LPWA cellular modules have been designed by several partners including AM Telecom, Fibocom, Murata, Quectel, Semtech, Telit Cinterion and Wistron NeWeb (WNC) and the modules are now available for sampling, with mass production expected during the first half of 2024.
The Sony Altair ALT1350 is the first cellular LTE-M/NB-IoT SoC to adopt a low-power application MCU, a sensor-hub for data collection and processing, enhanced security, integrated SIM (iSIM) location technology and an additional sub-GHz LPWA/FAN customisable transceiver and NTN communication options in a single chip.
The chip features cellular connected standby mode (eDRX) connectivity at a power consumption of below 3µA, and its overall power consumption performance achieves up to 10 times longer battery life compared to previous generations, according to Sony. Its comprehensive feature set and the performance of the chipset makes it suitable for smart utility meters and single-chip asset-tracking applications.
The ALT1350 chipset provide a number of connectivity options and can support connectivity choices for most industries and markets.
In smart cities and utility spaces, for example, the ALT1350 can perform as a low-power cellular modem, a low-power mesh device, and a router between cellular and mesh networks as well as provide multiple connectivity backup options.
“Commercial adaptation of the ALT1350 SoC by industry leaders demonstrates strong demand for new generation LPWA technology solutions” said Nohik Semel, CEO of Sony Semiconductor Israel. “This SoC enables applications for smart cities, logistics and asset trackers, connected health devices, and in the wearables market as it brings in an era of connected everything in which battery consumption is no longer a concern.”
