NB-IoT

Key Features of NB-IoT

Wide Coverage

It offers stronger signal penetration and broader coverage compared to traditional cellular networks. For example, it maintains stable connections in challenging environments like underground garages or remote mountainous areas, with coverage capabilities over 20dB better than GSM—equivalent to a 100x expansion in coverage range.

Massive Connectivity

A single base station can support tens of thousands (even 100,000+) connected devices, far exceeding the capacity of traditional cellular networks (e.g., LTE supports only thousands of connections). This makes it ideal for large-scale IoT scenarios with dense device deployment, such as smart meters or smart city sensors.

Low Data Rate & Ultra-Low Power Consumption

1.Data transmission rates are low: up to ~250kbps for downlink and ~62.5kbps for uplink, suitable for small data transfers (e.g., status updates, data collection).

2.Devices consume minimal power, using a "deep sleep + short wake-up" mode. This allows battery life to reach 10+ years, eliminating the need for frequent battery replacements (e.g., in smart water or gas meters).

Cost-Effectiveness

NB-IoT modules have simple designs and low hardware costs. Leveraging existing cellular network infrastructure also avoids the need for large-scale additional base station deployment, reducing overall application costs.

Typical Applications:

Smart Meters: Remote reading of water, electricity, and gas meters, enabling real-time data transmission without manual on-site checks.

Smart Cities: Streetlight control, waste bin fill-level monitoring, parking space status detection, etc.

Environmental Monitoring: Long-term collection of data such as air quality, soil moisture, and water quality.

Asset Tracking: Location and status monitoring of logistics goods, containers, livestock, etc.

Smart Agriculture: Irrigation control, greenhouse environment regulation, and more.

Wuxi Zhongyi Smart Technology Co., Ltd. focuses on the development and manufacturing of smart water meters, energy meters, gas meters, covering more than 90 countries around the world. If you are interested in smart energy meters, please contact Zhongyi Smart!