464 Kbps
Connection Speed
IoT Pro is a two-way IP data service designed for long term machine-to-machine (M2M) usage. It’s delivered by Viasat using the L-band frequency which is unaffected by weather conditions.
L-band is the most popular frequency for IoT applications as it carries limited information in comparison to Ka-band and Ku-band, but in turn, requires a low power draw, small form factor terminal.
Our Preferred IoT Pro Products
Ground Control partners with Hughes and Cobham to offer our customers the best IoT Pro terminals on the market. The Hughes 9502 and Cobham Explorer 540 are tried-and-trusted workhorses in IoT / M2M data collection. Both are C1D2 rated for use in hazardous environments, making them suitable for Oil and Gas installations. Both offer hybrid cellular / satellite connectivity on a lowest-cost-routing basis.
The Cobham Explorer 323 is designed for mobile applications; for example an autonomous vehicle or heavy machinery. It can use either Go-anywhere Pro or IoT Pro airtime depending on the requirement application.
99.9%
Availability
<2s
Latency*
Viasat Coverage Map
With four geostationary satellites providing global coverage, Viasat IoT Pro service offers uninterrupted connectivity in any location (except extreme polar regions). Offering the highest payload and lowest latency of any store-and-forward L-band satellite service, its able to support data volumes ranging megabytes to gigabytes.
From real-time surveillance to high-volume telemetry, IoT Pro delivers robust two-way IP data connectivity with remote terminal management capabilities. Its lightweight and robust hardware make it a plug-and-play solution for a wide range of M2M and IoT applications.
More Details on Viasat Coverage
IoT Pro Service Plans and Pricing
For more information about our IoT Pro Service Plans, please visit our dedicated IoT Pro airtime page.
| Example Plan: | 1 MB | 2 MB | 5 MB | 10 MB | 15 MB | 20 MB |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Per Month: | $22.50 | $29.50 | $45.00 | $75.00 | $100.00 | $112.50 |
| Included Data: | 1 MB | 2 MB | 5 MB | 10 MB | 15 MB | 20 MB |
| Activation Fee: | $30.00 | $30.00 | $30.00 | $30.00 | $30.00 | $30.00 |
| Overage Fee per MB: | $22.50 | $15.00 | $14.00 | $12.00 | $11.00 | $10.00 |
| Minimum Contract Term: | 1 Month | 1 Month | 1 Month | 1 Month | 1 Month | 1 Month |
Benefits of IoT Pro Service
Is IoT Pro the right choice for your IoT connectivity challenge? Here are some of the key benefits of the service; speak to us if you’d like advice on your application.
IP-Based for Easy Integration
Data speeds are 448kbps (send) / 464kbps (receive) which is more than enough for most IoT applications. Because it’s IP-based, it’s easy to integrate with your existing infrastructure.
Unrivalled Reliability
Viasat delivers 99.9% network availability, which is as good as it gets. As IoT Pro uses the L-band frequency, your devices will remain connected wherever they are, and whatever the weather.
Cost-Effective and Flexible
Ground Control was Viasat’s first ELEVATE partner which means we have access to great airtime rates for IoT Pro service. It’s ideal for IP SCADA and remote fixed asset monitoring.
Product Testing and Installation
We test every third party device we send out to make sure it’s working, and it has the latest firmware installed. We can also help you in-person or remotely with site selection and installation.
Cloudloop Platform and Applications
Cloudloop puts you in control of your devices and data. Developer-friendly APIs and a intuitive online platform simplifies your data, device and subscription management.
Expertise and Support
In our 2022 customer survey, 66% of our customers rated our customer support as above or well above average, and we’re trusted to help solve challenging IoT problems in the most cost-efficient way.
Comparing Satellite IoT Connectivity
It’s tricky to compare airtime services because so much depends on how much data you need to send, but as a rough guide, we’ve put together the following comparison points. Get in touch if you’d like any help deciding what will work best for you.
| Service | Iridium SBD | Iridium Certus 100 | Viasat IoT Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connection Type: | Message-Based | IP-based | IP-based |
| Typical Connection Speed: | 270 / 320 B per Message | 22 / 88 Kbps | 448 / 464 Kbps |
| Satellite Orbit: | Low Earth Orbit (LEO) | Low Earth Orbit (LEO) | Geo-stationary (GEO) |
| Latency: | Very Low | Very Low | Low |
| Total Cost of Ownership: | Very Low | Medium | Low |
| Power Usage: | Very Low | Low | Low |
| Connection Frequency: | On Demand | Frequently Connected | Frequently Connected |
| Great For: | Very small amounts of data from individual sensors | Fixed or mobile IoT applications which require IP connection | Fixed IoT applications with larger amounts of data to transfer via an IP connection |
IoT Pro FAQs
IoT Pro is suitable for applications that require reliable and resilient machine-to-machine connectivity, in remote or harsh environments. Supporting applications with data volumes ranging from megabytes to gigabytes, some common examples include:
- IP SCADA for data backhaul
- Telemetry & SCADA
- Well head and pipeline monitoring
- Monitoring and controlling extraction and distribution of equipment
- Smart grid, smart metering (concentrator backhaul) and recloser control
- Railways for trackside monitoring and crossings
- Remote video surveillance, telemetry and tracking
- Road signage
- Weather and environmental monitoring
- Emergency response communications
- Mobile connectivity for field operations
IoT Pro data transmission is handled by a network of four satellites in geostationary orbit. Utilising a two-way IP data service, it enables reliable and secure communication between the remote M2M devices and the central server or control centre.
IoT Pro operates on a store-and-forward principle. Data is collected from the remote M2M devices and stored in the terminal before being transmitted to the central server or control centre via satellite. This ensures reliable delivery of data even in areas with intermittent or unstable connectivity. Data rates and volume do vary depending on chosen terminal, but can achieve send rates of up to 448kbps with latency from 800 milliseconds – assuring near real-time visibility of critical data.
IoT Pro devices are designed to operate with minimal power, but a stable power source is essential. Power supply options vary based on the device and application, but can include direct connection to a power outlet, battery power, or solar solutions. Companies must consider available power supply when choosing their IoT Pro terminal as different devices have varying power requirements. For example, the Hughes 9502 consumes only 3W during transmission, while the Cobham Explorer 323 requires 27W. So it’s vital to select a device that aligns with the available power capacity or implement effective power management strategies.
Though many IoT Pro devices are built to withstand harsh conditions, when considering installation options businesses should consider environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and potential physical hazards. Proper installation, with unobstructed line-of-sight to one of Viasat’s I-4 satellites is key for optimal performance. This may involve mounting IoT Pro terminals and/or antennas, on poles or buildings.
Yes, IoT Pro devices can be easily integrated with existing IoT infrastructure. Devices support standard IP connectivity, making it straightforward to establish communication with other IoT devices and systems. They can transmit and receive data using common IoT protocols such as MQTT or HTTP, enabling interoperability and data exchange with your existing infrastructure.
IoT Pro terminals provide a simple Ethernet interface for connecting to a machine/device or IoT gateway, and depending on your security requirements, inter-connectivity can also be achieved – using a cloud-based service, VPN or even custom APNs. To discuss your specific set up and requirements further, please get in touch via hello@groundcontrol.com and our SolutionsArchitecture Team will assist.
Satellite data traffic is already relatively secure. However Ground Control offers several additional layers of security for our IoT Pro subscribers; including firewall controls, data encryption, VPNs and private network solution via MPLS installation or leased-lines.
To find out more, simply see IoT Pro Firewall Traffic Rules or contact the team at hello@groundcontrol.com to talk through your options.
Can We Help?
If you’ve decided on the hardware you need, and want a quote and lead time, please call or email us, or complete the form, and we’ll be happy to help.
If you’d like some impartial advice on the best device and airtime for your IoT connectivity requirements, get in touch; with 20 years’ experience there isn’t much we don’t know about satellite IoT connectivity and devices!