25 Jul 2016

RiskBand personal safety device to use u-blox's SARA-U201 cellular module

A wearable, live-monitored personal safety device called RiskBand will be launched by Whereable Technologies during the fall of this year. The bracelet-like device will be one of the first devices to incorporate u-blox’s new cellular module to allow wearers to alert for help and stream audio and photos by pushing a button.

RiskBand will use u-blox's new SARA-U201, a penta-band HSPA/GSM cellular module - allowing the wearer to reach the 24-hour RiskBand Emergency Response team from anywhere with a cellular service. It has a continuous satellite GPS link with a 24-hour battery life, two-way audio communication and a camera.

GEOS, Whereable Technologies' emergency response partner, will be aided by visual and GPS support when an alert is sounded and an ongoing verbal commentary notifies the appropriate authorities to ensure quick and effective action.

If users opt to enable location services, RiskBand offers the option to receive 'Emergency Action Messages'. These 'EAM's' serve to notify band wearers of potential danger in their area. Gentle vibration and a red indicator light alerts users to check their mobile device for life saving information.

u-blox claims that the SARA‑U201 is the smallest cellular module ever made – measuring 16 x 26 x 3 mm. The 96‑pin supports both 2G and 3G connectivity and has global radio regulatory approvals. RiskBand will also incorporate u-blox’s GPS smart-antenna module with omni-directional reception in its device to ensure its location-based functions are best in class.