RFEC-GSM vs Sigfox vs LoRa: A Detailed Comparison
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Introduction
IoT connectivity technologies like EC-GSM, Sigfox, and LoRa are changing the way devices communicate using low power wide area networks (LPWANs). Each technology offers unique features, operates on different frequency ranges, and is suitable for various applications and industries. This guide explores the key differences between EC-GSM, Sigfox, and LoRa, highlighting their strengths, limitations, and ideal use cases. This will help you choose the right technology for your specific IoT solutions. LoRa and Sigfox are categorized as non-cellular IoT technologies, while EC-GSM falls under the cellular IoT category.
EC-GSM
Here are the key features of EC-GSM technology:
- Frequency: Same as GSM network, 850 to 900 MHz, 1800 to 1900 MHz
- Architecture: Uses the existing GSM architecture
- Deployment: In-Band GSM
- Access Type: TDMA/FDMA
- Modulation Types: GMSK, 8PSK
- Bandwidth: 200 KHz per channel
- Peak Data Rate (Downlink/Uplink): 70 Kbps for GMSK, 240 Kbps for 8PSK
- Coverage: 164 dB with 33 dBm Power Class, 154 dB with 23 dBm power class
- Duplexing: HD, FDD
- Power Saving Mode: PSM, ext. I-DRX
Refer to the EC-GSM IoT resource for more information.
Sigfox
Here are the key features of Sigfox technology:
- Coverage: Less than 17 Km
- Frequency Spectrum: Unlicensed Band
- Signal Bandwidth: 0.1 KHz
- Data Rate: 100 bps
- Battery Life: Up to 10 years for NB-IoT devices
Refer to the Sigfox tutorial and SigFox technology basics for more information.
LoRa
Here are the key features of LoRa technology:
- Coverage: Less than 14 Km
- Frequency Spectrum: Unlicensed Band
- Signal Bandwidth: 125 KHz
- Data Rate: 10 Kbps
- Battery Life: Up to 10 years for NB-IoT devices
Refer to the LoRa tutorial and LoRa technology basics for more information.
Difference between EC-GSM, Sigfox, and LoRa
The following table summarizes the key differences between EC-GSM, Sigfox, and LoRa wireless technologies.
| Specifications | EC-GSM | Sigfox | LoRa |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 3GPP release 13 | Private, ETSI GS LTN 001, 002, 003 (Low Throughput Networks) | Open, LoRaWAN Specification V1.0 released by LoRa™ Alliance |
| Spectrum | Licensed like GSM, 850 to 900 MHz, 1800 to 1900 MHz | Unlicensed, 868 MHz (Europe), 915 MHz (USA) | Unlicensed, US (902 to 928 MHz), EU (863 to 870 MHz) , China (779 to 787 MHz) |
| Channel Bandwidth | 200 KHz | 100 KHz | 7.8 to 500 KHz |
| System Bandwidth | 1.4 MHz | 100 KHz | 125 KHz |
| Peak Data Rate | DL: 74 Kbps UL: 74 Kbps | DL: 600 bps UL: 100 bps | 180 bps to 37.5 Kbps |
| Max. number of message/day | Unlimited | 140 (device), 50K (BTS) | 50K (BTS) |
| Device peak Tx power | 26 dBm | 14 dBm | 14 dBm |
| MCL (Maximum Coupling loss) | 164 dB | DL: 147 dB, UL: 156 dB | DL: 168 (SF12, BW7.8), 132 (SF6, BW125) UL: 156 dB |
| Device power consumption | Low | Low | Low to Medium |
Conclusion
Choosing between EC-GSM, Sigfox, and LoRa depends on the specific requirements of your IoT application, including range, power efficiency, and cost. Understanding the differences between these technologies ensures that you select the most efficient solution for your connectivity needs.
