Widely also known as LPWAN (Low Power Wide Area Network), in simple words we can say that it is networks of things which operate on low power and wide area. It’s big question covering wide area with low power! Guessing battery life: Yes, that’s the beauty of LoRaWAN we will discuss how is that possible, Let’s dig into the basics first.
LoRa - Long Range
WAN - Wide Area Network
What is LoRaWAN ?
LoRa is a proprietary low-power wide-area network modulation technique. It is based on spread spectrum modulation techniques derived from chirp spread spectrum technology. It was developed by Cycleo of Grenoble, France and acquired by Semtech, the founding member of the LoRa Alliance and it is patented LoRaWAN Network Worldwide.
Architecture
End Nodes
End Nodes are actual Sensors with SoC powered on batteries expected to last years. They do job of data acquisition with actuation possible. Wirelessly connected to Gateway. Operates on Single channel
Examples. Pet Tracking, Smoke Alarm, Water Meter, Vending Machine, Trash Container …...
Gateways
Gateways are the ones connected to Internet, deals with sending and receiving packets from Nodes to Internet. Utilizes 3G/4G network or connected over TCP/IP to Internet. They are connected to multiple End Nodes.
Network Server
The LoRaWAN Network Server is at the core of every LoRaWAN Network that enables connectivity, management, and monitoring of devices, gateways and end-user applications. Its main objectives are to ensure the security, scalability and reliability of data routing throughout the network.
Application Server
The Application Server handles the LoRaWAN application layer, including uplink data decryption and decoding, downlink queuing and downlink data encoding and encryption. It hosts an MQTT server for streaming application data, supports HTTP webhooks as well as pub/sub integrations.
How It manages with Low Power and Wide Area?
Bandwidth is directly proportional to Power, as we see typical wireless technologies they have their own use cases, but are range is very short. Reason is they are meant to offer higher throughput. But in case of LoRaWAN it operates on Lower Bandwidth, it opens up doors to Long Range with Low Power!
Here are some Operating Parameters for LoRaWAN:
Frequencies
Frequencies are specific ranges in the radio spectrum used to transmit data wirelessly. In LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network), these frequencies are crucial because they determine how and where devices communicate.
License-free sub_GHz radio frequency bands depending on the locations
- EU - 863 to 870 MHz, 433 to 434 MHz
- China - 779 to 787 MHz
- US - 902 to 928 MHz
- **IN **- 865 to 867 MHz
Data Rates
Data rate shows how much data a network can send in a set time. It's usually measured in bits per second (bps). In LoRaWAN, you can adjust data rates. This helps balance range, power use, and bandwidth.
Data rates are dependent on Distance to Gateway, the link power budget, interference, Spreading factor. Data rate upto 300 Bps is possible.
Reach Delighteck with your requirements to know more about Battery Life.
Conclusion
LoRaWAN is a strong choice for low-power, long-range wireless communication. It’s ideal for today’s IoT applications. Its unique design and smart use of bandwidth help it save battery life. Plus, it offers adjustable data rates for wide coverage. LoRaWAN connects devices using license-free frequencies and smart network design. This approach also saves energy. LoRaWAN is changing how devices talk to the cloud. This change is happening in smart cities, remote monitoring, and industrial automation.
Similar Blogs
- LoRaWAN Technical Overview Part 1: IoT Connectivity Explained
- LoRaWAN Technical Overview Part 2: Network & Security Basics
- LoRaWAN Technical Overview Part 3: Features & Advantages