Extension of the regional LoRaWAN network with 4 additional Gateways
A LoRaWAN infrastructure has a star-like topology which includes end devices, LoRaWAN gateways, LoRaWAN network server and LoRaWAN application servers. In this architecture, end devices such as sensors only communicate with LoRaWAN gateways. The gateways then package and forward the data to the LoRaWAN server, which is an interchange that connects to the higher application layer and sends data and commands backward to end devices.
There are multiple providers for LoRaWAN networks in Australia, including The Things Network, The Things Industries, Meshed, NNNCo, Kerlink and Definium Technologies. Because of its open-source nature, its large community of enthusiast and free-to-use philosophy, the University of Wollongong chose The Things Network to deploy its regional IoT network. The rolling out of the network initially involved the installation of 8 gateways in January 2018 to provide a complete coverage of the Wollongong region.
In addition, Sydney Water also installed three gateways located at their Figtree Reservoir, Cringilla Reservoir and Yallah Reservoir to further expand the local LoRaWAN coverage in the Illawarra. The LoRaWAN network equipment and ongoing operations was provided by Sydney based LoRaWAN provider Meshed.
Being open, anyone can add their own gateways to expand the network.
