ThingsLog Multichannel Low Power Data Logger

The Multi-Network Advantage

The ThingsLog multichannel logger is the only data logger in its class to simultaneously support NB-IoT, Cat-M1 (LTE-M), and GSM/2G in a single device. This multi-network architecture provides true connectivity resilience: the logger automatically selects the strongest available network at each measurement point, with automatic fallback between technologies. This makes it ideal for deployments covering mixed coverage environments — some sites may have excellent NB-IoT, others only 2G. The same device model handles all scenarios without pre-configuration, simplifying procurement, inventory, and field operations for utilities and system integrators managing large device fleets.

NB-IoT vs Cat-M1 vs GSM — When to Use Each

Applications for Multi-Network Loggers

International IoT Deployments

For deployments spanning multiple countries, the multi-network logger with an international SIM (1NCE embedded) connects to the best available network in each country without roaming issues. Ideal for equipment manufacturers shipping globally, the same device model works in Western Europe (NB-IoT dominant), Eastern Europe (mixed NB-IoT and 2G), and emerging markets where 2G remains the most reliable option. No per-country SIM management is required.

Urban-to-Rural Water Utility Rollouts

A water utility covering both urban areas (NB-IoT coverage) and rural villages (2G only) can deploy a single device model across the entire network. The logger connects via NB-IoT in the city — benefiting from maximum battery efficiency and deep building penetration — and automatically switches to 2G in rural areas where NB-IoT coverage is not yet available. This eliminates the need to stock, configure, and manage two separate device types for different coverage zones.

Industrial IoT with High Reliability Requirements

Critical monitoring applications — pumping stations, chemical tanks, hospital facilities, and emergency infrastructure — benefit from network redundancy that a single-technology device cannot provide. If the primary NB-IoT network has an outage, the logger automatically falls back to 2G, ensuring continuous data delivery. For applications where a missed transmission represents a safety or compliance risk, multi-network connectivity is not a luxury but a requirement.

28,000 Transmissions — What This Means in Practice

The 28,000-transmission battery specification provides a concrete basis for lifecycle planning. At a 15-minute reading and transmission interval, the battery lasts approximately 7 or more years — longer than the expected replacement cycle for most utility metering equipment. At a 1-hour interval, battery life extends to over 28 years, though practical deployment periods are typically 10-15 years based on metrological recertification requirements. This makes the device truly maintenance-free for the full deployment lifecycle, eliminating the labour cost of battery replacement visits that significantly increases the total cost of ownership for competing devices with shorter battery specifications.

Further reading: What Is an IoT Data Logger? How It Works + Key Use Cases  ·  IoT Data Logger Types Explained  ·  ThingsLog 4G IoT Data Logger