Top Three Reasons to Upgrade to LTE Connectivity

Recently, we discussed how wireless carriers are shifting away from older Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) and Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) networks in order to continue their investment in Long Term Evolution (LTE) Networks.

This move to LTE means that any onboard equipment that uses CDMA and GSM networks for connectivity will soon start to see a degradation or “sunset” in coverage. This degradation will eventually render these devices obsolete.

For fleets with this older onboard technology, this network sunset–at first glance–may seem punitive or unfair. While there are inherent challenges to any technology upgrade, fleets can use this shift to LTE as an opportunity to help their vehicles and drivers reach new levels of connectivity.

By harnessing the power of LTE, fleets can:

1. Realize increased bandwidth

We have all experienced connectivity that causes slow page loads or videos to abruptly start and stop. This can be the effect of poor bandwidth, or the amount of data that can be transmitted by a network in a given amount of time.

LTE networks are capable of transferring data 10 times faster than older CDMA and GSM networks. For fleets, this gives them the ability to share information between the driver and the back office at a much more efficient rate. This means faster logins and better connectivity, as well as giving fleets a more effective and faster way to distribute large files like training videos across a driver base.

2. Improve their coverage areas

Not only does upgrading to LTE protect you from the sunset of older networks but it also gives you access to coverage in geographical areas that CDMA and GSM networks never served.

Consider fleets that operate in rural or remote areas in North America. In a pre-LTE world, their only option for connectivity in these regions would be to rely on satellite-based systems. With LTE, these fleets can now ensure coverage in these areas–at a fraction of the cost of satellite-based coverage.

3. Ensure alignment with wireless carriers

Implementing new technology is only effective if the solutions you are installing aren’t soon to be obsolete. Wireless carriers are making a significant investment in LTE coverage to ensure the longevity of these networks both today and in the years to come.

By moving your fleet to LTE today, you are helping to ensure your connectivity is “future-proofed”, giving your drivers and vehicles coverage that is built to last and opens you up to what the future of fleet mobility holds.

For over two years, Trimble has provided its customers with access to 4G LTE connectivity and all of the benefits it brings.

Curious to learn how Trimble can help your fleet make the switch to LTE? Contact us today to discover how our solutions are built to help you increase safety and efficiency–both today and in the future.