Smart modules unlock the full potential of IoT devices by adding greater intelligence and capability to modules so they can perform more than a single function. Common functions contained within a smart module include computing power, data storage and graphics processing along with connectivity, all of which were previously enabled via separate hardware. Now, with smart modules some or all of these capabilities can be integrated into a single hardware component.

This has substantial benefits, simplifying device design, reducing device costs, streamlining manufacturing and enabling smaller devices. IoT and other organizations benefit from being able to offer more compact devices, having lower bill of materials (BOM) costs and eradicating the complexity of integrating multiple components into devices.

The combination of smart capabilities is set to transform industries from healthcare to retail and manufacturing to transportation and logistics. Smart cities, smart homes and smart utilities will all gain from the smart module revolution with machine vision, predictive maintenance, autonomous operations and many other functionalities being powered by their computing, processing, analysis and communication capabilities.

Quectel sees a broad range of use cases for smart IoT modules with additional features further augmenting and adding to the capabilities of certain types of devices. The EV charging sector, for example, is currently utilizing smart IoT module features including cellular connectivity, edge processing, onboard memory, near-field communication (NFC), a display interface and peripherals. Additional smart module features to address future needs include camera and audio interfaces, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and touch panel interfaces.

Smart IoT modules are an enabler of the next wave of digital transformation and bring together machine vision, edge intelligence and advanced technologies that span cloud, communications, compute resources, graphics and data processing, plus an ever-growing range of video, audio and display-related features. By providing additional features and functionality all in a single component and ensuring that future needs can also be addressed, Quectel is delivering on its promise to help build a smarter world.

A recent Quectel Masterclass titled ‘Smart modules portfolio update: Linux vs Android architecture’  uncovered the latest developments in the sector and shares details of our portfolio. Presented by Zeljk Maric, a Product Development Manager at Quectel, and Mauricio Alencar, a Brazil-based Software Application Engineer at Quectel, the Masterclass shared information on Quectel’s smart module portfolio.

In addition, the webinar details how to burn an image using the Linux and Android system architectures. The session also provides an overview of the relative advantages of the Android and Linux operating systems as well as the opportunity to ask questions of the Quectel experts. Finally, the Masterclass features a live demonstration of how to onboard a sensor.