OCTOBER 20238 IN MY OPINIONNext-generation networks such as 5G cellular and WiFi 6+ are launching a new era for the Internet of Things (IoT). With higher speeds and greater data capacities, these ultra-fast, reliable networks can support millions more connected devices that enable everything from relatively simple smart home functionality to more advanced features like automated factories, remote health monitoring, and vehicle fleet telematics. The coming explosion of machine-to-machine communication could account for upwards of 50 percent of all internet connections by 2023--and by 2027, there could be 41 billion installed IoT devices. For IoT to reach this potential, however, the world needs to build out a robust connectivity ecosystem that takes advantage of high speed 5G and WiFi 6+ networks, while also supporting other wireless protocols that are suited to different constraints and requirements of specific IoT applications. That means designing devices and networks around advanced, multi-band antenna solutions that can efficiently handle a wider range of frequencies, creating smaller and more durable embedded components to record and transfer data in a range of environments, and adding infrastructure to help manage the anticipated increase in data surging over wireless networks. As a connectivity and sensor partner to leading hyperscale and telecom companies, TE collaborates with our customers to tackle some of their biggest design challenges. Here are important innovations we are working on to help IoT achieve its explosive growth potential. ADVANCED ANTENNA DESIGNEnabling machine-to-machine communication, anywhere and at all times, puts new pressure on the capabilities of embedded and external wireless antennas. Device designers and engineers need access to a range of antenna options to meet the needs of different IoT applications. One critical feature of IoT antenna solutions is the ability to offer wideband frequency performance--covering everything from low-band, 600 MHz LTE cellular all the way up to the 6 GHz and above for 5G networks. To effectively capture signals across a broad frequency spectrum, antenna technology needs to provide sufficient selectivity and isolation to prevent interference with other IoT equipment. Each antenna in the IoT ecosystem must also be matched to its application's performance requirements. For example, equipment in a fixed location that features a robust network and good signal strength may get sufficient performance from a simple dipole or blade antenna. As the quality and reliability of the network declines, high gain omnidirectional or directional antennas are typically needed to ensure signal from the devices reaches the network. To meet these challenges, TE Connectivity offers a full portfolio of antenna solutions that accommodate a mix of frequency bands and performance requirements for different IoT applications. As the rollout of high-speed networks continues to drive new IoT innovations, TE is prepared to develop customized antenna designs to accommodate the frequency ranges and design requirements of new applications. HOW HIGH SPEED CONNECTIVITY IS ENABLING IOTBY MIKE TRYSON, VP AND CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER, DATA & DEVICES BUSINESS,TE CONNECTIVITYMike Tryson
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