The Weightless SIG, Monday announced that NWave Technologies, a leading Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity vendor, has joined the group to drive Weightless-N specification, a new and unique open connectivity standard for IoT/M2M over ISM bands, complementing connectivity technologies such as Bluetooth, WiFi, 3G and 4G. Version 1.0 of the Weightless-N specification is anticipated to be released by the end of Q1 2015.
NWave which provides connectivity technology for IoT in the unlicensed spectrum – specifically the Industrial, Scientific and Medical bands below 1GHz, operates in 868MHz in Europe and 915MHz band in the USA.
According to Weightless SIG, the Weightless-N will utilize Ultra Narrow Band (UNB) technology for IoT/M2M applications that is capable of operating over distances of up to 5km. The specification targets a low cost minimal power consumption that will enable terminal devices to operate in the field for up to ten years on a single AA form factor battery. Simple terminal hardware utilising low cost components will enable modules to be deployed for around USD$2, added Weighless SIG.
Professor William Webb, CEO of the Weightless SIG
We are delighted to welcome NWave Technologies Limited to the Weightless SIG. NWave is a leader in IoT over ISM spectrum and the company's deep technical experience in LPWAN connectivity will make a significant contribution to the rapid development of Weightless-N. Bringing proven capability from an existing technology provider to the SIG and merging it with the expertise already established within the group will accelerate the development of Weightless-N as the leading global open standard for machine connectivity over licence exempt spectrum.
Jonathan Wiggin, CEO of NWave Technologies,
We are delighted to have become a Core Member of the Weightless SIG and to be able to use our experience and expertise in the development of communications technologies for the Internet of Things in order to contribute to the development of the Weightless-N standard. We expect that our collaboration within the SIG’s working groups will help to bring the Standard to completion early next year. A global, open standard is critical for the successful commercialisation of a wireless technology and for the first time a standards body is proactively bringing together the elements that will quickly allow us to make this a reality.
