NB-IoT Low-Power and Wide-Area Standard, LPWA Energy Efficient Long-Range Network

Standardization of the Internet of Things

Main article: Standardization of the Internet of Things

About NB-IoT Standard

The NB-IoT standard was developed by the 3GPP consortium, taking into account the requirements of operators: IoT services must be transmitted using a transmission technology known as the "Low-Power and Wide-Area" (LPWA) and use the existing operator infrastructure. From the point of view of versatility, NB-IoT is the most suitable LPWA solution for enterprises in various industries, with which utility meters, monitoring sensors, object tracking systems and a lot of other devices can be connected to the operator's network. One of the features of the technology is the ability to connect up to 100 thousand devices to one cell of a base station, which is tens of times higher than the capabilities of existing mobile communication standards. The use of a low frequency range will provide coverage for such hard-to-reach places as basement rooms, basements, etc. In addition, when working in the new standard, devices use the battery more economically, which allows them to work without recharging for much longer. For example, a water meter with an autonomous battery when working in the NB-IoT standard can serve up to 10 years without recharging and receive a signal when installed in a basement.

The GSMA predicts IoT connections across mobile and LPWA networks will exceed 3 billion by 2020. Resource meters, wristwatches and bracelets, pet collars, sensors in parking lots - each of the devices will need access to the network. NB-IoT (Narrow Band IoT) communication technology for the Internet of Things significantly reduces power consumption by end devices, provides significantly better coverage and penetration of communication, and increases the maximum number of connected devices.

There are three technological options for deploying NB-IoT, namely:

• in the frequency band along with LTE services;
• in the unused part of the radio spectrum between frequency bands (in order to prevent interference from the adjacent channel at the boundaries of the existing LTE frequencies);
• The use of a separate spectrum (hereinafter, we will discuss trade-offs and related factors that determine the best choice of technology when deploying NB-IoT).

NB-IoT will allow mobile operators to immediately provide commercial solutions in the IoT segment. This will happen as early as 2017, long before 5G is standardized.

Three "narrowband IoT" deployment options affect performance not only for NB-IoT RAN (Radio access network; radio access network in various cellular standards), but also for simultaneous deployment of both IoT and MBB (mobile broadband).

From a radio access network (RAN) perspective, there are three options for deploying NB-IoT. Two of these options are suitable for deployment in a spectrum that has already been licensed.

• An " in band" variant where NB-IoT is deployed within the existing LTE spectrum used to provide mobile broadband (MBB) services;
• A "secure band" variant using spectrum at channel edges (i.e., in an unused portion of the spectrum) of existing LTEs. However, interference from an adjacent channel at the boundaries of existing LTE base stations is likely here. "Protected bands" can be used without taking into account the capacities of the main LTE base stations);
• A third option is to deploy the NB-IoT using dedicated frequency assignment (i.e., "stand-alone" deployment), as well as using a set of different dedicated base stations specifically for LTE and VBM.

Regulators do not allocate individual frequencies for NB-IoT, although this approach can be applied. For example, it would be possible to determine the IoT spectrum from 700 MHz band (so-called 2×3 MHz, from 733-736 MHz and 788-791 MHz). This 2×3 MHz spectrum is adjacent to the main MBB-oriented 700 MHz frequency scheme (as shown in Figure 1) and therefore will have no effect on the amount of spectrum available for MBB.

and Asia, the

The "secure band" solution uses less MBB capacity compared to the intra-frequency deployment option. This option is unlikely to offer the same level of performance as using a separate frequency spectrum due to the more limited optimization prospects for service delivery, coverage area, and IoT traffic volume.

There may also be other advantages from the use of dedicated spectrum, including the ability to optimize RAN, thereby providing excellent indoor coverage. At the same time, the power consumption of the devices can be reduced by the same better indoor coating.

Some cases of IoT use require a faster network response time due to the nature of the traffic (e.g. applications in the health sector or connections to vehicles). A specially selected spectrum will help to ensure a more reliable connection in the event of such situations and at the same time effectively use existing services and network resources (for example, billing and security)^[1]

The first devices with support for NB-IoT technologies are expected to enter the market in late 2016 - early 2017. NB-IoT technology works in LTE networks and will be relevant in the further transition to fifth generation 5G standards.

History

The history of LPWAN began long before the French Sigfox in 2009 launched a wireless network of the same name in an unlicensed frequency band. The goal of the company was to connect facilities to the network, which do not require much energy to work. Meters, washing machines, etc. were the first to be connected.

Nevertheless, the first devices that began work in the predecessors of modern LPWA networks were signaling systems. So, in 1980-1990. similar topologies and network architectures with LPWAN began to appear. For example, AlarmNet, a subsidiary of ADEMCO, connected fire detectors from a wireless network and monitored their work. The network operated at 928 MHz in the United States and covered 65% of the population. Honeywell subsequently acquired AlarmNet.

Another supplier - ARDIS, which founded in the 1980s. wireless network with a wide coverage area, belonged to Motorola. Equipment to automate sales and online transactions was connected to this low-speed network. Subsequently, American Mobile acquired ARDIS, and the new owner transferred customer service to more modern networks.

With the gradual development of technology, monitoring solution companies have switched to 2G networks. It happened in the late 1990s. By the standards of that time, 2G networks had widespread coverage of^[2].

LPWANs

Two main implementations of LPWAN network:

• Licensed frequency range (increased power, relatively high speed, no interference)
• Unlicensed frequency range (low power, low speed, limited transmitter operating cycle, possible interference from other players)

Three main technologies for building LPWAN networks:

• NB-IoT - cellular evolution;
• SigFox in the world and Strizh, VAVIOT in Russia - UNB unlicensed LPWAN;
• LoRa is a broadband unlicensed LPWAN.

NB-IoT is likely to capture most of the high-yield market, but unlicensed technology has every chance of capturing a lower-yield market with billions of connected simple and cheap devices.

LPWAN networks LoRa Alliance, Sigfox, Ingenu and other providers are actively developing. Let's take a closer look at some networks.

Ultra Narrow Band

Ultra Narrow Band (UNB) is an ultra-narrow modulation band technology. UNB includes well-known networks such as NB-IoT and Sigfox.

NB-IoT

NB-IoT was developed based on existing mobile communication standards. NB-IoT networks operate in a licensed frequency spectrum. Standardization of the technology was completed in June 2016. Oversees the development of this 3GPP network.

NB-IoT provides support for more than 100 thousand connections per cell, the battery of a device connected to NB-IoT can work for up to ten years without recharging. It also provides wide coverage with a gain of 20 dB in the GSM network, etc.

Four NB-IoT networks, according to GSMA, were already operating in April 2017. At the same time, 40 NB-IoT networks were tested around the world.

Physical and economic constraints of NB-IoT that define the area of possible benefit of unlicensed solutions:

• Non-efficient use of battery power - a large amount of overhead information per information bit (registration, encryption, billing, the need for constant synchronization of end devices with the network).
• Relatively complex and expensive radio modules.
• Quite high, for a certain class of devices, subscriber fee.
• Dependence on the operator and his priorities first serve voice communication and classic Internet.
• Works only where there is a cellular network.

LoRa

Main article: LoRa - wireless technology for IoT

LoRa is a patented frequency spread spectrum. In 2008, the technology was patented by the French company Cycleo, and in 2012 Semtech acquired this company. From that moment, the take-off of LoRaWAN began. Semtech managed to interest IBM and Cisco in the new technology, which later entered the LoRa Alliance. See also Product:LoRaWAN LoRa Alliance

The best-known LoRa protocol, LoRaWAN, is a hardware communication control protocol between LPWAN gateways and device endpoints. The LoRaWAN (Long Range wide-area networks) is deployed in a non-licensing frequency spectrum.

Devices in the LoRaWAN asynchronously send data to the gateway. Then several gateways that receive this information send data packets to a centralized network server, and from it to application servers.

In Russia, Everynet and Network 868 are promoting the LoRaWAN standard. MegaFon, VimpelCom and MTS are also interested in this technology.

The protocol is supported globally by LoRa Alliance. The alliance brings together more than 500 hardware and software companies and LoRaWAN operators.

LoRaWAN communication services are provided by 42 operators in more than 250 cities around the world. Experts explain this popularity of this standard by the low level of energy consumption (about 10 years from one battery), a large coverage area and a low cost of sensors (up to $10).

LoRaWAN and Strizh: Comparison

Martin"" and LoRa belong to the family of non-cellular global LPWANs, so there are not as many qualitative differences between them as, for example, LoRaWAN and NB IoT-. For the operation of these networks, the frequencies of 868 MHz^[3] are used^[4].

1. Communication protocol

One of the main differences between these networks is the communication protocol. LoRa uses LoRaWAN - MAC link layer protocol (OSI media layer 2) for networks with many nodes with a large range and low power consumption.

The Strizh network uses its own Marcato 2.0 protocol. This protocol is private. The protocol provides XTEA encryption using a 256-bit key.

2. Degree of Propietarity

Strizh uses the closed Marcato 2.0 protocol for operation. As a result, gateways and terminal devices manufactured by Strizha are needed to work in this network. Such an absolute degree of propietarity can negatively affect both the cost of devices and their assortment.

LoRaWAN is characterized by a low degree of propietarity. The patent for LoRa chips belongs to Semtech. However, the patent holder is not opposed to several companies producing equipment. In addition, the final devices are produced by several dozen third-party manufacturers. As a result, the user has many budget and effective options for building IoT solutions based on LoRa.

3. Modulation

LoRa uses a method of modulation with spread spectrum and variation of linear frequency modulation, and Strizh uses a super-narrowband method with DBPSK differential binary phase manipulation.

The application of wideband LoRaWAN code manipulation results in a decrease in frequency spectrum efficiency. As a result, the number of devices for operation in a certain frequency range is significantly lower than that of the Swift. Up to 1250 Strizh devices can be used in the 125 kHz LoRa band required to encode a single channel.

4. Signal bandwidth

The bandwidth recommended for the standard LoRaWAN network is 125 kHz. The "Swift" has a signal bandwidth of 100 Hz. The standard LoRaWAN network has eight wide channels of 125 kilohertz, while the Swift has 5,000 narrow channels of 100 hertz each. The narrow channel has several features. For example, it requires the frequency stability of quartz resonators that control the operating frequency of the subscriber unit. Otherwise, it is necessary to use expensive thermal compensated generators, in which the frequency error is an order of magnitude less.

5. Channel separation

FDMA (Frequency Division Multiple Access) is frequency division multiple access. The share is divided into several devices. Such division can be equal or unequal. FDMA is typically used in conjunction with TDMA and CDMA multiple access methods.

The principle of operation of TDMA is that at a certain frequency the base station operates for a certain period of time for one subscriber, for another, etc. The breaks are so short that they go unnoticed for the devices to work.

The principle of operation of the practically digital CDMA standard means that all cells operate on the same channel. As a result, the frequency resource is consumed most fully. It is possible to smoothly transition the device from service from one base station to another.

LoRaWAN uses CDMA and TDMA, while Strizh uses FDMA and TDMA.

6. Radio Relay and Mesh Networks

The advantage of LoRaWAN is the use of mesh (multipoint) networks. The devices can operate as a radio relay station and transmit a signal to the nearest access point. Therefore, providers do not need to install additional access points with posting to them. An alternative is the use of miniature WLAN radio relay stations that provide communication with the existing access point infrastructure. "Swift" cannot boast of such characteristics.

7. Classes of serviced devices

LoRaWAN can serve class A, B, C devices, while Strige can only serve class A devices. Classes differ in the schedule of data transmission on the air. For example, Class A equipment transmits information and then waits a short period of time for a response from the base station. The receiver is turned off until the next communication session. Class B devices run on a scheduled basis. The transmitter is switched on at a predetermined time. The base station has this schedule, so it is able to transmit data to the device according to the schedule. Class C devices keep the receiver on all the time, so the base station can transmit information at any time.

8. Asynchronous data transfer

The Strizh and LoRaWAN networks are not cellular. This means that devices do not need to wake up to synchronize data. Sensors can be programmed to send data on a schedule or as information accumulates. Therefore, the battery life is quite long and can reach several years.

9. Object Scale LANs

Even a separate enterprise can build an efficient LoRaWAN network in view of the lower cost of the base station and the wider ecosystem of equipment and software suppliers. Building the Strizh network at the local facility is also possible, but due to the absolute closure of the protocol, it may take more time to select the necessary equipment and agree on the project.

10. Number of operators

LoRaWAN networks are deployed by more than a hundred operators in 40 countries and 250 cities around the world. Having secured the support of IT giants and major telecom operators, LoRaWAN has already covered more than 40 countries and 250 cities with a signal. In the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan and the Netherlands, LoRaWAN is considered the Internet of Things network standard. The Strizh network is represented by the only operator providing services in some CIS countries.

11. Cost of base stations

investments in the construction of non-cellular LPWANs are quite low than in mobile LPWANs. Non-cellular LPWAN networks can be easily deployed in both urban and rural areas. The cost of one LoRaWAN base station is estimated at $1000. To cover the territory of the Netherlands, for example, one of the telecom operators purchased 12.

12. Noise stability

Strizh technology is more resistant to interference. The LoRaWAN signal has an average degree of stability. Interference protection in the case of LoRaWAN is provided by coding.

With simultaneous operation in one channel, devices can achieve interference protection at the level of 10-20 Db, in Strizha this indicator is up to 65 dB of interference protection on an adjacent channel.

13. Ecosystem

Strizh solutions are being developed by the company itself and several, mainly Russian, equipment manufacturers. The LoRa ecosystem includes more than 500 telecom operators and suppliers of IT solutions and equipment. LoRa Alliance includes such IT giants as IBM, Cisco, Orange, NTT, Soft Bank, Bosch, Schneider Electric, Inmarsat, Swisscom. The support of these leaders has already led to the fact that LoRaWAN has become the largest popular LPWAN technology in the world. This is evidenced by the number of operators who deployed this network.

Summary

LoRaWAN significantly surpasses Strizh in terms of propietarity, channel separation, the ability to serve several classes of devices, the ability to use radio relay and mesh networks, the construction of local networks at enterprises, the cost of base stations, the support ecosystem and the number of launched networks. This means that customers have much more options for building effective industrial solutions based on LoRaWAN than with Strizh technology.

LoRaWAN vs. NB-IoT: Comparison of Standards

1. Easy to deploy

NB-IoT is a cellular standard, so a license must be obtained for base stations to operate. It is unlikely that NB-IoT will dare to deploy a company that was not previously present in the mobile market. The construction of the network from zero to cover the metropolis will require significant investment. In addition, it will be difficult for beginners to compete with companies providing traditional services 2G/3G/4G for decades. For old-timers, for example, it is enough to programmatically update existing base stations to launch NB-IoT services.

LoRaWAN is an LPWAN protocol standard operating in a LoRa process environment. LoRa is a type of modulation for IoT communication. LoRa is not a cellular standard. LoRaWAN does not require frequency licenses.

2. Synchronization

Since the NB-IoT network belongs to cellular communication, the devices operating in it must "wake up" and synchronize with the network. Otherwise, you will not be able to receive or send the message. Each synchronization session takes power from the battery of the device

The equipment in the LoRaWAN network works completely differently. Asynchronous data sending involves transferring data only when this data is present. While the device has nothing to transmit, it "sleeps," saving energy. Specialists can set data to be sent on a schedule or regardless of time.

3. Battery life

Since NB-IoT operates on a licensed frequency spectrum, devices must synchronize with the network relatively frequently. This, in turn, consumes the battery.

The LoRa architecture does not require network synchronization. In asynchronous ranges, only the nature of the final application determines how long the device can "sleep." Therefore, this helps to maintain battery power. Earlier, experts from the GSMA association conducted multiple tests of the work of LPWAN. It turned out that the autonomy of LoRaWAN devices is three to five times higher than that of devices running in other LPWANs.

4. Data transfer rate

The average data transfer rate in NB-IoT networks is 200 Kbps, in LoRaWAN networks - from 300 bps to 50 Kbps. NB-IoT is a more efficient IoT protocol for "faster" applications. For most cases of using LoRaWAN devices, a data transfer rate of 11 kilobits per second is quite enough.

5. Bandwidth

NB-IoT typically operates at higher throughput than LoRaWAN. The signal throughput requirements denoted by 3GPP are 180 kHz. LoRa requires only 125 KHz.

6. Network coverage

NB-IoT works best in challenging urban areas. Network performance will be redundant in suburban or rural areas. LoRaWAN does not rely on mobile data and its coverage remains relatively stable regardless of terrain conditions. The lower investments needed for LoRa are largely in its favor.

7. Cases of use

LoRaWAN is considered ideal for applications and devices that are undemanding for data rates and the amount of data sent. However, the devices must provide a long battery life with minimal maintenance costs. NB-IoT is best suited for applications demanding latency (it should be minimal) and regularly receiving and sending messages.

8. Deployment scenarios

LoRa technology can be used both by operators working in the field of mobile communications and not related to this area. NB-IoT can only be developed by mobile players with a name. NB-IoT is not used by private enterprises in their own networks, while LoRa is suitable for this. Large enterprises will relatively simply be able to create hybrid IoT models with LoRa, for example, for the implementation of smart factory projects, and at the same time use the public network to work outside the facility. The use of NB-IoT is limited to public models only.

9. Cost ratio

The total cost of LoRaWAN modules is about $8- $10, which is twice as cheap as LTE modules such as NB-IoT. The cost of a new LoRaWAN deployment is much lower than the cost of building an NB-IoT from zero. To cover Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, whose area is 219 square meters. km, it was necessary to install 10 base stations. The cost of each station was only $1.2 thousand.

10. Ecosystem

LoRaWAN communication services are available in 40 countries and 250 cities. LoRaWAN has already been adopted as an IoT network standard in many countries, including the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan and the Netherlands. The LoRa ecosystem is much wider than the NB-IoT ecosystem. For example, LoRa Alliance includes more than 500 hardware and software developers and LoRaWAN carriers. In Russia, LoRaWAN solutions are offered by companies such as Orion Sistema, LoRa Link, Smartico, etc.

According to GSMA, in April 2017, 40 NB-IoT networks were tested in the world and only four networks began full operation. It is likely that NB-IoT in terms of ecosystem latitude will be able to catch up with LoRaWAN only in a few years.

Summary

LoRa and NB-IoT have their advantages and disadvantages. However, according to most criteria, such as ease of deployment, ecosystem, deployment capabilities, battery life, operation in private networks, the LoRaWAN cost ratio exceeds NB-IoT. Yet the two standards can coexist amicably with each other, serving different segments of global LoRaWAN versus NB-IoT IoT^[5].

Sigfox

Sigfox is a French company that launched the modern LPWA network in France in 2009. The amount of investment in the project then amounted to €100 million. Since 2019, Sigfox Russia (Energo Capital).

For the operation of the network, the technology of ultra-narrowband wireless communication is used. The network is based on the star topology. By the way, this topology is typical for most LPWAs. A plurality of devices wirelessly transmit data to the gateways, and the gateways forward information to the server. Each device in the network can transmit up to 140 outgoing messages per day. The message does not exceed 12 bytes. The maximum number of incoming messages is 4, the amount of each is up to 8 bytes.

The network operates in a non-licensed frequency range. For the provision of communication services, the 868 MHz band is used in Europe and 902 MHz in the USA. Sigfox networks are deployed in more than 26 countries around the world.

Sigfox published^[6] in early 2019 of its radio protocol for connected objects. Previously, the company provided specifications only upon request and as part of a non-disclosure agreement.

The release of these specifications will provide more opportunities for developers and manufacturers of connected objects. Having tested the development, the manufacturer will need to register its object on the Sigfox network. Sigfox expects this to dramatically increase the number of facilities connected to its network. The Sigfox ecosystem will expand as technology democratizes beyond device manufacturers^[7] said in a statement]. Sigfox's base stations and infrastructure still remain patent-protected.

LoRaWAN vs SigFox. Pros and cons of technology

LoRa is the most massive, well-documented universal LPWAN technology.

Disadvantages:

• The real price of KU is not cheap at all, from $40 (for the simplest sensors) to - $120 - $120 (for advanced ones), plus a subscription fee.
• This cost of CU is explained by the relatively high price of the LoRaWAN module due to its versatility and the obligatory presence of a reverse channel even in the simplest solutions.
• Low network capacity, low noise immunity from competing LoRa systems.
• The technology is trying to compete head-on with NB-IoT.

SigFox (Strizh and Vaviot) - closed private solutions, mainly work in the mass market of housing and communal services meters

Disadvantages:

• The further development of the housing and communal services case due to changing legislation is not clear.
• Third-party closed technology does not have access to the network server.
• There is no symmetrical reverse channel.
• Single supplier risks and subscriber fee increase risks

Ingenu

This network uses the Random Phase Multiple Access (RPMA) protocol. The technology is available in 29 countries around the world.

GoodWAN

The LPWAN technology developed by GoodWAN provides short, rare, meaningful messages from cost-effective autonomous sensors located at great distances from each other. Created for tasks in which LTE-M and existing LPWAN networks are ineffective.

2024: GOST for Internet of Things technology NB-IoT approved in Russia

On November 1, 2024, Rosstandart approved GOST R 59026-2024 "Information Technologies. Internet of Things. NB-IoT Wireless Data Protocol. Basic parameters. " The document updates GOST R 59026-2020, which introduced the basic parameters of NB-IoT - narrowband Internet of Things technology.

It is noted that the development of the standard was carried out by experts of the Technical Committee 194 "Cyber ​ ​ Physical Systems" and MTS. The published document reflects the experience of introducing NB-IoT technology in 82 regions in Russia using 57 thousand base stations. In addition, the development of GOST took into account international developments and practices, as well as the results of specialized studies conducted by researchers at the Bauman Moscow State Technical University.

GOST for Internet of Things NB-IoT technology approved in Russia

The standard sets the requirements for NB-IoT equipment and devices, defines the parameters of the full NB-IoT data transfer protocol stack, power saving modes and the architecture of the NIDD packet network without direct Internet access of devices, providing service for more devices, their better energy efficiency and security. It is emphasized that the criteria for choosing NB-IoT technology in various sectors of the economy, as well as the developed minimum set of recommended functions for NB-IoT subscriber solutions, are of great importance for manufacturers.

Nikita Utkin, Deputy Director of ANO Platform NTI, Chairman of the Technical Committee for Standardization No. 194 "Cyber ​ ​ Physical Systems," says that standardization tools make it possible to scale technologies and significantly increase the economic efficiency of their implementation. The new standard will contribute to the development of technological sovereignty and independence of the IoT direction, as well as the formation of a data economy in Russia^[8]

2021

Standards defining the architecture of IoT networks have been approved in the Russian Federation

In early February 2021, it became known about the approval Russia of standards defining the architecture of networks. internet of things The approval procedure Rosstandart went through a series of national standards in the field of Internet of Things technologies, sensor networks and, industrial internet of things which will be used to build networks of these types.

Among the approved documents, according to the press service, RVC was one of the most demanded Internet of Things protocols LoRaWAN RU. Exchange protocol for high-capacity networks with a large range and low power consumption. " It defines the network protocol and system architecture of the LoRaWAN network, optimized nationally for battery-powered mobile and stationary endpoints.

In addition, Rosstandart approved six more regulatory and technical documents for the development of new generation networks. They define their types and the basic terminology used in this field. Documents can be used in practical work at all levels: from educational courses to the creation of products and services in the IT market, RVC reports.

Experts took part in the development of standards, IoT Associations AYR-TelecomKaspersky Lab JSC ",," Skoltech Larteh, JSC "," InfoWatch"," RUSSIAN RAILWAY"," MegaFon"," "" and Gazprom NeftRostelecom other organizations.

The emergence of these documents is an important step for the development of new products in Russia using Internet of Things technology. The format of preliminary national standards leaves an opportunity for their further development and modification, and after testing and taking into account the feedback of the market, the standards can go to the rank of GOST R, - explained the head of Rosstandart Anton Shalaev.[9]

The NB-IoT standard was not allowed to smart electric meters in the Russian Federation

The Internet of Things data transmission standard NB-IoT (Narrowband Internet of Things) was not included in the list of permissible electricity metering systems and devices, and at least 1 million smart electric meters used in housing and communal services will have to be replaced. This was reported in a letter sent by the telecommunications companies MTS, MegaFon, VimpelCom and Tele2 to the deputy head of the Ministry of Digital Science Oleg Ivanov.

According to Kommersant, in accordance with the order of the Ministry of Digital Development of December 30, 2020, the Russian wireless data transmission technology NB-Fi is recognized as the only permissible data transmission protocol in electricity metering systems. However, most large telecom operators provide their services based on the NB-IoT standard and consider the NB-Fi standard, operating in unlicensed frequencies, less safe.

Rostelecom confirmed to the publication that the restrictions proposed by the Ministry of Digital Development will require a revision of a number of projects. MTS told Kommersant about the launch of the Internet of Things network on NB-IoT in more than 70 regions of the Russian Federation. MegaFon has already implemented two projects at the federal level at this standard. Tele2 noted that they also have several projects with NB-IoT for customers from housing and communal services.

As explained in the Ministry of Digital Development, the list includes standards recommended by the Ministry of Energy and the FSB, as well as adopted by Rosstandart. At the same time, the department noted the advisory nature of the list, but the operators are confident in its obligation.

According to the director of the Internet of Things Association Andrei Kolesnikov, the main thing is that manufacturers of domestic equipment have access to the market, regardless of the standard, then there will be no violations in the field of competition.

The Federal Antimonopoly Service believes that the issue needs to be studied. The department explained that they plan to take part in its consideration.^[10]

2020

MTS expands NB-IoT network in industrial cities of Belgorod region

On January 26, 2021, information appeared that MTS expanded the NB-IoT network in 2020 to 95% in industrial cities of the Belgorod region. For the largest enterprises of Stary Oskol, Gubkin, Alekseevka, Valuek, Shebekino, conditions have been created for the introduction of the industrial Internet of Things and automation of production through the operation of smart devices and sensors. Read more here.

Russia has developed the LoRaWAN standard - the most massive IoT technology in the world

At the end of December 2020, it became known about the development in Russia of the LoRaWAN standard - the most massive Internet of Things technology in the world. LoRaWAN RU was created within the framework of the Cyber ​ ​ Physical Systems technical committee with the participation of the Ministry of Industry and Trade, as well as other government agencies and market participants.

According to ComNews, citing Andrei Kolesnikov, director of the Internet of Things Association (AIV), about two years were spent on preparatory work for the adoption of LoRaWAN RU. It is expected that Rosstandart will sign an order to approve the technology in the first quarter of 2021, and the standard itself will be put into effect on July 1 of the same year.

According to Kolesnikov, in accordance with the rules of Rosstandart, the preliminary standard receives the status of "permanent" three years after the introduction of the PNST - in the case of LoRaWAN RU, this date will be July 2024.

The presence of GOST for LoRaWAN does not guarantee that solutions based on this technology will be used everywhere, - explains the director of AIV. - GOST guarantees the compatibility of equipment of different vendors, and compatibility and inheritance - the ability to work with previous versions of the protocol - are very important both in telecom and in IT.

Kolesnikov added that the presence of GOST for LoRaWAN is compared with "stamp paper" - it can become a good argument for sales, especially to companies with state participation.

The introduction of the national Internet of Things standard LoRaWAN RU will reduce the development of manufacturers in this area into a single data profile format and ensure the creation of a single market for digital services in Russia, as well as help introduce technologies for smart cities involving the active use of data, says Konstantin Movchan, Deputy General Director for Development of NPP Signal JSC of the Automatics concern (part of Rostec^[11]

Japanese operator NTT DoCoMo has curtailed its Internet of Things network in the NB-IoT standard

On April 2, 2020, it became known that the Japanese operator NTT Docomo on March 31, 2020 curtailed its network for the Internet of Things in the NB-IoT standard. Read more here.

2019

Russian standards of the Internet of Things NB-Fi, LoRaWAN RU and OpenUNB will become compatible with international

Nationally standardized protocols, and Internet of Things (IoT)NB-Fi LoRaWAN RU OpenUNB will be included in the draft international system compatibility standard/. IoTIIoT This decision was made in November 2019 at a meeting of the subcommittee of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) in the field of the Internet of Things, held in. St. Petersburg Read more. here

Tele2 tested NB-IoT on a commercial network LTE-450

On November 18, 2019, Tele2 announced that it had tested the NB-IoT standard on a commercial LTE network in the 450 MHz (LTE-450) band in Moscow. The tests used SIMCom Wireless Solutions wireless devices based on MediaTek MT2625 chipsets. The cooperation of companies will accelerate the spread of the NB-IoT standard and lay the foundation for mass connection of Internet of things devices based on 5G networks in the future. Read more here.

MegaFon has launched the fastest Internet of Things network in Russia. It is 5 times faster

On November 13, 2019, MegaFon announced the launch of the fastest Internet of Things network in Russia. NB-IoT technology Cat-NB2 provides data transfer rates up to 130 kbps, which is five times the characteristics of previous IoT networks of the previous generation. Read more here.

Rostelecom, Tele2 and Kirovsky Zavod completed NB-IoT testing for industry

On September 10, 2019, the company Rostelecom"" announced the completion, together cellular operator Tele2 with testing of solutions based on Internet of Things (IoT) the sector "" in. Industry St. Petersburg During testing, a service was deployed to automatically collect and transmit information from heat and water consumption meters information system in production monitoring "" using Kirov Plant equipment from domestic suppliers. Testing took place within the framework of strategic cooperation between Rostelecom and the Kirovsky Zavod, which includes, among other things, joint work on projects of the national program "." Digital economy More. here

Intersvyaz launched a pilot network LoRaWAN in Yekaterinburg

On August 13, 2019, Intersvyaz announced the installation of the LoRaWAN base station in Yekaterinburg. The wireless network is deployed specifically for the work of one of the city's management companies, which has hundreds of common house metering devices. Read more here.

RT-Invest launched a project for "smart control" of waste collection and removal based on LPWAN XNB

On August 15, 2019, the RT-Invest group of companies (created with the participation of Rostec State Corporation) presented a pilot project for the digitalization of the collection and transportation of municipal waste on the basis of its own platform of telematic services. Read more here.

Beeline and Energomera will jointly promote LPWAN in the field of electricity

On July 26, 2019, it became known that VimpelCom announced its readiness to develop the Internet of Things in the Russian electricity accounting market. The company signed a cooperation agreement with a domestic manufacturer of electricity meters with the Energomer enterprise. Read more here.

J'son & Partners Consulting: The State and Prospects of LPWAN Technology Adoption

On July 9, 2019, J'son & Partners Consulting completed the preparation of a study of the current state and prospects for introducing narrowband wireless technologies for the Internet of Things (LPWAN).

As noted in J'son & Partners Consulting, various radio technologies and wireless communication standards can be used to ensure the connection of IoT devices. Nevertheless, according to the Russian classification, the vast majority of wireless networks for IoT can be classified within 6 large segments.

A significant number of IoT devices (about 80%) will be connected through gateways based on local and personal networks in radio frequency bands used in a simplified manner (Figure 2). At the same time, the gateways themselves can be connected through existing cellular mobile networks or narrowband wireless IoT communication networks.

Although narrowband IoT wireless communication networks are not considered as the most mainstream segment of wireless technologies for IoT, this type of network is intended to be used to connect IoT devices in many industries economies for a wide range of applications that will be difficult or impossible to implement using other types of wireless communication.

Narrowband IoT wireless communication networks correspond to two separate segments depending on the use of radio frequency bands in general or simplified order.

Narrowband IoT wireless communication networks in radio frequency bands used in general order (according to foreign classification - in the licensed spectrum) are represented by several standards, among which the most common are NB-IoT and LTE-M of the 3GPP consortium. In fact, these technologies are not independent standards, but are developments in existing cellular mobile communication standards, which have been improved to meet the connection needs of low-power devices, usually running on battery power and having limited bandwidth needs.

There are more than a dozen different open and closed standards of narrowband IoT wireless communication networks in radio frequency bands used in a simplified manner (according to foreign classification - in an unlicensed spectrum).

Thus, in the world, narrowband technologies for IoT are divided into two main categories:

• technologies using unlicensed spectrum (LoRaWAN, SigFox, etc.);
• technologies using licensed spectrum (NB-IoT, LTE-M, etc.)

The highest dynamics in terms of the number of launches in the world is shown by networks in the licensed spectrum (NB-IoT and LTE-M), in which mobile operators invest.

By the end of 2018, these technologies were leading in the number of launched networks with a share of 39%, according to J'son & Partners Consulting. In 1 sq. 2019, the number of operators who deployed networks based on NB-IoT or LTE-M technologies in 52 countries of the world exceeded 100. In June 2016, the standardization of NB-IoT in release 13 (LTE Advanced Pro) was completed.

According to LoRaAlliance, at the end of 2018, the number of LoRaWAN network operators in the world exceeded 100. Sigfox networks (the technology is not represented in Russia) cover about 50 countries (excluding "dwarf" and island states).

By the end of 2018, the most widespread networks in Russia were Martin"" (XNB technology) and Vaviot"" (technology NB-Fi). There are also active construction LoRaWAN and NB-IoT networks. In particular, according to AYR-Telecom the results of 2018, the company "" built LoRaWAN networks in 63 cities, MTS and deployed the federal NB-IoT network in more than 200 cities in 52 regions of Russia.

Analysis of the level of development and standardization of LPWAN technologies and protocols in the unlicensed spectrum showed the following:

• LoRaWAN: It is planned to enroll this technology in an international standard. In Russia, the development of the fundamental standard for the LoRaWAN protocol should be completed in 2021.
• NXB (Strizh): closed XNB protocol developed by Strizh. It was proposed to use it for mass connection of "smart" electric meters, the final decision has not yet been made.
• NB-Fi (Vaviot): in February 2019, the preliminary national standard NB-Fi was approved by Rosstandart. The plan of the National Technology Initiative (NTI) provides for the development of several more IoT standards in Russia by 2025.
• Sigfox and other technologies (Weightless P, Ingenu, etc.) are not presented in Russia, there are no plans for their development by market participants (vendors, system integrators, operators, regulator, etc.) (not announced).

As of July 2019, both devices with support for LoRaWAN, NB-Fi and XNB technologies are commercially available on the Russian market, as well as network equipment (infrastructure), including from Russian suppliers. In the near future, the first commercial devices with support for NB-IoT technology are expected to appear on the market.

According to BergInsight forecasts, in 2023, technologies in the licensed spectrum (NB-IoT and LTE-M) will account for about 80% of all shipments of LPWA devices in the world - almost 1 billion units.

In Russia, as of July 2019, the regulator prefers technologies in the licensed spectrum, while technologies for unlicensed use are assigned the role of niche ones, which are mainly focused on collecting telemetry from non-critical objects. At the same time, there are risks of monopolization of individual IoT segments (transport infrastructure, smart meters, etc.) through the use of closed protocols and the provision of preferences to individual market participants.

LPWAN standards will be used primarily in housing and communal services, smart cities, logistics, transport and agriculture. In general, the Russian market will develop in accordance with global trends, with a delay of 1-3 years from developed countries.

In the value chain, the role of "net" communication service providers for M2M/IoT is reduced and the role of service providers based on cloud IoT platforms, system integration services and technical support of M2M/IoT systems is increased.

VimpelCom has activated the NB-IoT network for services and devices of the Internet of Things in Moscow

On July 2, 2019, it became known that PJSC VimpelCom"" (brand Beeline"") activated To Moscow the network for services and devices Internet of things () IoT LTE in a technology-based standard. It NB-IoT will be able to support tens of millions of smart devices. More. here

SCRC made a compromise decision on the fate of the LPWAN standard

The Ministry of Telecom and Mass Communications published in January the minutes of the meeting of the State Commission on Radio Frequencies (GKRCH) dated December 24, 2018. In it, the commission amended its decision of 2007 on the operation of low-power devices, including devices of the wireless standard LPWAN. This standard is designed to transfer data from Internet of Things devices. ^[12] there is ^[13].

The initial version of the commission's decision on this issue caused a lot of controversy. Now LPWAN devices operate in unlicensed sections of the 800 MHz band: 864 - 865 MHz, 866 - 868 MHz and 868.7 - 869.2 MHz.

In the penultimate meeting in 2018, the SCRF wanted to oblige LPWAN to obtain permissions to use radio frequencies to launch base stations. In addition, it was planned to oblige to use only domestic equipment in these networks.

The head of the Association of Internet of Things Market Participants Andrei Kolesnikov sent a letter to the Minister of Communications, Chairman of the State Committee for Emergency Situations Konstantin Noskov with a request to prevent such a decision. Kolesnikov pointed out that the requirement to necessarily obtain permission to use radio frequencies will increase the construction time of LPWAN networks, lead to an increase in the cost of communication services and increase the load on the regulatory body - Roskomnadzor.

In addition, LPWAN networks are now actively used by startups, including in the student and educational sectors. The introduction of a permissive procedure for entering radio electronic means of the LPWAN standard will make the continuation of this practice impossible.

Kolesnikov also opposed the introduction of a requirement for the mandatory use of Russian equipment. Russian manufacturers, in his opinion, are not yet able to provide the required volume and quality of equipment for the Internet of Things.

2018

Tele2, Ericsson and Rostelecom tested NB-IoT for the energy sector

On November 26, 2018, Tele2 announced that it, together with Ericsson and Rostelecom, had investigated the capabilities of NB-IoT technologies for the energy sector. Testing took place in Moscow and St. Petersburg on the basis of the Tele2 LTE network. Internet of Things technologies will allow energy sales companies to optimize costs, and consumers to use their services more comfortably.

The test E2E network (end-to-end) NB-IoT was deployed on the basis of the Tele2 infrastructure using Ericsson technical solutions. In the course of research in Moscow and St. Petersburg, data from electric meters were transmitted via the Tele2 LTE network to the energy company's statistics collection server. For data transfer, modems with built-in SIM-cards of Rostelecom were used.

The test results proved the effectiveness of the E2E service for collecting and transmitting the readings of electric meters. Complete automation of this process will provide a high economic effect for energy sales companies and will make the use of energy consumption services more comfortable for consumers.

In Moscow, testing of Internet of Things technologies was carried out in the 800 MHz range. At the same time, in-band deployment of NB-IoT in a 5 MHz wide band was used. This approach allows you to use NB-IoT inside existing LTE networks, which have wide coverage and allow you to provide high-quality Internet of Things services. In St. Petersburg, NB-IoT connections were carried out in the Tele2 LTE network in the 1800 MHz band.

By the end of 2018, Tele2, Ericsson and Rostelecom plan to deploy two additional pilot zones in residential buildings (more than 100 metering devices) in different areas of Moscow. Companies will test the service on a large number of electric meters in real conditions. Participants will check the accuracy and completeness of data transfer from electrical meters to the data processing server. So companies want to confirm the technological readiness of the Tele2 network and the Rostelecom infrastructure to provide modern services to companies in the energy industry. In addition, pilot projects for other industries will be worked out on the basis of the jointly deployed infrastructure.

author '= Ritvars Krievs, CTO of Tele2 ' In all regions of our presence, we have built LTE networks that allow us to quickly deploy NB-IoT and discover all the advantages of the Internet of Things to customers. IoT technologies are the main driver for the development of energy efficiency and environmental friendliness of devices that are used by private consumers in homes. Our tests demonstrated the wide possibilities for optimizing processes in the field of housing and communal services and the usefulness of these solutions for customers. The IoT architecture is based on a network that analyzes information and adapts the operation of devices to the needs of the consumer. The E2E network based on our LTE infrastructure completed test tasks and correctly transmitted data to the server of the energy sales company. As technology evolves, devices will increasingly interact and unite into ecosystems, so our subsequent projects with partners are focused on applications in various areas.

author '= Roman Shulginov, Rostelecom Vice President for Industry Solution ' This pilot project is another Rostelecom step towards the development of the industrial Internet and the introduction of solutions based on the NB-IoT standard in industrial industries. Openness to innovation and the ability to join forces with partners from different fields, as well as its own data transfer and storage infrastructure, allow Rostelecom to offer the market practical, convenient and reliable solutions, including within the framework of the implementation of the state program "Digital Economy of the Russian Federation.

author '= Zoran Lukovich, Ericsson vice president of business development with Tele2 and Rostelecom ' The Internet of Things opens up wide prospects for improving the quality of life of people, the development of all industries and economic growth. According to the Ericsson Mobility Report, by 2023 there will be more than 3.5 billion Internet-connected devices in the world. At the same time, the introduction of IoT in all industries will take place, first of all, on the basis of 5G mobile technologies. Our pilot projects in the field of the Internet of Things, implemented jointly with Rostelecom and Tele2, will allow residents of Russian cities to assess the advantages that modern technologies give.

NB-IoT allowed in Russia

At the beginning of 2018, at a meeting of the State Commission on Radio Frequencies (SCRF), it was decided to use narrow radio frequency bands for. Internet of ThingsIoT According to the adopted decision, the radio frequency bands 453-457.4 MHz and 463-467.4 MHz, 791-820 MHz, 832-862 MHz, 880-890 MHz, 890-915 MHz, 925-935 MHz, 935-960 MHz, 1710-1785 MHz, 1805-1880 MHz, 1920-1980 MHz, 2110-17870 MGz and 2570 MGz can be used. Russia

To provide 4G communication, it was decided to allocate frequency bands 453-457.4 MHz and 463-467.4 MHz to five regions. This list includes the Nenets and Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, the Republic of Ingushetia, Sakha (Yakutia) and Chechnya. Bidding will take place no later than the second quarter of next year.

2017

MTS opens NB-IoT ecosystem laboratory

In December 2017, MTS announced the opening in Moscow of the first permanent Internet of Things laboratory in Russia under the auspices of the international association GSMA, presenting to customers and partners pilot solutions based on Narrow Band IoT (NB-IoT) technology for use in everyday life, security systems, urban infrastructure management and housing and communal services, as well as its own commercial IoT services ready for implementation.

In the IoT Explorer Internet of Things laboratory, opened within the framework of the GSMA Mobile IoT Development Initiatives project, customers, partners and suppliers can not only familiarize themselves with commercial IoT services, but also jointly test and create promising IoT solutions. At the stands of the MTS laboratory there are fragments of IoT networks with various sensors and equipment that transmit parameters and data for processing in cloud platforms with control through tablets and laptops with visualization of information about the state of systems on large screens.

The main NB-IoT exposition in the laboratory is represented by commercial IoT services of MTS and a test NB-IoT network in the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands with pilot products of the MTS Group based on Nokia technologies and solutions of Russian developers for use in various areas: in the smart home, in the monitoring and management systems of the smart city infrastructure, control of energy consumption in housing and communal services, facility safety. The laboratory also demonstrates the operation of the NB-IoT test network based on the Ericsson solution.

ZTE and velcom launched NB-IoT network in Minsk

Telecom operator velcom launched in the fall of 2017 in Minsk the country's first narrowband network NB-IoT (Narrow Band Internet of Things) for the Internet of Things. The launch of the NB-IoT network will allow the development of the "Internet of Things" throughout the city, and not just in pilot zones. Base stations already provide stable coverage in each district: narrowband communication penetrates the most inaccessible places, through the massive walls of buildings and into the basement floors. In terms of signal penetration, the new standard can be 20 times higher than the M2M technologies currently used.

Earlier, velcom received permission from the State Commission on Radio Frequencies (SCRF) to use part of the previously allocated frequency range for the "Internet of Things." The NB-IoT network operates in the 900 MHz band, which is also involved in GSM and UMTS. For the "Internet of Things" a small frequency band of 200 kHz is used with protective intervals, which does not affect the operation of other networks in any way.

Cellular operators in Russia may be allowed to use frequencies in NB-IoT mode

In early December 2017, it became known that the State Commission on Radio Frequencies (GKRCH) plans to allow the operators of the Big Four, namely MTS, MegaFon, VimpelCom and Tele2, to use frequencies in the NarrowBand Internet of Things (NB-IoT) mode. The corresponding draft decision of the SCRC is planned to be considered during the meeting on December 28, 2017.

In particular, it is assumed that operators will be able to launch NB-IoT within the framework of existing permits for the use of frequencies of GSM, LTE standards and subsequent modifications in Russia in various bands. According to the document, the State Committee for Radio Broadcasting "takes into account the need to quickly introduce promising radio technologies for the development of the Internet of Things."

According to operators, the possibility of using frequencies in NB-IoT mode will provide a favorable regulatory environment for the deployment of the Internet of Things infrastructure, streamline the development of IoT in Russia, and also accelerate the entry into the market of ready-made commercial products and services in this area, which have already been tested.^[14]

Federal Wireless Network in the Russian Federation

In the program "Digital Economy," developed by the Ministry of Communications on behalf of President Vladimir Putin, after approval by the Government, a number of new points appeared. Including in the section "Information Infrastructure" there is now a clause on the construction of a network of the LPWAN standard ^[15]

According to the program, by the end of 2017, a concept will be developed for the development of narrowband communication network networks for collecting telemetric information in cities from territories of more than 100 square meters. km Service needs, approaches to the creation and use of the LPWAN network will also be identified.

In parallel, the software and hardware complex will be developed, improved and improved, including telecommunication equipment that meets the needs of developing narrowband communication networks and collecting telemetric information. It is emphasized that the equipment should be mainly domestic production.

At the beginning of 2018, lists will be determined and the capabilities of the domestic industry for the production of telecommunications equipment for the construction of the LPWAN network will be assessed. Later, conditions will be created for the development of a federal narrowband communication network using LPWAN technology, including radio frequencies for deploying the network, regulatory legal acts and a pilot project for creating a communication network will be adopted.

In the third quarter of 2018, planning of narrowband communication networks using LPWAN technology, the procedure for its deployment and creation will be carried out. By the third quarter of 2019, LPWAN communication networks will be introduced in the first five cities with a population of more than 1 million people, and domestic equipment will be used on these networks.

By the end of 2022, LPWAN networks using domestic equipment will be introduced in all cities of Russia with a territory of more than 100 square meters. km And by the end of 2024, the widespread introduction of LPWAN networks in small towns and urban-type towns, as well as along federal highways and railways, will be ensured.

Who will deal with the new megaproject

Earlier, the project for the construction of the LPWAN network was presented by the state-owned GLONASS JSC, which is responsible for the ERA-GLONASS automatic accident response system. JSC GLONASS calls its solution a completely domestic development and proposes to use this network to control sensors, collect telemetric information and control soils on the territory of agricultural land.

According to the Vedomosti newspaper, at the next meeting of the State Commission on Radio Frequencies (GKRCH), the issue of allocating frequencies to GLONASS JSC for the construction of an LPWAN network in the 800 MHz range will be considered. A CNews source close to the CRRC confirms that such an issue will be considered, and a circular on the need to allocate frequencies, according to him, came "from the very top."

Lux Research and Stratistics MRC study

NB-IoT will account for more than 90% of all LPWAN connections in the world, and LoRaWAN will be an addition to this standard, according to Lux Research researchers.

The global market for LPWA networks in 2015 amounted to $0.5 billion, and by 2022 it will grow to $46.3 billion, analysts at Stratistics MRC predicted. The average annual growth rate of the market during this period is expected at 88.8%. Analysts attributed such high performance to both the increase in the number of devices for the Internet of Things and the emergence of new communication standards for IoT devices.

In 2016, communication standards for the Internet of Things such as LTE-M and NB-IoT were developed. The first such networks (four NB-IoT and two LTE-M networks), according to the International Association of Mobile Solution Providers (GSMA), were already operating in April 2017. At the same time, 40 NB-IoT and 12 LTE-M networks were tested.

For example, in January Vodafone launched the NB-IoT standard network in Spain into commercial operation. In February, AT&T announced plans to build LTE-M in the United States in the second quarter of 2017 and Mexico before the end of 2017.

In May, the Dutch operator T-Mobile provided the country's enterprises with a connection to NB-IoT.

Another communication standard that is widely used to connect IoT devices is LoRaWAN. In June, representatives of the LoRa Alliance reported that their organization already has 500 members. Communication services are provided by 42 operators, which is 3.5 times more than a year earlier. LoRa services are now available in more than 250 cities around the world.

LoRa networks are often used by cellular operators that provide services in the licensed frequency spectrum. The popularity of this standard is due to the low cost of sensors (up to $10), high autonomy (battery life - about 10 years) and a wide coverage area.

Until 2028, 5G networks will not compete with NB-IoT and LoRa, analysts at Lux Research^[16].

MegaFon and Qualcomm jointly tested NB-IoT in St. Petersburg

On August 2, MegaFon"" Qualcomm and Technologies announced the completion of joint testing of Narrowband IoT LTE technology (NB-IoT).

Testing was carried out on the basis of the MegaFon Federal Research and Development Center in. A St. Petersburg test subscriber terminal based on the Qualcomm MDM9206 global multi-mode modem was used as the end device, and equipment was used from the network side. Huawei The 900 MHz band was used for testing. The main functionality of the NB-IoT standard was checked according to a jointly approved program. The testing also tested the operability of Coverage Enhancement Levels, which allow the device to remain on the network even at very small values ​ ​ of the received signal, which is especially true for promising devices Internet of things.

The NB-IoT test allows you to prepare formalized requirements for a large number of IoT module manufacturers, software developers, system integrators who plan to develop and implement their devices for working on the MegaFon network in the NB-IoT standard.

MegaFon is preparing infrastructure for mass connection of Internet of Things devices. NB-IoT technology will provide a massive connection to the network of various devices that are located in hard-to-reach places and must work for a long time without replacing the battery. In addition, this technology involves the use of a licensed frequency band, which guarantees the reliability, security and continuity of data transmission. The introduction of NB-IoT technology is another step in preparing MegaFon's infrastructure to launch fifth-generation networks that will increase not only data transfer rates, but also network capacity, "said Nikolai Sidorov, head of MegaFon's federal research and development center

We are pleased that commercially available modules based on the global multi-mode LTE IoT modem MDM9206 are already making the Internet of Things possible. NB-IoT and eMTC are optimal technologies for connecting and connecting IoT devices such as mobile payment devices (POS), pipelines, water, gas and electricity meters, as well as for creating asset management systems and smart cities. We are satisfied with the results of joint testing of NB-IoT technology and various user scenarios with MegaFon. Our already commercially available Qualcomm MDM9206 chipset makes it possible to solve all these problems now. This is another important step towards the emergence of new services and services for private and corporate subscribers in Russia, "said Yulia Klebanova, vice president of Qualcomm for business development in Eastern Europe

Huawei tested "smart" electricity meters based on NB-IoT in Spain

Huawei has developed a smart meter based on narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT, 4.5G) technology in collaboration with JANZ CE and u-blox, and has implemented its first operational project based on such meters.^[17]

EDP Distribuição (Spain) uses the narrowband Internet of Things to implement a pilot project under the Upgrade program, which, in turn, is part of the Horizon 2020 strategy of the European Commission. The NB-IoT infrastructure network was installed by carrier NOS using Huawei developments.

According to Huawei, the following tasks are solved using the narrowband Internet of Things:

• The proper quality of customer service is maintained by automatically detecting failures and damages, which shortens the service recovery time (in case of natural disasters and other unforeseen situations, it allows you to quickly detect problems and solve the problem);
• Online consumption measurement with support for various situations and statistics
• On-demand response controlled in near real time
• continuous technology development due to gradual mass introduction by telecom operators (implementation on a large scale will ensure the creation of a developed ecosystem and the implementation of a technological revolution by optimizing functionality and introducing new elements in accordance with the requirements of a "smart" network).

EDP Distribuição selected the Parque das Nações in Lisbon for the pilot launch of the development, with 100 customers involved in the project. Narrowband Internet of Things has already been introduced here and two NOS base stations have been installed, which provides NB-IoT coverage. Intelligent power management has become an example of the practical application of this technology, noted in Huawei.

MegaFon tested the operation of meters in the NB-IoT standard

The comprehensive solution presented in the spring by MegaFon together with partners will allow housing and communal services enterprises and management companies to quickly receive information about resource consumption, automatically control expenses, instantly determine the balance sheet and get rid of payment gaps. Residents who have switched to a new solution will no longer have to take readings manually, in addition, the consumption of electricity, water and gas can be monitored through a convenient application and download statistics for a certain period.

The product has a number of advantages over alternatives available on the market, since it operates on the NB-IoT standard, which MegaFon develops together with Huawei and plans to put into commercial operation in 2017. Its energy efficiency allows connected devices to work for up to 10 years without replacing the battery, the network range ensures uninterrupted data transmission even in rooms with difficult mobile signal reception, and the low cost of the radio unit ensures a competitive cost of implementation.

The convenience of the solution also lies in its complexity: created jointly with the Russian developer of information systems in the field of housing and communal services, the Big Troika company, it solves all issues related to the transition to an intelligent measurement system - from the production of meters to the installation of a platform for collecting and analyzing readings through one window.

"Today we can talk about the emergence of a whole market of technologies in housing and communal services, and the solutions that appear here, then find application in other industries. Of course, this phenomenon is the result of systematic work to increase the investment attractiveness of the industry, - said Deputy Minister of Construction and Housing and Communal Services of the Russian Federation Andrei Chibis. - We believe that the arrival of a private investor and the definition of clear rules of the game can make the housing and communal services sector truly effective and customer-oriented. A professional manager, whether an investor or a management organization, is interested in automating processes, and, accordingly, reducing costs, increasing the manageability and predictability of work. We are confident that the decision that is being presented today will be another step towards improving the efficiency of housing management and will be able to increase payment discipline among the population. "

The solution from MegaFon, Huawei and Big Three will appear on the market immediately after the launch of the NB-IoT standard and will make it possible to comprehensively solve the problem of connecting metering devices in the network for management companies and housing and communal services enterprises.

2016: Huawei practice

Before the final adoption of the NB-IoT standards, Huawei, together with partners, carried out preparations for standardization and testing of applications in order to better understand the needs of customers, speed up upgrades and optimize technical solutions. In the first half of 2016 alone, Huawei completed many joint projects. For example, together with Etisalat, Huawei tested services and applications for smart parking; together with Australian operators (VHA and Optus) and South East Water, it launched an intelligent water management system into testing, and also entered into a strategic partnership agreement with China Telecom and Shenzhen Water Group in China to implement a similar system.

2015

Market Assessment by Stratistics MRC

According to Stratistics MRC, the global market for LPWA networks is estimated at $0.5 billion in 2015. By 2022, according to analysts, the market will reach $46.3 billion. The average annual growth rate (CAGR) of the market in 2015-2022 will be 88.8%.

According to analysts, the private sector of the economy will take the largest market share during the forecast period. At the same time, the CAGR indicators of the public sector of the economy for the consumption of LPWAN services will exceed the private ones. Countries in Europe will dominate the global LPWAN market. At the same time, higher growth rates of total annual turnover will be observed in the Asia-Pacific region.

MegaFon in GSMA NB-IoT Forum

In 2015, MegaFon became a member of the GSMA NB-IoT Forum community, the purpose of which is to cooperate in the development of NB-IoT technology around the world. The organization includes operators (China Mobile, Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone, etc.), as well as manufacturers of technological solutions (Huawei, Intel, Qualcomm). 14 Jul 2016 Moscow. MegaFon received a notice from the GSMA of NB-IoT (Narrow Band IoT) Forum Project Member status. Thus, MegaFon became a member of the GSMA NB-IoT Forum community, the purpose of which is to cooperate in the development of NB-IoT technology around the world.

See also

• Swift: Collection of readings of housing and communal services meters
• Article:Internet of Things (IoT)
• Article:Internet of Things, IoT, M2M (Global Market)
• Article:Internet of Things, IoT, M2M (Russian market)
• Internet of Things: you can't stay in time
• RFID
• IIoT - Industrial Internet of Things
• Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0)
• Smart Grid

Notes