Semtech Corporation (Nasdaq:SMTC), a leading supplier of analog and mixed-signal semiconductors, today announced that its LoRa wireless platform is being used in Australia’s first Internet of Things (IoT) LPWAN network. The first deployment of the IoT LPWAN network is in Launceston, Tasmania, and is expected to enable a host of smart, innovative applications involving real-time transportation monitoring, inventory control, healthcare, and many other IoT applications.
LoRa Technology and the standardized LoRaWAN™ specification enable ease in deployment of IoT networks by offering compatibility with existing infrastructure and interoperability with an extensive list of companies within the LoRa Alliance™ ecosystem. This citywide LPWAN deployment is a collaborative effort among the University of Tasmania’s Sense-T, Definium Technologies and CSIRO’s Data 61, and it has received a 100,000 Australian dollar funding commitment from the Hodgman Government.
Launceston-based IT company, Definium Technologies, will manufacture network gateways and sensors using LoRa Technology that will run the network. Local business and residents will be able to deploy and use IoT applications to improve manual processes, safety, conservation, and more once the network is rolled out.
“This LoRaWAN network will stimulate IoT innovation and business opportunities locally, at first, and then regionally, as the project expands,” said Hon. Michael Ferguson MP, Minister for Information Technology and Innovation at Definium Technologies. “The range of applications for LoRaWAN networks is extensive, and we are excited to help lay the groundwork to bring IoT to Australia.”
“This ground-breaking project adds Australia to the list of forward-thinking countries developing smart network infrastructures based on the LoRa Technology to help streamline day-to-day processes and elevate business decisions, environmental conservation, public infrastructure, and more,” said Marc Pegulu, Vice President and General Manager, of Semtech’s Wireless and Sensing Products Group. “LoRa Technology makes large scale network rollouts possible by integrating into existing infrastructure, offering strong connectivity, providing long range communication, and low power operation.”
Semtech is a member of the LoRa Alliance™, a group of nearly 400 companies committed to driving and enhancing the LoRaWAN specification to ensure interoperability and scalability of LPWANs and IoT applications. Through its work with member companies and IoT industry groups, the LoRa Alliance is making LoRaWAN the standard for LPWANs focused on low-power, long-range IoT applications. To date, there are LoRaWAN public and private networks in more than 50 countries worldwide.
Key Features of LoRa Technology:
Long Range: A single base station using LoRa Technology enables deep penetration capability for dense urban environments and indoor coverage, while also providing the ability to connect to sensors more than 15-30 miles away in rural areas.
Low Power: The LoRaWAN protocol was developed specifically for low power and enables unprecedented battery lifetime of up to 20 years depending on the application.
Geolocation: Enables tracking applications without GPS or additional power consumption.
Low Cost: LoRa Technology reduces up front infrastructure investments and operating costs, as well as end-node sensor costs.
Open Standard: The LoRaWAN protocol ensures interoperability among applications, IoT solution providers and telecom operators to speed adoption and deployment.