RFUWB vs. Wavenis: A Comprehensive Comparison
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This article breaks down the differences between UWB (Ultra-Wideband) and Wavenis technologies, comparing them across various parameters.
What is UWB?
UWB (Ultra-Wideband) technology utilizes a broad spectrum, exceeding 500 MHz. In 2002, the FCC approved the unlicensed use of the spectrum within 3.1 to 10.6 GHz for UWB applications.
It employs short-duration electromagnetic pulses for high-speed data transfer over a wide bandwidth. UWB adheres to the IEEE standard 802.15.4a/z. Due to its wide bandwidth, it supports high data rate communication (around 27 Mbps). It’s also favored for its lower latency, low power consumption, and resilience to interference.
UWB Network
The image illustrates a UWB network with UWB anchors deployed at various locations. These anchors communicate with UWB tags, smartphones, lights, and WiFi access points. The WiFi AP or router connects to the cloud through a gateway. UWB technology facilitates target sensor data collection from motion, temperature, and light sensors, and it’s suitable for precise location and tracking applications.
What is Wavenis?
Wavenis, developed by Coronis, is promoted by the Wavenis Open Standard Alliance. It operates in ISM bands (433/868/915 MHz). Its architecture varies based on the specific application. It supports different network topologies, including tree, star, and mesh.
It finds use in light control systems, automated remote monitoring, utility water meters, telemetry, and more.
Wavenis Network (Image Courtesy: Coronis Systems)
Wavenis was designed to meet the requirements of low-power, low-range Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs). Wavenis products comply with EN300-220, FCC15-249, and FCC15-247 standards.
Key features of Wavenis technology include:
- Long battery life
- Long range (200m to 1Km)
- Two-way smart links
- Reliable transmission (using FHSS, FEC, data interleaving)
- Connectivity to WANs (Bluetooth extension capability)
- Network capabilities (p2p, star, tree, mesh, repeater)
- Lower unit cost
Difference between UWB and Wavenis
The following table highlights the key differences between UWB and Wavenis across various parameters:
| Features | UWB | Wavenis |
|---|---|---|
| Operating Frequency band | 3.1 to 10.6 GHz | 433 MHz, 868 MHz, 915 MHz, 2.4 GHz |
| Data Rate | 110 Mbps | 4.8 Kbps, 19.2 Kbps, 100 Kbps (Programmable) |
| Bandwidth | 500 MHz | 50 KHz |
| Modulation type | BPSK, BPM used in HRP PHY mode | GFSK |
| Spread spectrum | DS-UWB, MB-OFDM | FHSS |
| Range (Indoor) | 300 meters | 1000 meters (1 Km) |
| Physical layer | SECDED Convolutional (K=3) & Reed solomon used in IEEE 802.15.4 Covolutional (K=7) used in IEEE 802.15.4z. | Data interleaving, Forward error Correction BCH(31,21) |
| Security | Very secure (Distance Time Bounded Protocol) | 128 bit AES |
| Network Topology | Peer to peer, Star, Multi-hop | Tree, Star, mesh |
| Energy consumption | High | Medium |
Summary
In summary, UWB is suited for applications requiring accurate position tracking, low-latency multimedia, and high data rates. Wavenis, on the other hand, is better for monitoring and control applications such as remote water meter monitoring, electricity meter reading and controlling, automatic light control systems, and the broader sensor and control market.
