STMicroelectronics releases highly adaptable and easy to connect dual wireless IoT modules for metering and asset tracking applications
2024-11-07
The new ST87M01 module integrates Vodafone licensed eSIM and switchable NB IoT/WM BUS, achieving simple, secure, and flexible connectivity. Its unique solution has been chosen by leading smart instrument manufacturer Maddalena.

On November 4, 2024, STMicroelectronics in China launched an enhanced mobile data communication module that simplifies the connection and management of large-scale IoT devices, accelerating the application of sustainable smart grids and smart industries.



The ST87M01 module platform has passed NB IoT certification and can be optionally equipped with advanced ST4SIM embedded SIM (eSIM) cards for accessing mobile network services. In addition, the series of modules now come pre installed with Vodafone network configuration files, allowing customers to quickly and easily access the Vodafone global mobile network with extensive network coverage.

In addition, STC has also added the wireless M-Bus (wM Bus) connection function in the same module, providing an additional standardized standby channel for collecting residential water, electricity and gas use data. In the event of a mobile communication network interruption, wireless M-Bus can be used as a backup network connection. Wireless M-Bus improves the flexibility of meter reading, allowing meter readers to choose between driving to their doorstep for meter reading or remotely reading in the office as needed.

Maddalena S.p.A, a leading smart water meter innovation company in the market, has selected the ST87M01 design for its latest high-end water meter product line, accelerating the development cycle of cutting-edge water meter solutions. Filippo Fontanelli, Chief Technology Officer of Maddalena S.p.A., said, "By partnering with STMicroelectronics, we are able to integrate advanced NB IoT technology and select one of the few out of the box compact industrial grade modules with NB IoT certified mobile connectivity capabilities in the market. By adopting this solution, our new meters can accelerate customers' smart grid deployment. This collaboration highlights the increasing importance of technology and partnerships, allowing us to provide reliable and high-performance solutions that meet the ever-changing needs of the market

Domenico Arrigo, general manager of ASPs of ST87M01, said: "Compared with the solution integrating one connection technology, the solution integrating eSIM and NB IoT in the same module can simplify system management, reduce system costs, protect data security, and add an additional security protection. ST87M01 provides customers with a convenient option to load Vodafone mobile network configuration files, bringing significant advantages to customers who want to deploy turnkey IoT solutions on a large scale."

The main flexibility of this module is the software defined RF transceiver specially designed by STMicroelectronics for this module, which can dynamically switch between cellular NB IoT and sub GHz wM bus communication modes. Therefore, this module is suitable for various application scenarios and can meet certain specific needs, including using wM Bus as backup communication to further enhance communication resilience. Other flexibility is the ability to embed user code directly into modules when developing simple applications, and to connect modules to separate main microcontrollers when developing more complex applications.
 
In addition, Vodafone configuration files appear in the ST87M01 series product models that integrate NB IoT and multi constellation GNSS satellite receivers, used to implement location service applications such as remote worker security monitoring, asset tracking, and general intelligent logistics. To save energy, the embedded GNSS receiver operates within the NB IoT sleep interval. The ST87M01 module series has passed industrial grade certification and is packaged in 10.6mm x 12.8mm, allowing designers to design products that are reliable in performance, cost-effective, and ultra compact.
 
By integrating positioning and multiple connection options on the same module, the ST87M01 platform can be used for industrial condition monitoring, factory automation, intelligent agriculture, environmental monitoring, as well as intelligent buildings, intelligent cities and intelligent infrastructure.
 
The new module itself and all internal components are entirely conceptualized, designed, and manufactured by STMicroelectronics, ensuring that the company has full control over material costs and supply chains. This indicates that the product is a unique presence in terms of product quality, safety, and lifecycle.