Virocom has selected AirLink end-to-end networking from Canadian firm Sierra Wireless to enable smart lockers for retailers.

UK-based Virocom is using Sierra Wireless’ ready-to-connect AirLink LX60 routers and smart connectivity services integrated with its Ascension Cloud portal to provide connected intelligent cabinets and returns kiosks with 100 per cent uptime.

Smart lockers let retailers provide contactless, round-the-clock service options for customers during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Sierra Wireless offering connects Virocom smart lockers to wifi networks with critical failover to LTE, ensuring shoppers can securely scan their code and pick up orders without interruption. Virocom smart lockers are being deployed across Europe in various contactless retail and forward asset management applications, including IT support, online order pickup, return of goods such as cosmetics, medications, tools and parts, and socially distanced restaurant takeaways.

“Selecting Sierra Wireless’ end-to-end solution gave us a device partner and mobile network operator in one,” said Daniel Scott, director of Virocom. “The AirLink LX60 router offers critical failover to LTE to ensure uptime and an integrated global SIM that allows our customers to quickly deploy anywhere they need to. Sierra Wireless’ expert team helped us get to market quickly with a completely reliable support for our customers, such as Zebra Technologies, Ricoh and Apex Supply Chain Technologies.”

The ready-to-connect AirLink LX60 provides the ability to connect securely and reliably out of the box. Using smart connectivity simplifies global deployment, and all SIM subscriptions and devices can be managed and monitored using a single platform. Smart connectivity eliminates local coverage gaps with multi-network connectivity around the world. Sierra Wireless’ round-the-clock global network operation centre proactively prevents service disruptions to keep machines and assets connected.

“Connecting devices at the edge is allowing companies to innovate new contactless services to help consumers safely get what they need during the pandemic and beyond,” said Marc Overton, senior vice president at Sierra Wireless. “Sierra Wireless provides secure, reliable device-to-cloud connectivity for any equipment that needs to be tracked and accessible at all times.”

By reducing IoT management costs and eliminating SIM logistics and truck rolls to resolve connectivity issues, users can reduce costs by a claimed up to 40 per cent compared with other available technologies. Users can work with one vendor for their IoT infrastructure and connectivity and avoid the complex pairing of multiple components that can lead to security vulnerabilities.