Semtech has announced that its LoRa wireless platform is being used in Australia’s first Internet of Things (IoT) LPWAN network. The first deployment of the IoT LPWAN network is in Launceston, Tasmania, and is expected to enable a host of smart, innovative applications involving real-time transportation monitoring, inventory control, healthcare, and many other IoT applications.
LoRa Technology and the standardised LoRaWAN specification enable ease in deployment of IoT networks by offering compatibility with existing infrastructure and interoperability with an extensive list of companies within the LoRa Alliance ecosystem. This citywide LPWAN deployment is a collaborative effort among the University of Tasmania’s Sense-T, Definium Technologies and CSIRO’s Data 61, and it has received an AUD$100,000 funding commitment from the Hodgman Government.
Launceston-based IT company, Definum Technologies, will manufacture network gateways and sensors using LoRa Technology that will run the network. Local businesses and residents will be able to deploy and use IoT applications to improve manual processes, safety, conservation, and more once the network is rolled out.
“This LoRaWAN network will stimulate IoT innovation and business opportunities locally, at first, and then regionally, as the project expands,” said Hon. Michael Ferguson MP, Minister for Information Technology and Innovation at Definium Technologies.
“This ground-breaking project adds Australia to the list of forward-thinking countries developing smart network infrastructures based on the LoRa Technology to help streamline day-to-day processes and elevate business decisions, environmental conservation, public infrastructure, and more,” said Marc Pegulu, vice president and general manager of Semtech’s Wireless and Sensing Products Group.
“LoRa Technology makes large scale network rollouts possible by integrating into existing infrastructure, offering strong connectivity, providing long range communication, and low power operation.”