Sensor Network Coverage

What is NB-IoT?

NB-IoT (Narrowband Internet of Things) runs on the same network towers as 4G and 5G. It's designed for devices like our sensors that send small amounts of data and need to work for years on low power.

NB-IoT uses a small part of the 4G/5G network bandwidth. This means it works alongside regular mobile phones without affecting them. The network is built to last and will continue to be supported as mobile networks move to newer technology.

One NZ maintains the NB-IoT network as part of their mobile network. As they upgrade to 5G and beyond, NB-IoT will continue to be available because it's useful for connecting devices that don't need fast speeds but do need long battery life and wide coverage.

Why does Pūkeko Signals use NB-IoT?

🗼 NB-IoT has much better coverage than 3G/4G/5G

NB-IoT signals reach much further than regular mobile phones. Where a phone might not have coverage, our sensors can still connect. This is because NB-IoT sends data more slowly, which allows the signal to travel further and work better inside buildings or in remote areas. This means sensors can work in places like pump sheds (depending on the amount of iron covering the building), or rural areas where normal mobile coverage is weak.

🔋 Lower Power Usage

Although the battery is charged by a small solar panel, power usage is a concern; especially during winter when there is limited sunlight, and the temperature is so low it affects the battery.

⏳ NB-IoT has a long future ahead

2G is gone, and 3G is currently being phased out. It's unclear when 4G networks may be phased out as mobile providers move to 5G and newer technologies. When this happens, devices that rely on 4G will stop working. NB-IoT is designed to coexist with newer networks, so it will continue to be supported even as 4G is retired.