Gateways act as a connector between networks operating on very distinct transmitting protocols. They serve as both exit and entry points for all transmitted data through the network. As a network node, they can be combined with other key networks and devices to provide security, such as in the case of firewalls used in data scanning, filtering or giving restricted access to certain web assets on proxy servers. A typical network gateway might include a network interface card (NIC), inputs and outputs, usually any of the Local Area Network (LAN) and software to aid translation and access to a variety of network protocols. Adopting a reliable network gateway will help in simplifying the whole internet connectivity process in just a single device.
In this article, you will find the information you need on LoRaWAN gateway devices and how they can benefit you.
How Network Gateways Work
LoRa IoT gateways are saddled with establishing links between networks by enabling transmissions between the different transmitting protocols and data formats. Due to existing boundaries between the networks, communications are limited only to devices in direct connection to one another. Hence, gateway functions are critical in enabling network connectivity and communication outside those boundaries.
Gateway functions can be configured (i.e., established, defined and controlled) through software, which is now incorporated into network routers and other devices. Gateways help facilitate compatibility between distinct networks. They can operate or be deployed successfully on any network layer of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model.
Types of Network Gateways
Majorly, the gateway is of two types: unidirectional and bi-directional.
Unidirectional
This type of gateway allows the flow of network data in only one direction. For instance, any changes made in the SOURCE database or object server are duplicated in the TARGET database or object server. However, changes made in the TARGET database or object server are not duplicated in the SOURCE database or object server. Unidirectional gateways function best as archiving tools.
Bi-directional
This type of gateway allows the flow of network data in all directions. For instance, data can flow from the SOURCE database or object server to the TARGET database or object server and can also accept feedback from the SOURCE database or object server. A typical bidirectional gateway configuration allows for the changes made to a SOURCE database or object server to be duplicated in the TARGET database or object server, while the TARGET database or object server provides feedback on those changes to the SOURCE database or object server. Bidirectional LoRa gateways function best as synchronization tools.
Single-Channel and Multi-Channel Gateways
All LoRaWAN gateways can be classified under two basic categories: single-channel and multi-channel gateways. The single-channel devices utilize less expensive transceivers like the SX1276 and SX1272. These are more cost-effective but with very limited function. While presenting itself as an attractive choice to those willing to save up on their procurement cost, they offer a less-than-ideal approach to a variety of network solutions. Though, some of the single-channel devices are capable of copying the multi-channel gateways to an extent by switching between distinct spreading factors and frequencies. In general, they only possess about 2% of the overall capacity of the multi-channel.
Multi-channel LoRaWAN gateways are more reliable than their single-channel counterpart, though expensive as they feature some of the very best and most versatile transceivers. They can also allow simultaneous transmission and receipt of more than 8 to 10 channels and 6spreading factors.
Indoor LoRaWAN vs. Outdoor Gateways
LoRaWAN Doors can be utilized both indoors and outdoors based on project needs. However, their function can be slightly altered or affected by varying environmental conditions such as fluctuating weather patterns. As a result, Indoor LoRaWAN gateways usually have less powerful packaging that isn’t weatherproof, in contrast with their outdoor gateway counterparts. Furnished with case vents, they appear very unpleasant for deployment in any outdoor arrangements due to the possibility of rainwater penetrating their vents and causing inner corrosion of the device.
For the purpose of outdoor use, LoRaWAN gateway outdoor seem more appropriate. Outdoor gateways with specific IP ratings (e.g., IP66 certified) are often weatherproof and resistant to extreme environmental conditions such as high humidity and other factors. The outdoor gateway also ensures a total safeguard against dust and is also able to endure brief submersions in a depth of water ranging from between 15 centimeters and 1 meter for a period of not more than 30 minutes.
Dusun LoRaWAN Gateway Devices on the Market
Now that you know how LoRaWAN gateways work, let’s look at what types are available on the market. Listed below are some of the most popular LoRaWAN Gateways currently available.
Indoor LoRaWAN Gateway
A typical Dusun indoor LoRaWAN gateway package, the “DSGW-210B,” consists of a smart gateway, network cable, USB power cable, power adapter (EU or US), mounting bracket, expansion screw and an antenna. The indoor LoRaWAN gateway operates on a Linux OS, a Quad-core Cortex-A53 CPU, 2GB RAM and an eMMC 32GB ROM. The power rating of the supply port is 5V/3A. With ATECC608 as the security module on an RJ45 network interface, it also has a reset button that can be used to initiate a factory mode reset of the gateway. It has an operating and storage temperature of -10°C~55°C and -10°C~65°C, respectively. The device also comes with a fixed dimension of 120MM x 120MM x 30MM. Device frequency varies across countries (915MHz – Australia, USA and New Zealand, 868MHz – Europa, 864MHz – Russia, 920MHz – South Korea, 864MHz – India and 923MHz – Thailand).
Indoor LoRaWAN Gateway Lite
A typical Dusun indoor LoRaWAN gateway lite, the “DSGW-090B,” is a full 8-channel indoor gateway, and it operates on a Linux OS, a CPU variant (MT7628AN, MIPS24KEc or 580MHZ), 128GB RAM and an eMMC 4GB ROM. The power rating of the supply port is 5V/2A. Built on the ECC608A/B crypto chip and an RJ45 ethernet network interface, it enables high-security authentication and reliable helium network connectivity. It also has a reset button that can be used to initiate a factory mode reset of the gateway. It has an operating temperature of -10°C~60°C.
Outdoor LoRaWAN Gateway
A typical Dusun outdoor LoRaWAN gateway package, the “Dusun Pi3 Model C,” a full 8-channel outdoor gateway, consists of a smart gateway, network cable, USB power cable, power adapter (EU or US), mounting bracket, expansion screw and an antenna. The indoor LoRaWAN gateway operates on a Linux OS, a Quad-core Cortex-A35 CPU at 1GB RAM and an eMMC 8GB ROM. The power rating of the supply port is 5V/2A. With ATECC6081 as the security module on an RJ45 network interface, it also has a reset button that can be used to initiate a factory mode reset of the gateway. It has an operating temperature of 0°C~65°C. The device also comes with a fixed dimension of 120MM x 120MM x 30MM. Device frequency varies across countries (915MHz – Australia, USA and New Zealand, 868MHz – Europa, 864MHz – Russia, 920MHz – South Korea, 864MHz – India and 923MHz – Thailand). It supports IP66 waterproof housing.
Partner with Dusun for Your Gateway Devices
LoRaWAN’s modest range, low power and affordable connection are its key advantages. Security for both devices and the network is another key aspect of the LoRaWAN gateways. Work with Dusun for durable and reliable LoRaWAN devices that offer the very best combination of smart appliances and IoT devices.
Sources
LoRA Alliance – LoRAWAN Solutions that Scale
LoRA Alliance – What is LoRAWAN?
