RFLTE-M vs NB-IoT: A Detailed Comparison
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This article delves into the differences between LTE-M (Long Term Evolution for Machines) and NB-IoT (Narrowband Internet of Things), two prominent technologies in the realm of Low Power Wide Area Networks (LPWAN).
Specifications Comparison
Here’s a table summarizing the key differences between LTE-M and NB-IoT:
| Specifications | LTE-M | NB-IoT |
|---|---|---|
| Bandwidth / Resource Blocks | 1.08 MHz, 6 Resource blocks | 180 KHz, 1 resource block |
| Deployment | In Band LTE | In Band, Guard Band LTE and Standalone |
| Coverage | 155.7 dB | 164 dB |
| Downlink Physical Layer | OFDMA, 15 KHz tone spacing, turbo code, 16QAM, 1 Rx | OFDMA, 15 KHz tone spacing, TBCC, 1 Rx |
| Uplink Physical Layer | SC-FDMA, 15 KHz tone spacing, Turbo code, 16QAM | • Single tone, 15 KHz and 3.75 KHz spacing • SC-FDMA, 15 KHz tone spacing • Turbo code |
| Downlink Peak Rate | 1 Mbps | ~32 kbps (in-band), 34 kbps (standalone) |
| Uplink Peak Rate | 1 Mbps | ~66 kbps (multitone), ~17 kbps (standalone) |
| Duplexing | FD, HD (type-B), FDD/TDD | HD only (Type-B), FDD-only, TDD |
| Power Saving | PSM, eDRX, DRX | PSM, eDRX, DRX |
| Number of Antennas | 1 | 1 |
| Transmit Power (UE) | 20 dBm | 23 dBm |
| Standard | 3GPP Rel.13 (1Q 2016) | 3GPP Rel.13 (2Q 2016) |
| Tutorial Link |
