Power of LoRaWAN® Gateways Designed for Extreme Conditions

If you are an IoT operator or enterprise, you may need durable gateways to deploy LoRaWAN® in extreme environments. Products designed to operate under challenging circumstances will have a much higher level of reliability. Furthermore, they will last longer in typical deployment conditions.

In this article, we will discuss the power of LoRaWAN® gateways engineered for real-world extreme conditions. Let’s figure out why using them is essential for the success of your IoT project.

Importance of Extreme Temperature, Voltage, and Humidity Testing

With your IoT project, the durability of the gateways is crucial to its ultimate success. Extreme temperature, voltage, and humidity can help identify weak design elements and remove them. Consequently, all customers can benefit from highly reliable and the best radio-performance products, proving their reliability even in the most extreme conditions. Thus, you need carrier-grade solutions that can withstand any environment and operate reliably for many years.

Most failures, including software issues, occur at extreme temperatures and voltages. For this reason, gateways should undergo thorough testing. It ensures they meet and exceed the requirements of the “four corners,” i.e., maximum and minimum temperature and voltage. This type of reliability testing eliminates any hardware, software, or digital design flaws, guaranteeing long-term operation and superior radio performance.

Solutions for Extreme Temperatures

Your IoT-based project may require gateways to function in extreme temperatures. For instance, it may be scorching heat (+60°C) plus intense solar radiation (+15°C) or freezing temperatures with ice and snow (-40°C). Therefore, you need solutions that can continue to perform well even in such circumstances. These products should be able to maintain radio performance and reliability levels despite the challenging thermal conditions.

Manufacturers of gateways for extreme temperatures design them with special hardware and software to fit harsh environments. Moreover, this equipment comes with robust cooling and heating systems. This is why devices’ internal temperatures remain stable even when deployed in the mentioned circumstances. Before you make your choice, check for temperature operating specifications and ensure they meet your project requirements.

Gateways for Corrosive Coastal Areas

The coastal areas present another challenge for IoT applications. The salty air can corrode the devices’ metallic parts and cause rusting, which can lead to equipment malfunction. Additionally, coastal areas have high humidity levels, which can cause electrical components to rust.

The gateways deployed in these areas need special protective coatings and seals to prevent corrosion. They should also have IP ratings to protect against water and dust ingress.

What to Consider for Gateway Lightning Protection

When it comes to establishing a dependable LoRaWAN® network, gateway lightning protection is crucial. Factors like antenna cable, power supply stability, radio signals, and placement all play a role.

Field-reliable outdoor equipment should be able to withstand electromagnetic interference from lightning strikes and other sources. Besides, it must comply with recognized lightning protection and grounding standards. Proper grounding, antenna protection, and interface protection are key to ensuring the smooth operation and longevity of your gateway.

Benefits of Reliable Gateways

Using LoRaWAN® gateways that perform flawlessly in extreme conditions provides several advantages. First, you leverage products that last longer (minimum 10-15 years) and require lower deployment and operating costs. Reliable gateways help reduce maintenance, repair, and replacement costs and prevent delays in project timelines.

Furthermore, dependable gateways provide real-time data. This feature makes it easy to optimize operations, detect and address issues, and better predict system maintenance needs. You can save time and money by investing in gateways that offer accurate and consistent data.

Conclusion

In summary, gateways designed for extreme conditions might be essential for IoT networks. They are specifically crucial for operation in demanding environments like harsh temperatures and corrosive coastal areas. Dependable gateways that can handle these circumstances ensure long-term durability and superior radio performance.

When looking for gateways, you should ensure they meet your project’s particular needs. Pay attention to temperature operating specifications, protective coatings and seals, IP ratings, and reliability testing. For instance, you may consider TEKTELIC’s KONA Macro and KONA Mega gateways. They are cost-saving products that can last for over a decade.

Contact us to explore high-quality LoRaWAN® solutions in greater detail.