LoRaWAN network adopts star topology, in which terminal devices communicate directly with one or more gateways, and the gateways transmit data to the network server. The following is a detailed introduction to the topology of LoRaWAN network:
1. Star topology
1.1 End Devices
Features: The terminal device communicates with the gateway through the LoRa wireless link. These devices are usually low-power sensors, actuators or other IoT devices.
Communication mode: The communication between the terminal device and the gateway is single-hop, that is, the terminal device communicates directly with the gateway without passing through an intermediate node.
1.2 Gateways
Function: The gateway receives the LoRa signal sent by the terminal device and forwards the data to the network server through an IP network (such as Ethernet or cellular network).
Multi-gateway reception: The data packet sent by the same terminal device can be received by multiple gateways. This redundant design improves the reliability of the network and the success rate of data transmission.
1.3 Network Server
Function: The network server is responsible for data deduplication, device management, data routing and security control.
Redundant processing: The network server processes redundant copies of the same data packet to ensure that each data packet is processed only once.
1.4 Application Server
Function: The application server receives data forwarded by the network server and executes specific application logic, such as data analysis, processing, and storage.
2. Network components and their functions
2.1 Classification of terminal devices
Class A: The most energy-efficient communication mode. The device opens two short receiving windows after sending data. Suitable for battery-powered sensors.
Class B: Based on Class A, a scheduled receiving window is added. The device regularly receives the network's time synchronization signal (beacon) to achieve timed data reception.
Class C: Continuous receiving mode. The device is almost always in a receiving state and only briefly closes the receiving window when sending data. Suitable for power-powered devices.
2.2 Gateway deployment
Deployment location: Gateways are usually deployed at high places (such as the top of a building, communication tower) to maximize coverage.
Coverage: In urban environments, the coverage of a single gateway is usually a few kilometers; in suburban or rural environments, the coverage can reach 10 kilometers or even farther.
2.3 Functions of the network server
Data deduplication: Processing redundant data packets received by multiple gateways to ensure that each data packet is processed only once.
Device management: Managing the network access, authentication and data transmission of devices to ensure the security and reliability of devices.
Data routing: Routing data packets to the correct application server.
3. Features and advantages of network topology
3.1 Redundancy and reliability
Multi-gateway reception: Data packets sent by terminal devices can be received by multiple gateways, increasing the success rate of data transmission and the reliability of the network.
Deduplication processing: The network server processes redundant data packets to ensure that each data packet is processed only once to avoid data duplication.
3.2 Coverage and scalability
Long-distance communication: LoRa technology supports long-distance wireless communication, allowing the LoRaWAN network to cover a large area.
Easy to expand: By adding gateways, the network coverage and capacity can be easily expanded.
3.3 Low power consumption and efficient communication
Low-power device: The terminal device adopts a low-power design, which is suitable for long-term operation powered by batteries.
Efficient communication: Using the Aloha protocol, terminal devices send data at random times to avoid conflicts and improve communication efficiency.