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Making the move to a connected fleet? There are lots of decisions ahead, not the least of which is how you’ll transmit data from the place it’s captured—a machine or other asset—to a place where you can use it—a desktop in the office or a mobile device in the field.
Normally machine data travels through one of two channels: a cellular network or a satellite system. You choose the channel upfront as it affects the type of hardware that will be installed on or built into your assets. Your equipment dealer will help you make the decision, but here are a few things to know before you start the discussion.
Cellular communications technologies send and receive data through land-based towers. Each tower forms a “cell” which is the area covered by its transmitters. A group of towers is referred to as a “cellular network.” As your machine works, it sends data through the closest tower in the network.
Satellite communications technologies transmit data through satellites orbiting the Earth. Machine data flows directly to the orbiting satellite which sends a signal to the nearest land-based station which communicates to the receiving device.
Satellite systems offer broader coverage than cell networks. Each cell tower has a relatively short range, so it takes many towers to create a big network. But constructing a large number of towers can be costly and difficult—even impossible in remote areas. In contrast, satellite beams cover vast areas and no towers are required, so coverage extends to the hardest-to-reach locations.
The cost of renting or buying space on a satellite is higher than the cost of using a cellular network. That’s because satellites are more expensive to build, place in orbit and maintain. Satellite costs are trending down though, making this option more affordable than it was in the past.
In some circumstances, it’s possible for a machine to communicate through both a cellular network and a satellite system. However, it must be equipped with what’s known as a “dual-mode” tracking and monitoring technology, which, as the name implies, enables communication through both types of channels.
Cellular |
Satellite |
|
---|---|---|
Data Transmission |
Through land-based cell towers |
Through Earth-orbiting satellites |
Coverage | More potential for gaps | Fewer gaps |
Use in Remote Locations | Can be difficult, even impossible | Usually available in any location |
Affordability |
Less expensive than satellite | More expensive than cellular |
Reliablity |
May experience interruptions as machine moves through network | May experience delays due to long-distance data transfer or changes in weather |
Disaster risk |
More vulnerable | Less vulnerable |
Before you make big decisions about connectivity, meet with a provider who understands your business and can help you plan for success. Together, you’ll look at factors such as:
Whether you end up with cell- or satellite-based technology—or even a dual-mode solution—the data you’ll be able to capture and use will help you run a safe, efficient and profitable business.
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