Mobile Satellite Services Operators Satellite Tech Features

SkyWave introduces satellite-cellular M2M solution

Targeting land mobile applications, the IDP-780 reportedly offers the efficiency of cellular networks combined with the reliable, ubiquitous breadth of satellite networks.

SkyWave Mobile Communications, a global provider of wireless data communications for the Machine-to-Machine (M2M) market, has launched the IDP-780 series of terminals with dual mode satellite-cellular capability. Targeting land mobile applications, the IDP-780 reportedly offers the efficiency of cellular networks combined with the reliable, ubiquitous breadth of satellite networks.

“This new product provides our existing and prospective subscriber base the ability to reliably and cost effectively manage their assets on a global scale anytime, anywhere”

Building on SkyWave’s previous dual mode solution, the IDP-780 terminal offers an extended satellite pay-load and dual SIM capability

Building on SkyWave’s previous dual mode solution, the IDP-780 terminal offers an extended satellite pay-load and dual SIM capability. The IDP-780, according to the manufacturer, combines IsatData Pro satellite communication with cellular service, taking mobile asset tracking, logistics and security applications to the next level by providing cost-effective, global coverage. These terminals use cellular networks when and where available and are able to automatically switch to the IsatData Pro satellite service when cellular service is unavailable or unreliable, providing lowest cost communications without sacrificing coverage.

“This new product provides our existing and prospective subscriber base the ability to reliably and cost effectively manage their assets on a global scale anytime, anywhere,” said Jenn Markey, director product management and marketing. “Many of our existing satellite-only terminals are deployed in a hybrid format today with a third party cellular device. Our latest generation dual mode simplifies and accelerates the customer experience with an integrated view of what’s happening in the field in real time.”

More than a communication terminal, the manufacturer claims, the IDP-780 supports a flexible Lua programming environment that provides customers the ability to develop their own on-board applications. It also has embedded GPS, multiple input/outputs, serial interfaces, dual SIM, last gasp battery option and is CANbus enabled to support a wide range of applications such as vehicle tracking, sensor and driver behaviour monitoring and engine telemetry. Finally, the IDP-780 can be deployed with peripherals that connect to external laptops or tablets to increase mobile workforce connectivity and automation with electronic work orders and access to information in databases for field workers. With the ability to provide richer information in M2M applications, businesses are able to share more data across diverse operations via emails, electronic forms, ERP/CRM integration, and workflow documents to optimise recurring cost while increasing the reliability of communicated information.