When people think of M2M communication, they generally think of cellular networks. It is true that the majority of M2M applications use cellular networks, but even though coverage continues to expand, we all know too well that you cell phone does not work everywhere. For vehicles that move in urban areas, or on major highways, cellular coverage is usually good enough, but what about construction equipment at remote locations, agricultural equipment, or ships?

That's where satellite communication comes into play. Satellites cover the entire globe, so you don't have to worry about a coverage map. For highly remote applications, you can be sure your data will get through. So why don't all M2M applications use satellites? Two issues: speed and cost. Although satellites can transmit large amounts of data - like direct TV, that's primarily one-way and to a large antenna. Two-way transmission to a small antenna has a much lower bandwidth capability than cellular communication. And cost per byte of satellite communication is much more expensive.

But if you have an application with small data requirements, and broad coverage needs, satellite pricing can be very competitive. Another option is dual-mode edge devices. This combines satellite and cellular in a single edge device, giving you the best of both worlds. The Axeda SmartLink platform is designed to handle dual-mode communication, handling the logic to switch between the communication modes based on price and urgency. Basic status information can be saved locally, and then sent when a cellular connection is available, but an emergency condition could be sent immediately by the most economic means available.

Last week, we announced a partnership with ORBCOMM to provide M2M solutions with satellite communications. ORBCOMM also supports dual-mode communication through partnerships with cellular network providers.