Sigfox: Features and Applications in IoT

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sigfox
lpwan
wireless communication
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Introduction

Sigfox is a low power wide area network (LPWAN) technology specifically tailored for IoT applications. It offers a robust communication platform for devices needing long range connectivity and minimal power usage. This guide highlights Sigfox’s key features, such as low bandwidth, scalability and cost efficiency, which make it a preferred choice for IoT solutions.

SIGFOX is a cellular-like system which connects remote devices using Ultra Narrow Band (UNB) technology. It is mainly targeted for low data rate applications. It requires substantially fewer antennas compared to traditional cellular networks such as GSM/CDMA.

SIGFOX is also the name of the operator which developed the first cellular network providing low throughput wireless communication. With its UNB patented technology, they have revolutionized the era of M2M and IoT. The network based on this technology has already connected thousands of devices in countries such as France, and in international cities.

sigfox network architecture

Key Features/Specifications of SIGFOX Technology

The following table summarizes the key features and specifications of SIGFOX technology:

Specification/featureSIGFOX Support
FrequencyUnlicensed ISM Band 868 MHz (Europe) 915 MHz (USA)
Range30 to 50 Km (Rural areas) 3 to 10 Km (Urban areas)
Throughput100 bps
Payload sizeVery less (about 12 bytes)
Power consumptionVery less, for example, an energy meter in SIGFOX will consume 50 microwatts while in GSM cellular consumes 5000 microwatts
Standby timeIt takes 20 years in SIGFOX, while GSM cellular takes much less, about 0 to 2 years.
Uplink/DownlinkSupports mono as well as bi-directional communication
Frequency HoppingSupported
Security/PrivacySIGFOX employs various techniques to support this

Conclusion

Sigfox revolutionizes IoT communication with its simplicity, efficiency and scalability. Its focus on low power and long range connectivity enables IoT devices to operate effectively in diverse industries, from smart cities to industrial IoT.

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