Satellite and cellular connectivity technologies are both well-established options to be considered for connecting any IoT device estate, particularly in wide area and outdoors contexts. However, the choice between the two approaches is often not clear cut, and in many cases hybrid connectivity solutions that can connect using either technology at different times may unlock additional benefits.
In this report, sponsored by Globalstar, Transforma Insights explores the relative strengths of satellite and cellular connectivity technologies for IoT, and identifies the contexts in which the two technologies can be combined to unlock additional value. The report includes a playbook to help IoT end-user adopters, service providers and OEMs to navigate the complex landscape.
The report contains the following sections:
Satellite IoT offerings vary widely in protocols, architectures, power consumption, spectrum use, and orbital design, with each approach suited to different application requirements. The market can broadly be segmented by whether technologies are proprietary or standards-based, whether they focus on messaging or broadband IP connectivity, and how they integrate with terrestrial networks. The introductory section provides a high-level introduction to the key concepts that underpin satellite for IoT.
Choosing between cellular and satellite connectivity for IoT deployments depends on several operational, technical, and economic factors. Each technology has distinct strengths, and the best choice is often determined by the environment in which devices operate and the type of data being transmitted. The report discusses a range of key IoT solution parameters, including coverage and geographic reach, power consumption, data volumes and bandwidth, latency, mobility patterns, and cost.
Satellite and cellular connectivity can support IoT solutions in a variety of ways, either independently or through integrated hybrid models. Combining these technologies can create capabilities and operational advantages that neither solution could achieve on its own. This section explores the different approaches to integrating satellite and cellular connectivity within IoT deployments. Most consider individual devices that can connect with either technology, but with differences of emphasis and including satellite-centric, cellular-centric, and cellular-first devices. The report also discusses devolved edge solutions, arrangements for independent connectivity channels supported by satellite, and the incorporation of satellite-only devices into mixed estates.
In this section, we discuss when it might be most appropriate to use satellite and cellular technologies independently and when combining the two might be more effective. We focus on three main aspects of any IoT solution: the Locations in which devices might be deployed; the required Performance; and, Commercial considerations. The section includes a playbook for comparing satellite, cellular, and hybrid connectivity options and identifying when satellite connectivity can add value to an IoT solution.
Counterparty risk in satellite connectivity for IoT refers to the operational, financial, and strategic risks associated with relying on third-party satellite providers for critical communication services. As IoT deployments increasingly expand into remote, offshore, agricultural, logistics, and mining environments, and beyond, satellite connectivity has become an essential component of resilient communications. However, organisations adopting satellite-enabled IoT solutions must carefully assess the reliability and stability of the vendors and partners involved in the connectivity chain.
The report also includes high-level nine case studies, with links to more detailed information for each.
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