Cisco Meraki MT14

Basic Information

The Cisco Meraki MT14 is a cloud-managed indoor air quality sensor, part of the Meraki MT sensor portfolio. It monitors various environmental factors to promote smart spaces and safe environments.

• Model: MT14-HW
• Version: Not specified, firmware updates are automated.
• Release Date: Information not explicitly available, but references suggest it was available by at least May 2022.
• Minimum Requirements: Requires a compatible Meraki IoT gateway (2nd Generation MV smart cameras or Wi-Fi 6 MR access points) for connectivity and a Meraki Dashboard license.
• Supported Operating Systems: Managed via the cloud-based Meraki Dashboard, accessible from various devices (laptops, desktops, mobile app).
• Latest Stable Version: Firmware updates are automated and managed through the Meraki cloud.
• End of Support Date: Not explicitly announced for the MT14, but Meraki products typically have an End-of-Support (EOS) date five years after the End-of-Sale (EoS) date.
• End of Life Date: Not explicitly announced for the MT14. Meraki's EOL process involves several steps, with devices continuing to function after EoS but losing firmware updates and official support. Once a license expires post-EOL, the device ceases to operate in the Meraki cloud platform.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Firmware updates are provided as long as the device is supported and has an active license.
• License Type: Requires a Meraki Sensor License (LIC-MT-VAR), which is a subscription-based license. Each Meraki MT sensor requires a license to operate, permitting connection to the Dashboard, support, and warranty. Organizations receive five free MT licenses, and additional free licenses may be included with MR Advanced Licenses.
• Deployment Model: Cloud-managed. The sensor communicates wirelessly via Bluetooth Low Energy to Meraki IoT gateways (MV cameras and MR access points), which then connect to the Meraki cloud for centralized management.

Technical Specifications

The Cisco Meraki MT14 is a compact indoor air quality sensor designed for environmental monitoring.

• Processor: Not specified; typical for a sensor device, processing is minimal and focused on sensor data acquisition.
• RAM: Not specified; internal memory is primarily for data logging.
• Storage: Onboard data storage for up to five days of data (4,000 data points at default sampling rate).
• Display: Multicolor, multifunction status LED.
• Ports: USB-C port for optional power adapter.
• Operating System: Embedded firmware, managed via Meraki cloud dashboard.
• Dimensions: 130.0 mm (L) x 75.4 mm (W) x 31.6 mm (H).
• Weight: 102g (excluding batteries).
• Sensors:
  • Temperature: Range 0°C to 55°C (32°F to 131°F), Accuracy +/- 0.3°C.
  • Humidity: Range 0% to 95% RH, Accuracy +/- 2.5% RH.
  • Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOC): Range up to 10,000 µg/m³.
  • Particulate Matter (PM 2.5): Range 0 to 100 µg/m³ (Accuracy +/- 10 µg/m³), 100 to 1,000 µg/m³ (Accuracy +/- 10% measured value). PM2.5 sampling requires USB-C power.
  • Ambient Noise: Range 20 to 120 dBA.
• Wireless: Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE 4.2) for communication with Meraki gateways.
• Power: Four AA batteries (up to two years battery life) or USB-C power adapter. USB-C power enables PM2.5 sampling and high sampling mode.

Analysis of Technical Specifications: The MT14 is purpose-built as an environmental sensor, prioritizing accurate data collection for air quality metrics. Its lack of a powerful processor, significant RAM, or traditional storage is appropriate for its function, as data processing and long-term storage occur in the Meraki cloud. The dual power options (battery or USB-C) offer deployment flexibility, with USB-C enabling more intensive monitoring like PM2.5. The compact dimensions and light weight facilitate easy installation. The range of integrated sensors provides a comprehensive overview of indoor air quality.

Support & Compatibility

The Cisco Meraki MT14 integrates into the Meraki ecosystem, leveraging cloud-based management and support.

• Latest Version: Firmware updates are automated and delivered through the Meraki cloud dashboard.
• OS Support: Managed via the Meraki Dashboard, which is a web-based platform accessible from any modern operating system with a web browser. A Meraki mobile app is also available for monitoring and troubleshooting.
• End of Support Date: Not specifically announced for the MT14. Meraki's general policy states that End-of-Support typically occurs five years after the End-of-Sale date.
• Localization: The Meraki Dashboard and associated documentation are available in multiple languages, supporting global deployments.
• Available Drivers: No specific drivers are required for end-user devices, as management is cloud-based. The sensor communicates wirelessly via BLE to Meraki gateways (MR access points and MV cameras), which handle connectivity to the cloud.
• Cartridge and Ink Codes: Not applicable, as this is an environmental sensor, not a printer.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status: The MT14 benefits from Meraki's cloud-first approach, simplifying support and compatibility. Automated firmware updates ensure the device runs the latest software without manual intervention. Compatibility is primarily with Meraki's own ecosystem (MR/MV gateways and the Meraki Dashboard), which streamlines deployment and management. The subscription license includes 24/7 Cisco Meraki Support and a three-year hardware warranty with advanced replacement, ensuring robust support.

Security Status

The Cisco Meraki MT14 incorporates several security features inherent to the Meraki platform.

• Security Features:
  • Secure Bluetooth Low Energy messaging using a long-term key (LTK).
  • Secure device authentication and encryption via the Cisco Trust Anchor module (TAm).
  • Uses Secure Unique Device Identifier (SUDI), an X.509v3 certificate, for device authentication during manufacturing.
  • Image signing ensures firmware integrity and prevents unauthorized modifications.
  • Cloud-based management reduces network attack vectors by not requiring an IP stack on the sensor itself for communication to the gateway.
  • Automated firmware updates include security patches.
• Known Vulnerabilities: No specific known vulnerabilities for the MT14 were found in the provided data. Meraki's automated firmware updates address security issues proactively.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable.
• Certifications: Not explicitly detailed in the provided data, but Cisco products generally adhere to industry standards.
• Encryption Support:
  • Data in transit between the sensor and gateway is encrypted using a shared Long Term Key (LTK).
  • The Meraki Dashboard supports various encryption methods for wireless networks, including WPA2-Enterprise with AES encryption, and WPA3 on compatible devices.
• Authentication Methods:
  • Device authentication uses the Cisco Trust Anchor module and SUDI certificates.
  • Meraki Dashboard login supports email authentication (with optional two-factor authentication) and SAML authentication for single sign-on.
  • Wireless network authentication on Meraki access points supports WPA2-Enterprise with 802.1X authentication (using RADIUS, PEAP/MSCHAPv2, or Meraki Authentication).
• General Recommendations: Ensure gateways are updated to the latest firmware, utilize strong authentication for Dashboard access, and follow Meraki's security best practices.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating: The Cisco Meraki MT14 demonstrates a strong security posture, leveraging hardware-based trust (Trust Anchor module, SUDI) and robust encryption for data in transit. The cloud-managed nature allows for continuous security updates and centralized policy enforcement, minimizing the risk of unpatched vulnerabilities. The reliance on BLE for sensor-to-gateway communication, rather than IP, also reduces potential attack surfaces. Overall, the MT14 is designed with enterprise-grade security in mind.

Performance & Benchmarks

The MT14 is an environmental sensor, and its "performance" is primarily measured by the accuracy and responsiveness of its data collection.

• Benchmark Scores: Not applicable for this type of asset. Performance is evaluated by sensor accuracy and data reporting frequency.
• Real-world Performance Metrics:
  • Temperature sampling: Every two minutes.
  • Humidity sampling: Every two minutes.
  • PM 2.5 sampling: Every five minutes (requires USB-C power). High sampling mode for PM2.5 is available.
  • TVOC sampling: Every 90 seconds.
  • Data reporting to gateway: Every 20 minutes or immediately upon threshold violation.
  • Onboard data storage: Up to five days (4,000 data points).
  • Battery life: Up to two years with AA batteries.
• Power Consumption: Low power consumption, especially when battery-powered. USB-C power is required for PM2.5 sampling and high sampling modes.
• Carbon Footprint: As a low-power IoT device, its direct carbon footprint is minimal. Meraki's cloud management and integration with smart building systems can contribute to energy efficiency by automating HVAC or lighting based on air quality data, thereby reducing overall building energy consumption.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: The MT14 is part of a broader trend of IoT environmental sensors. Its key differentiators include seamless integration with the Meraki ecosystem, cloud-managed alerts and analytics, and the Cisco Trust Anchor module for security.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status: The MT14 performs effectively as a real-time indoor air quality monitor. Its sampling and reporting frequencies are adequate for continuous environmental monitoring, providing timely data for alerts and trend analysis. The long battery life makes it suitable for flexible deployments, while the USB-C power option enhances its capabilities for more detailed PM2.5 monitoring. Its integration with the Meraki Dashboard allows for comprehensive data visualization and actionable insights, contributing to smart building initiatives and potential energy savings.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback for the Cisco Meraki MT14 generally highlight its ease of deployment, comprehensive monitoring capabilities, and seamless integration with the Meraki ecosystem.

• Strengths:
  • Ease of Deployment: Users appreciate the quick and simple setup, often mentioning automatic Bluetooth pairing with Meraki gateways and cloud-based provisioning.
  • Comprehensive Monitoring: The ability to detect temperature, humidity, TVOC, PM2.5, and ambient noise from a single device is a significant advantage.
  • Cloud Management: The Meraki Dashboard is frequently praised for its intuitive interface, centralized control, real-time data visualization, and alert capabilities (email, SMS, push notifications, webhooks).
  • Integration with Meraki Ecosystem: Seamless integration with Meraki MV cameras (for correlating events with footage) and MR access points is a key benefit for existing Meraki users.
  • Flexible Power Options: The choice between AA batteries and USB-C power offers versatility in deployment scenarios.
  • Security Features: The inclusion of the Trust Anchor module and encrypted communication is noted as a strong security aspect.
• Weaknesses:
  • Licensing Requirement: The need for a separate Meraki license for each sensor is sometimes mentioned as an additional cost, though free licenses are available for initial deployments.
  • PM2.5 Requires USB-C Power: The limitation of PM2.5 sampling to USB-C power can be a drawback for battery-only deployments where this metric is critical.
  • Calibration for TVOC: Some users note that TVOC sensors require a calibration period to provide accurate readings.
  • Contextual Alerts: While alerts are robust, interpreting air quality data (e.g., "Fair" air quality) might require understanding the context of the environment (e.g., a server room vs. an office).
• Recommended Use Cases:
  • Monitoring indoor air quality in offices, schools, healthcare facilities, and other commercial spaces to ensure safe and comfortable environments.
  • Automating building HVAC systems based on air quality changes to improve ventilation.
  • Identifying anomalies and trends in environmental data for proactive maintenance or health and safety compliance.
  • Integrating with smart building initiatives for energy efficiency and sustainability.
  • Providing visibility into physical spaces alongside other Meraki devices like cameras and access points.

Summary

The Cisco Meraki MT14 is a highly effective cloud-managed indoor air quality sensor designed to provide real-time environmental monitoring for a variety of indoor spaces. Its primary function is to detect and report on temperature, humidity, total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), particulate matter (PM2.5), and ambient noise levels.

Strengths: The MT14 excels in its ease of deployment and centralized cloud management through the intuitive Meraki Dashboard. This allows for quick setup, automated firmware updates, and comprehensive data visualization and alerting. Its seamless integration with other Meraki products, such as MV cameras and MR access points, enhances its value within an existing Meraki ecosystem. The dual power options (AA batteries for portability and USB-C for continuous power and advanced PM2.5 monitoring) provide significant deployment flexibility. Robust security features, including the Cisco Trust Anchor module and encrypted communication, ensure data integrity and device authenticity.

Weaknesses: The requirement for a separate Meraki license for each sensor adds to the overall cost, although initial free licenses are provided. The dependency on USB-C power for PM2.5 sampling might limit its use in certain battery-only scenarios where this specific metric is crucial. Users also note that TVOC sensors require a calibration period to achieve optimal accuracy.

Overall Assessment: The Cisco Meraki MT14 is a strong contender for organizations seeking a reliable, secure, and easily manageable indoor air quality monitoring solution. Its cloud-first architecture simplifies operations, making it suitable for lean IT teams. The sensor's ability to provide granular environmental data, coupled with customizable alerts and integration capabilities, empowers businesses to create healthier, safer, and more energy-efficient environments. While the licensing model and PM2.5 power requirements are considerations, the overall benefits of simplified management, comprehensive monitoring, and strong security make the MT14 a valuable asset for smart building initiatives and environmental compliance.

Recommendations: The MT14 is highly recommended for businesses and institutions already invested in the Cisco Meraki ecosystem or those looking for a scalable, cloud-managed IoT sensor solution. It is particularly beneficial for monitoring air quality in offices, schools, healthcare facilities, and retail spaces. For critical PM2.5 monitoring, planning for USB-C power is essential. Leveraging its integration with HVAC systems can yield significant benefits in terms of air quality control and energy savings.

The 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.