5G is the 5th generation of wireless technology. With full deployment over the next few years, it will enhance the lives of all Canadians. 5G connectivity will enable immersive video and gaming experiences, remote telehealth, self-driving vehicles, and new applications that will change the way we work, live and play.

The term MEC, also known as "multi-access edge computing", refers to computing that enables data processing, analytics, and communication capabilities down to where the data originates - at network gateways or directly at the endpoints, i.e., the edge. The aim is to reduce latency, ensure highly efficient network operation as well as service delivery, and to offer an improved user experience. Bringing computing closer to the data source, offers greater business agility through better control and faster insights, lowers operating expenses, and results in more efficient network bandwidth support¹.

Internet of Things (IoT) enables machines and devices to communicate with each other directly or through a cloud environment in order to deliver actionable data quickly.

Any hardware device from which data is received in the network is considered as a "thing" in IoT.

An IoT system works by continuously sending, receiving, and analyzing data in a feedback loop. Analysis is performed by either humans or artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), in real time.

Bell offers a number of different network connectivity options to support various connectivity needs and use cases:

• 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE)

• Ideal for high-demand bandwidth applications requiring lower latency than Low Power Wide Area (LPWA) networks. Connected car applications, drones, security cameras are some examples of 4G LTE solutions.

• Long Term Evolution category M1 (LTE-M)

• LTE-M is used to connect a large amount of low-power and lower-bandwidth devices for extended lifetime use. Solutions such as fixed, mobile, or voice-enabled solutions require an LTE-M connection.

• 5G

• 5G, the latest generation of wireless technology, allows for lower latency, greater bandwidth and is essential to operate large volumes of connected devices.

Bell offers multiple management options:

1. Bell Control Centre lets you monitor and view the status of your entire network of IoT devices from a central online portal, set up automatic processes, receive alerts, fix technical issues promptly, and analyze and optimize data usage to reduce operational costs. Plus, choose between two account tiers and add features to address your specific business needs.
2. Bell Management Centre helps you manage and monitor IoT devices, including LTE-M devices, and connections in real-time with leading-edge diagnostic tools. Bell Management Centre can help drive automation, improve processes and provide full insight and control of your IoT infrastructure.
3. Consumer SIM cards are available for devices not requiring management tools.

Once you have gained access to our Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), you will receive an email including the API endpoint and credentials. You may use these details to connect to our APIs and submit requests using the technology of your choice (see our API documentation for more detail on how to connect to each API). Once you have tried our APIs and have decided to take the next step, please reach out to our support team with your request.

Once you have reviewed our API documentation and are ready to begin, follow the link below to register and gain access to the Sandbox.