- What is LoRaWAN?
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LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network) is a wireless communication protocol designed for long-range data transmission with extremely low power consumption. It is ideal for battery-operated devices that need to function for years while transmitting small amounts of data, such as sensor readings or utility meter digits.
- Why do I need LoRaWAN devices?
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Our LoRaWAN devices allow you to remotely collect data from various meters (water, gas, electricity) or industrial equipment wirelessly. This enables automated data collection, real-time monitoring, and system control without the need for expensive or complex wiring.
- What devices do you offer?
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We offer four specialized types of LoRaWAN devices:
- LoRaWAN Pulse Counter: Used to collect data from any meters that generate pulse outputs (e.g., water or electricity meters).
- LoRaWAN Pulse Counter for Elster Gas Meters: A specialized device designed specifically for reading data from Elster-brand gas meters.
- LoRaWAN M-BUS Converter: Connects M-BUS protocol devices (commonly heat or water meters) to a LoRaWAN network.
- LoRaWAN MODBUS Converter: Designed to integrate industrial devices and counters using a MODBUS interface (such as sensors or PLCs) into the LoRaWAN network.
- What are DevEUI, AppEUI, and AppKey?
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These are unique identifiers and security keys required for your device to join a network and transmit data securely:
- DevEUI: A unique 64-bit identifier for the device itself (similar to a MAC address).
- AppEUI: An application identifier used to group devices.
- AppKey: A secret cryptographic key used to encrypt the data and activate the device on the network.
- Where can I find my device's DevEUI and other identifiers?
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The DevEUI is printed directly on the device's casing. Once connected, you can also view the AppEUI, AppKey, and DevEUI within the AkytecIoTConfigurator mobile application.
- How do I configure my LoRaWAN device?
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Configuration is simple using the AkytecIoTConfigurator app on an Android smartphone via Bluetooth. Simply download the app, enable Bluetooth on your phone, and follow the in-app instructions to pair with your device.
- Can I configure the device with an iPhone?
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Currently, our configuration app is only available for Android and Windows. An iOS version for Apple devices is planned for a future release. Stay tuned for updates!
- My device is not turning on. What should I do?
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First, ensure the device is properly connected to a power source or that the batteries are correctly installed and charged.
Important: Devices are shipped in an inactive "Hibernation Mode" for safety during storage and transport. To activate the device, you must wake it up using NFC. Bring your smartphone (with NFC enabled) close to the device. Once activated, you can proceed with Bluetooth configuration.
- My phone doesn't see the device via Bluetooth. What's the problem?
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Do the following steps:
- Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your smartphone.
- Try moving your phone closer to the device.
- Verify that you have granted the mobile app all necessary location and Bluetooth permissions in your phone's settings (required by Android for Bluetooth scanning).
- Do I need an internet connection for the LoRaWAN device to work?
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The device itself does not need the internet; it transmits data to a LoRaWAN Gateway. The gateway then uses an internet connection to forward that data to a server. You do not need an internet connection to configure the device via the mobile app.
- How often does the device send data?
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The transmission frequency depends on your specific settings and the type of meter being used. This interval is fully adjustable via the mobile app. Keep in mind that more frequent transmissions will reduce the device's battery life.
- Can I use the device outdoors?
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Our devices feature dust- and moisture-protected enclosures (IP65), making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. They are designed to operate in temperatures ranging from -40 to +70 °C. Please review your specific environmental requirements to ensure our devices meet your needs.
- Can an unauthorized person configure the device?
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No. Device configuration is password-protected. Access to settings is impossible without the correct password. Do not forget to change the default password.
- What is the default password for device configuration?
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The factory default password is “1111”. We strongly recommend changing this during your initial setup.
- Can the device firmware be updated remotely?
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Currently, remote updates (FUOTA - Firmware Update Over The Air) are not supported. Firmware updates must be performed locally using the AkytecIoTConfigurator app.
- Does the power type affect LoRaWAN operation?
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Yes. When battery-powered, the device operates in LoRaWAN Class A (energy-efficient mode). When connected to external power, the device can operate in LoRaWAN Class C, which allows for continuous downlink listening and faster command delivery.
- Which gas meters is CI201-LW suitable for?
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The CI201-LW is specifically designed for use with Honeywell Elster Metronica BK series gas meters.
- How does CI201-LW read data from the gas meter?
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The device is installed in a dedicated area on the gas meter. It records pulses, which are then accumulated and transmitted over the LoRaWAN network.
- What powers CI201-LW and how long does the battery last?
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The CI201-LW is powered by an internal battery (2 x CR123A cells). The battery life can reach up to 5 years, depending on the configured data transmission frequency.
- How much data can CI201-LW store?
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The device features 8 MB of built-in memory, allowing it to archive up to 20,000 data packets.
