Iridium Communications, a provider of mobile satellite services, unveiled the certification of new Iridium (News - Alert) 9602 Short Burst Data (SBD) Transceiver-based partner devices.

The certification has opened a number of new markets with solutions enabled by Iridium voice and data connectivity. These solutions include applications for tracking assets such as cargo, ships, aircrafts and people. They are certified by Iridium to operate on the mobile voice and data network.

The machine-to-machine (M2M) applications are the buzz word in the telecom industry. The Iridium 9602, which is smaller, lighter and lower-cost than its predecessor, increases the return on investment for satellite two-way M2M applications.

M2M data services are a strong focus area for Iridium. According to the company's third-quarter 2010 financial statements, M2M data subscribers represented 27 percent of billable commercial subscribers, an increase from 23 percent during the same period last year.

Iridium offers the building blocks for applications across a variety of markets. Together, with its partners, Iridium is enabling innovation through new types of Iridium 9602-based M2M solutions.

The transceiver serves as the data communication enabler for portable tracking and monitoring devices, utilizing Iridium's low-latency and two-way data links, the company said.

“Iridium is advancing the way global enterprises conduct critical daily activities,” said Patrick Shay, vice president and general manager of data services for Iridium, in a statement. “The Iridium 9602 is ideal for a wide range of applications, including remote tracking, personal location/safety, monitoring and tracking of assets such as cargo, ships or trucks, as well as controlling and monitoring equipment for greater efficiency.”

Iridium 9602-based solutions recently certified for use over the Iridium global network include Cubic Global Tracking Solutions GS-5L. Cubic Global Tracking Solutions support smart applications for tracking and monitoring the temperature, environmental conditions, location and maintenance needs of critical assets.

Cubic Global Tracking Solutions give alerts when specific conditions (such as cargo route deviation, sensor limits, equipment faults, tilting or tampering) are sensed to ensure reliability, and includes advanced mesh technology.

Last year, Iridium announced that the Iridium 9602 short burst data transceiver was ready for market and accepting orders. The company had also said the transceiver’s new form factor was pushing the design of a lot of new global M2M data communications solutions.