RFEC-GSM IoT: Features and Applications for the Internet of Things
Advertisement
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.
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.
EC-GSM IoT Features
EC-GSM supports four coverage classes.
The following table summarizes the key features of EC-GSM IoT technology:
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Same as GSM network, 850 to 900 MHz, 1800 to 1900 MHz |
| Deployment | In-Band GSM |
| Access Type | TDMA/FDMA |
| Modulation Types | GMSK, 8PSK |
| Bandwidth | 200 KHz per channel |
| Peak Data Rate (Downlink/Uplink) | 70 Kbps for GMSK, 240 Kbps for 8PSK |
| Coverage | 164 dB with 33 dBm Power Class, 154 dB with 23 dBm power class |
| Duplexing | HD, FDD |
| Power saving mode | PSM, ext. I-DRX |
EC-GSM IoT Applications
EC-GSM IoT is suitable for various applications, including:
- M2M/IoT traffic only
- Voice
- Data
- SMS
EC-GSM IoT Benefits
EC-GSM IoT technology offers several benefits and advantages:
- 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.
Changes/Additions Compared to Existing GSM/GPRS
Significant changes and additions have been implemented to adapt GSM/GPRS for IoT applications:
- Physical Layer changes
- New Logical channels
- Overlaid CDMA to enhance cell capacity which is used for EC-PDTCH and EC-PACCH
References
- 3GPP GERAN TR 45.820, section 10 - 3rd Generation Partnership Project
- 3GPP TS 43.064 V13.0.0 - Overall description of the GPRS radio interface
