M2M SIM card: what is it?
The M2M SIM card is used to connect IoT devices and sensors so they can communicate with each other (M2M meaning “machine-to-machine”) or with a software application connected to the cloud. It is used for IoT devices to connect to cellular networks such as 4G, 5G, LTE-M, or NB-IoT.
From logistics to agriculture, including health and security: with an M2M SIM card, companies across all sectors can collect and analyze data remotely, set up alerts, and automate processes.
However, be cautious: beyond choosing an M2M SIM card, selecting the right connectivity technology is also important. For certain industries, a network with low throughput and high latency can affect IoT project performance and cause system failures. Thus, networks like 5G will be preferred. For other applications such as remote water meter reading, low-bandwidth networks like NB-IoT are most suitable, as they offer sleep mode functionalities that extend battery life.
Good to know
ARCEP’s (French Regulatory Authority for Electronic Communications and Postal Services) decision no. 2012-0855 requires all companies wishing to connect objects dedicated to their business to use 14-digit numbers. All Objenious M2M offers comply with this regulation.
Also read: WAN, LPWAN, PAN, LAN: everything you need to know about IoT networks
Are you looking for an M2M SIM card solution for your business?
Objenious, a Bouygues Telecom brand dedicated to the Internet of Things, relies on its multi-technology portfolio including 4G, 5G, LTE-M, and NB-IoT to meet all needs. Autonomous management platform, IoT M2M SIM card, multi-operator support, customized plans… No matter your project, we have a specific solution for you! With our digital offers, you can, for example, test our services for one year. Want to know more? Contact our experts.
6 key features of the M2M SIM card for IoT applications
The M2M SIM card is specially developed to meet the diverse requirements of professionals. It can be integrated into anything from a freight container to a security device, medical equipment, or industrial machinery. Why? Its advanced technical features.
Durability
To suit a wide range of IoT applications, especially in industrial and automotive sectors, the M2M SIM card must withstand the toughest environments. Some manufacturers offer durable SIM cards, made of materials that ensure their operation even in cases of shock, humidity, vibrations, or extreme temperatures. Objenious’ M2M SIM card, for instance, is hardened and reinforced with a silicone overcoat. Thus, it meets the most demanding industrial uses and has a longer lifespan.
Flexibility
The M2M SIM card offers flexible data plans to cater to the specific projects of each company. Depending on the provider, it can also support data plan aggregation, meaning the ability to pool multiple plans into one. Unused data by one connected object can be utilized by another device, thereby reducing waste and plan overruns.
Remote management
It is possible to activate and control all SIM cards on a single platform. The manager can also monitor all M2M communications in real-time and receive alerts in case of a system malfunction. The result: saving valuable time and money.
Objenious’ GetWay platform allows professionals to manage their entire IoT fleet from a single location. Equipment tracking, monitoring their status throughout their lifecycle, alerts in case of failures or anomalies, data analysis, access to consumption history… Everything is designed to facilitate the autonomous management of a fleet of connected objects.
Security
Some IoT SIM cards can offer additional security features, such as secure device authentication and data encryption. Another example is the possibility for a company to benefit from a private APN. With this additional security layer, only pre-approved M2M SIM cards can connect to the network. IoT devices are thus less vulnerable to hacking, and data is better protected.
Multiple formats
Given the extremely diverse use cases of an M2M SIM card, ranging from compact consumer devices to industrial equipment, having different formats is essential. To fit into all types of enclosures, the M2M SIM card comes in various sizes:
- Soldered SIM card, or MFF2 (Machine Form Factor)
Also known as an “embedded SIM card,” it is soldered directly onto the devices during the manufacturing phase. Being non-removable, it is ideally suited for critical IoT applications and helps reduce the risks of errors related to handling.
- Standard mini SIM card, or 2FF
It is both the most common and the oldest format. With dimensions of 25 mm in length, 15 mm in width, and 0.76 mm in thickness, it is relatively easy to handle.
- Micro SIM card, or 3FF
Smaller than the standard SIM with its dimensions of 15 mm in length, 12 mm in width, and 0.76 mm in thickness, this compact format fits into many consumer IoT devices such as smartphones.
- Nano SIM Card, or 4FF
With dimensions of 12.3 mm in length, 8.8 mm in width, and 0.67 mm in thickness, it is the smallest of the SIM cards.
Global connectivity without roaming fees
As connected devices become increasingly mobile, particularly in the transportation sector, companies face a challenge: maintaining connectivity with IoT devices regardless of their location. An M2M SIM card enables objects to continue communicating even across borders, provided the operator offers a roaming plan. With its 800 partner networks, Objenious ensures connectivity worldwide without incurring roaming fees.