Orbcomm Satellite Network

ORBCOMM is a leading global satellite data communications company focused exclusively on Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communications. ORBCOMM provides low cost, reliable, two-way data communications services around the world through a global network of 29 low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites and accompanying ground infrastructure. ORBCOMM's products are installed on trucks, trailers, railcars, containers, heavy equipment, fluid tanks, utility meters, pipelines, marine vessels, oil wells and other assets. The system can send and receive short messages, between six bytes and several kilobytes, in near real-time, allowing users to access critical information readily, often from areas beyond the geographic reach of terrestrial systems.

How It Works link — www.orbcomm.net/about/technology.htm

M2M Communications products with Orbcomm compatible modems operate anywhere in the world!

Orbcomm compatible modems are readily available today and the prices have dropped significantly over the past few years. However both the product cost and the monthly airtime cost remains slightly higher than those with cellular based models.

While most populated areas in North America do offer good cellular coverage, there are still large remote geographical areas where cellular coverage is simply not feasible. For these areas, and anywhere outside of North America, Orbcomm may be the answer.

The ideal monitoring and control applications for Orbcomm are those that require a small or medium amount of data. With new North American satellites in 2008, the Orbcomm network promises unsurpassed coverage, medium to fast latency times, and a good price.

M2M Communications is a certified application developer for the Orbcomm network.

  • Works anywhere — but does require an outdoor antenna with a clear view of the sky
  • No need for cellular coverage
  • Simple Installation — Simply provide power and a connection to the device to be monitored, and turn it on. The unit will automatically register with the Orbcomm network and report to the M2MCOMM web site.
  • Medium to Fast Latency Times — data requires only minutes to transmit to (or from) a module.

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