KDDI announced it is using Sierra Wireless’ low-power wide-area (LPWA) modules to provide IoT applications over its LTE-M network for its enterprise customers in Japan.
Next-generation gas smart meters will be the first products deployed on KDDI’s LTE-M network, in mid-2018, the Japanese telco said in a company statement.
In late January, KDDI launched the first domestic cellular LTE-M service in Japan. The LTE-M network by KDDI delivers a new class of wireless technology specifically designed for low-power IoT applications, combining lower cost, broader coverage and better battery life with globally available and secure cellular networks.
According to KDDI, gas service providers using the new smart meters will be able to boost their operational efficiency while offering their customers value-added services.
"The utility meter market in Japan is very advanced and has ultra-low power consumption and stringent security requirements", said Ilan Reingold, VP of business development and marketing for Altair Semiconductor. "Sierra's HL78 modules are excellently suited to meet these needs."
The AirPrime HL78, featuring Altair 's ALT1250 chipset, provides LTE-M connectivity with unlimited firmware over-the-air updates.
"Sierra Wireless' modules provide exceptional low-power performance, allowing smart gas meters to consume so little electricity that they will be able to perform two-way telecommunication for about 10 years on three 2,400mA industrial batteries," said Hiroyuki Kimura, deputy general manager for KDDI’s IoT business development division.
“The extended coverage provided by our LTE-M network will allow gas service providers to reach more of the Japanese market.”
In addition to the utility market, Kimura added, KDDI expects to expand its IoT offerings to other verticals including logistics and wearables.