Terminology » IoT » EC-GSM IoT: Features and Applications for the Internet of Things

EC-GSM IoT: Features and Applications for the Internet of Things

Long battery life: Up to approximately 10 years.
Lower device cost: Compared to existing GSM/GPRS devices.
Variable rates: Utilizes GMSK/8PSK modulation.
High subscriber capacity: Supports approximately 50,000 devices per cell.
Improved security: Compared to GSM/EDGE.

ec-gsm iot gsm network lpwa data communication

This page provides an overview of EC-GSM IoT, including its features, applications, and benefits in the context of the Internet of Things (IoT).

Introduction to EC-GSM IoT

EC-GSM IoT stands for Extended Coverage GSM for Internet of Things. It is a Low Power Wide Area (LPWA) technology standardized and published in 3GPP Release 13. It operates within licensed spectrum, similar to traditional GSM technology.

An EC-GSM IoT network is backward compatible with existing GSM networks, utilizing the existing GSM architecture as illustrated in Figure 1.

gsm network architecture

To enable EC-GSM IoT functionality, software upgrades are required on the existing GSM network, device, and core network sides. A consortium of companies is actively working to make 3GPP-based EC-GSM IoT technology widely available. This group includes prominent names like Intel, Cisco, Ericsson, Broadcom, LG, KDDI, MediaTek, Orange, Nokia, Sierra Wireless, and Samsung Electronics, Telit communications.