Quectel’s CC660D-LS NTN-enabled module has been certified for use on Skylo’s network.

The module is the first to be certified by Skylo for use on its network and enables seamless and reliable IoT-NTN connectivity for any standard device that incorporates the module and has a view of the sky.

Quectel developed the CC660D-LS module to provide dependable and efficient, two-way, satellite communication capabilities. With the module’s certification on the Skylo network, businesses and organisations can harness the power of Skylo’s ubiquitous satellite connectivity to enable IoT applications in remote and difficult environments, ensuring data are transmitted securely and reliably.

The module provides a range of flexible connectivity options, encompassing L-band, S-band and Band 23. Notably, the module is equipped to support 3GPP release 17 IoT non-terrestrial network (NTN) connections. Prioritising reliable connectivity, the module facilitates two-way communications. Furthermore, it extends its support to IP and non-IP service networks. This dual capability ensures not only enhanced connectivity but also heightened service availability.

“We are delighted that Skylo has certified our NTN satellite communication module for its network,” said Norbert Muhrer, president of Quectel Wireless. “This certification reflects our commitment to delivering high-quality satellite communications to our customers worldwide. By collaborating with Skylo, we enable businesses to unlock new opportunities and achieve their IoT goals, regardless of where they are located.”

The Skylo certification process involved testing and evaluation to ensure the module meets quality and performance standards, including 3GPP release 17 and Skylo’s Standards Plus qualifications. Skylo’s network is designed to provide global coverage, ensuring IoT devices equipped with Quectel’s module can stay connected in areas with limited terrestrial infrastructure.

“We are excited to welcome Quectel’s CC660D-LS module to our ecosystem of certified devices,” said Andrew Nuttall, CTO of Skylo. “This certification is a testament to our commitment to providing the most reliable and expansive satellite based IoT connectivity. By partnering with industry leaders like Quectel, we empower device manufacturers of all types to expand their IoT applications, add additional review streams, and deliver a superior customer experience that requires no change in user behaviour.”

The module is suitable for a wide range of applications, including asset tracking, fleet management, agriculture and maritime. Its compact design and low power consumption make it suitable for battery-powered IoT devices that require long-term, uninterrupted connectivity.

Quectel’s IoT modules are developed with security at the core. From product architecture to firmware and software development, Quectel incorporates industry practices and standards, mitigating potential vulnerabilities with third-party independent test houses and have incorporated security practices such as generating SBOMs and VEX files as well as performing firmware binary analysis into the entire software development lifecycle.

IoT developers can streamline their development process by combining the modules with Quectel’s antennas and pre-certification services, reducing both costs and time to market for their IoT devices. For the CC660D-LS satellite module (www.quectel.com/product/cc660d-lbs-satellite-communication-module), Quectel offers the YECN028AA and YFCA011AA antennas, providing developers with options to enhance connectivity and expedite the deployment of their innovations.

Skylo Technologies (www.skylo.tech) is an NTN service provider based in Mountain View, California, offering a service that allows cellular modems and devices to connect directly over existing satellites. Devices connected over satellite are managed and served by Skylo’s commercial NTN vRAN, featuring a 3GPP standards-based cloud-native base station and core. Skylo works with existing satellite operators, terrestrial mobile network operators and device makers to provide subscribers anywhere, anytime connectivity that seamlessly roams between terrestrial and satellite networks.

• Quectel’s FGH100M Wifi HaLow module has received CE certification for Europe and FCC certification for the USA. The CE and FCC certifications of the module, powered by Morse Micro’s MM6108 SoC, underscores the testing and compliance with the standards of safety, health and environmental protection required in Europe, while the certification by the FCC also means the module is approved for use in electronic devices sold in the USA.