u-blox & Telenor make network friendly M2M modems

In typical distributed M2M/IoT applications such as smart metering and remote security systems, a cellular modem may attempt multiple times to connect to the network. If numerous units make simultaneous attempts, for example energy meters reporting their readings at midnight, a network may become overloaded and unresponsive.

In recognition of this scenario, and to further guide IoT device and application developers, u-blox and Telenor Connexion have introduced a 'Network Friendly Mode' which will be embedded in all u-blox cellular modules. The firmware allows the modem to autonomously attempt to connect to the cellular network based on pre-defined and geometrically longer time delays, and a maximum number of attempts. The 'Network Friendly Mode' is based on the recently published GSMA report 'IoT Device Connection Efficiency Guidelines' which promotes optimised modem behaviour in cellular networks.

“This successful partnership with u-blox ensures an optimal performance of our networks,” said Rémi Demerlé, Global Partnerships Director, Telenor Connexion. “The new firmware introduced in u-blox’ modules enables devices and applications to communicate in the most intelligent and efficient way, whilst preventing service outages, thereby ensuring a continued reliable service to our M2M customers. This collaboration is also paving the way for a larger adoption of best practices within the M2M and IoT developer community.”

Richard Fry, Vice President, Strategic Partnerships, u-blox said; “We are pleased with the result of our close cooperation with Telenor Connexion to address an issue facing all developers of M2M applications: how to provide reliable and predictable network connectivity in all possible scenarios. By carefully analysing modem behaviour within their extensive 2G and 3G networks, we were able to define a robust algorithm that ensures optimal connectivity, even when large numbers of units are involved.“