Learning outcomes:
- Learn about Internet of Things (IoT)
- Learn about LoRaWAN
Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a concept that refers to the interconnection of physical devices or “things” through the internet, allowing them to communicate, collect and exchange data, and perform actions without human intervention. IoT enables objects, such as sensors, devices, vehicles, and machines, to be connected and interact with each other, creating a network of smart devices that can improve efficiency, convenience, and sustainability in various domains, including agriculture, environmental conservation, healthcare, transportation, and smart cities.
Watch the below video to learn more about IoT and it’s uses…
LoRaWAN
Low Range Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN) is a type of wireless communication technology designed specifically for long-range, low-power, and low-bandwidth IoT applications. It uses radio waves to communicate, thus has the advantage of being able to transmit long distances. It operates on unlicensed radio spectrum, which means that LoRaWAN devices can be deployed without requiring costly spectrum licenses, making it a cost-effective solution for wide area IoT connectivity. LoRaWAN is particularly suitable for use cases where devices need to transmit small amounts of data over long distances, while consuming minimal power, making it ideal for IoT deployments in remote or inaccessible locations.
An important aspect of LoRaWAN is its low-power consumption. LoRaWAN devices are designed to operate on battery power for extended periods of up to as long as a decade, reducing the need for frequent battery replacements or maintenance. This makes it suitable for IoT deployments in remote or hard-to-reach areas, where power supply may be limited or unreliable.
LoRaWAN also provides robust security features to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity of data transmitted over the network. It uses encryption and authentication mechanisms to ensure secure communication between devices, gateways, and network servers, protecting IoT deployments from potential security threats.
In summary, LoRaWAN is a wireless communication technology that enables long-range, low-power, and low-bandwidth connectivity for IoT applications. It offers cost-effective and reliable communication for IoT deployments in remote or wide area environments, making it suitable for endless use cases.
Currently, the largest LoRaWAN network in the world is the Helium network. Learn about it here…