within its singular platform, irrespective of their regional location and CSP, helping to dramatically simplify the management of cellular IoT networks.
The ZENCROSS Alliance also encompasses a range of leading regional MNOs, such as Ooredoo and alliance newcomer Telenor, which provide cellular network connectivity.
The hardware component of the platform consists of a compact and cost-effective “single SKU” Cat.M1/NB-IoT module provided by Murata. This module includes hardware, firmware, and appropriate local CSPs for each region, ensuring streamlined development and setup.
Three starter kits are available to expedite development, including a global Cat.M1/NB-IoT starter kit and two region-specific Cat.1bis kits for the EU and US that leverage technology from Sequans.
Thales is providing advanced eSIM management technology that further simplifies deployment, enabling the platform to support different SIM profiles worldwide with a single hardware design.
Commenting Olivier Pauzet, EVP Marketing & Strategy at Sequans said, “Our collaboration with Murata and other industry leaders will not only enhance the ZENCROSS portfolio but also accelerate global IoT deployments. Together, we aim to provide a comprehensive solution that addresses the complexities of cellular IoT management while driving innovation in this rapidly evolving space."
In addition to reducing the complexity and costs linked to globally distributed IoT networks, this integrated hardware, firmware, and connectivity ecosystem will enable in the reduction of data consumption, fees, and extended battery life, thanks to its lightweight payload and secure private network.
“The ZENCROSS Alliance is a prime example of how collaboration across companies can help to remove existing technical barriers, paving the way for new and exciting IoT applications,” said Tomy Runne, Vice President of Strategic Marketing at Murata Europe. He continued, “Combining our low-power hardware with cutting-edge solutions from market leading companies will help to further drive cellular IoT technology while reducing energy consumption, costs, and management complexity.”
The ZENCROSS Alliance is designed to address the growing number of low-power cellular IoT networks, including smart city and agricultural deployments as well as industrial and fleet management/asset tracking applications.
