The industrial Internet of things (IIoT) is rapidly transforming the way organisations operate. As more devices are being deployed to remote locations, wireless connectivity has become a critical element for success. With the introduction of two new network modules, Cisco is making it easier than ever to connect industrial devices and sensors over a wider range of wireless technologies, including LoRaWAN and 450MHz LTE.
Communication across Extended Distances Using LoRaWAN
Because of LoRaWAN’s long-range connection, which is one of its primary advantages, the technology is well suited for use in applications such as remote sensor networks and monitoring systems. Customers will be able to connect their battery-powered LoRaWAN sensors to their networks by using the new pluggable interface module (PIM) that is available for the Cisco Catalyst IR1100 Rugged Series Router.
In addition, the LoRaWAN module that is included in the Catalyst IR1101 can function in industrial settings that are both space-restricted and distributed. This provides customers with the flexibility and scalability necessary to install the module in the locations that are most advantageous to them. When combined with two additional modules, the Catalyst IR1101 may function as an integrated LoRaWAN gateway with 4G/5G backhaul capabilities in a single router that is simple to set up even in confined areas.
Consistent and Dependable Connection with 450MHz LTE
450MHz Long-Term Evolution (LTE) is a style of wireless communication technology that uses the 450MHz frequency band for its operations. It is used for mobile broadband and other wireless communication applications, and it provides reliable and secure connectivity for critical applications such as smart grid and smart meter services as well as public safety applications. Mobile broadband is a form of high-speed Internet that can be accessed over mobile devices.
The new pluggable interface module (PIM) for the Cisco Catalyst IR1100 Rugged Series Router enables connectivity for mission-critical government use cases, such as critical infrastructure and public safety. It is possible to connect the Catalyst IR1101 to any location on site thanks to the 450MHz band’s strong robustness and deep indoor signal penetration.
A Modular Router Designed to Accommodate All of Your Connectivity Requirements
Source: https://blogs.cisco.com/internet-of-things/connecting-industrial-devices-anywhere-with-ciscos-new-modules-for-lorawan-and-450mhz-lte
The technologies that enable wireless networking are constantly undergoing development. Ethernet and xDSL are only two of the backhaul technologies that are supported by the Cisco Catalyst IR1101 modular router, which also supports a wide variety of 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G radio bands and categories. This router is designed to fullfill your specific requirements. For adapting to changes and avoiding expensive rip-and-replace upgrades, pluggable modules that are simply swappable are a great option. This is especially important now that 2G and 3G services are being phased out.
The Cisco Catalyst IR1101 is capable of handling even the most complex use cases thanks to its expandability, which enables it to host a second wireless cellular module, additional Ethernet and serial ports, general-purpose input/output (GPIO), and data storage.
Extending connectivity to remote locations can be difficult, especially when the requirements for connectivity vary greatly from one area to another and from one use case to another. Cisco is improving the capabilities of the Catalyst IR1100 Rugged Series Router to address the connection requirements of businesses no matter where they are located. This is in response to the increasing trend of corporations automating and establishing remote operations. Organisations now have more alternatives to connect their equipment and sensors due to the release of new LoRaWAN and 450MHz LTE PIMs. This enables them to fully capitalise on the potential of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).
Enhancing Network Resilience with Cisco’s Modular Approach
Cisco’s modular design not only supports multiple connectivity standards but also enhances network resilience, critical in industrial environments. By enabling rapid swapping of modules, organisations can swiftly adapt to changing network conditions or regulatory requirements without significant downtime or hardware replacement costs. This modularity supports redundancy; for instance, dual modules can provide failover capabilities, ensuring continuous connectivity even if one network experiences issues. Additionally, the modular router supports diverse deployment scenarios, from urban industrial hubs to remote field sites, maintaining strong, reliable communication channels. This flexibility reduces operational risks, minimises maintenance complexity, and ensures consistent data flow for real-time monitoring and control, which are essential for mission-critical IIoT applications.
Supporting Edge Computing Through Robust Connectivity
Cisco’s IR1101 router with new modules supports edge computing, a rising trend in industrial IoT. By providing reliable local connectivity via LoRaWAN or 450MHz LTE, data can be processed near the source, reducing latency and bandwidth costs associated with cloud transmissions. Edge computing enables faster decision-making, real-time analytics, and increased security since sensitive data remains onsite. The router’s expandable architecture allows integrating additional computing or storage resources, creating a compact, multifunctional edge device. This capability is especially valuable in industries like manufacturing or energy, where immediate data interpretation can optimise operations, predict equipment failures, and enhance safety.
Simplifying IoT Deployment and Management for Industrial Teams
The introduction of pluggable modules simplifies the deployment and maintenance of IoT networks, especially for industrial teams with limited IT resources. The plug-and-play nature reduces the need for specialised technical knowledge during installation, accelerating time-to-market. With Cisco’s centralised management tools, operators can monitor module status, perform remote updates, and troubleshoot issues proactively. This ease of management lowers operational costs and minimises downtime. Moreover, modular routers facilitate scalable deployments where connectivity technologies can evolve independently from the physical hardware, future-proofing IoT infrastructure and enabling seamless integration with existing industrial systems.
Driving Sustainability with Efficient Connectivity Solutions
Cisco’s focus on modular, multi-technology connectivity contributes to sustainability goals in industrial IoT. By extending device battery life through low-power networks like LoRaWAN and minimising infrastructure replacement via modular upgrades, energy and material waste are reduced. Reliable connectivity also supports remote monitoring and pr
edictive maintenance, which decrease unnecessary travel and resource use. Furthermore, improved data collection enables better environmental monitoring and energy management. Cisco’s approach helps companies not only modernise operations but also align with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints and promote eco-friendly industrial practices.
