SIGFOX-ready SoC enables long-range IoT connectivity

Suitable IoT applications include environmental sensors, smart meters, patient monitors, security devices and street lights. Atmel’s ATA8520 SoC and SIGFOX’s scalable, high-performance network offer high wireless performance and ultra-low power consumption in a cost-effective solution for wireless networking applications operating in the sub-GHz band.

The SIGFOX global IoT network operates in several European countries and will begin deployment in the U.S. later this year. The network is designed exclusively for long range, small-message device communication. SIGFOX and Atmel claim to drive IoT device cost, service cost and power consumption dramatically down compared to traditional cellular or WiFi connectivity. This effectively eliminates existing cost barriers and battery service life constraints for connected device deployment which enables rapid IoT adoption in all IoT market segments.

The Atmel ATA8520 is claimed to feature the industry's highest performance, lowest power sub-GHz SoC transceiver designed to maximise range and battery life for power-sensitive wireless systems. Operating from a frequency range of 315 to 915MHz, the transceiver is claimed to offer industry-leading RF performance resulting in extended wireless range and compliance with the industry's most stringent narrowband regulatory standards. The ATA8520 transceiver provides exceptional power efficiency resulting in fewer battery replacements and/or reduced battery size.

"As a leader in the MCU, security and IoT market, Atmel is committed to enabling IoT developers to bring their SIGFOX connected devices quickly to market with Atmel’s SIGFOX-certified and cost optimised solutions,” said Matthias Kaestner, Vice President of Atmel’s RF and automotive business. "The SIGFOX-certified Atmel ATA8520 SoC further strengthens our position as a leading supplier of wireless solutions for smart energy, connected home and other monitoring and control applications for the IoT."

"SIGFOX works closely with providers of enabling technologies through our SIGFOX ReadyTM programme to certify their devices and make it easy for customers to adopt IoT through our network,” said Stuart Lodge, Executive Vice President of global sales, SIGFOX. "The continuing global roll-out of our network relies on the availability of world-class wireless ICs, and Atmel’s solution delivers the industry-leading RF performance, low-power consumption and low-cost operation that our customers require.”