Digi targets utilities with 450MHz router version

  • February 8, 2022
  • Steve Rogerson

Minnesota-based Digi International has launched a 450MHz version of its IX20 cellular router for utilities and critical infrastructure applications.

The 450MHz band will be pivotal for a wide range of urban and rural IoT connectivity needs by providing increased coverage and better signal penetration, including in-building and underground deployments. Paired with cellular technology such as 4G LTE, the 450MHz frequency band and applications in the ecosystem should enable future industrial and utility communications.

With newly added support for 450MHz spectrum, the IX20 family of routers provides automatic and software-selectable primary and backup WWAN connectivity over multi-carrier cellular LTE.

It is suitable for use in smart grid, smart city and rural connectivity applications with support for the following capabilities and features:

  • 450MHz private mobile network connectivity, with available fallback to public networks for extra network resiliency
  • Intelligent network management with Digi Remote Manager
  • Enterprise-grade security and resiliency with Digi TrustFence and SureLink
  • Digi Core plug-in modems that can be changed out or upgraded without replacing the entire router
  • Single part number, simplifying inventory control for global distribution and deployment

Concurrently, Digi announced it has joined the 450MHz Alliance, an industry association representing interests of stakeholders across industries that recognise the potential of 450MHz spectrum, including communications service providers and equipment manufacturers.

“With the launch of the Digi IX20 cellular router with support for 450MHz and our membership in the 450MHz Alliance, Digi is strongly affirming our commitment to and support for the next wave of industrial and utility communications,” said Harald Remmert, chief technical officer for cellular at Digi. “This advanced, full-featured cellular router scales from general connectivity applications to industrial routing and security. Its flexible power and connectivity options make it a versatile choice for industrial infrastructure, digital signage, retail kiosks, service terminals and other critical assets requiring secure transactions.”

Igor Virker, managing director of the 450MHz Alliance, added: “The 450MHz Alliance is thrilled to welcome Digi to our growing membership. Leveraging its existing success with several alliance members, Digi will now be able to fully utilise the resources the alliance has to offer. We’re thrilled to welcome Digi to the alliance and look forward to its contributions as an IIoT provider.”

Founded in 1985, Digi has helped its customers connect more than 100 million things and counting.

The 450MHz Alliance is an industry association that represents interests of the 450MHz spectrum stakeholders. Members include traditional wireless industry companies such as wireless carriers and equipment manufacturers, as well as companies representing various vertical markets for M2M communications.