Modern Cellular Connectivity for Existing Equipment
Meters, monitoring systems and control equipment can remain operational for many years, even as the communications networks around them change. Replacing the complete host system is often costly and unnecessary.
i-cell provides a practical way to add or update cellular connectivity while retaining the equipment already in use. The range includes products designed for specific electricity meters, flexible RS232-connected devices and secure gateways for moving legacy serial communications onto modern IP networks.
Available capabilities include LTE-M, NB-IoT, Cat 1 bis and legacy 2G support, depending on the device. eUICC and iUICC options, remote provisioning and firmware updates can help organizations manage changing network requirements while reducing avoidable site visits.
Built for Long Term IoT Deployments
i-cell brings together adaptable hardware, resilient cellular connectivity and remote management for distributed equipment estates.
Modernize Existing Equipment
Add cellular connectivity without replacing the meter, RTU or control system.
Choose the Right Interface
Use dedicated meter connections, standard RS232 or secure Ethernet and Wi-Fi gateways.
Reduce Network Dependence
eUICC and iUICC options provide greater flexibility than a conventional single network SIM.
Manage Devices Remotely
Review status, update configurations and deploy supported firmware changes without routine site visits.
Support Low Power Applications
Selected devices use cellular power-saving features for metering and remote telemetry deployments.
Secure Data Communications
Protect data using private networking and encrypted connections appropriate to the chosen solution.
Choose Your i-cell Device
The right product depends on the equipment being connected, its available interface and power, and how data needs to reach your application.
i-Cell 1140 2G / LTE
Purpose-built for Elster A1140 and A1120 electricity meters, the i-cell 1140 fits beneath the meter terminal cover and is powered directly through the meter interface.
It supports LTE-M, NB-IoT and legacy 2G, with external and eSIM options, eUICC and iUICC capability, remote configuration, FOTA support and internal and external antenna diversity.
i-Cell D-Sub 2G / LTE
The i-cell D-Sub adds cellular connectivity to meters, RTUs and other equipment through an industry-standard 25-way D-type RS232 interface.
Its compact design supports LTE-M, NB-IoT and legacy 2G connectivity, with eUICC and iUICC options, remote configuration and FOTA support. It can be powered through the interface or from an external 5–24 V DC supply.
i-Cell Comm Secure
i-cell Comm Secure is designed to replace legacy PSTN or GSM communications with a secure IP-based connection.
It bridges serial equipment onto cellular, Ethernet or Wi-Fi networks and supports transparent TCP/IP communications for interoperability with existing systems. TLS 1.2 encryption protects customer data without exposing public ports, while flexible power options support deployment across different host environments.
More Than Cellular Hardware
Ground Control can support the complete communications solution, from selecting and integrating the right device to provisioning SIMs and delivering secure connectivity.
eUICC and iUICC options can reduce dependence on a single mobile network operator, while private networking, VPN services and managed support help meet wider security and operational requirements.
Manage Connections with Intellicell
Intellicell gives engineering and operations teams a web-based environment for managing cellular connectivity across distributed equipment.
It supports remote provisioning and provides visibility of deployed connections, helping teams respond to changing requirements and reduce the need for repeated site visits.
Utility Metering
Collect scheduled readings and status data from electricity, water and other meters.
Renewable Energy
Connect generation, storage and energy-management equipment across distributed sites.
Industrial Telemetry
Exchange data with RTUs, controllers and monitoring equipment over cellular networks.
PSTN and GSM Replacement
Move established serial systems onto secure IP communications while retaining the host equipment.
Retail and Unattended Equipment
Connect vending, payment and other remotely deployed terminals.
Security and Building Systems
Provide managed communications for alarms, access control and building equipment.
Plan Your Cellular Upgrade
Whether you’re connecting new equipment or modernizing a large installed estate, Ground Control can help define the appropriate hardware, interface, cellular technology and SIM configuration.
Speak to our team about your existing equipment, power requirements, security needs and rollout plans. Complete the form or email hello@groundcontrol.com, and we’ll respond within one working day.