What is Lora and LoRaWAN
Small introduction to Lora
LoRa is a long distance communication technology, like WCDMA and OFDAMA are the physical layer technology used for UMTS (3G) and LTE networks, with other mhz waves, which is similar to FSK (Frequency Shifting Keying) modulation but it increases the communication range significantly.
Other interesting thing, it use low power, better than for example esp32 with wifi technology.
Lora come with, LoRaWAN is a Low Power, Wide Area (LPWA) networking protocol developed by the LoRa Alliance, that wirelessly connects battery operated ‘things’ to the internet in regional, national or global networks, targeting key Internet of Things (IoT) requirements such as bi-directional communication, end-to-end security, mobility and localization services.
LoRaWAN uses unlicensed spectrum in the ISM bands to define the communication protocol and system architecture for the network while the LoRa physical layer creates the long-range communication links between remote sensors and gateways connected to the network. This protocol helps in the quick setup of public or private IoT networks anywhere using hardware and software.
Key characteristics of LPWAN
- Long battery life: Often in excess of 10 years supporting smart metering applications.
- Low cost chipsets and networks
- Limited data communication throughput capacity.
Latest research shows that there will be more than 3.6 billion LPWAN connected devices at the end of 2024. Today the number is just 10s of millions.
What is the difference between LoRa and LoRaWAN?
Both terms are often used synonymously, but they have different meanings. LoRa refers to a wireless modulation that enables communication with very low power consumption. LoRaWAN refers to a network protocol with LoRa chips for communication. It is based on the base station, which can monitor 8 frequencies with several spreading factors and almost 43 channels.
It is possible to use the LoRa modulation as point-to-point or as a star network without LoRaWAN.
Basically, LoRa is the physical layer: the chip. LoRaWAN is the MAC layer: the software that is placed on the chip to enable networking.
