New cellular IoT/short-range wireless gateway solution uses Nordic SiP for Cloud-based asset tracking

WiSilica’s ENOR E-L/N employs Nordic nRF9160 SiP enabling Cloud connectivity via cellular networks for asset tracking applications

IoT platform and solutions provider WiSilica has chosen Nordic for its newly launched ENOR E-L/N gateway.

The ENOR E-L/N gateway provides uninterrupted Cloud server connectivity for Bluetooth® Low Energy (Bluetooth LE)-based networks, enabling real-time data provision even when trackable assets move.

This new transportation and storage monitoring solution is based on Nordic’s nRF9160 low power System-in-Package (SiP) with integrated LTE-M/NB-IoT modem, GNSS, and a dedicated application processor and memory.

We decided to use the nRF9160 [...] because the SiP is a compact solution with a powerful Arm CPU and generous memory capacity, as well as offering built-in GNSS, reliable performance, and precertification for different carriers operating globally

Vivek Pramod, WiSilica

NB-IoT based solution

Applications and use cases for ENOR E-L/N include asset and warehouse management, warehouse, workforce safety and efficiency, traffic management and route optimization, as well as supply chain automation and assembly control. The NB-IoT based solution allows users to track storage, transportation of consignments, quality of delivery, and unauthorized indoor movements.

The LTE-M/NB-IoT and Bluetooth LE gateway provides cellular IoT connectivity for Bluetooth LE devices enabling short-range wireless network data to be captured and relayed to the Cloud. ENOR E-L/N also features an external GPS antenna for location tracking applications.

The gateway can be wirelessly configured and controlled via a proprietary iOS or Android app. Nordic’s nRF9160 SiP is certified for global cellular IoT applications and combines cellular network location data with GNSS for precise position monitoring in asset tracking applications.

WiSilica’s transportation and storage monitoring solution is built on ‘ARIXA’, the company’s location aware IoT platform for unifying location, control, and sensing. As part of the solution, ENOR E-L/N functions as an application processor, enabling cellular communication and ensuring continuous GPS tracking.

“The NB-IoT gateway will uniquely bring together IoT market forces like telcos, service providers, and end customers by combining asset data, robust NB-IoT/LTE-M network, and intelligent Cloud-based analytics. Our solution gives a unique business opportunity for telcos and service providers to offer application-based services beyond the traditional offerings, and end customers can access reliable insights on their assets,” says Vivek Pramod, SVP & GM – Smart Controls, WiSilica.

Power, performance and precertification

“We decided to use the nRF9160 for ENOR E-L/N because the SiP is a compact solution with a powerful Arm CPU and generous memory capacity, as well as offering built-in GNSS, reliable performance, and precertification for different carriers operating globally.

“In addition, Nordic provides great assistance, quality assurance, fast response and well documented reference designs, while the company’s solutions are built on leading-edge technology and development tools,” Pramod concludes.