What is the difference between IoT Modem and IoT 4G Module

In the rapid development of IIoT, Data Transfer Unit (IoT Modem and IoT 4G Module), as key network communication components, play a pivotal role. Both have wide applications in realizing equipment networking, data transmission and remote monitoring. However, they are significantly different from each other in terms of functions, application scenarios and technical characteristics.

1. Definition and Function Overview

1.1 IoT Modem

IoT Modem, also known as data transmission unit, is a kind of wireless data terminal for the Internet of Things. It is specifically designed to convert serial port data into IP data or vice versa and transmit it through wireless communication networks. IoT Modem uses public operator networks to provide users with wireless long-distance data transmission capabilities, and is widely used in industrial automation, smart meters, environmental monitoring, and other fields. Its main functions include:
Data transmission and conversion: IoT Modem can receive data sent by serial devices, convert it into IP format for transmission; At the same time, it can also receive IP data from the network and convert it into a format that serial devices can recognize.
Wireless communication: The IoT Modem integrates wireless communication functions and can connect with the operator's mobile network to achieve wireless transmission of data. This allows serial devices to achieve remote communication and data transmission without the need for a wired connection.
Long connection maintenance: In order to maintain a stable connection with the data center, IoT Modem uses heartbeat packet mechanism. When there is no data communication for a long time, it will send heartbeat packets to maintain the connection status and prevent the connection from being disconnected.
Parameter configuration and storage: IoT Modem supports parameter configuration, including data center IP address, port number, serial port baud rate, etc. These parameters can be set according to specific applications and are permanently stored.

1.2 IoT 4G Module

The IoT 4G Module is a module that supports 4G network communication. The hardware is loaded into the specified frequency band, and the software supports standard LTE protocols. The hardware and software are highly integrated modularized. It is mainly used to realize remote monitoring, data transmission and other functions. It is widely applied in the fields of vehicle-mounted terminals, Internet of Things devices, etc. The main features of the IoT 4G Module include:
High-speed transmission: IoT 4G Module supports high-speed 4G network communication, with a high data transfer rate and suitable for applications requiring large amounts of data.
Wide coverage: 4G network has a wide range of coverage, and IoT 4G Module can provide stable data transmission services in most cities and regions.
Multi-network support: IoT 4G Module not only supports 4G networks, but also is generally compatible with 2G/3G networks to ensure data transmission stability in different network environments.
Flexible configuration: IoT 4G Module supports multiple network protocols and working modes, allowing flexible configurations based on actual needs.

2. Functional differences

2.1 Transmission mode

IoT Modem: IoT Modems generally use GPRS, 3G, LoRa and other methods for data transmission. These methods have their own advantages and disadvantages in signal coverage and transmission speed, but overall they focus more on stable and reliable data transmission.
IoT 4G Module: The IoT 4G Module is specifically designed to support 4G network communication, and therefore has significant advantages in signal coverage and transmission speed. Especially in application scenarios that require high-speed and large data transmission, the IoT 4G Module performs well.

2.2 Application Scenarios

IoT Modem: IoT Modem is often used in industrial control systems, smart meters, environmental monitoring and other scenarios. Its stable and reliable characteristics are suitable for long-term operation of industrial equipment. IoT Modem can ensure real-time and accurate transmission of data, providing strong support for industrial automation and intelligence.
IoT 4G Module: IoT 4G Module is more widely used in remote monitoring, vehicle terminals, Internet of Things devices and other fields. Due to its high-speed transmission and wide coverage, the IoT 4G Module performs well in application scenarios that require real-time data transmission and remote monitoring.
2.3 Power consumption and cost
IoT Modem: As IoT Modems usually need to run for a long time, they have high requirements on power consumption and stability. Therefore, IoT Modem focuses on low power consumption and stability in both hardware design and software optimization to ensure long-term reliability. However, this also makes the IoT Modem relatively expensive in terms of cost.
IoT 4G Module: The IoT 4G Module focuses more on high-speed transmission and low power consumption design. With the continuous advancement of technology and the reduction in production costs, the cost of IoT 4G Module has gradually decreased, making it the first choice for more and more Internet of Things applications.

3. Comparison of Technical Features

3.1 Hardware structure

IoT Modem: IoT Modem modules are usually composed of CPU control module, wireless communication module and power supply module. These modules work together to achieve data transmission, conversion and wireless communication functions. The hardware design of the IoT Modem focuses on stability and reliability to meet the needs of industrial applications.
IoT 4G Module: The IoT 4G Module integrates key components such as RF and baseband on a PCB board to complete wireless reception, transmission, and baseband signal processing functions. The IoT 4G Module's hardware design is highly integrated, making the module more compact and lightweight for easy embedding in various devices.

3.2 Software Support

IoT Modem: The software support platform of IoT Modem usually uses an embedded real-time operating system to ensure the real-time and stability of data transmission. At the same time, IoT Modem also supports multiple network protocols and communication protocols to communicate with different devices and systems