Multi-Tech Systems, Inc., a leading global manufacturer of M2M and IoT communication devices, today announced the availability of two integrated solution bundles featuring award-winning MultiTech routers, and gateways to deliver powerful connectivity options for mission-critical distribution automation. These new bundles are designed specifically for the energy sector and have been deployed at numerous sites.

"With the continuing growth of the Smart Grid Initiative, many electrical utilities are now looking for new approaches to connect remotely-located substations," said Gregg Zastrow, Senior Manager for Programs and Partnerships at MultiTech. “The new MultiTech product bundles provide these options, and will help organizations transition from aging electric infrastructures to new environments that connect remotely located substations, renewable energy sources and distribution automation equipment on to a secure and common network.”

Customers are utilizing the devices for new connectivity scenarios, including connecting meter assets, pole tilt monitoring, and capacitor bank control, to name a few.

“EkkoSense used MultiConnect Conduit gateways and MultiConnect xDot LoRa modules as part of the EkkoIOT Remote Powerline monitoring system developed in association with SSEN (Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks),” said David Corder, head of Engineering at EkkoSense, Ltd. “These components allowed EkkoSense to implement a solar powered utility pole movement monitor with long range (25km) wireless communication. MultiTech was selected because of their technical innovation and support.”

For such applications, MultiTech is offering a choice of integrated solutions. One includes the MultiConnect rCell 100 Series of cellular routers and related accessories. The MultiConnect rCell supports multiple cellular technologies, is certified by the major carriers, has a durable design and a long stable lifecycle. Future iterations will support emerging private LTE broadband cellular initiatives such as AT&T BC 125, FirstNet, and pDV.

The other option bundles the MultiConnect Conduit gateway, which uses LoRa technology for long range connectivity with MultiConnect xDot endpoints, using cellular or Ethernet for backhaul.

Both solutions feature DeviceHQ, a complimentary remote device management platform which lowers the total cost of ownership.