LoRa is capable of revolutionising our Internet users' experience. The solution is different from the already available 2G/3G/4G networks in that it is free of charge, causes no problems with GSM range and allows millions of users to access the cloud.
"LoRa brings a new narrowband data transmission technology. It's free of charge because it uses the ISM band," says Maciej Sibiński, President of the Board at Espotel. He also adds that LoRa facilitates data transmission across long distances (ranging to a dozen or so kilometres in open areas), while using the amount of energy that allows one battery to last for over 10 years. Phones in 2G or 3G networks last only several days. Additionally, LoRa allows for creating private networks, which is hardly a standard feature among the commonly available communication standards such as 2G, 3G, 4G, WiFi or SigFox.
Poland's first LoRa in Wroclaw
Poland's first LoRa network was developed by Wroclaw-based Espotel. The aerial with a suitable device from Multitech that coordinates the network and serves as the Internet gate was mounted on one of the building in Wroclaw Technology Park, where Espotel offices are located. Data transmitted by devices that logged into the network are transferred to the cloud, where, depending on the client's wishes, they can be stored, processed or transferred further to suitable servers.
"We are now currently testing the range of our network. First outcomes are promising. We have reached 4 to 5 km of data transmission range in densely populated areas in densely, which has only whetted our appetite for wider range," says Michał Leksiński, Project Manager responsible from implementing LoRa technology and the development of software for modules compatible with the LoRa standard.
LoRa for the Internet of Things
Espotel representative emphasise that LoRa fits in with an increasingly popular trend known as the Internet of Things. It offers a simple means to connect millions of devices to the cloud, especially for commercial purposes.
"Devices are connected to the Internet to facilitate communication with them, e.g. a car, a fridge, an alarm system or electricity or water meters. Due to a number of their inherent limitations, e.g. their range as well development or maintenance costs, the available GSM, 3G or LTE networks are not always fit for use. LoRa knows no limitations of this kind," says Maciej Sibiński.
Espotel is part of the LoRa Alliance and as such contributes to developing the LoRa standard. The company also runs one of two official labs that issue LoRa compliance certificates.
