LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network) is a type of wireless communication technology that is designed for low-power, long-range, and secure data transfer. It is widely used in the Internet-of-Things (IoT) to enable communication between IoT devices and network servers, allowing the devices to collect and exchange data over long distances.
One of the key benefits of LoRaWAN is its long-range capabilities. It uses a low-power radio frequency (RF) signal that can travel long distances, even through obstacles such as walls and buildings. This allows IoT devices to communicate with each other and with network servers even in remote or challenging environments. For this reason, Pallidus sensors do not need computers or equipment in the room with the mice (something that can be challenging in animal facilities). We just need a gateway somewhere in the building, or (depending on the RF-blocking properties of the construction) in a nearby room.
In addition to its long-range capabilities, LoRaWAN is also highly secure. It uses advanced encryption techniques to protect the data transmitted over the network, making it difficult for unauthorized parties to access or interfere with the data. This is important for IoT applications that involve sensitive or personal data, such as health care or financial services.
A final advantage of LoRaWAN is its low-power consumption. The technology is designed to enable IoT devices to operate for long periods of time on small batteries or other energy sources, making it ideal for applications that require long-term monitoring or control of rodents in home-cages. The Pallidus MR1 sensor has an estimated battery life of 2 months of active use between charges.
Overall, LoRaWAN is a versatile and effective wireless communication technology that is widely used in the IoT. Its long-range, low-power, and secure capabilities make it well-suited for a wide range of applications, and it is the ideal protocol for monitoring mice in home-cages.