LoRa

LoRa is a wireless technology that has been developed to enable low data rate communications to be made over long distances by sensors and actuators for M2M and Internet of Things applications. It uses unlicensed radio spectrum in the Industrial, Scientific and Medical (ISM) bands to enable low power, wide area communication between remote sensors and gateways connected to the network. It uses spread-spectrum technology with a wider band. Its frequency-modulated chirp utilizes coding gain for increased receiver sensitivity.

LoRaWAN is an open-source LPWAN infrastructure protocol specification built on top of the LoRa technology developed by the LoRa Alliance that allows other companies to create their own IoT networks based on its technology specifications. This standards-based approach to build a LPWAN allows for quick set up of public or private IoT networks anywhere using hardware and software that is bi-directionally secure, interoperable and mobile, provides accurate localization and works the way you expect.

A LoRa network can be arranged to provide coverage similar to that of a cellular network. Indeed many LoRa operators are cellular network operators who will be able to use existing masts to mount LoRa antennas. In some instances the LoRa antennas may be combined with cellular antennas as the frequencies may be close and combining antennas will provide significant cost advantages. The key features of LoRa is it covers long range of 15-20 Kms, it can connect to millions of nodes and its battery life long lasts for more than 10 years. Applications for LoRa wireless technology includes smart metering, inventory tracking, vending machine, data and monitoring, automotive industry, utility applications where data reporting and control may be needed