Qualcomm launches new LTE modems for IoT connectivity

Two new LTE modems have been launched which are designed specifically to improve device connectivity to the IoT.

Qualcomm Technologies’ latest model, the MDM9207-1 and MDM9206, will support reliable, optimised cellular connectivity to a growing array of devices and IoT systems, according to the vendor, a subsidiary of chip maker Qualcomm.

The MDM9207-1 model is purpose-built for situations where reliable, low power gadgets connect to cloud services. The main application of this modem will be in smart metering, security, asset tracking, wearables, point-of-sale and industrial automation, says the vendor. Among the customisable features this model offers are Category 1 LTE connectivity and features to optimise power and throughput.

Meanwhile, low data rate applications will be catered for by the MDM9206 model, which is a narrowband modem that provides a cheaper alternative in situations where ultra-low power and extended range are called for.

The features found in these new LTE modems show how the company is building out its 4G range as a stepping stone into 5G in the near future, according to Anthony Murray, the general manager for the Internet of Everything at Qualcomm Technologies. “We are expanding the range of LTE commercial devices to new low power wide area technologies. That will lead to global cellular solutions with longer range, lower power and lower complexity,” he said.

Device makers, system integrators and developers now have a mature modem platform to support 3G/4G LTE multimode and Linux-based applications, according to Murray. The speed ranges in these LTE category 1 devices are a maximum of 10 Mbps for downlinks and 5Mbps for uplink.

All major cellular standards are supported including LTE FDD, LTE TDD, DC-HSPA, GSM and TD-SCDMA. The controlling software is scalable across chipset platforms and there is in-built integrated voice support for Circuit Switched Fall Back (CSFB) and VoLTE.

The MDM9207-1 chipset is anticipated to be available in commercial products in the first half of 2016.