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GPRS and the Multinetwork Challenge

Here you will find information on what GPRS can do for you and the challenges working with multiple GPRS networks pose to the user. We discuss the range of solutions available from Vianet,  the implications of those solutions and how any issues can be mitigated.

What is GPRS?

Wikipedia defines General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) as a ‘Mobile Data Service available to users of GSM and IS-136 mobile phones. GPRS data transfer is typically charged per megabyte of transferred data, while data communication via traditional circuit switching is billed per minute of connection time, independent of whether the user has actually transferred data or has been in an idle state. GPRS can be utilized for services such as WAP access, SMS and MMS, but also for Internet communication services such as email and web access.

2G cellular systems combined with GPRS is often described as ‘2.5G’, that is, a technology between the second (2G) and third (3G) generations of mobile telephony.’ (source http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_Packet_Radio_Service).

What can GPRS do for you?

Essentially GPRS is a method of transferring data across the mobile telephone network, which can be used in machine-to-machine (M2M) applications to connect machine with machines, and people with machines. This connection can either be one way: from device to back office or two way where the back office is able to contact the device, depending on the application. The main advantage of two way over one way connectivity is that it allows the machine/device to be controlled remotely, as apposed to simply transmitting data as with one way connectivity.  Generally GPRS only works one way form the device and the back office cannot initiate a session because the device is hidden within the GPRS network behind a NAT firewall. 

This is all relatively straight forward if you have a few devices all within the same mobile telephone network. However, if you have several devices in different fixed locations the chances are that they will not all be able to see the same network.

This is when the multinetwork challenge comes into play.

The Multiple network challenge

If you are using multiple devices it is likely that not all of your devices will be able to see same network - as you are aware all networks have gaps - no single network gives 100% UK coverage.

This presents the challenge that your devices can’t always connect to the network that you want them to.

Solutions

The there are a number of solutions to this challenge:

1. Simply move your device to an area where the desired coverage is available. This is easy with devices that regularly move about such as tracking devices on vehicles. However, this solution poses questions such as how much data can be held before sending? How long can the ‘black-out period’ be tolerated? What is the movement pattern of the vehicle?
   
2. You swap SIM in the device to one from a network that does give coverage. This solution could be applicable if:
1. The SIM is accessible. However, this is not always the case as some units are sealed at the factory or inconveniently positioned.
2. Your installer has the required skill and knowledge, plus an alternative SIM.
3. The device will stay in a fixed position once installed.
3. Use of a Vianet multinetwork SIM. This option provides access to many UK and foreign networks on one SIM, giving the best possible coverage. It automatically selects the most cost effective network upon connection.

Option 2 is a common solution but it raises further issues such as the potential headache of many bills from different network providers, charging schemes inappropriate for your business model and security.  Its also necessary for the installer to either hold a variety of SIMs in stock or make multiple visits to the unit to change the SIM.

Vianet provides a solution to this myriad of challenges and issues.

The Vianet advantage

For over 7 years Vianet has addressed these potential issues and has enabled local, national and global companies to provide new services to their customers in ways that are more creative, direct, immediate, profitable and dynamic.

By working with Vianet, these companies have used GPRS connectivity to monitor and control widely distributed facilities.

Partnering with Vianet gives you:

1. Single and multi network options
2. Favourable rates and tariffs.
3. Simplified network interfaces though a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
4. Simplified paperwork with one
5. Custom tariff – a charging scheme tailored to suit your business model.
6. Simple-to-use two-way connectivity.
7. Fixed IP address option.
8. A fully managed service.
9. Technical support – direct lines to real people – no call centres or automated queuing.
10. End to end security.

Understanding the costs

As most M2M applications need relatively small amounts of data the fact that the cost of carrying data using a multinetwork SIM as apposed to a single network SIM may not be significant.

Multinetwork SIMs select the best tariff network upon connection. If the preferred network goes off line the modem will usually automatically connect to the next most preferred network.  To ensure the device regains the best network it should be programmed to attempt to reconnect regularly.  

More information

If you like the idea of partnering with Vianet for your M2M connectivity, please do not hesitate to call 01383 748000 to discuss your needs. We will be happy to talk to you!