Voice over satellite advancements with NB-IoT

The Internet of Things (IoT) is expanding its reach beyond traditional networks, now venturing into the skies with satellite connectivity and even enabling voice communication in remote areas. The latest advancement in Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) technology allows for voice calls to be made over satellite networks, in addition to transmitting data from millions of sensors worldwide.

Sony Semiconductor's rollout of the Altair ALT1250 chip has paved the way for this breakthrough, which can be implemented through a simple software upgrade to existing geostationary satellites utilizing the available S-band spectrum. This development marks a significant milestone in the evolution of IoT communication.

• Running IoT through the skies
• 5G automotive grade module adds NB-NTN support
• Satellite NTN connectivity for wearable and low power IoT devices

Collaboration between Mavenir and Canadian satellite operator Terrestar Solutions has resulted in the industry's first successful Voice over NB-IoT (VoNB) call in NTN (Non-Terrestrial Networks) mode. The technology has been further validated through a testbed created by Murata and Rohde & Schwarz, showcasing the readiness of the supply chain.

The Mavenir call, conducted over a 3GPP-standardized NTN S-band spectrum, demonstrates the network's ability to operate without interference commonly found in terrestrial networks. Despite the inherent latency of geostationary orbit, the system ensures consistent coverage, making it a viable option for satellite operators.

By leveraging a standard codec, the Altair module, and Mavenir's Open vRAN and Open Beam radio, satellite operators can now offer NTN services promptly. Jacques Leduc, President of Terrestar Solutions, emphasizes the significance of this achievement, stating that it is the first real-time voice service based on a fully compliant 3GPP non-terrestrial network.

The upcoming NB-NTN testbed showcase at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona will highlight the capabilities of the technology in providing voice services to remote and bandwidth-constrained regions. The testbed utilizes cutting-edge equipment, including the CMW500 wideband radio communication tester from Rohde & Schwarz and Murata's Type1SC Cat.M1/NB-IoT/NB-NTN module with Sony Altair's ALT1250 chip.

With a voice over IP client developed by Rohde & Schwarz featuring ultra-low bitrate codecs, the system enables push-to-talk NB-NTN applications, particularly beneficial for emergencies, disaster response, remote areas, and maritime operations. The demonstration underscores the potential of Narrowband NTN services in delivering essential communication services where terrestrial networks are unavailable.