Why Convert Analog Output Wired Sensors to Wireless?

For decades, industrial facilities, commercial buildings, and remote monitoring applications have relied on wired analog sensors to measure critical parameters such as temperature, humidity, pressure, and fluid levels. These sensors typically output a 0-10V or 4-20mA signal, which is then read by a local control system or data logger.

However, wired sensor networks present significant challenges:

  • Installation Complexity: Running cables through buildings or across industrial sites can be costly and labor-intensive.
  • Maintenance Costs: Damaged wiring and connectors require ongoing repairs and replacement.
  • Limited Scalability: Expanding a wired sensor network often requires additional infrastructure investments.

With advancements in IoT (Internet of Things) and long-range wireless technologies like LoRaWAN, it is now possible to convert wired analog sensors into wireless with minimal disruption. LoRaWAN analog input devices allow businesses to maintain their existing sensors while gaining the flexibility and cost savings of wireless connectivity.

A mix of different colored wires with labels to show wiring complexity
An image of a wireless sensor from Sensocon, black in color with antenna.
LoRaWAN Sensor

How LoRaWAN Enables Wireless Analog Sensing

LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network) is a low-power, wide-area network protocol designed for transmitting small data packets over long distances. Key benefits include:

  • Up to 10+ years of battery life with ultra-low-power devices
  • Long-range communication (up to 10 miles in rural areas, 1-3 miles in urban environments)
  • Scalability to thousands of devices per gateway
  • Secure data transmission with end-to-end encryption
A network map showing three wireless sensors on the left, transmitting to a LoRaWAN gateway that then transmits to a cloud server and finally to a laptop computer displaying the Sensograf platform.
Typical LoRaWAN Network Map

By integrating an analog input LoRaWAN device, users can wirelessly transmit sensor data from existing 4-20mA or 0-10V sensors to a cloud platform, where it can be monitored, analyzed, and integrated into automation systems.

Introducing Sensocon's LoRaWAN Analog Input Devices

At Sensocon, we offer two specialized LoRaWAN input devices for converting wired analog sensors into wireless solutions:

WS-AI: Wireless 4-20mA Analog Input Sensor

The Sensocon WS-AI is designed to interface with standard 4-20mA sensors, commonly used in industrial automation, HVAC, and environmental monitoring applications.

WS-AI Features & Benefits:

  • Supports 4-20mA input for broad compatibility with industrial sensors
  • LoRaWAN Class A device for low-power operation and long-range transmission
  • Battery-powered with multi-year lifespan for remote and hard-to-reach locations
  • Configurable reporting intervals to optimize data transmission and battery usage
  • IP65-rated enclosure for protection in industrial and outdoor environments
A picture of a Sensocon WS-AI wireless LoRaWAN sensor highlighting the antenna, mounting tabs, IP65 enclosure, batteries, and weather-tight input gland.
Sensocon Series WS-AI 4-20mA Input Device

Example Applications:

  • HVAC and Air Quality Monitoring – Wireless transmission of differential pressure or gas concentration levels
  • Industrial Equipment Monitoring – Remote tracking of flow meters and pressure transducers
  • Agriculture and Irrigation – Measuring soil moisture and nutrient levels

Learn more about the WS-AI and how it fits into Sensocon's wireless sensor solutions.

WS-VI: Convert Wired to Wireless with 0-10V Analog Input Sensor

The Sensocon WS-VI is ideal for sensors that output a 0-10V analog signal, which is common in building automation, industrial machinery, and environmental monitoring.

WS-VI Features & Benefits:

  • Compatible with 0-10V sensors used in HVAC, lighting control, and process monitoring
  • Long-range LoRaWAN connectivity for deployment in large buildings or remote sites
  • Battery-operated or external power options for flexible installations
  • Configurable transmission settings to balance data update frequency and power efficiency

Example Applications:

  • Lighting Control Systems – Wireless dimming and brightness control based on sensor data
  • Water Treatment Facilities – Monitoring chemical dosing and tank levels remotely
  • Renewable Energy Monitoring – Tracking solar panel performance and wind turbine output

Discover how the WS-VI can help modernize your analog sensor networks.

The ROI of Upgrading to Wireless LoRaWAN Sensors

Many industries are hesitant to replace their existing sensor infrastructure due to cost concerns. However, converting wired sensors to LoRaWAN wireless solutions can yield substantial ROI, including:

  • Reduced Installation Costs – No need for expensive wiring runs
  • Lower Maintenance Costs – Eliminates wire-related failures and degradation
  • Improved Data Access – Enables real-time monitoring and remote data logging
  • Increased Operational Efficiency – Supports predictive maintenance and data-driven decision-making
A table with three columns labeled expense category, wired solution, and wireless solution, with seven expense categories and a wired total cost of $13,500 and a wireless total cost of $6,415
Five Year Cost Comparison: Wired vs. Wireless

Real-World Example: HVAC Monitoring in Commercial Buildings

A facility manager for a large office complex wanted to monitor differential pressure across air handling units (AHUs) but found that running wired sensors to each unit was prohibitively expensive. By deploying WS-AI devices connected to existing 4-20mA pressure sensors, they were able to reduce installation costs by 60% while enabling real-time monitoring via the cloud.

Conclusion: Convert Your Wired Analog Sensors Now

With the Sensocon WS-AI and WS-VI, businesses can extend the life of their existing analog sensors while taking advantage of modern IoT and LoRaWAN capabilities. Whether for industrial automation, environmental monitoring, or smart building applications, LoRaWAN analog input devices offer a cost-effective, scalable, and efficient wireless solution.

Want to learn more about LoRaWAN and how it can work for your application? Explore our full range of wireless sensor solutions or contact us at info@sensocon.com for a consultation.