Will NB-IoT be replaced by Cat.1?

Ⅰ. Introduction

With the rapid development of the Internet of Things, low-power wireless technology has become the key to connecting a large number of devices. In this field, NB-IoT (Narrowband Internet of Things) and Cat.1 (Category 1) are two technologies that have attracted much attention. However, whether one technology will replace another has become a hot topic in the industry. This article will explore the characteristics, application scenarios of NB-IoT and Cat.1, and their future development in the field of Internet of Things.

Ⅱ. Technical characteristics

As a low-power wide area network communication technology designed specifically for the Internet of Things, NB-IoT has emerged in the field of the Internet of Things with its distinctive features of wide coverage, low power consumption, massive connections and low cost. It uses narrowband communication technology to achieve large-scale IoT connections on mobile communication networks. It is suitable for low-speed, low-power consumption and high-cost application scenarios such as smart meters, smart security, and smart cities. Cat.1, as a branch of the 4G series, is better than NB-IoT in terms of network coverage, speed and latency, but its cost and power consumption are relatively high. In particular, Cat.1 supports greater data transmission volume and good mobility, making it more suitable for application scenarios that require medium rates and a certain degree of mobility.

Ⅲ. Cost-effectiveness

NB-IoT still maintains a certain price advantage in terms of cost. Although the cost of Cat.1 modules continues to decline and gradually approaches the price level of NB-IoT, in actual applications, the overall cost of NB-IoT (including module cost and tariff) is still relatively low. Especially in scenarios with a long life cycle such as the metering industry, the cost advantage of NB-IoT is more obvious. In addition, considering the extensiveness of NB-IoT base station construction and the maturity of the existing industrial chain, it also has certain advantages in market acceptance and application popularity.

Ⅳ. Market application outlook

The two technologies differ in application scenarios and characteristics, and each has its own unique advantages. NB-IoT has obvious advantages in low power consumption, long battery life and wide coverage, and is suitable for large-scale connected IoT devices. Cat.1 has advantages in high-speed transmission and is suitable for IoT applications that require higher speeds.

In the future, we expect NB-IoT and Cat.1 to continue to coexist and develop. As the Internet of Things continues to expand, different application scenarios will also increase the demand for different technologies. Therefore, choosing the right technology depends on the specific application requirements. Moreover, with the advancement and innovation of technology, we may see the emergence of more low-power wireless technologies to meet the needs of different application scenarios.

Ⅴ.Development Trends and Challenges

With the popularization of 5G technology and the country's emphasis on new infrastructure, the Internet of Things market will usher in a broader development space. As important technical branches in the field of the Internet of Things, NB-IoT and Cat.1 will usher in new development opportunities. However, both face their own challenges. NB-IoT needs to solve the problems of lagging base station construction and insufficient coverage; while Cat.1 needs to further reduce costs and enhance its application advantages in specific scenarios.

Ⅵ.Conclusion

In summary, it is unlikely that NB-IoT will be completely replaced by Cat.1. The two have their own advantages in technical characteristics, cost-effectiveness and market applications, and are more likely to form a complementary and symbiotic relationship in the future. For the Internet of Things industry, appropriate technical solutions should be selected according to the needs of specific application scenarios to achieve the best performance and cost-effectiveness. Therefore, for the question of "Will NB-IoT be replaced by Cat.1", we can come up with a relatively clear answer: in the foreseeable future, the two will develop in parallel and jointly promote the prosperity and progress of the Internet of Things industry.