Cisco Meraki MT Series

Basic Information

The Cisco Meraki MT Series comprises cloud-managed environmental sensors designed for real-time visibility into physical environments. The series includes various models such as the MT10 (temperature and humidity), MT11 (temperature probe), MT12 (water leak detection), MT14 (indoor air quality), MT20 (open/close detection), MT30 (smart automation button), and MT40 (smart power controller).

• Model: MT10, MT11, MT12, MT14, MT20, MT30, MT40.
• Version: Firmware updates are delivered automatically via the Meraki cloud.
• Release Date: The MT series was introduced to provide real-time environmental monitoring.
• Minimum Requirements: Requires compatible Cisco Meraki MR access points (firmware MR 27.5.1 or higher) or MV smart cameras (firmware MV 4.8 or higher) to act as gateways.
• Supported Operating Systems: Managed via the cloud-based Meraki Dashboard, accessible through web browsers and mobile apps.
• Latest Stable Version: Firmware updates are automatic and managed by the Meraki cloud.
• End of Support Date: Not explicitly stated for the series, but individual hardware warranties are typically 3 years.
• End of Life Date: Not explicitly stated.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Firmware updates are automatic as long as the device is licensed and connected to the Meraki cloud.
• License Type: Subscription-based Enterprise license (LIC-MT-XY, where X is the duration in years: 1, 3, 5, 7, 10). Five free licenses are provided to all new and existing organizations, and two additional free licenses are included with MR Advanced Licenses in co-term organizations.
• Deployment Model: Cloud-managed, requiring no on-premises servers or dedicated gateways. Sensors connect wirelessly via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to existing Meraki MR access points or MV smart cameras.

Technical Specifications

The MT Series sensors are compact, battery-powered devices designed for easy deployment and integration into various environments. They leverage Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for wireless connectivity to Meraki gateways.

• Processor: Not specified, as sensors are purpose-built for specific monitoring tasks.
• RAM: Not specified.
• Storage: Onboard data storage of approximately 4000 data points (5 days of data at default sampling rate) for most models; MT14, MT15, and MT40 retain data for approximately 12 hours.
• Display: Multicolor, multifunction status LED.
• Ports: USB-C Port for optional external power.
• Operating System: Embedded firmware, cloud-managed.
• Dimensions & Weight:
  • MT10/MT12: 117.1(L) x 65.9(W) x 26.0(H) mm; MT10: 102g (excluding batteries); MT12: 113g (excluding batteries).
  • MT11: 117.1 x 65.7 x 23.3 mm (LxWxH).
  • MT14: 130.0(L) x 75.4(W) x 31.6(H) mm.
  • MT20: Main Device: 81.2(L) x 39.7(W) x 19.5(H) mm; Magnet Cover: 59.5(L) x 12(W) x 13.35(H) mm; Main Device: 29g (excluding batteries); Magnet Cover: 10g.
  • MT30: 117.1(L) x 65.7(W) x 23.3(H) mm; 102g (excluding batteries).
• Power:
  • MT10, MT12, MT14, MT20, MT30: AA batteries (1 or 2 depending on model) with up to 5 years battery life (MT14 up to 2 years). Optional USB-C power adapter.
  • MT11: 2x AA Alkaline Batteries or permanent DC Power via 5V;2A USB-C (sold separately).
  • MT40: Inline power monitor, supports up to 12A sustained load.
• Wireless: Bluetooth 4.2 Low Energy (BLE) (IEEE 802.15.1) operating at 2.400–2.4835 GHz.
• Sensors:
  • MT10: Temperature (0°C - 55°C / 32F - 131F) and Humidity (0 - 95% RH).
  • MT11: Temperature Probe (-40°C to +55°C / -40°F to +131°F).
  • MT12: Water Leak Detection (detects as little as 3mL of liquid).
  • MT14: CO2, PM2.5, TVOC, Temperature, Humidity, Vape fumes, Ambient noise.
  • MT20: Open/Close detection via magnetic field sensor.
  • MT30: Programmable action button.
  • MT40: Power monitoring (RMS Voltage, Current, Real Power, Apparent Power, Power Factor, Energy).

Analysis of Technical Specifications: The Meraki MT series offers a diverse range of specialized sensors, each tailored for specific environmental monitoring or automation tasks. The reliance on BLE for connectivity to existing Meraki MR/MV devices simplifies deployment by eliminating the need for dedicated gateways, reducing infrastructure complexity. Long battery life (up to 5 years for most models) minimizes maintenance. Onboard data storage ensures data integrity even during temporary network outages. The robust operating temperature and humidity ranges make them suitable for various indoor environments. The MT40 stands out with its inline power monitoring and control capabilities. The series prioritizes ease of deployment and cloud integration over raw processing power, which is appropriate for their intended function as IoT sensors.

Support & Compatibility

The Cisco Meraki MT Series is designed for seamless integration within the Meraki ecosystem, leveraging existing Meraki network infrastructure for connectivity and management.

• Latest Version: Firmware updates are automatically pushed from the Meraki cloud.
• OS Support: Managed through the Meraki Dashboard, which is a cloud-based platform accessible via web browsers on various operating systems. Mobile apps are also available for monitoring and troubleshooting.
• End of Support Date: Hardware warranty is typically 3 years. Licensing terms (1, 3, 5, 7, 10 years) include support.
• Localization: Meraki Dashboard and documentation are available in multiple languages.
• Available Drivers: No specific drivers are required for the sensors themselves as they communicate via BLE to Meraki gateways. The Meraki Dashboard handles all management and data presentation.
• Compatibility:
  • Gateways: Compatible with select Meraki MR access points (e.g., MR36, MR45, MR46, MR55, MR56, MR76, MR86) and MV smart cameras (e.g., MV12, MV22, MV32, MV72) running minimum firmware versions (MR 27.5.1+ and MV 4.8+).
  • Integration: Integrates with the Meraki Dashboard for centralized management, monitoring, and alerting. Open APIs allow for custom development and integration with third-party systems like ServiceNow or IFTTT.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status: The MT Series boasts excellent support and compatibility within the Meraki ecosystem. Its cloud-managed nature simplifies updates and eliminates the need for manual driver installations. Compatibility with existing Meraki MR and MV devices as gateways significantly reduces deployment complexity and cost. The availability of APIs ensures broad integration possibilities, enhancing its utility in diverse enterprise environments. The subscription-based licensing model includes ongoing support and automatic firmware updates, ensuring the devices remain current and secure.

Security Status

Security is a core aspect of the Cisco Meraki MT Series, with features designed to protect device authenticity, data integrity, and confidentiality.

• Security Features:
  • Trust Anchor module (TAm) for secure device authentication.
  • Secure Unique Device Identifier (SUDI) X.509v3 certificate for identity and serial number, implemented at manufacturing.
  • Automated firmware updates from the Meraki cloud.
  • Role-based administration in the Meraki Dashboard.
  • Tamper detection reporting (e.g., MT20).
• Known Vulnerabilities: No specific widespread known vulnerabilities are publicly highlighted for the MT Series. Cisco Meraki regularly performs security audits.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable.
• Certifications: Cisco Trustworthy Systems seal of approval.
• Encryption Support:
  • Secure BLE messaging using Long Term Key (LTK).
  • Data in transit is encrypted using LTK.
  • Proprietary AES-256-bit encrypted TLS tunnel for communication between network devices and the Meraki Cloud.
• Authentication Methods:
  • Device authentication via Trust Anchor module and SUDI certificates.
  • Meraki Dashboard acts as the verification authority for sensor connections.
  • For network access, Meraki supports various methods including WPA2-Enterprise with 802.1X authentication, Identity PSK with/without RADIUS, and local authentication on MR access points.
• General Recommendations: Utilize strong authentication practices for Meraki Dashboard access, regularly review alert thresholds, and ensure compatible gateways are running the latest firmware.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating: The Cisco Meraki MT Series demonstrates a strong security posture. The use of hardware-rooted Trust Anchor modules and SUDI certificates ensures device authenticity and prevents unauthorized access. All communication is encrypted, protecting data integrity and confidentiality. Automated firmware updates help mitigate potential vulnerabilities proactively. Integration with the secure Meraki Dashboard, which supports role-based administration and various authentication methods, further enhances overall security. The design prioritizes end-to-end security from manufacturing to data transmission and cloud management.

Performance & Benchmarks

The Meraki MT Series sensors are optimized for reliable, low-power operation, focusing on consistent data collection and timely alerting rather than high-throughput processing.

• Benchmark Scores: Not applicable for these types of environmental sensors.
• Real-World Performance Metrics:
  • Data Polling Frequency: Sample polling every 2 minutes for temperature/humidity (MT10, MT11, MT14); Event-driven for MT20 (open/close) and MT12 (leak detection); MT14 PM2.5 every 5 minutes, TVOC every 90 seconds, Ambient noise every 5 minutes.
  • Data Reporting to Gateway: Every 20 minutes, or immediately upon threshold violation.
  • Onboard Data Storage: 4000 data points (approx. 5 days at default sampling rate) for most sensors; MT14, MT15, MT40 retain for ~12 hours.
  • Accuracy:
    • MT10: Temperature +/- 0.3°C; Humidity +/- 2.5% RH.
    • MT11: Temperature -40°C to -30°C = +/- 2°C; -30°C to -10°C = +/- 1°C; -10°C to +55°C = +/- 0.5°C.
    • MT40: RMS Voltage/Current/Real Power/Apparent Power/Energy +/- 1%; Power Factor +/- 1%.
• Power Consumption: Designed for ultra-low power consumption, enabling long battery life.
  • Battery Life: Up to 5 years for MT10, MT11, MT12, MT20, MT30 (with AA batteries); up to 2 years for MT14 (with 4 AA batteries). MT20 and MT30 battery life is dependent on usage (e.g., up to 100 triggers/day).
• Carbon Footprint: Not explicitly detailed, but low power consumption and cloud-managed architecture contribute to energy efficiency by reducing on-site hardware and associated energy use.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: The MT series distinguishes itself through its seamless integration with the Meraki cloud and existing MR/MV infrastructure, eliminating the need for separate gateways common in other IoT sensor solutions. This simplifies deployment and management significantly.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status: The Meraki MT Series delivers robust and reliable performance for its intended purpose. The sensors provide timely data collection and reporting, with immediate alerts for threshold violations, which is critical for environmental monitoring and security applications. The extended battery life is a significant performance advantage, reducing maintenance overhead. While not designed for high-speed data processing, their efficiency in data logging and secure transmission to the cloud dashboard ensures effective real-time visibility and actionable insights. The accuracy specifications for environmental measurements are suitable for enterprise monitoring.

User Reviews & Feedback

User feedback generally highlights the ease of deployment, seamless integration, and centralized management as key strengths of the Cisco Meraki MT Series.

• Strengths:
  • Ease of Deployment: "Peel & Stick" installation and automatic connection to existing Meraki MR/MV devices via BLE make setup quick and simple, even for large deployments.
  • Cloud Management: Centralized management through the Meraki Dashboard provides a single pane of glass for monitoring and configuration, eliminating the need for on-premises servers.
  • Real-time Visibility & Alerts: Users appreciate real-time data, customizable alerts (email, SMS, push notifications, webhooks), and historical data logging for proactive issue resolution.
  • Battery Life: The long battery life (up to 5 years for most) is a frequently praised feature, reducing maintenance.
  • Security: Built-in security features like the Trust Anchor module and encrypted communication are well-regarded.
  • Versatility: The range of sensors addresses diverse monitoring needs, from temperature and humidity to water leaks and door access.
• Weaknesses:
  • Dependency on Meraki Ecosystem: Requires existing Meraki MR access points or MV cameras as gateways, which might be a barrier for non-Meraki users.
  • Licensing Model: While flexible, the subscription licensing model is an ongoing cost.
  • Limited Local Control: Primarily cloud-managed, which means reliance on internet connectivity for full functionality.
• Recommended Use Cases:
  • Monitoring server rooms and data centers for environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, water leaks).
  • Securing physical spaces like doors, gates, and cabinets (intrusion detection).
  • Cold chain monitoring in healthcare, food services, and retail (MT11).
  • Indoor air quality monitoring in offices, schools, and public spaces (MT14).
  • Asset protection and operational efficiency in various industries.
  • Automation of tasks and triggering actions with the smart button (MT30).
  • Power monitoring and control for remote deployments (MT40).

Summary

The Cisco Meraki MT Series offers a comprehensive suite of cloud-managed environmental and security sensors, providing real-time visibility and actionable insights for diverse enterprise asset management needs. The series, including models like MT10, MT11, MT12, MT14, MT20, MT30, and MT40, excels in ease of deployment, leveraging existing Meraki MR access points and MV smart cameras as wireless gateways via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). This eliminates the need for dedicated on-premises hardware, simplifying infrastructure and reducing costs.

Key strengths include its seamless integration with the intuitive Meraki Dashboard for centralized management, automatic firmware updates, and flexible alerting capabilities (email, SMS, push notifications). The sensors boast impressive battery life, typically up to five years, minimizing maintenance requirements. Security is robust, featuring hardware-rooted Trust Anchor modules, SUDI certificates for device authentication, and end-to-end encryption for data in transit.

While the series' primary dependency on the Meraki ecosystem and its subscription-based licensing model might be considerations for some organizations, these aspects also contribute to its streamlined management and continuous support. The performance is optimized for reliable data collection and timely alerts, with specific models offering high accuracy for their respective measurements. User feedback consistently praises the simplicity, scalability, and effectiveness of the MT sensors in various real-world applications, from monitoring critical infrastructure like server rooms to enhancing physical security and automating tasks.

In conclusion, the Cisco Meraki MT Series is a highly effective, secure, and user-friendly solution for organizations seeking to gain deeper insights into their physical environments and automate operational processes. Its cloud-first architecture and integration capabilities make it a valuable addition to any Meraki-powered enterprise, offering significant benefits in terms of operational efficiency, risk mitigation, and asset protection.

Information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.