Understanding Smart Metering Network: comparing wireless vs wired, closed protocols vs open and more 

Choosing the right network type is critical for any smart metering project, and understanding the technological aspects can sometimes be overwhelming. The network is responsible for ensuring reliable, secure, and efficient communication between water, electricity, or gas meters and the central data management systems. Smart metering networks must handle data collection, transmission, and two-way communication. Given the complexities and the countless questions that arise during the selection process, we have broken down the different network types into smaller, more manageable parts. This article will explain each network type, their differences, and the capabilities they offer for smart metering, making it easier for everyone involved in the project to understand. 

WHAT ARE NETWORK TYPES? 

WIRED NETWORKS – these use physical cables for data transmission and include various technologies, for example: 

• In the context of smart metering and wired network technology, M-Bus (Meter-Bus) is particularly important. It is a specialized protocol for meter reading that operates over twisted-pair cables, connecting numerous utility meters to a central data concentrator.  

• Ethernet is used in specific scenarios such as connecting data concentrators or gateways to central data management systems, and in substations or industrial sites where high-speed, reliable communication is essential. 

These wired technologies are used in specific contexts within smart metering, often combined with LPWAN network to ensure comprehensive and reliable data communication. 

WIRELESS NETWORKS – these use radio waves to transmit data and encompass a range of technologies: 

1. Cellular Networks: 
   Technologies: 2G, 4G, LTE, 5G. 
   Protocols: 
   – NB-IoT (Narrowband IoT): A low-power, wide-area network (LPWAN) technology optimized for IoT devices, offering extended coverage and low power consumption. It is part of the cellular network but specifically designed for IoT applications. 
   – LTE-M (LTE for Machines): A cellular technology that supports IoT devices with enhanced coverage and lower power consumption compared to traditional LTE. 
   
2. Low Power Wide Area Networks (LPWAN): 

• LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network): An open protocol designed for low power, long range, and secure communication, utilizing LoRa technology for the physical layer. 
• Sigfox: A proprietary LPWAN technology that focuses on ultra-narrowband communication to achieve long range and low power consumption. 
• Mioty: An emerging LPWAN technology that employs telegram splitting to ensure robust and interference-resistant communication. 

3. Other Wireless Technologies: 

• Zigbee: A mesh network protocol designed for low power, short-range communication. While it is not typically used in smart metering, it is common in home automation and building control systems. 

(Technology types and main specifications)

WHAT ARE NETWORK PROTOCOLS? 

Network protocols can be categorized into two main groups: open protocols and closed protocols. Here’s a detailed analysis: 

1. Open Standards and Protocols 
   Open standards and protocols are publicly available and standardized by recognized organizations. They promote interoperability and are widely adopted across various devices and vendors globally.  

For example: LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network) 

• Standard: LoRaWAN Specification by the LoRa Alliance. 
• Frequency Bands: Operates in various ISM bands globally (e.g., 868 MHz in Europe, 915 MHz in North America). 
• Architecture: Star-of-stars topology with gateways connecting end devices to a central network server. 
• Advantages: Long range, low power, scalable, supports thousands of devices per gateway. 
• Data Rates: Low to moderate data rates, suited for periodic data transmission rather than real-time. 

NB-IoT (Narrowband IoT) 

• Standard: 3GPP Specification. 
• Frequency Bands: Utilizes existing cellular bands (e.g., 700 MHz, 800 MHz, 900 MHz). 
• Architecture: Utilizes existing cellular infrastructure with a focus on IoT devices. 
• Advantages: Wide coverage, real-time capabilities, good for both urban and rural deployments. 
• Data Rates: Low to moderate, suitable for both periodic and real-time data. 

 LTE-M (LTE for Machines) 

• Standard: 3GPP Specification. 
• Frequency Bands: Uses LTE bands (e.g., 700 MHz, 800 MHz). 
• Architecture: Built on LTE infrastructure with optimizations for IoT devices. 
• Advantages: Higher data rates than NB-IoT, real-time data capabilities, supports mobility. 
• Data Rates: Moderate to high, suitable for applications needing more frequent data transmission. 

Wireless M-Bus (wM-Bus)  

• Standard: EN 13757-4. 
• Frequency Bands: Typically operates in the 868 MHz ISM band in Europe, and 169 MHz in some regions. 
• Advantages: Low power, flexible deployment modes, good interoperability among different manufacturers. Still has a more limited range compared to Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN). 

Sigfox 

• Standard: Sigfox Specification. 
• Frequency Bands: Operates in ISM bands (e.g., 868 MHz in Europe, 902 MHz in North America). 
• Architecture: Star topology with base stations communicating with end devices. 
• Advantages: Very low power consumption, long range, low cost, good for infrequent data transmission. 
• Data Rates: Very low data rates, suitable for small payloads and periodic updates. 

2. Closed Protocols 
   Closed protocols are proprietary and often developed by specific vendors for use with their own hardware and systems. They are not standardized across the industry, which means they may offer tailored solutions but can lead to issues with interoperability. 

For example: 

• Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Proprietary Protocols: Many utilities use proprietary protocols for their AMI systems to ensure compatibility with their specific meters and infrastructure. These protocols are often part of closed systems offered by major vendors. 

• Proprietary RF Networks: Some utilities use custom radio frequency (RF) protocols designed specifically for their metering needs, providing features tailored to their operational requirements. 

3. Specialized Protocols 

Specialized protocols are designed for specific applications or environments within the smart metering ecosystem. 

M-Bus (Meter-Bus) 

• Standard: EN 13757-2. 
• Application: Wired protocol for meter data collection in utility metering. 
• Advantages: Reliable data transmission over physical cables, good for dense installations. 
• Limitations: Limited to wired connections, higher installation costs compared to wireless solutions. 

Zigbee 

• Standard: Zigbee Specification by the Zigbee Alliance. 
• Frequency Bands: Operates in ISM bands (e.g., 2.4 GHz globally). 
• Architecture: Mesh network topology allowing for extended range and reliability within a network. 
• Advantages: Low power, good for short-range applications. 
• Limitations: Not typically used for large-scale smart metering; better suited for home automation and localized networks. 

When choosing a closed protocol, it’s important to be aware that changing it later can be challenging. You will likely be closely tied to your vendor for many years, and if any changes are needed for your project, you may find it difficult to switch to another partner. Mainlink offers a vendor-free smart metering solution, providing you with greater flexibility to manage your project according to your business needs. 

SO HOW TO CHOOSE A NETWORK TYPE AND TECHNOLOGY FOR SMART METERING PROJECT? 

Together with your partner you should evaluate your project scope, location, exising infrastructure, budget and other aspects.  In smart metering, the choice of network, technology, and protocol depends also on other factors such as range, power consumption, data transmission needs, etc. Here’s how they are specifically applied: 

Cellular Networks (NB-IoT, LTE-M) 

• Use Case: Suitable for real-time data transmission over wide areas, particularly in remote locations. 
• Advantages: Wide coverage, high data rates, reliable. 
• Disadvantages: Higher power consumption and operational costs compared to other. 

LPWANs (LoRaWAN, Sigfox, Mioty) 

LoRaWAN: 

• Use Case: Ideal for large-scale IoT deployments in different areas (urban, rural or semi-urban) where long-range and low-power communication is needed. 
• Advantages: Long range, low power consumption, long battery life, easily scalable, cost effective. 
• Disadvantages: Lower data rates, few second latency. 
  
  Sigfox: 
  
• Use Case: Good for applications requiring infrequent data transmission over long distances with minimal power usage.  
• Advantages: Very low power consumption, long range. 
• Disadvantages: Low data rates, limited capacity for frequent or large data transmissions. Bear in mind that from 2022 Sigfox filed for bankruptcy. 
  
  Mioty: 
  
• Use Case: Suitable for large-scale IoT deployments. 
• Advantages: High scalability, good communication. 
• Disadvantages: Newer technology might have limited support. Proprietary nature may limit interoperability with other LPWAN technologies as it requires specialized hardware and software components, potentially increasing deployment costs and complexity. 

Wired networks (like Ethernet) are usually used in smart metering projects in combination with LPWAN network technologies. Therefore, we will not discuss separate use cases in this article. 

LICENSED SPECTRUM VS. UNLICENSED SPECTRUM OF NETWORK TECHNOLOGIES? 

1.Licensed Spectrum refers to frequency bands that require users to obtain a license from a regulatory authority (such as the FCC in the United States or Ofcom in the UK) to operate. This licensing typically involves paying fees and adhering to specific regulations and usage conditions. 

Characteristics: 

• Exclusive Use: License holders have exclusive rights to use the spectrum, reducing the likelihood of interference from other users. 
• Reliability: Because of reduced interference, licensed spectrum often provides reliable and predictable communication. 
• Regulated Environment: Users must comply with stringent regulations and technical requirements. 

Examples in LPWAN: 

• NB-IoT (Narrowband IoT) and LTE-M (LTE for Machines): Both operate on licensed spectrum as part of the broader cellular network infrastructure. These technologies are managed by mobile network operators who hold licenses for the spectrum. 

2.Unlicensed Spectrum refers to frequency bands that are open for use by anyone, without the need for a license. Users must still comply with general regulations (such as power limits and technical standards) to minimize interference and ensure fair usage. 

Characteristics: 

• Cost Efficiency: Unlicensed spectrum avoids expensive licensing fees, making it more affordable for widespread deployment and use, especially in budget-sensitive projects. 
• Faster Deployment: With no complex licensing processes, technologies using unlicensed spectrum can be rolled out more quickly, speeding up the implementation of services and applications. 
• Greater Flexibility: Unlicensed spectrum supports various technologies and applications without needing specific regulatory approvals, fostering innovation and adaptability. 

Examples in LPWAN: 

• LoRaWAN: Operates in the unlicensed ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) bands, such as 868 MHz in Europe and 915 MHz in North America. 
• Sigfox: Also uses unlicensed ISM bands, typically the same as those used by LoRaWAN. 

COMPARISON TABLE OF NB-IOT, LORAWAN, WM-BUS, LTE-M, SIGFOX, AND MIOTY ACROSS VARIOUS CAPABILITIES FOR SMART METERING:  

	LoRaWAN	NB-IoT	wM-bus	LTE-M	Sigfox	Mioty
Range	Up to 15 km in rural areas, 2-5 km in urban areas.	Up to 10-15 km in rural areas, 1-5 km in urban areas	Typically up to 1 km in urban environments	Like NB-IoT, around 10-15 km in rural areas.	10 km in an urban setting and 40 km in a rural setting	Up to 15 km in rural areas, 3-5 km in urban areas.
Coverage	Good outdoor and indoor penetration.	Very good penetration in buildings and underground.	Limited indoor penetration up to 50 m maximum	Good indoor and outdoor coverage	Good outdoor, moderate indoor penetration.	Good penetration though obsticals
Deployment	Requires deployment of gateways.	Requires existing cellular infrastructure.	Requires dedicated receivers or concentrators.	Uses existing cellular infrastructure.	Requires Sigfox base stations.	Requires dedicated base stations.
Cost Efficiency	Low to moderate cost, self-managed networks. Cost-effective for private networks, particularly in rural or spread-out areas.	Moderate cost, dependent on cellular network operators – Cost-effective for large-scale deployments leveraging existing infrastructure.	Low cost for short-range, moderate for long-range.  Affordable for localized deployments, with increased costs for wider coverage.	Moderate to high cost, dependent on data plans.  Higher operational costs, but benefits from extensive coverage and higher data rates.	Low cost, subscription-based model. Cost-efficient for small, infrequent data transmissions with low operating costs.	Low to moderate cost, depending on deployment scale.  Cost-effective for large-scale deployments with robust communication needs.
Battery Life	15+ years.	5-10 years.	5-15 years, depending on mode.	5-10 years.	Up to 10 years	Up to 15 years.
Payload Length	Up to 243 bytes per message.  Adequate for periodic updates and status messages.	Up to 1600 bytes per message.  Suitable for larger data packets, supporting more detailed meter readings	Typically up to 255 bytes.  Suitable for standard meter reading data.	Up to 1600 bytes per message. Similar to NB-IoT, supporting detailed data transmission.	Up to 12 bytes per message.   Limited payload size, best for very simple, infrequent updates.	Up to 242 bytes per message. Comparable to LoRaWAN, suitable for periodic updates.
Latency Performance	Low latency.	Moderate latency (1.6 to 10 seconds).	Low to moderate latency.	Low latency (50-100 milliseconds).	High latency (up to several seconds).	Low latency.
Scalability	Highly scalable, especially with proper network planning.	Highly scalable, supports millions of devices per cell.	Scalable for medium-sized deployments.	Highly scalable, leveraging existing cellular infrastructure.	Scalable, but limited by base station density.	Scalable, designed for big IoT deployments.
Quality of Service (QoS)	Good QoS, dependent on network design and deployment.	High QoS with strong cellular network support.	Moderate QoS, suitable for regular data transmission.	High QoS with priority support in LTE networks.	Basic QoS, best for non-critical applications.	Good QoS

CONCLUSION 

Choosing the right network technology for smart metering is essential for ensuring efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. Wired networks, such as Ethernet, provide high-speed connections and are often used in combination with wireless technologies to enhance overall network performance. Cellular networks, like NB-IoT and LTE-M, offer strong coverage but can be more expensive and have varying battery life. Low Power Wide Area Networks (LPWANs), including technologies such as LoRaWAN, Sigfox and Mioty, provide long-range and low-power solutions. Among these, LoRaWAN stands out for its open protocol, extensive range, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. LoRaWAN’s advantages in battery life, range, and flexibility make it particularly well-suited for smart metering applications across both urban and rural settings (depending on gateway coverage). Its robust performance and adaptability position LoRaWAN as a leading choice for optimizing smart metering systems, offering a balanced solution for various deployment needs

More information on these technologies:

LoRa vs LoRaWAN

LoRaWAN Applications