Device manufacturers now have the fastest way to integrate cellular, global positioning system “GPS” and satellite connectivity into their fleet management and asset tracking applications in one design with the help of Digi International’s new embedded module - Digi m130.

According to a press release, Digi International’s new embedded dual-mode modem module facilitates OEMS to enable their products with GSM/GPRS, GPS and ORBCOMM (News - Alert) satellite connectivity in a single solution.

In other words, the new embedded module enables remote connectivity to mobile assets via cellular or satellite networks.

The new Digi m130 delivers flexible wide area networking connectivity, thereby supporting cellular, GPS and satellite functionality. This compact module is ideal for fleet management and asset tracking applications.

Apart from featuring on-board GPS for location tracking and geo-fencing, the new Digi m130 also features the company’s satellite application-specific integrated circuit “ASIC” technology.

Available for $169 in 10,000 quantities, the new Digi m130 modules are based on the acquisition of Q52 Omni Technology from Sierra Wireless (News - Alert). The Q52 Omni was developed in a partnership between Wavecom and MobiApps, before they were acquired by Sierra and Digi, respectively, said officials with Digi in a press release.

“Featuring both cellular and satellite connectivity allows customers to develop fleet management solutions that can easily switch from one network to another,” said Larry Kraft, senior vice president of global sales and marketing, Digi International (News - Alert). “As a vehicle moves out of cell range, it can then use satellite to maintain connectivity. This combined with GPS functionality allows organizations to track their products to within 5 meters of accuracy virtually anywhere on the planet.”

Customers of Digi m130 can also have access to the ready-to-use iDigi cloud computing platform for Machine-to-Machine “M2M” network management by Q2 2011.

According to Digi, its iDigi platform facilitates secure remote access, control and management of network-connected devices. It also facilitates complete cloud-based application development.

Bertrand G. de Brugiere, general manager, Maestro Wireless Solutions, said, “The Digi m130 and ORBCOMM network enabled us to develop a complete and customized solution for the M2M mobility market. Digi provided full support and we effortlessly integrated the Digi m130 into our first satellite dual-mode modem with GPS.”