The IoT will lead to people being surrounded by hundreds of connected devices that will ease and revolutionize their way of life wherever they are. However, the full potential can only be achieved by adapting networks and, in more specific terms, by offering affordable mobile communications everywhere and at all times. Satellite links will use a dedicated communication protocol to ensure excellent coverage using a small form factor terminal, while 868 and 915 MHz ISM band will be used to communicate with the SIGFOX terrestrial network. The dual-mode satellite/terrestrial terminal will enable automatic switching between the two communication channels in response to resource availability in the areas where connected devices are located.
The three-year project will involve the development of the terminal’s modem chipset, the optimization of communication protocols and the validation of the system through an aircraft application demonstration. Performance objectives will be achieved primarily through developments in integrated circuit technologies and in enhanced communication protocols for short messages.
Based on new terrestrial and satellite communication technologies, the solution will enable connected devices to communicate on a global scale, offering users a fully integrated and optimized low-cost short message service.