Wavecom Announces the First Fully Embedded SIM

Wavecom announced the availability of WiSIM (Wavecom integrated Subscriber Identity Module), the first embedded SIM solution, meant to facilitate the deployment of wireless devices in cellular networks.

Laurent Girault, Technical Marketing Director at Wavecom, explained: "Many industrial devices present a set of complex design challenges as they become adapted to wireless communication. One such challenge is the integration of the SIM card. We are extremely pleased to be the first to have demonstrated a technology which fully embeds the SIM function into selected GSM Wireless CPU models. This breakthrough removes one more obstacle to stimulating wireless M2M and automotive market growth."

Specific requirements for industrial wireless devices include: long-life - more than ten years for utility meters, for example - and resistance to harsh environments such as extreme temperatures and excessive vibrations for vehicles. The typical SIM card, like those used in GSM mobile phones and other consumer electronics are built-in to plastic cards and therefore, do not address the rigorous demands for many industrial applications.

The WiSIM component will be an embedded option in selected Wavecom GSM/GPRS Wireless CPU families including Quik, Plug & Play and its Wireless Microprocessor range. By integrating the SIM at the chip level, both customers and operators benefit from a simplified and faster cellular subscription. The robust industrial design ensures proper functioning in harsh climatic conditions which reduces the risk of disconnected devices that are often linked to high-value, time-sensitive transactional data. In addition, with the SIM embedded into the Wavecom Wireless CPU, logistics and management issues associated with the SIM card inventory becomes easier, more cost effective and more secure, thus reducing the risk of potential SIM card theft, especially once it is installed.

The WiSIM addresses the needs of several industrial segments including automotive for toll collect and emergency call applications and the market for automatic meter management. It will complement all of Wavecom's existing technologies including the Wireless CPU, the Open AT Software Suite, and Remote Device Management Services.

Wavecom will demonstrate WiSIM in Paris, March 6-8 at Machine to Machine 2007 and CTIA in Orlando, USA, March 27-29.