Hoofddorp, Netherlands: Murata is pleased to unveil ZENCROSS™, an alliance offering integrated hardware, firmware and network services platform designed to address the needs of globally distributed cellular Internet of Things (IoT) networks. This comprehensive solution combines Murata’s low-power hardware with cellular connectivity, cloud services, and a device Connectivity Management Platform (CMP) from market-leading providers, helping to reduce the operational burdens and costs associated with globally distributed IoT applications.

At the moment, in many global IoT deployments, a complex coordination of hardware modules, CMPs, cloud services, and Connectivity Service Providers (CSPs) is required to manage cellular IoT nodes spread across different regions. Alternatively, ZENCROSS™ Alliance provides a true “turnkey” solution that enables companies ranging from start-ups to medium-size enterprises to simplify their cellular IoT deployments, reducing both initial development and ongoing running costs.

Cloud Services and Network Environment

ZENCROSS™ Alliance provides a unified core network incorporating cloud infrastructure facilitated by Amazon Web Services, Inc. (AWS) the world’s most widely adopted cloud service. To ensure a secure and efficient connection to AWS IoT Core, ZENCROSS™ Alliance utilizes Aeris’ connectivity platform with Tartabit, establishing a lightweight connection with zero-touch provisioning.

Aeris allows for the management of all globally distributed IoT assets within its singular platform, irrespective of their regional location and CSP, helping to dramatically simplify the management of cellular IoT networks. The ZENCROSS™ Alliance also encompasses a range of leading regional MNOs, such as Ooredoo and alliance newcomer Telenor, which provide cellular network connectivity.

Hardware and eSIM Provisioning

The hardware component of the platform consists of a compact and cost-effective “single SKU” Cat.M1/NB-IoT module provided by Murata. This module includes hardware, firmware, and appropriate local CSPs for each region, ensuring streamlined development and setup.

Three starter kits are available to expedite development, including a global Cat.M1/NB-IoT starter kit and two region-specific Cat.1bis kits for the EU and US that leverage technology from Sequans. Thales provides advanced eSIM management technology that further simplifies deployment, enabling the platform to support different SIM profiles worldwide with a single hardware design.

“We are thrilled to join the ZENCROSS™ Alliance and contribute Sequans’ flagship Cat 1bis module to this groundbreaking ecosystem” said Olivier Pauzet, EVP Marketing & Strategy at Sequans.  “Our collaboration with Murata and other industry leaders will not only enhance the ZENCROSS™ portfolio but also accelerate global IoT deployments. Together, we aim to provide a comprehensive solution that addresses the complexities of cellular IoT management while driving innovation in this rapidly evolving space.”

In addition to reducing the complexity and costs linked to globally distributed IoT networks, this deeply integrated hardware, firmware, and connectivity ecosystem aids in the reduction of data consumption, fees, and extended battery life, thanks to its lightweight payload and secure private network.

Supporting a Smarter Future

“The ZENCROSS™ Alliance is a prime example of how collaboration across companies can help to remove existing technical barriers, paving the way for new and exciting IoT applications,” said Tomy Runne, Vice President of Strategic Marketing at Murata Europe. He continued, “Combining our low-power hardware with cutting-edge solutions from market leading companies will help to further drive cellular IoT technology while reducing energy consumption, costs, and management complexity.”

ZENCROSS™ Alliance is designed to address the growing number of low-power cellular IoT networks, including smart city and agricultural deployments as well as industrial and fleet management/asset tracking applications.