Accelerate IoT Development with Pre-certified, dual-mode, Multiband LoRaWAN module
The Internet of Things (IoT) continues to push the boundaries of connectivity and how we interact with devices, bringing about a new era of smart technology. As IoT proliferates, engineers and developers are tasked with overcoming several challenges to ensure efficient and effective deployment.
IoT applications are diverse, from smart agriculture and industrial automation to asset tracking. The common theme is that they all require efficient, low-power and long-range communication. Ensuring robust and reliable connectivity in these various environments is a complex task, and designing radio frequency (RF) circuits requires specialized knowledge.
Indeed, IoT devices must comply with a myriad of international and local regulations concerning wireless communication. This certification process can be lengthy and costly, requiring extensive testing to meet standards established by organizations such as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI). Moreover, developing firmware that is optimized for low power consumption and high performance is critical for IoT devices. It must also be robust and secure to protect against cyber threats, adding another layer of complexity.
Enabling IoT devices to communicate seamlessly
LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network) is a protocol designed to wirelessly connect battery-operated ‘things’ to the internet in regional, national, or global networks. It targets key IoT requirements, such as bi-directional communication, end-to-end security, mobility, and localization services.
Managed by the , the protocol operates in unlicensed RF bands. It is known for its long-range capabilities (up to 15 km in rural areas), low power consumption, and the ability to connect many devices to a single network. The architecture includes end devices, gateways, network servers, and application servers, enabling a scalable and flexible network for diverse IoT applications from smart agriculture to smart cities.
Leveraging pre-certified, modular solutions can significantly reduce development complexity and accelerate time-to-market. The Type 2GT Modem-E (LBAA0XV2GT-002) from ÂÜÀòÓ°ÊÓ is a compact, multiband LoRaWAN® module designed to simplify development while offering robust performance across global networks.
Benefits of pre-certified, modular solutions
There are many benefits of using pre-certified modular solutions. The Type 2GT Modem-E combines ÂÜÀòÓ°ÊÓ's Type 2GT LoRa Transceiver Module, a multiband LoRa connectivity module with LoRa Basicsâ„¢ Modem-E firmware developed by SEMTECH, a dual-mode firmware delivering Zero-touch LoRaWAN stack integration (Figure 2).
This powerful combination of multiband hardware and dual-mode firmware makes the Type 2GT Modem-E a pivotal advancement in LPWAN technology. The module allows for the easy co-hosting of LoRaWAN and proprietary protocols on the same End device. It is designed with two operation modes to suit different application needs: transceiver mode and modem mode (Figure 3).
Flexible two-mode operation
Transceiver mode allows direct access to the PHY layer radio using simple APIs. This feature enables developers to implement their proprietary protocol or other standard LPWAN connectivity protocols in their Host MCU while utilizing the module solely for PHY layer radio access. It is ideal for developers who want to have full control of the protocol stack.
In modem mode, the module runs a pre-integrated LoRaWAN stack, which significantly simplifies firmware development. Developers can focus solely on their application logic and interact with the modem using simple APIs, eliminating the need to manage the complexities of the LoRaWAN protocol stack.
With both transceiver and modem modes, ÂÜÀòÓ°ÊÓ ensures flexibility to cater to both advanced users requiring PHY layer radio access and those seeking an easy-to-deploy LoRaWAN solution. This versatility is particularly beneficial for designers aiming to create a single SKU device that supports multiple LPWAN technologies, such as LoRaWAN, Sigfox® or Amazon Sidewalk®, as well as for those transitioning from legacy proprietary protocols to LoRaWAN while maintaining backward compatibility.
Key firmware features
The 2GT Modem-E is equipped with a certified LoRaWAN 1.0.4 stack, ensuring seamless interoperability with existing LoRaWAN networks. This allows developers to leverage for their end device, reducing both time and cost.
The Type 2GT Modem-E supports all LoRaWAN regional parameters, along with WW2.4GHz, providing flexibility for diverse applications and a single global SKU. It also includes LRFHSS for additional data rates in the EU, US, and Australia. Supporting Class A, B, and C, along with multicast capabilities for Class B and C, this modem provides a versatile solution for a wide range of IoT use cases. The end node relay TX capability lowers the cost of network deployment and management. In addition, firmware updates over-the-air (FUOTA) packages ensure future compliance with security regulations and support evolutive firmware intelligence.
Carrier sense multiple access (CSMA) and pre-configured ADR profiles maximize efficiency in spectrum utilization and power consumption. Learn more:
Why choose the 2GT Modem-E?
There are several reasons why designers may choose the 2GT Modem-E. Most importantly, it enables a modular hardware approach, offering a better alternative to a chip-down design and simplifying PCB layout. This module is pre-certified for major radio regulations, supporting various LPWAN connectivity options, which eliminates RF design complexity and reduces regulatory certification efforts, thereby accelerating time-to-market. By serving multiple markets, the module also simplifies inventory management.
With the LoRaWAN protocol stack fully integrated inside the module, there’s no need for memory allocation on an external Host MCU. This enables the use of lower-cost, low-memory MCUs, thereby optimizing the bill of materials (BOM) costs while ensuring seamless LoRaWAN functionality. Developers can also stay entirely focused on application firmware while seamlessly managing LoRaWAN communication through a simple set of API commands.
ÂÜÀòÓ°ÊÓ’s Type 2GT Modem-E is designed for developers looking to accelerate their IoT projects without compromising on performance, power efficiency, or scalability. By integrating multiband LoRaWAN support and a certified LoRa Basics Modem, it simplifies development and deployment in a way that few other modules can.
Want to explore how the Type 2GT Modem-E can enhance your next IoT solution? Learn more and access the full specifications on ÂÜÀòÓ°ÊÓ’s official product page: ÂÜÀòÓ°ÊÓ Type 2GT.