How to fix a bad connection

LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network) sensors are commonly used in IoT applications for their ability to cover long distances while consuming minimal power. However, connectivity issues can sometimes arise. This guide provides practical steps to help you troubleshoot and fix a bad connection in LoRaWAN sensors.

Step 1: Identify the Problem

Start by understanding the specific issue you're facing. Common connectivity problems include:

• Intermittent Connectivity: The sensor occasionally disconnects.

• No Connectivity: The sensor fails to connect to the network.

• Weak Signal Quality: The sensor has a poor signal, causing data loss or delays.

Step 2: Check Sensor Placement

• Distance from Gateway: Ensure the sensor is within the optimal range of the gateway. While LoRaWAN sensors can cover long distances, obstacles such as buildings and terrain can affect connectivity.

• RRSI and SNR: The average RSSI and average SNR, which are reported in the device status messages of the NEON sensors, can help identify a bad connection. The general threshold for RSSI is -120 dBm but a practical range where communication is generally possible is around -80 and -100 dBm. The SNR on the other hand, is recommended to be higher than -15 dB with a general threshold of -20 dB. The higher these values, the better for communication.

• Obstructions and Interference: Physical barriers like walls, metal structures, and trees can interfere with the signal. Try relocating the sensor to an area with fewer obstructions and, if possible, line of sight with the gateway.

Step 3: Inspect the Gateway

• Gateway Placement: Like sensors, gateways should be placed optimally with minimal obstructions.

• Gateway Configuration: Ensure the gateway is configured correctly to communicate with your sensors. Verify network server settings and frequency plans.

• Network Capacity: Ensure the gateway is not overloaded with too many devices, as each gateway has a limit to how many sensors it can handle simultaneously.

• Transmission latency: verify the gateway latency, latencies higher than 1 second can impede the sensor from activating or sending confirmed messages.

• Evaluate LoRaWAN coverage: consider that an additional gateway on-site can help improve the overall network quality.