Power Saving Mode (PSM) and Extended Discontinuous Reception (eDRX)

Energy efficiency and battery life are essential factors in the world of IoT connectivity. Many IoT devices run on batteries and need to function for extended periods without maintenance. Thingsdata offers solutions that utilize advanced energy-saving technologies such as Power Saving Mode (PSM) and Extended Discontinuous Reception (eDRX). In this article, we discuss how these technologies work, their applications, and their benefits.

What is Power Saving Mode (PSM)?

PSM is an energy-saving mode applied to IoT devices on LTE-M and NB-IoT networks. This feature allows a device to remain in sleep mode for long periods without losing its network connection. As a result, it does not need to reconnect upon activation, saving energy.

How does PSM work?

• The device communicates a TAU (Tracking Area Update) timer to the network, specifying how long it remains inactive.
• During this period, the device stays registered on the network but does not respond to incoming messages.
• Once the set period expires or the device needs to send data, the connection is re-established.

Benefits of PSM

• Minimal energy consumption: In sleep mode, the device uses only a few microamperes.
• Quick reconnection: Since it remains connected to the network, it does not need to search for a signal again.
• Ideal for sensors and smart meters: Devices that transmit data sporadically can benefit optimally from PSM.

What is Extended Discontinuous Reception (eDRX)?

eDRX allows a device to reduce the frequency with which it listens to network traffic. This lowers power consumption and extends battery life.

How does eDRX work?

• The device sets an eDRX cycle, determining how often it receives network messages.
• This interval can vary from a few seconds to several hours, depending on the settings.
• During inactive periods, the device remains in sleep mode, consuming less energy.

Benefits of eDRX

• Lower power consumption than standard DRX due to reduced network activity.
• Still reachable for incoming messages, but at a lower frequency.
• Suitable for IoT devices that receive sporadic data, such as trackers and alarms.

PSM vs. eDRX: What’s the Difference?

While both methods save energy, they have different applications:

• PSM is better suited for devices that only send data and remain inactive for long periods.
• eDRX is useful for devices that need to receive messages occasionally.

Applications in IoT

Both technologies are applied in various sectors, such as:

• Smart meters that periodically transmit data without being continuously active.
• Asset tracking, where location tracking with low energy consumption is crucial.
• Smart agriculture with sensors that collect weather data.
• Industrial monitoring, where long battery life is essential.

Availability in the Thingsdata Portfolio

Both technologies are available within the Thingsdata portfolio, allowing customers to take full advantage of these energy-saving features.

PSM and eDRX play a key role in extending the battery life of IoT devices and optimizing energy consumption. Want to learn more about how PSM and eDRX can make your IoT devices more efficient? Contact us at +31-85-0443500 or email info@thingsdata.com.