Understanding the New Model of IoT Ecosystem

The Internet of Things (IoT) represents a technological revolution, gaining momentum in recent years. Digital technologies led by 5G, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence are accelerating the process of connecting everything, reshaping the development models of life, production, and the public domain. Industry predictions suggest that by 2025, the number of global IoT connected devices is expected to reach 30.9 billion, with China’s IoT connections projected to double from 8 billion in 2020, indicating explosive growth. Wireless communication modules are an indispensable bridge for connecting IoT; each new wireless IoT connection requires at least one wireless module. Therefore, wireless communication modules are irreplaceable as the hardware foundation for connectivity and are a segment of the industry that benefits significantly from the explosion in connection numbers.

The immense market opportunity has attracted major players globally. KAGA FEI, also known as KAGA Electronics, is one such company dedicated to providing high-performance IoT products and services. In 2021, the company acquired the business rights, development, manufacturing technology, and intellectual property related to Bluetooth and WLAN modules from TAIYO YUDEN Co., Ltd., officially launching its small wireless module business and establishing the IoT solutions brand – CONTINECT, dedicated to wireless solutions.

KAGA’s IoT solutions brand – CONTINECT

The WLAN + Bluetooth dual-mode chip is gradually becoming the mainstream for IoT wireless connections, optimizing the network configuration experience for terminal products, and the dual-mode module significantly simplifies the difficulty of product networking. It allows users to quickly add devices through Bluetooth connections to their mobile devices, achieving a “fool-proof” application. On the other hand, it also enhances the stability of network configuration. Smart devices equipped with WLAN + BLE dual-mode modules can greatly solve networking issues in 2.4G & 5G dual-band/mixed-frequency routing environments, providing higher compatibility.

The wireless modules provided by CONTINECT primarily include Bluetooth and WLAN. In addition to inheriting TAIYO YUDEN’s development of products and business models from the PAN, LAN series to the communication series based on multi-layered customer needs, CONTINECT will continue to provide comprehensive support from wireless products, modules, and software to various certification services, aiding customers in developing and selling wireless products.

CONTINECT’s strengths lie not only in offering high-density, highly reliable small-sized module products but also in applying the materials and manufacturing process expertise accumulated from TAIYO YUDEN’s long-term production of capacitors, inductors, etc., into device, module production, and certification services.

IoT-related devices (such as wearable devices) are very small and typically use small-capacity batteries, which is why most of these devices utilize Bluetooth technology. CONTINECT’s ultra-compact wireless module can be as small as 3.25mm x 8.55 mm, currently the smallest size available globally, and features a built-in antenna and main clock, thus operating wirelessly without the need for external wireless components. By employing shielding mold technology (which seals the module with resin and covers the surface with a metal film, eliminating the need for a metal shell to block internal and external noise), CONTINECT’s ultra-compact wireless modules are lighter than metal-shielded products, weighing less than 0.1g, making them ideal for installation in devices like electric toothbrushes and wearables.

KAGA CONTINECT brand wireless IoT modules are widely used in multiple market sectors.

In addition to size, low power consumption is another key requirement for wireless communication modules in IoT devices. The Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication standard, while not as fast as Wi-Fi, is still an ideal choice for transmitting relatively small amounts of data, such as sensor data. For example, the wireless modules commonly found in mobile POS machines are BLE modules. CONTINECT offers over 20 types of BLE modules, as well as a range of wireless communication products equipped with both Wi-Fi and BLE modules that can use different communication standards, all achieving the lowest power consumption for short-distance communication, greatly extending the operational time of IoT devices, making them ideal for networking devices in mobile POS systems and smart homes.

As the name suggests, the wireless connection performance of wireless modules is fundamental. “However, the mainboard, housing resin, and metals surrounding the antenna of the wireless module can affect radio waves, thus impacting the product’s communication range. Additionally, if product shape is prioritized, it may not be feasible to install the wireless module under ideal conditions. Therefore, antenna measurement support is necessary. CONTINECT offers antenna measurement services to confirm the radiation pattern in the product or prototype,” Du Fudan pointed out.

As mentioned above, the radio wave characteristics of wireless modules are influenced by the surrounding boards and housings. If there are specific requirements, designers typically consider the installation of wireless modules during the product design phase. “Usually, during the equipment design phase, CONTINECT collaborates with customers based on information provided, such as the design of the circuit board to be installed and the surrounding environment, to determine the installation position, direction, and product housing shape, maximizing wireless characteristics according to customer requirements,” Du Fudan stated. “Most radio devices have technical applicability markings (technical suitability certification/structural design certification), which can demonstrate compliance with technical standards of radio wave laws and regulations for specific radio devices (e.g., radio devices for small radio stations). By obtaining these certifications, customers can place technical applicability marks on their products for the first time,” Du Fudan noted. It is reported that KAGA FEI Electronics’ wireless modules support obtaining the “Technical Standards Compliance Certification” (commonly known as “Technical Compliance”) and “Structural Design Certification” in Japan, as well as wireless law certifications overseas, helping customers accelerate product mass production and market launch.

The explosive growth of IoT applications provides a rapid development track for various global enterprises. However, focusing on their areas of expertise and quickly launching products to target customers can often be hindered by the capital-intensive manufacturing phase. KAGA Group’s KAGA Electronics has 20 years of experience in EMS (Electronic Manufacturing Services) in China, with specialized SMT and assembly manufacturing technology, equipped with complete processing equipment and mature manufacturing processes. Its robust quality assurance and testing methods have gained recognition from numerous well-known clients. Currently, KAGA also provides IoT equipment manufacturing services based on its wireless module solutions to domestic customers.

Wireless POS terminals from Zebra based on KAGA CONTINECT wireless modules.

Integrating Software Design Resources, the “All-in-One” Model Empowers IoT

The Internet of Things is referred to as the third wave of the global information industry revolution, the “Next Big Thing.” From the first connected ATM, the first connected laptop, to the first connected mobile phone, the first connected car, and the first connected smart meter… More and more devices are connecting to the network through cellular networks, NFC, RF-ID, Bluetooth, Zigbee, and Wi-Fi. Any object, at any time and place, can connect to the network, and IoT is profoundly impacting people’s production and lives. “IoT and wireless are an inseparable whole, especially for data collection from decentralized terminal devices, such as grid-style environmental monitoring, smart cities, smart homes, etc., which require the access of wireless devices,” Du Fudan pointed out.

As the upgrade of the intelligent industrial chain accelerates and the demand for intelligent IoT increases, the rich software ecosystem also drives rapid hardware iteration, enhancing the intelligence of product modules, effectively saving costs and R&D cycles for customers. In addition to providing competitively advantageous wireless modules and manufacturing services, KAGA also strengthens its service capabilities for customers from more dimensions, empowering IoT with an “all-in-one” model.