Empowering Client’s Next-Gen Asset Tracking with LTE Cat 1 bis Modules

our client  is a globally renowned provider of Telematics solutions, specializing in high-precision GPS trackers and fleet management systems for international logistics. With the global sunset of 2G and 3G networks, they faced urgent pressure to transform their technology stack. They needed to upgrade their existing tracking devices to the 4G LTE network without significantly increasing hardware costs or compromising battery life.

In logistics applications, trackers are installed on trucks, containers, and cold chain equipment, facing severe challenges:

1. Strict Power Constraints: When vehicles are turned off or containers are shipped independently, trackers must rely on backup batteries for extended periods. High-power communication modules can cause premature battery drainage and loss of connectivity.

2. Space and Cost Limitations: Telematics devices have limited internal space, and mass deployment makes the solution highly cost-sensitive. Traditional dual-antenna LTE modules are often too bulky and expensive.

3. Harsh Operating Environments: Long-haul transport involves continuous vibration and extreme temperature shifts, demanding exceptional reliability from communication components.

Therefore, to find a solution that perfectly balanced "power consumption," "cost," and "coverage" to maintain their competitive edge in the global market is essential.

The EXL-N2 Communication Module, powered by the Qualcomm QCX-216 LTE IoT Modem, is an LTE Cat 1 bissolution designed for massive IoT deployment, offering the ultimate price-performance ratio for asset tracking.

• LTE Cat 1 bis Single-Antenna Technology: Supporting the Cat 1 bis standard, the module operates with a single antenna. Compared to traditional LTE modules, this significantly saves PCB space and antenna costs, allowing for slimmer and more compact device designs.

• Optimized Ultra-Low Power Consumption: Leveraging the deep power-saving integration of the QCX-216, the module demonstrates superior energy efficiency in both standby and transmission modes, significantly extending the battery life of trackers for long-term asset monitoring.

• Rugged LGA Packaging: The soldered-down LGA form factor provides excellent resistance to vibration and shock, ensuring rock-solid communication connectivity even during bumpy logistics transportation.

Benefits Achieved by the Client

1. Seamless Migration to 4G with Lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): Utilizing Cat 1 bis technology, Client A achieved 4G communication quality at hardware costs comparable to 2G. This allowed them to stay ahead during the global 2G/3G sunset without altering their existing mechanical enclosure designs.

2. Significantly Extended Operation Time: Thanks to the low-power characteristics of the EXL-N2, Client A's next-generation trackers saw a 30% increase in monitoring duration after vehicle ignition off, effectively solving the issue of battery depletion during long container layovers.

3. Enhanced Global Roaming Connectivity: The module supports major global frequency bands, ensuring that Client A's logistics fleets can seamlessly switch networks during cross-border transport, guaranteeing zero blind spots for location data and vehicle diagnostics (OBD) transmission.