In the field of the Internet of Things (IoT), low-power long-range networks (LPWAN) networks such as LoRaWAN and Sigfox are essential for connecting devices over large areas with minimal energy consumption. This article compares these two technologies in terms of operation, performance, use cases and benefits, to help companies choose the solution best suited to their needs.
LPWAN technologies
LoRaWAN
LoRaWAN, or Long Range Wide Area Network, is an open protocol developed by the LoRa Alliance. It enables the creation of private or public networks to connect objects over long distances with low energy consumption. The technology uses LoRa modulation to ensure bidirectional communication between devices and servers.
Sigfox
Sigfox is a proprietary solution developed by the eponymous French company. It offers a global network dedicated to IoT, using ultra-narrowband (UNB) to transmit small amounts of data over long distances. Communication is mainly unidirectional, with limited capacity for object-to-server messages.
Network comparison
Scope and coverage
Both LoRaWAN and Sigfox networks offer extensive coverage. LoRaWAN enables operators to deploy their own networks, offering flexibility in terms of coverage. The Sigfox network, on the other hand, has a global signal, covering more than 70 countries, offering a ready-to-use solution for companies seeking international coverage.
Equipment autonomy
Both technologies are designed for low power consumption, extending the life of IoT devices. However, the bidirectional communication LoRaWAN’s bidirectional communication may result in slightly higher power consumption than Sigfox, which favors unidirectional communication.
Data management
Visit LoRaWAN provides higher data rates, enabling the transmission of larger messages (up to 500 51-byte messages per day and 22 kbits per second).. Sigfox, en revanche, limite la taille et le nombre de messages pouvant être envoyés quotidiennement, ce qui peut restreindre certaines applications nécessitant un échange de données plus régulier.
LoRaWAN: advantages and disadvantages
Advantages :
- Open protocol offering flexibility to the management data provider.
- Two-way communication for updates and remote control.
- Private networks can be deployed for specific applications.
- Low energy consumption compared with other networks.
- More economical solution than other networks.
Disadvantages :
- Requires initial infrastructure for network deployment.
- Slightly higher energy consumption (than Sigfox) due to bidirectional communication.
Use cases :
Thanks to its flexibility and greater data transmission capacity, LoRaWAN is suitable for applications such as remote meter reading, air quality monitoring and fill rate monitoring. Applications generally deployed by connected territories. Intelligent agriculture applications include crop monitoring, irrigation management and weather tracking.
Sigfox: advantages and disadvantages
Advantages :
- Sigfox is a worldwide network, ready to use, with no need for additional infrastructure.
- Extremely low power consumption, prolonging device autonomy.
- Low communication costs thanks to affordable annual subscriptions.
Disadvantages :
- Proprietary protocol limits the flexibility and independence of the data provider.
- Mainly one-way communication, restricting certain interactive applications.
- Limits on the size and number of messages transmitted daily.
Use cases :
With its simplicity and global coverage, Sigfox is ideal for applications such as asset tracking, container location, or remote surveillance with intrusion detection, for example.
The choice between LoRaWAN and Sigfox depends on the specific needs of each IoT project. It’s essential to assess your project requirements to choose the most appropriate technology.
Imagine an alarm and access management system in a factory, where remote control is essential. Sigfox technology, limited to one-way communication, would not be able to send commands (via downlinks*) to actuators.
A downlink is the transmission of data from the server to an IoT device, enabling two-way communication. It is used for actions such as updating configuration or sending commands, and is essential for applications requiring remote interaction.
In short, Sigfox is suitable for simple applications, while LoRaWAN is preferable for those requiring bidirectional exchanges.
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