Connecting machines to the Internet through 4G

Many field-based applications do not have access to a wired Internet connection and requires cellular connectivity. Using an eWON Flexy with a 4G cellular connection allows users to access their machinery in remote places where Ethernet is not available.

4G provides many advantages: 

A more reliable connection
The 4G extension card can connect, not only to the newest LTE (Long-Term Evolution) networks, but also ensures an automatic fall-back to lower cellular connectivity. If the 4G network becomes unstable, congested or unavailable, the connection will automatically switch to 3G (HSPA/WCDMA) or 2G (GPRS/EDGE). In other words, it ensures a connectivity continuity, no matter what the network circumstances are.

Faster communication
4G connectivity is also beneficial when it comes to latency: there is a better interaction and compatibility with the latest equipment installed by Mobile Network Operators (MNO). Furthermore, it can also provide better network coverage depending on the mobile installations provided by the MNO. The frequency ranges covered by the new 4G extension card (B1, B3, B7, B8, B20) ensure a wide compatibility with major MNO’s and covers Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

For remote access, a SIM card with a data plan is all that is needed to connect the Flexy to the Talk2M cloud-based solution and access an industrial control system. Similarly, for SCADA-like applications, secure remote VPN connectivity can also benefit from the SIM card without provisioning a fixed IP address on the remote site.