Kerlink, a global specialist in Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, has announced the launch of its new-generation Wirnet iStation M2 gateway. Delivering enhanced performance and extended capabilities vs. earlier gateways, it ensures reliable service in extremely remote terrain, such as mines and islands, while also supporting Kerlink’s widely used smart city, smart metering and smart agriculture & environment applications.
Democratising IoT and embracing the “Age of Edge”
With this gateway, Kerlink anticipates a new era for IoT characterised by two shifts: the democratisation of connectivity in areas with limited power or backhaul access, and the rise of the “Age of Edge,” in which data processing moves closer to the device rather than relying solely on remote servers. Wirnet iStation M2 is engineered to support this evolution, offering a comprehensive feature set that ensures continuous operation in virtually all outdoor locations.
“With the Wirnet iStation M2, Kerlink brings reliable IoT connection to isolated markets where power availability has historically been a barrier to deployment,” said Yann Bauduin, the chief sales officer at Kerlink. “This new gateway expands our outdoor gateway portfolio with a highly energy-efficient solution tailored for challenging environments. The M2 also provides the ideal foundation for scalable and reliable Edge IoT deployments.”
Key innovations and market advancements
The Wirnet iStation M2, which is designed and manufactured in France, advances Kerlink’s outdoor gateway line by addressing specific market demands for energy independence and edge-computing power:
- Solar-powered autonomy: With ultra-low power consumption of less than 1.8 W, the M2 is compatible with solar panels. Kerlink offers a dedicated solar kit that provides 10 days of autonomy, ensuring 24/7, year-round availability regardless of weather conditions.
- Enhanced radio performance: Built on the Semtech SX1302 LoRa core, the M2 features new SF5/SF6 spreading factors for faster modulations and increased cell capacity. It features twice the number of demodulators (eight channels), allowing higher message throughput and more connected devices.
- Robust connectivity: The unit is equipped with four internal antennas (covering main/auxiliary cellular, GNSS and Wi-Fi/BLE), plus one external LoRa antenna. Backhaul options include 4G/5G, Wi-Fi and ethernet.
- Edge computing capabilities: Powered by an i.MX 8XLite CPU with upgraded RAM, the M2 supports local data processing, reducing latency and bandwidth costs.
- Built-in radio diagnostics and optimisation tools: These features ensure the antenna is connected correctly and that the transmit RF chain and the receive RF chain gain are functioning.
- Security and Compliance: Fully compliant with the EU RED Delegated Act 2022/30 (RED Cyber), the gateway features SecureBoot, SecureStorage and encrypted links to ensure data integrity.
Designed for reliability and global integration
Wirnet iStation M2 comes with a lifetime guarantee, consistent with Kerlink’s entire gateway portfolio. It will integrate with network server (LNS) providers, including Actility TAO, Netmore, ChirpStack, Orbiwise, Loriot, and The Things Network (TTN).
While the M2 introduces capabilities for remote and edge applications, Kerlink continues to offer its existing Wirnet iStation, one of the company’s best-selling gateway.
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