Wireless Products FAQ
GENERAL PRODUCT INFORMATION
What is LoRaWAN, and how does it work? LoRaWAN is a low-power, wide-area networking protocol designed to wirelessly connect battery-operated devices to the internet in large networks with minimal power consumption. It enables long-range transmission with secure and reliable data transfer over unlicensed frequency bands and has been field installed for nearly 10 years.
What industries and applications are best suited for LoRaWAN technology? LoRaWAN technology is ideal for applications that require long-range connectivity, low power consumption, and low data transmission rates. This includes industries like agriculture, healthcare, industrial automation, smart cities, and HVAC/building management.
What are the main benefits of using LoRaWAN over other wireless technologies? LoRaWAN offers long-range connectivity, minimal power consumption, and is suitable for remote and large-scale IoT deployments. It can transmit data over distances of up to several kilometers and requires minimal infrastructure, making it cost-effective and easy to deploy.
What types of data can LoRaWAN sensors monitor? Our LoRaWAN sensors can monitor various parameters, including temperature, humidity, pressure, contact input, and current (4-20mA) levels, depending on the specific sensor model. Many other measurement types are available in the wider marketplace.
PRODUCT OFFERINGS & COMPATIBILITY
What types of sensors does the Sensocon product line include? Our LoRaWAN product line includes sensors for measuring temperature, humidity, pressure, contact status, and current input, as well as configurable multi-input sensors. Plans are on tap for vibration, level, air velocity, and gauge pressure. Call us if interested in these new additions.
Can I use your LoRaWAN sensors with third-party platforms? Yes, our sensors are compatible with most LoRaWAN platforms, allowing you to choose a third-party platform if preferred. Required payload information is available upon request.
Are your sensors compatible with any LoRaWAN gateway? Our sensors are compatible with most standard LoRaWAN gateways.
HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS
What is the transmission range of your LoRaWAN sensors? Our sensors typically transmit up to several kilometers in open environments, with range varying based on environmental factors and obstacles like walls in indoor settings.
Are your sensors battery-powered, and what is the battery life? Yes, our sensors are battery-operated, designed to last several years under typical use conditions. Battery life depends on transmission frequency and environmental conditions, with an estimate of 2.5-5 years dependent upon sensing solution selected (15-minute interval).
Can your sensors be used in outdoor environments? Our sensors are available standard as IP65 weatherproof, suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
GATEWAYS
Which gateways are recommended for your sensors? While our sensors are compatible with any LoRaWAN gateway, we recommend the Ezurio RG191 and 450-0191 series gateways, which have been tested to work seamlessly with our platform and sensors.
How do I install and set up the gateway for your sensors? Our gateways come standard with pre-provisioning for plug-and-play installation and include a setup guide with step-by-step instructions to ensure proper installation. Our support team is also available for assistance.
Are there any additional requirements to use third-party gateways with your platform? Just the needed information to securely access the platform. Sensocon can provide the appropriate certificates and routing information for use in setup of third-party gateways.
Do you provide technical support for third-party gateways? We are here to help. We do offer limited support for third-party gateways; our technical team can provide general guidance and troubleshooting.
PLATFORM/APPLICATION
What features does your platform offer? Our platform includes data visualization, trend analysis, alert notifications, user management, and the ability to configure sensor settings remotely.
Can I use other LoRaWAN devices on your platform? Yes, our platform is designed to be flexible and supports various LoRaWAN devices, not just those from our product line.
How secure is the data on your platform? We use industry-standard encryption and security protocols to ensure data integrity and privacy throughout the transmission and storage process.
What are the subscription options for your platform? We offer tiered subscription (6, 12, 25, 50, 100 units) plans based on the number of connected sensors.
Can I set data transmission intervals on the platform? Yes, our platform allows for customizable data transmission intervals to help balance data needs and battery life. While our standard product has a 10-minute minimum user-adjustable interval, we can reduce that minimum upon request.
INSTALLATION & CONFIGURATION
How do I set up the sensors and gateway? Our sensors and gateways come with comprehensive setup instructions, and we provide support to guide you through the initial installation process. With our industry-leading no-charge pre-provisioning, setup is plug-and-play.
Are there specific installation requirements for the sensors? Installation requirements depend on the environment, but our ruggedized options allow for flexible indoor and outdoor mounting.
How do I integrate the sensors with the platform? Integration is simple, requiring only the registration of each sensor on our platform, where they will be automatically configured. You just need the Device EUI (Extended Unique Identifier, on device label) and the App Key (provided in package with sensor). (Note: App Join EUI is automatically populated on Sensograf platform).
Can I adjust sensor settings remotely? Yes, our platform supports over-the-air (OTA) adjustments, allowing you to remotely change sensor settings as needed.
Do you provide installation support? Yes, our support team is available to assist with installation questions and troubleshooting. Your success is our success.
DATA & SECURITY
How is the data transmitted from the sensors to the platform? Data is transmitted over LoRaWAN from the sensors to the gateway, which then forwards it securely to our platform. WHAT ELSE HAPPENS FROM GATEWAY TO PLATFORM?
How secure is the data transmission process? We use encryption for all data transmissions to ensure security from the sensor to the platform. Our platform complies with standard LoRaWAN encryption protocols, providing AES-128 encryption for secure data handling.
How is data stored, and can I access historical data? Data is securely stored on our platform, with options to access and analyze historical data for trend insights. Five year Data retention is standard, ensuring you have access to historical data as per your plan. Longer retention is available upon request.
CUSTOMIZATION & INTEGRATION
Can I customize data reporting intervals for the sensors? Yes, you can adjust the reporting intervals to best suit your data needs and optimize battery life.
Is it possible to integrate your platform with existing data management systems? Our platform supports API integrations to work seamlessly with other data management and analytics tools. IS THIS TRUE?
Do you offer options for custom sensor configurations? Yes, we can work with you to configure sensors based on your specific requirements. Contact our team for more information.
TROUBLESHOOTING & SUPPORT
What should I do if a sensor stops transmitting data? Check the sensor’s battery and connectivity status first. Battery levels below 2.2V, or connectivity with an RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indication) below -100dBm are typically considered marginal. Our support team is available for further troubleshooting if needed.
Where can I find technical support if I have issues with my setup? Our technical support team is available via phone, email, and online chat to assist with any issues.
SALES & ORDERING
How do I place an order for your LoRaWAN products? Orders can be placed through our website or by contacting our sales team directly at info@sensocon.com or 863-248-2800.
Do you offer bulk purchasing options? Yes, we provide discounts for bulk orders. Contact our sales team for details.
What is the estimated delivery time for orders? Delivery times vary, but most orders are processed and shipped within 1-2 weeks, with the longest lead times at 4-6 weeks.
Can I request a product demonstration or trial? Yes, we offer product demos and trials for qualifying customers.
PRICING & SUBSCRIPTIONS
What is included in the price of the sensor and gateway packages? Sensors, gateways, and platform are sold separately. When all are purchased from Sensocon, the end-to-end solution includes everything with the possible exception of application-specific items (special mounting, extended remote-mount cable requirements, tubing, etc.).
Are there any recurring fees for using the platform? Yes, there are subscription fees based on the number of connected devices and data intervals. We offer multiple subscription tiers, allowing you to choose a plan based on your specific usage needs.
Do you offer volume discounts? Volume discounts are available for larger orders. Please reach out to our sales team for more details.
WARRANTY & RETURNS
Do your products come with a warranty? Yes, our products come with a standard one-year warranty.
What is your return policy? We accept returns within a specified period for unused products. See our website for the full return policy.