IoT (internet of things) is a network of smart devices, such as watches, cars, and appliances, that are connected to the internet. These devices can send and receive information from the internet to improve the overall experience.
For example, today we have smart cars that offer features like GPS, smart doors, autoroute, etc. These features are designed to reduce the risk of accidents and make driving a fun and safe task.
More and more devices are now turning smart. In fact, according to the International Energy Agency, it is estimated that around 14 billion devices will be connected to the internet by 2020.
The internet is growing and so are smart devices. We currently have about 3.5 billion internet users and the number is expected to continue to grow in the future. Imagine the impact IoT can have at large.
All these devices use the internet to exchange data. This is possible thanks to Narrowband IoT, a technology that follows LTE standards giving battery-power appliances or devices the ability to use the cellular network to connect to the internet.
Narrowband IoT (NB IoT) is a growing technology that is yet to be available on a global scale. However, given its huge growth, companies should waste no time in preparing to employ this technology.
The Problem with Our Current Technology
The biggest problem with LTE, the technology we currently use to connect smart devices to the internet, is the cost.
It’s very expensive. Plus, LTE also uses a lot of battery power, which can lead to trouble, especially when you have several devices simultaneously connected to the internet.
How Does NB IoT Help?
This technology uses very little power. Your devices will run for longer hours, without requiring frequencies charging or battery changes.
Plus, NB IoT is also more affordable than LTE. However, the technology is still in its testing phase. There may be some challenges when it finally hits the market.
How NB IoT Can Benefit Businesses
NB IoT is designed for all kinds of users, including businesses. Here’s how it can benefit the corporate sector:
- Not Power Hungry: Unlike LTE, NB IoT isn’t designed to consume a lot of power. In fact, it can enable battery-powered devices to run for about 10 years. Imagine the difference it can make!
- Cost Saving: Businesses will save money they’d spend on batteries and charging.
- Growth: It would allow businesses to grow more as it is easily scalable. Plus, there will be growth in the number of users due to it being more affordable.
- Security: It is safer than WiFi and Bluetooth and can’t be easily hacked into.
- Max Coverage Area: It is designed to cover a large area which is why deployment in homes and offices will not be a problem.
Where Is NB IoT Used?
Technically speaking, it can be used to run all kinds of smart devices including smoke detectors and wearable gadgets such as Apple watches and GoPro cameras. In fact, it can also make logistic tracking easier.
We are not far from a future where NB IoT would be ruling the world of tech.
About the author: As CEO and President, Mark D. Hearn leads the vision and direction of Network Control. He has been an active steward in the telecom management marketplace since 1987 and is recognized as a pioneer in the TEM industry.
Edited by
Ken Briodagh
