LoRaWAN Gateways

by Karanbir Singh Internet Marketing Manager

Gateways, as their name suggests, are devices that allow end devices to connect to their specific application server. They do this by receiving the data packets from all end devices on the network and forwarding them to the application server either through WiFi, Ethernet or Cellular communications. In a way, they serve as the equivalent of cellular base stations that are used by our mobile phones.

Gateways are probably the most important part of any LoRaWAN network as it can dictate the performance of your whole network’s quality of service. There are many types of gateways that are available in the market today, and it is of prime importance to compare and contrast the features and cost of each to find the perfect solution for your application.

LoRaWAN Gateway Deployment

The good thing about LoRaWAN Gateway is that they operate on unlicensed bands in most countries. This means that anyone can set up and run their own LoRaWAN network without the need of acquiring permits and licenses. There may still be country-specific restrictions, however, in terms of other aspects of deploying your LoRaWAN network like where to install antennas, etc.

DIY LoRaWAN Gateways

Gateways are simply routers with an additional LoRa Concentrator installed on them. This allows the gateway to do its functions as a router to the LoRawan data packets instead. They are very simple devices and you can even create one on your own without much difficulty. One of the best LoRa concentrator modules on the market is the RAK2245. This module also comes with a Pi Hat Edition, which makes it compatible with the Raspberry Pi 40pin header. With the RAK2245 Pi Hat Edition, you can easily have your own DIY gateway using the Raspberry Pi at its core. This method of creating your own gateway allows for more flexibility in deploying your own LoRa network while having good, stable performance and low cost.

Industrial LoRaWAN Gateways

For commercial deployment of LoRaWAN networks, you will need a more robust gateway with a much higher quality than a DIY gateway. The best example of this is the RAK7249 - Macro Outdoor Gateway. It is a complete LoRa gateway solution that is idealized for commercial IoT deployment.

Even though this is an enterprise grade network gateway, it is still very easy to manage your network and end devices as it already comes with a LoRaWAN Stack and an integrated web user interface. It is also complete with all required hardware and supports all forms of backhaul communications, which includes cellular and WiFi.

Another feature of the RAK7249 - Macro Outdoor Gateway is its integrated battery backup system that can sustain its operation for about 10 hours under typical conditions. It also already comes in an IP67 waterproof enclosure, which allows for deployment on an outdoor environment.

Additional LoRa Components

Once you already have your LoRa gateway setup, it is time to move forward with your project by using sensors and additional components of your choice. You can visit RAK’s online store at https://store.rakwireless.com for this. RAK is a leading organization in developing and supplying advanced IoT technology services with a focus on the future of IoT and its rapid development. Headquartered in Shenzhen China, RAK was established in 2014 and has developed a strong reputation with over 200 customers spanning across the globe, including Hong Kong, Korea, Denmark, India, and the United States.