Cookinghacks Extreme Range Links LoRa 868 900MHz SX1272 LoRa

Extreme Range Links: LoRa 868 / 900MHz SX1272 LoRa
module for Arduino Waspmote and Raspberry Pi
Difﬁculty Level: Intermediate -
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LoRa is a new, private and spread-spectrum modulation technique which allows sending data at extremely low
data-rates to extremely long ranges. The low data-rate (down to few bytes per second) and LoRa modulation
lead to very low receiver sensitivity (down to -134 dBm), which combined to an output power of +14 dBm
means extremely large link budgets: up to 148 dB., what means more than 22km (13.6 miles) in LOS links and
up to 2km (1.2miles) in NLOS links in urban environment (going through buildings).
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Libelium's LoRa module works in both 868 and 900 MHz ISM bands, which makes it suitable for virtually any
country. Those frequency bands are lower than the popular 2.4 GHz band, so path loss attenuation is better in
LoRa. In addition, 868 and 900 MHz are bands with much fewer interference than the highly populated 2.4 GHz
band. Besides, these low frequencies provide great penetration in possible materials (brick walls, trees,
concrete), so these bands get less loss in the presence of obstacles than higher bands.
The great performance of LoRa in all these 3 features (good sensitivity, low path loss, good obstacle
penetration) makes LoRa a disruptive technology enabling really long range links. This is specially important in
urban scenarios, with very difficult transmission conditions. To sum up, LoRa can get long ranges in Smart
Cities deployments, so it reduces dramatically the size of the backbone network (repeaters, gateways or
concentrators).
As shown in the section 7, Libelium performed long range tests, getting the awesome distance of 22 km (13.6
miles) in LOS configurations and +2km (1.2 miles) in urban scenarios (going through buildings). The margin in
those conditions would allow even more distance (x2, x3), the only problem was to keep the line-of-sight
condition.
LoRa
Module SX1272
Dual Frequency Band 863-870 MHz (Europe)
902-928 MHz (US)
Transmission Power 25 mW
Sensitivity -134 dBm
Channels 8 (868MHz)
13 (900MHz)
Range LOS = 21km (13.4miles)
NLOS = +2km (1.2miles)
The SX1272 LoRa module has to be connected along with the Multiprotocol Radio Shield to your Arduino or
Intel Galileo, enabling transmissions with another SX1272 LoRa module. This wireless communication module
is also compatible with Raspberry Pi through the connection bridge. It works at 868 MHz and 900 MHz
frequency band. Depending on the location of the radio link, the unlicensed band is one or the other.
LoRa VS LoRaWAN
Libelium currently offers two options of this type of radio technology: LoRa and LoRaWAN
LoRa contains only the link layer protocol and is perfect to be used in P2P communications between
nodes. LoRa modules are a little cheaper that the LoRaWAN ones. It works in the 868 and 900MHz bands.
Go to the LoRa Tutorial.
LoRaWAN includes the network layer too so it is possible to send the information to any Base Station
already connected to a Cloud platform. LoRaWAN modules may work in the 868/900/433MHz bands. Go to
the LoRaWAN Tutorial.
Market Ready Technology

Libelium offers two types of sensor platforms: OEM lines (Waspmote , Arduino, Raspberry Pi) and Plug &
Sense!.
OEM lines like Waspmote , Arduino and Raspberry Pi are intented to be used for research purposes or as
part of a major produt so it needs final certification on the client side. More info at:
http://www.libelium.com/products/waspmote/
Plug & Sense! is the line ready to be used out of the box. It includes market certifications. See below the
specific list of regulations passed.
http://www.libelium.com/products/plug-sense/
In accordance with the 1999/5/EC (R&TTE) and the EU Directive 2011/65/EU (RoHS2), Libelium
Comunicaciones Distribuidas S.L. declares that the "Plug & Sense! LoRaWAN 868" device conforms to the
following regulations:
EN 301 489-1(1.9.2)- (1.6.1)

EN 55022:2010
EN 60950-1: 2006
A11: 2009 + A1: 2010 + A12: 2011 + Ac: 2011 +A2: 2013
Get the shields and sensors Go to index 
Kit
Waspmote SX1272 LoRa module SMA 4.5 dBi - 868 MHz

Waspmote Gateway SX1272 LoRa module SMA 4.5 dBi - 868 MHz
SX1272 LoRa module for Arduino and Raspberry Pi - 868 MHz
SX1272 LoRa Shield for Raspberry Pi - 868 MHz
LoRa Radio Shield for Arduino - 900 / 915 MHz
LoRa Radio Shield for Arduino - 868 MHz
Multiprotocol Radio Shield
Article Index Go to index 
1. Features
2. LoRa VS XBee 868/900 MHz
3. The board
SX1272 LoRa module
SX1272 LoRa module over Arduino
SX1272 LoRa module over Raspberry Pi
SX1272 LoRa module over Waspmote
4. The library
Using the library with Arduino
Using the library with Raspberry Pi
Using the library with Waspmote
General SX1272 functions
5. Transmission modes
LoRa mode
6. Connecting devices
Sending and receiving data through SX1272 in LoRa mode
Power gain and sensibility
7. Long Range Tests

Line of Sight test
Non Line of Sight tests
8. LoRa VS LoRaWAN
9. FAQ
For what applications is LoRa a good option?
For what applications is NOT LoRa a good option?
10. Certifications
11. Device Compatibility
12. Links and Documentation
13. Get the shields and kits
1. Features Go to index 
The SX1272 LoRa module main advantage is the reach increasing but also the cost saving respect other similar
modules like XBee 868 or XBee 900.The pack we are going to use in this tutorial includes the SX1272 LoRa
module and the Multiprotocol Radio Shield. The Multiprotocol Radio Shield can be used to connect two modules
in order to combine the existing cooking-hacks modules and make connections between platforms. The SX1272
LoRa module uses the SPI bus. The SPI port allows more speed communication and frees up the UART for
other purposes like debugging or to connect communication modules.
NOTE:
It is important to remark that the SX1272 communications module is incompatible with eHealth,
OpenGarden and OpenAquarium, since there are not available pins to multiplex the SPI port. With
these platforms Cooking Hacks offers another kind of wireless technology.
Also it is important to notice that this library is pretty big, so be careful with the available memory if
you invoke many libraries. For example, if you want to use the DF Robot SD or microSD offered by
Cooking Hacks, the packet's length must be reduced due to the limited Arduino's RAM memory size.
2. LoRa VS XBee 868/900 MHz Go to index 
Tests demonstrate that the LoRa module has much better long-range performance than any other
communication module, including XBee 868 or 900. Dozens of km are easily achievable in good conditions
thanks to the extremely low sensitivity that the disruptive LoRa technology offers. Even in urban environment,
LoRa can reach some km in range. Both things are impossible for XBee.
However, XBee 868 or 900 win in terms of time of transmission. Basically, they complete a transmission cycle,
including ACK reception, in less than 200 ms. The LoRa module takes more time (even in mode 10, which is the
fastest mode).
Time of transmission is directly related to battery consumption, so XBees 868 and 900 need less energy to work
(60-80% less than LoRa). In other words, a battery will live longer with XBee.
3. The board Go to index 
3.1 SX1272 LoRa module
The SX1272 LoRa module uses the SPI pins for communication. The SPI port allows more speed
communication. The Multiprotocol Radio Shield allows to connect two communication modules at the same time
to Arduino or Intel Galileo. This means a lot of different combinations are possible using any of the radios
available for Arduino or Intel Galileo.
NOTE:
The SX1272 LoRa module is provided with a 4.5 dBi antenna, which enables maximum range.
It is not recommended to work without an antenna screwed to the module. The module could be
damaged due to RF reflections.
3.2 SX1272 LoRa module over Arduino
The Multiprotocol Radio Shield has two sockets. The SX1272 LoRa module must be connected as shown in the
next figures. Please, see the Multiprotocol Radio Shield Tutorial for more information.
Get Arduino
Get the SX1272 LoRa module
Get the Multiprotocol Radio Shield
WARNING:
The SX1272 LoRa module must be connected in the corresponding socket as shown in this
tutorial.
The SX1272 LoRa module is not compatible with the XBee shield. You have to use the
Multiprotocol Radio Shield as shown in this tutorial.
3.3 SX1272 LoRa module over Raspberry Pi
Connect the SX1272 LoRa module to Raspberry Pi using the Raspberry Pi to Arduino shields connection bridge
as shown in the pictures.
Get Raspberry Pi
Get the Raspberry Pi to Arduino shields connection bridge
Get the SX1272 LoRa module for Raspberry Pi
3.4 SX1272 LoRa module over Waspmote
Waspmote is an open source wireless sensor platform specially focused

on the implementation of low consumption modes to allow the sensor nodes
("motes") to be completely autonomous and battery powered, offering a
variable lifetime between 1 and 5 years depending on the duty cycle and the
radio used. The platform counts with more than 100 sensors already
integrated and ready to use.
Know more at:
Waspmote Product Page (Libelium)

Waspmote Summary Page (Cooking Hacks)
Waspmote Documentation (Libelium)
Waspmote Tutorials (Cooking Hacks)
Waspmote Examples (Libelium)
Are Waspmote and Arduino platforms compatible?
Waspmote uses the same IDE (compiler and core libraries) than Arduino. For this reason the same code is
compatible in both platforms just adjusting small things like the pinout and the I/O scheme. We love the fast
learning curve of Arduino and for this reason we tried to make a platform compatible with it. The idea is an
Arduino user may work with Waspmote in a transparent and easy way (as the source code will be the same the
learning curve does not exists).
Then, are Waspmote and Arduino competence?
Definitely no. Arduino is a really nice platform to learn how to use electronics and intended to make cheap
"home projects" while Waspmote is a device specially designed to create wireless sensor networks which need
long lifetime and are meant to be deployed in a real scenario like a city.
I just want to "play" with Waspmote, isn't it cheaper using Arduino?
The answer is, what do you want to do exactly? Waspmote is a very compact board including all needed for
creating wireless sensor networks: wireless communications, RTC clock to allow scheduling interruptions, uSD
to store data from sensors, 3-axis accelerometer (very useful for detecting falling nodes and as a sensor by
itself) and of course, a battery and solar socket with charger regulator for making the node completely
autonomous. You can find below a chart comparing Arduino and Waspmote features according to Cooking
Hacks prices, so you can see how much does it cost adding those features separately to Arduino. We just want
you to get the most appropriate device for your project!
Is Waspmote open source?
Yes. All the source code libraries are released under the LGPL license so developers may choose if the
programs they do are released as open source or not.
The Expansion Board allows the user to connect two communication modules at the same time in the
Waspmote sensor platform. This means a lot of different combinations are possible using any of the wireless
radios available for Waspmote: 802.15.4, ZigBee, DigiMesh, 868 MHz, 900 MHz, LoRa, LoRaWAN, Sigfox,
Bluetooth Pro, Bluetooth Low Energy, RFID/NFC, WiFi, GPRS Pro, GPRS+GPS and 3G/GPRS. Besides, the
following Industrial Protocols modules are available: RS-485/Modbus, RS-232 Serial/Modbus and CAN Bus.
Some of the possible combinations are:
LoRa – GPRS
802.15.4 – Bluetooth
868 MHz – RS-485
RS-232 – WiFi
DigiMesh – 3G/GPRS
RS-232 – RFID/NFC
WiFi – 3G/GPRS
CAN bus – Bluetooth
etc.
NOTE: GPRS Pro, GPRS+GPS and 3G/GPRS modules do not need the Expansion Board to be
connected to Waspmote. They can be plugged directly in the SOCKET1.
In the next photo you can see the sockets available along with the UART assigned. On one hand, SOCKET0
allows the user to plug any kind of radio module through the UART0. On the other hand, SOCKET1 permits to
connect a radio module through the UART1.
The SX1272 module can be used only in the socket 0. If the user wants to use a wireless radio, they must use
the socket 1.
WARNING:
Avoid to use DIGITAL7 pin when working with Expansion Board. This pin is used for setting the
XBee into sleep.
Avoid to use DIGITAL6 pin when working with Expansion Board. This pin is used as power supply
for the Expansion Board.
Incompatibility with Sensor Boards:
- Gases Board: Incompatible with SOCKET3B and NO2 sensor.
- Agriculture Board: Incompatible with Sensirion and the atmospheric pressure sensor.
- Smart Metering Board: Incompatible with SOCKET2, SOCKET3, SOCKET4 and SOCKET5
- Smart Cities Board: Incompatible with microphone and the CLK of the interruption shift register.
- Events Board: Incompatible with interruption shift register.
Get Waspmote
Get the SX1272 LoRa module
4. The library Go to index 
The SX1272 LoRa module counts with a C++ library that lets you manage the SX1272 LoRa module in a simple
way. This library offers a simple-to-use open source system. In order to ensure the same code is compatible in
both platforms (Arduino and Raspberry Pi) we use the ArduPi libraries which allows developers to use the same
code. Detailed info can be found here:
4.1 Using the library with Arduino
The SX1272 LoRa module includes a high level library functions for an easy manage. Before start using this
functions you should download the library. The next zip includes all the files needed in a folder.
Download the SX1272 Libraries for Arduino.
Libraries are often distributed as a ZIP file or folder. The name of the folder is the name of the library. Inside the
folder will be the .cpp files, .h files and a examples folder.
To install the library, first quit the Arduino application. Then uncompress the ZIP file containing the library. For
installing libraries, uncompress zip file. It should contain a folder called SX1272. Drag this folder into your
libraries folder. Under Windows, it will likely be called "My Documents\Arduino\libraries". For Mac users, it will
likely be called "Documents/Arduino/libraries". On Linux, it will be the "libraries" folder in your sketchbook.
The library won't work if you put the .cpp and .h files directly into the libraries folder or if they're tested in an
extra folder. Restart the Arduino application. Make sure the new library appears in the Sketch->Import Library
menu item of the software.
4.2 Using the library with Raspberry Pi
The SX1272 library for Raspberry Pi requires the ArduPi library and both libraries should be in the same path.
Download the SX1272 Libraries for Raspberry Pi.
wget http://www.cooking-hacks.com/media/cooking/images/documentation/tutorial_SX
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Creating a program that uses the library is as simple as putting your code in this template where it says "your
Arduino code here"
Code: Show code
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Follow the next steps to compile a sketch:
First, install ArduPi and SX1272 libraries.

ArduPi For Raspberry Pi:
wget http://www.cooking-hacks.com/media/cooking/images/documentation/rasp
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ArduPi For Raspberry Pi 2:
wget http://www.cooking-hacks.com/media/cooking/images/documentation/rasp
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SX1272 Library:
wget http://www.cooking-hacks.com/media/cooking/images/documentation/tuto
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Go to examples:
cd cooking/examples/LoRa/
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Compile the example:
./cook.sh my_example.cpp
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Run the sketch:
./my_example.cpp_exe
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The script "cook.sh" compiles everything in their folders and the link in the examples foldes with the "_exe"
executable.
Help: ./cook.sh
Clean: ./cook.sh -clean (It deletes all the "*.o" files. This is only necessary if you make changes in the
libraries)
4.3 Using the library with Waspmote
The files related to the SX1272 libraries are:
WaspSX1272.h
WaspSX1272.cpp
It is mandatory to include the SX1272 library when using this module. So the following line must be added at the
beginning of the code:
#include <WaspSX1272.h>
4.4 General SX1272 functions
The main functions are listed here:
Initialization and basic functions
ON(); //Opens the SPI and switches the SX1272 LoRa module ON.
OFF(); //Closes the SPI and switches the SX1272 LoRa module OFF.
readRegister(); //Reads the indicated internal register.
writeRegister(); //Writes the indicated internal register.
clearFlags(); //Clears the interruption flags.
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Configuration functions
setLORA(); //Sets the module in LoRa transmission mode.

setMode(); //Sets the BW, CR and SF of the LoRa modulation.
setHeaderON(); //Sets the module in explicit header mode (header is sent).
setHeaderOFF(); //Sets the module in implicit header mode (header is not sen
setCRC_ON(); //Sets the module with CRC on.
setCRC_OFF(); //Sets the module with CRC off.
setChannel(); //Sets the indicated frequency channel in the module.
setPower(); //Sets the signal power indicated in the module.
setPowerNum(); //Sets the signal power indicated in the module.
setPreambleLength(); //Sets the preamble length in the module.
setPacketLength(); //Sets the packet length in the module.
setNodeAddress(); //Sets the node address in the module.
setRetries(); //Sets the maximum number of retries.
setMaxCurrent(); //Limits the current supply of the internal power amplifier
getTemp(); //Gets the temperature from the measurement block module.
getRegs(); //Gets the content of different registers.
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Link information functions
getSNR(); //Gets the SNR value in LoRa mode.

getRSSI(); //Gets the current value of RSSI from the channel.
getRSSIpacket(); //Gets the RSSI of the last packet received in LoRa mode.
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Sending and receiving functions
sendPacketTimeout();//Sends a packet to the specified destination before a timeo

sendPacketMaxTimeout();//Same as previous function with maximum timeout.
sendPacketTimeoutACK();//Sends a packet to a destination before a timeout and wa
sendPacketMaxTimeoutACK();//Same as previous function with maximum timeout.
sendPacketTimeoutACKRetries();//Sends a packet to a destination before a timeout
sendPacketMaxTimeoutACKRetries();//Same as previous function with maximum timeou
receivePacketTimeout();//Receives information before a timeout expires.
receivePacketMAXTimeout();//Same as previous function with maximum timeout.
receivePacketTimeoutACK();//Receives information before a timeout expires and re
receivePacketMAXTimeoutACK();//Same as previous function with maximum timeout.
receiveAll();//Receives all the information on air with maximum timeout.
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NOTE: More functions are included in the SX1272 library. For complete information and description of
SX1272 functions view the library files.
5. Transmission Modes Go to index 
The module has two different modulations, LoRa modulation, owned by Semtech, and standard FSK
modulation. Libelium has decided to only use the LoRa modulation due to the range improvement it provides.
When setting the SX1272 module ON, the module is prepared to use LoRa mode.
About the operation states, it is not necessary to control them manually. It is done automatically by the library
functions.
5.1 LoRa mode
The innovative LoRa mode is the most interesting included in this module. It is an advanced and private
modulation that increases the range comparing to classic modulations. The LoRa long range mode provides
ultra-long range spread spectrum communication and high interference immunity whilst minimizing current
consumption. It combines digital spread spectrum, digital signal processing, and forward error correction coding
to achieve unprecedented performance. LoRa also provides significant advantages in both blocking and
selectivity over conventional modulation techniques.
LoRa has three configurable parameters: the bandwidth (BW), the coding rate (CR) and the spreading factor
(SF). The combination of these values defines the transmission mode. It is possible to set a predefined mode or
to set these three parameters manually.
There are ten predefined modes in the API, including the largest distance mode, the fastest mode, and eight
other intermediate modes that Libelium has found interesting. All of them can be modified or deleted, and also it
is possible to attach new modes in the appropriate function. The predefined modes and its properties are shown
in the next table.
Mode BW CR SF Sensitivity (dB) Comments
1 125 4/5 12 -134 max range, slow data rate
2 250 4/5 12 -131
3 125 4/5 10 -129
4 500 4/5 12 -128
5 250 4/5 10 -126
6 500 4/5 11 -125.5
7 250 4/5 9 -123
8 500 4/5 9 -120
9 500 4/5 8 -117
10 500 4/5 7 -114 min range, fast data rate, minimum battery impact
The library implements a special structure packet, reserving 5 bytes to concrete fields that ables several
features. So the maximum payload in LoRa mode is 250 bytes.
6. Connecting devices Go to index 
6.1 Sending and receiving data through SX1272 in LoRa mode
Materials:
2x Arduino
2x Multiprotocol Radio Shield
2x SX1272 LoRa module
2x Antenna
1. Connect the Multiprotocol Radio Shield over the Arduino UNO and the SX1272 LoRa module as shown in the
figure. Don't forget to plug the antennas, without them the module could not run properly.
2. The SX1272 LoRa module can send data between devices to create a communications network. Each node
is able to send and receive messages and the identification of the node must be done in the code. The address
of each node must be unique in the network and constrained to values between 1 and 255 (0 is the broadcast
reserved address). Every message will include the direction of the device, all the devices will receive all
messages and will keep in the ones to themselves, throwing out the other ones. To do that, it has been created
a special structure packet which includes the destination address node, the source address node, the packet
length, the packet number, the payload and the retry number, in that order.
To communicate nodes, the user must assign the node address value to each module besides configure the
same channel and the same mode in all the network modules. The SX1272 LoRa module must be configured
after power it ON. So the user has to do the next steps:
Power ON the modules.

Configure (at least) the channel, mode and address value in each board.
Establish the message or mesagges to send with the protocol chosen.
Only configuration code:
Arduino
Code: Show code
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Raspberry Pi
Code: Show code
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Waspmote
Code: Show code
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3. There are three protocols to send packets: without ACK, with ACK and with ACK and retries. The ACK is a
short acknowledge message that confirms the packet reception at the receiver. The library implements the
protocol automatically by indicating the correct function.
Transmission without ACK
The transmitter executes the function sendPacketTimeout() and the receiver executes the function
receivePacketTimeout().
Arduino
Transmitter code
Code: Show code
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Receiver code
Code: Show code
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Raspberry Pi
Transmitter code
Code: Show code
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Receiver code
Code: Show code
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Waspmote
Transmitter code
Code: Show code
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Receiver code
Code: Show code
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Transmission with ACK
The transmitter executes the function sendPacketTimeoutACK() and the receiver executes the function
receivePacketTimeoutACK().
Arduino
Transmitter code
Code: Show code
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Receiver code
Code: Show code
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Raspberry Pi
Transmitter code
Code: Show code
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Receiver code
Code: Show code
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Waspmote
Transmitter code
Code: Show code
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Receiver code
Code: Show code
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Transmission with ACK and retries
The transmitter executes the function sendPacketTimeoutACKRetries() and the receiver executes the function
receivePacketTimeoutACK().
Arduino
Transmitter code
Code: Show code
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Receiver code
Code: Show code
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Raspberry Pi
Transmitter code
Code: Show code
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Receiver code
Code: Show code
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Waspmote
Transmitter code
Code: Show code
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Receiver code
Code: Show code
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6.2 Power gain and sensibility
When configuring a node and a network, one important parameter is related with power gain and sensibility.
Power level
Power level (dBm) at which the module transmits conducted power.
Its possible values are:
Parameter SX1272 power level
'L' 0 dBm
'H' 7 dBm
'M' 14 dBm
It is also possible to set the conducted power indicating the quantity as a parameter in the function setPower.
RSSI of one packet and RSSI of the channel
It reports the Received Signal Strength of the last received packet and the current value of the Received Signal
Strength in the selected channel. The RSSI of the packet is the meaningful one: if its value is greater than the
sensitivity the packet sent is going to be successfully detected, otherwise the packet will be lost. The RSSI of
the channel reports the signal level detected in every moment, even if it is not signal being transmitted, so it
provides also noise level information. In the case the user develops a multi-hop network, this parameters only
indicate the signal strength of the last hop, so it does not provide an accurate quality measurement of a
multihop link.
SNR
It reports the Signal-to-Noise Ratio of the last received packet. The SX1272 LoRa module is capable to
demodulate received signals with SNR values as low as -20 dB. Getting the SNR, it is possible to have an idea
about the link's quality or health, and thus the additional distance we could get in a communication link.
7. Long Range Tests Go to index 
7.1 Line of Sight test
The Line of Sight (LOS) tests were taken between two different points next to the surrounding area of Zaragoza
(Spain). The emitter was set in the point A : viewpoint of 'La Plana de Cadrete'. The receiver was set in the point
B: viewpoint of the village of Alfocea. These points are 21.6 km (13.4 miles) apart.
The following picture represents the profile of the link. The blue line indicates the line of sight conditions taken in
the test. Besides, the purple ellipse indicates the Fresnel zone clearance achieved in this path.
Test features:
Several LoRa modes, frequency channels and output-power modes were tested in order to know the
performance of the SX1272 LoRa module depending on great distances.
All packets were set to a fixed 90-byte payload.
More than one hundred attempts were performed in every trial.
Results:
LoRa Range Power Channel Success Mean Mean Mean Sensitivity Margin
Mode (%) SNR RSSI RSSI (dB) (dB)
(dB) (dBm) packet
(dBm)
Mode 21.6 High CH_12_868 100 -9.79 -113.72 -126.79 -134 7.21
1 km
(13.4 Max 100 -4.33 -113.76 -121.76 -134 12.24
miles)
High CH_16_868 100 -10.06 -114.28 -127.06 -134 6.94
Max 100 -3.20 -113.97 -120.21 -134 13.79
Mode 21.6 High CH_12_868 95 -10.29 -114.16 -127.29 -129 1.71

3 km
(13.4
Max 95 -3.73 -114.08 -120.73 -129 8.27
miles)
Mode 21.6 High CH_12_868 99 -14.77 -107.22 -125.77 -125.5 -0.27

6 km
(13.4
Max 100 -8.42 -106.60 -119.43 -125.5 6.07
miles)
Mode 21.6 High CH_12_868 0 - - - -117 -

9 km
(13.4
Max 49 -9.95 -107.68 -120.95 -117 -3.95
miles)
7.2 Non Line of Sight tests
Tests in Zaragoza
The Non Line of Sight (NLOS) tests were taken between several points in the surrounding areas of the
Libelium's headquarters in Zaragoza (Spain).
The receiver is a Meshlium device, installed on the roof of the Libelium's headquarters. The emitter was set in
several points in order to know the performance of this module in NLOS conditions within a city area.
Test features:
Lora Mode 1: maximum range.

Maximum output power: 14dBm.
Frequency channel: CH_12_868 in the 868mHz band.
Packets were set to a Waspmote Frame reaching around a 80-byte payload.
Fifty attempts were performed for every point.
Results:
Point Range Number of Buildings Success Mean Mean Mean RSSI Margin
(m) (signal going through) (%) SNR RSSI packet (dBm) (dB)
(dB) (dBm)
Point 830 4 96 -7.89 -112.95 -124.89 9.11

1
Point 960 14 92 -14.26 -111.26 -131.26 2.74

2
Point 1070 6 98 -3.22 -114.14 -120.24 13.76

3
Point 1530 14 98 -13.16 -112.24 -130.16 3.84

4
Point 863 6 100 -3.42 -113.48 -120.42 13.58
5
Paths description:
Point 1: The signal goes through four buildings. Three high-rise housing buildings and a low building do
not permit to have line of sight in this path. Then, an open space is found in the way to the receiver.
Point 2: The signal goes through fourteen buildings. In this case, a large group of low residential houses
are close to the point 2. Also, a residential block is found in the way to the receiver.
Point 3: The signal goes through six buildings. This point is placed at the side of a big square of the
neighborhood. The path finds out a big residential building and after this, some industrial buildings too.
Point 4: The signal goes through fourteen buildings. This is the largest path. This point comes across
four high residential buildings. Then there is an open space with no obstacles before reaching another
group of high housing buildings again. Finally, several industrial buildings are found before ending the path
to the receiver.
Point 5: The signal goes through six buildings. This point is separated from the receiver by several
industrial buildings with no open spaces between them.
Tests in Paris
These tests were developed in an office area into Paris city. The transmitter is outside the first floor of an office
building, at a height of about 3 meters. The receiver is at street except in one of them that is situated bellow
ground floor, in a garage. There is no line of sight between the points.
8. LoRa VS LoRaWAN Go to index 
Libelium currently offers two options of this type of radio technology: LoRa and LoRaWAN
LoRa contains only the link layer protocol and is perfect to be used in P2P communications between
nodes. LoRa modules are a little cheaper that the LoRaWAN ones. It works in the 868 and 900MHz bands.
Go to the LoRa Tutorial.
LoRaWAN includes the network layer too so it is possible to send the information to any Base Station
already connected to a Cloud platform. LoRaWAN modules may work in the 868/900/433MHz bands. Go to
the LoRaWAN Tutorial.
9. FAQ Go to index 
9.1 For what applications is LoRa a good option?
LoRa is a very good choice for solar or mains-powered nodes transmitting every 10 or 15 minutes in networks
with low or medium number of nodes.
LoRa is also the best option for very wide networks, with long-range links. Other communication modules just
cannot get more than few km.
9.2 For what applications is NOT LoRa a good option?
Definitely, LoRa is not suitable for projects which require high data-rate and/or very frequent transmissions (e.g.,
each 10 seconds).
Also, LoRa is probably not suitable for highly populated networks. Anyway, it depends on the number of nodes,
and on the number of packets per hour that each node sends.
Power consumption is a major challenge, so probably any LoRa node should be powered by a solar panel, or
even better, connected to mains electricity. Last, we must note that due to the low bandwidth LoRa by itself
does not support Over the Air Programming (OTA), however many of our clients use as a second radio the 3G,
GPRS or WiFi modules that allow to perform OTA easily retrieving the binary image from a FTP server in just a
couple of seconds.
10. Certifications Go to index 
CE
Libelium offers two types of sensor platforms: OEM lines (Waspmote , Arduino, Raspberry Pi) and Plug &
Sense!.
OEM lines like Waspmote , Arduino and Raspberry Pi are intended to be used for research
purposes or as part of a major product so it needs final certification on the client side. More info at:
http://www.libelium.com/products/waspmote/
Plug & Sense! is the line ready to be used out of the box. It includes market certifications. See
below the specific list of regulations passed.
http://www.libelium.com/products/plug-sense/
In accordance with the 1999/5/EC (R&TTE) and the EU Directive 2011/65/EU (RoHS2), Libelium
Comunicaciones Distribuidas S.L. declares that the "Plug & Sense! LoRa 868" device conforms to the following
regulations:
EN 301 489-1(1.9.2)- (1.6.1)

EN 55022:2010
EN 60950-1: 2006
A11: 2009 + A1: 2010 + A12: 2011 + Ac: 2011 +A2: 2013.
If desired, the Declaration of Conformity document can be requested using the Contact section at:
http://www.libelium.com/contact
FCC
Libelium is currently certifying the model "Plug & Sense! LoRaWAN 900 / 915" for US. Specifically under the
Part 15 Spread Spectrum Transmitter (FCC Rule Part 15 C).
Complete process will be finished by 2016. If you want to know more contact the Libelium Sales Department.
IC
Libelium is currently certifying the model "Plug & Sense! LoRaWAN 900 / 915" for Canada. Specifically under
the Industry Canada Regulation (IC) - (RSS-210).
Complete process will be finished by 2016. If you want to know more contact the Libelium Sales Department.
Device Compatibility Go to index 
This shield is tested and fully compatible with the following boards:
Arduino Boards
Arduino Uno
Raspberry Pi Boards
Raspberry Pi
Raspberry Pi (Model B+)
Raspberry Pi 2
Raspberry Pi 3
11. Links and Documentation Go to index 
Waspmote LoRa 868MHz 915MHz SX1272 Networking Guide

SX1272 LoRa gateway tutorial
Waspmote Product Page
Waspmote Documentation
Waspmote Code Examples
Waspmote SDK and API
Waspmote Documentation
12. Get the shields and kits Go to index 
Kits
SX1272 LoRa module
LoRa Radio Shield for Arduino - 900 / 915 MHz
LoRa Radio Shield for Arduino - 868 MHz
Buy now
Waspmote - The Open Source Sensor Platform

If you are interested in Internet of Things (IoT) or M2M projects check our open
source sensor platform Waspmote which counts with more than 100 sensors
available to use 'off the shelf', a complete API with hundreds of ready to use codes
and a low consumption mode of just 0.7µA to ensure years of battery life.
Know more at:
Waspmote Product Page (Libelium)

Get the Starter Kits at:
Waspmote Starter Kits

Cookinghacks Extreme Range Links LoRa 868 900MHz SX1272 LoRa

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Cookinghacks Extreme Range Links LoRa 868 900MHz SX1272 LoRa

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Available Formats

Extreme Range Links: LoRa 868 / 900MHz SX1272 LoRa

module for Arduino Waspmote and Raspberry Pi

Difﬁculty Level: Intermediate -

Dual Frequency Band 863-870 MHz (Europe)

902-928 MHz (US)

Sensitivity -134 dBm

Range LOS = 21km (13.4miles)

NLOS = +2km (1.2miles)

Market Ready Technology

EN 301 489-1(1.9.2)- (1.6.1)

Waspmote SX1272 LoRa module SMA 4.5 dBi - 868 MHz

Article Index Go to index 

7. Long Range Tests

2. LoRa VS XBee 868/900 MHz Go to index 

3. The board Go to index 

3.1 SX1272 LoRa module

Get the SX1272 LoRa module

Get the Multiprotocol Radio Shield

3.3 SX1272 LoRa module over Raspberry Pi

Get the Raspberry Pi to Arduino shields connection bridge

Get the SX1272 LoRa module for Raspberry Pi

3.4 SX1272 LoRa module over Waspmote

Waspmote is an open source wireless sensor platform specially focused

Know more at:

Waspmote Product Page (Libelium)

Are Waspmote and Arduino platforms compatible?

Then, are Waspmote and Arduino competence?

I just want to "play" with Waspmote, isn't it cheaper using Arduino?

Is Waspmote open source?

Some of the possible combinations are:

- Events Board: Incompatible with interruption shift register.

Get the SX1272 LoRa module

4. The library Go to index 

4.1 Using the library with Arduino

Download the SX1272 Libraries for Arduino.

4.2 Using the library with Raspberry Pi

Download the SX1272 Libraries for Raspberry Pi.

Code: Show code

First, install ArduPi and SX1272 libraries.

ArduPi For Raspberry Pi 2:

Compile the example:

Run the sketch:

4.3 Using the library with Waspmote

The files related to the SX1272 libraries are:

4.4 General SX1272 functions

The main functions are listed here:

Initialization and basic functions

setLORA(); //Sets the module in LoRa transmission mode.

Link information functions

getSNR(); //Gets the SNR value in LoRa mode.

Sending and receiving functions

sendPacketTimeout();//Sends a packet to the specified destination before a timeo

5. Transmission Modes Go to index 

Mode BW CR SF Sensitivity (dB) Comments

1 125 4/5 12 -134 max range, slow data rate

2 250 4/5 12 -131

3 125 4/5 10 -129

4 500 4/5 12 -128

5 250 4/5 10 -126

6 500 4/5 11 -125.5

7 250 4/5 9 -123

8 500 4/5 9 -120

9 500 4/5 8 -117