As the world of satellite IoT connectivity rapidly evolves, selecting the right network for your remote application has never been more important — or more complex. Whether you’re deploying environmental monitoring devices, controlling unmanned systems, or tracking remote assets, understanding your options can save you significant time, money, and operational effort.
That’s why we created a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this dynamic landscape and make informed choices. The highlights are in this blog post; read the eBook to digest the in-depth version.
The Expanding Satellite IoT Landscape
In recent years, satellite networks have undergone a transformation. Established players have diversified their services, offering greater flexibility and more competitive pricing. At the same time, new satellite constellations are launching at a faster rate than ever, introducing innovative services and standards that promise even more possibilities for IoT applications.
This abundance of options is great news, but it also presents a challenge: with so many variables at play, how do you select the best network for your specific needs? That’s where our expertise comes in. Ground Control has spent over 20 years testing and integrating satellite networks to ensure optimal connectivity for our customers. We’ve distilled our knowledge into an easy-to-follow eBook that covers everything you need to consider.
Key Considerations for Choosing a Satellite Network
When evaluating satellite IoT networks, there are several critical questions to ask:
- How data-intensive is your application? Understanding your data volume needs is crucial. For instance, message-based services like Iridium Messaging Transport (IMT) are ideal for low-volume, energy-efficient data transmission. On the other hand, IP-based services such as Iridium Certus 100 are better suited for high-data applications like real-time control or video streaming.
- Where are your sensors located? Coverage matters. While some networks like Iridium offer truly global coverage, others may not reach polar regions or other remote areas. Additionally, factors like terrain and obstructions can affect the choice between Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Geostationary (GEO) satellites.
- Is your application stationary or mobile? Mobile applications often require LEO networks, as they don’t rely on precise antenna alignment. Conversely, stationary deployments with a clear line of sight to a GEO satellite may benefit from the stability and cost-effectiveness of GEO-based solutions.
- How time-critical is your data? Applications requiring real-time data transmission will need well-established LEO networks with IP-based connections. For less time-sensitive use cases, store-and-forward technologies used by some newer LEO networks might be a cost-effective alternative.
Standards-Based vs. Proprietary Networks
One of the most exciting developments in satellite IoT is the emergence of standards-based technologies like LTE Cat 1 and NB-IoT over satellite. These allow a single modem to connect to both cellular and satellite networks, promising cost savings and supplier flexibility. However, these technologies are still in their infancy and come with trade-offs, such as higher power consumption or limited data volumes.
Where you have a combination of relatively high data volumes plus no mains power, proprietary networks offer optimized performance tailored to their specific satellite systems. For instance, message-based protocols like Iridium’s Short Burst Data (SBD) deliver efficient, low-power communication for small data packets, making them ideal for battery-powered IoT devices.
What You’ll Learn in the eBook
Our eBook, How to Choose the Right Satellite IoT Network, dives deeper into these topics and provides actionable insights, including:
- A detailed comparison of leading satellite networks like Iridium, Viasat, Starlink, and Globalstar.
- Real-world examples of how different networks excel in specific use cases.
- A practical framework for evaluating networks based on coverage, latency, power efficiency, and mobility.
- Insights into emerging technologies and how they may impact your future connectivity strategy.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have the tools you need to select a satellite IoT network that aligns with your technical and operational requirements.
Can we help with your remote IoT application?
We have decades of experience designing and building satellite IoT connectivity solutions, and work with multiple satellite networks to ensure our customers get the right service for their needs.
If you would like expert, impartial advice on your remote IoT application, please get in touch! Complete the form or email hello@groundcontrol.com. We will reply within one working day.