Packetworx to complete rollout of IoT wireless connectivity this year

INTERNET of Things (IoT) solutions provider Packetworx, in partnership with Taiwan-based tech firm Browan Communications Inc., is set to complete the rollout of wireless connectivity for IoT devices nationwide by this year.

“Packetworx is in the business of rolling out a nationwide network of wireless connectivity for IoT,” Packetworx founder and chief executive officer Arnold Bagabaldo said in a June 19 interview at the IoT Technology Hub in Pasig City, Manila.

“We want to expand to the whole Philippines, to cover at least 90% of the Philippines in 2019,” he added, with the end goal of turning the Philippines into the world’s IoT capital by 2021 or 2022.

Packetworx uses Long Range Wide Area Network (LoRaWan) technology to allow wireless communication between devices and the internet through LoRaWan gateways developed by Browan.

“Browan, they specialize in developing and manufacturing gateways, cell sites. Browan makes cell sites for LoRaWan, kaya kami partner kasi sila ‘yung nagpu-provide ng (we’re partners because they provide the) hardware,” Mr. Bagabaldo said. He said Packetworx has over 200 cell sites in Metro Manila.

“They’re continuing to support us in providing gateways, but sometimes they also make IoT devices. Although Packetworx develops IoT devices, we also get some from them,” he said.

The company is also providing services to utility companies like Manila Electric Co. and Manila Water Company, Inc., as well as the government, such as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration and Quezon City hall, among others.

Browan Communications Senior Account Director Steve Lin said that while it had initial discussions with other local firms, only its talks with Packetworx had “fruitful results.”

“There are several other companies that have also sent us inquiries, but eventually, they’re not following up; only one had fruitful results, Packetworx,” Mr. Lin said during the Taitronics pre-media tour in their headquarters in Hsinchu Industrial Park, Taiwan on June 13.

He added that they are currently working on other original design manufacturer projects, one of which involves creating a mini weather station.

Browan Communications is among the participants of this year’s Taipei International Electronics show Taitronics which will be held from Oct. 16-18. — Charmaine A. Tadalan