> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.ifreeq.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.ifreeq.com/faqs/device-development/cloud-module/nb-iot-module.md). # NB-IoT Module ## What is an NB-IoT module's scheduled heartbeat packet feature? NB-IoT modules have a heartbeat interface. Vendors can customize the heartbeat interval, for example, 2 or 4 hours. The heartbeat interval depends on MCU indicators, such as the connection and power-supply time and power consumption. A door lock uses the heartbeat interface to periodically communicate with the cloud to synchronize the door lock status (online/offline). ## What are the advantages of NB-IoT communications? 1\. Large capacity: Under the same base station, NB-IoT can offer 50 to 100 times connections than that of existing wireless technologies. 2\. Wide coverage: In the same frequency band, NB-IoT improves the gain by 20 dB when compared with existing cellular networks, significantly optimizing indoor coverage. 3\. Low power consumption: NB-IoT PSM and eDRX modes prolong the standby time to several years and even over 10 years. The standby power consumption of an NB-IoT chip is milliwatt-level. In PSM mode, the communication chip's power consumption is microwatt-level. 4\. Low cost: Low rate and low bandwidth simplifies the design and reduces the NB-IoT chip and module costs. Consumers and home appliance vendors do not need to deploy networks themselves and connect IoT devices to mature, stable, and reliable operators' networks, reducing operations and maintenance costs. ## To what products do NB-IoT modules apply? NB-IoT modules apply to outdoor scenarios, that is, products used when there is no Wi-Fi signal. ## What are the models of Tuya NB-IoT modules? Currently, Tuya only provides NM1 NB-IoT modules. ## How is Tuya NB-IoT module's access to the networks of operators in China? It has accessed to the networks of China Telecom and China Mobile. It is being accessed to the network of China Unicom. ## Do NB-IoT operators need to deploy base stations? No. NB-IoT devices can be added to existing base stations. ## Which devices do NB-IoT apply to? NB-IoT applies to water, power, and gas meters, alarms, and locators. ## What is the network pairing that corresponds to operators' IoT SIM cards? The network pairing mode is bound to the PID. When creating a product on the Tuya Smart platform, you need to select a network pairing mode. Operators' IoT SIM cards correspond to the NB-IoT network pairing mode. ## Can operators resolve the no or weak NB-IoT signal problem? Yes. For example, Zhejiang Telecom can resolve such problem within the province in about one week. Solution: Add base stations and optimize the signal transmission direction. ## How is the NB-IoT network coverage area? NB-IoT networks cover all areas in China. The MIIT requires that by 2020, NB-IoT networks cover all areas in China, ensure deep coverage in indoor areas, traffic roads, and underground pipelines, and have 1.5 million base stations. ## What are NB-IoT network operators' NB-IoT SIM cards? By working mode, NB-IoT SIM cards are classified into PSM, DRX, and eDRX SIM cards. By specifications, NB-IoT SIM cards are classified into common pluggable SIM cards and mounted SIM cards (eSIM). --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://docs.ifreeq.com/faqs/device-development/cloud-module/nb-iot-module.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.