LTE-M / NB-IOT and LoRa are two completely different techniques, which have a similarity in how they are applied. Both networks are energy efficient and wireless, and only transmit sensor and machine information. The choice is best based on where you want to implement your solution, and power consumption requirements.
Tag: LoRa
LTE-M / NB-IOT and LoRa are two completely different techniques, which have a similarity in how they are applied. Both networks are energy efficient and wireless, and only transmit sensor and machine information. The choice is best based on where you want to implement your solution, and power consumption requirements.
LPWAN in the unlicensed band is not economically futureproof, the bankruptcy of Sigfox and the impending shutdowns of several LoRaWAN networks in several countries support this statement. The adoption and availability of NB-IOT and LTE-M will eventually overcome the need for LoRaWAN and then we will see LoRaWAN be discontinued or the way of using it will change.
LoRa and LoRaWAN are both commonly used for IoT devices, but each has its own capabilities and applications. LoRa technology provides a way to use wireless spectrum without a license, but lacks the networking capabilities needed for management. LoRaWAN is a protocol that builds on top of LoRa and creates the network layer.
When we talk to customers about IoT business cases, we always get a lot of questions about connectivity, with one of the fundamental questions: “Why can’t I just go to my local store, buy some simcards and deploy them in my ‘devices’? It is cheaper compared to what you offer! “
It is a good question and a natural one if you are new to the IoT landscape (M2M, LTE M, NB-IOT, LoRa). This question rarely comes from customers who have deployed thousands of devices and have an organizational structure that requires control and oversight. So let’s clarify.
The sensors include: temperature, humidity, 9-axis accelerometer, compass, gyroscope, barometer, light sensor, tilt sensor, magnetometer and location based on LoRa triangulation. We can combine the features of these sensors to fit any desired project.
In static position, the LoRa sensor sends an uplink (heartbeat) every 60 minutes. When motion or vibration is detected, an uplink is triggered with an ‘in trip’ flag. During continuous motion, the device sends an uplink every 15 minutes. The KPN LoRa network server calculates the position of the device by triangulation of the received signal. Within our portal we visualize this data to show the locations and movement history.
In addition, you can set alerts and alarms for geofences and movements, making the LoRa sensor an excellent and cost-effective LoRa sensor. The water- & dust-proof housing provides protection in all situations. The status and connection of the sensor are communicated via two LED lights. Thanks to the innovative internal antenna, no additional external parts are required. The QR code on the label can be used to activate the device and add it to your administration.
Licensed LPWAN networks (LTE M and NB-IOT) have many advantages: proven technology based on 4G, better capacity and coverage than the unlicensed spectrum, harmonization of the spectrum between countries and regions, lifespan controlled by the mobile operators. The disadvantage is that it has not yet been rolled out in all countries.
Unlicensed LPWAN networks (LoRa and Sigfox), such as LoRa, can easily and quickly be set up as a private network. Disadvantages currently no harmonization regarding spectrum between countries and regions, large variety of spectrum bands, interferences cannot be managed and can only be used for non-critical IoT solutions.
The shutdown of LPWAN IoT connectivity in the licensed bands is expected to be gradual. Because there is simultaneous access, these networks will not run into complications with regard to simultaneous use for the time being. We expect that for technologies in the unlicensed spectrum. The 863-870 MHz band, specifically some frequencies around 868 MHz, appear to be the most popular for these technologies. Thingsdata advises on the pros & cons of both spectrums.
Can’t see the forest for the trees, does that apply to the diverse palette of IoT connectivity options? Short range communication with NFC and Bluetooth. Indoor communication via an IoT gateway based on Zigbee, Z-Wave or WiFi. LPWAN techniques Sigfox, LoRa, NB-IOT and LTE-M. And of course, the ‘cellular’ options 2, 3, 4 and 5G.
LPWAN in the unlicensed band is not economically futureproof, the bankruptcy of Sigfox and the impending shutdowns of several LoRaWAN networks in several countries support this statement. The adoption and availability of NB-IOT and LTE-M will eventually overcome the need for LoRaWAN and then we will see LoRaWAN be discontinued or the way of using it will change.