What exactly is LoRaWAN?

LoRaWAN, short for Long Range Wide Area Network, enables efficient data transmission over long distances and through buildings. With LoRaWAN, hundreds of sensors within a network can be managed, and sensor data can be transmitted for up to 10 years without battery replacement.

A LoRaWAN network consists of three main components: a sensor device, a gateway, and a LoRa server. The sensor device sends data via LoRa to all gateways in its vicinity. These gateways receive the data and forward it to the server. From there, the data can be processed, visualized, and stored individually.

LoRaWAN offers many advantages compared to other wireless technologies. It has a high range of up to 15 kilometers outdoors and 2 kilometers in urban areas. Additionally, it can easily penetrate walls and floors.

It is the ideal technology for applications in the field of smart buildings, smart cities, agriculture and environmental monitoring.

More about Decentlab & LoRaWAN

Climate change and permafrost

The permafrost in the Alps is warming rapidly, at a rate of about one degree per decade, as detailed in an article by our client, the Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, SLF. This change has a direct impact on people and the economy. In high alpine regions with permafrost, there is an increased risk of rockslides and avalanches, which pose a threat to mountain enthusiasts, settlements and infrastructure such as mountain railways, masts, restaurants and more.

Over the past 27 years, researchers at the Institute have collected extensive data from 30 boreholes throughout the Swiss Alps. This data clearly shows a long-term trend of rising permafrost temperatures approaching the zero degree mark.

The observed changes in permafrost serve as another alarm signal of climate change, requiring heightened attention and action. Sensors such as our DL-TP | Temperature Profile for LoRaWAN can be effectively used to measure permafrost.

Read full article

Optimizing wood heating: Eco-Friendly practices

Wood heating systems are often praised as an environmentally friendly choice, but their benefits depend on proper use. Negligent operation can result in smoke emissions and environmental pollution. A comprehensive dossier from the Federal Office for the Environment - FOEN (BAFU) provides valuable insights into the environmentally responsible use of wood heating systems.

Throughout the winter, wood heating systems play a significant role in particulate matter pollution. Despite this, they remain popular due to their lower CO2 emissions compared to oil and gas alternatives. However, burning wood exacerbates air pollution with pollutants such as particulate matter. Following basic wood-burning practices can mitigate these harmful effects on air quality. Environmentally sound operation of wood heating systems requires compliance with regulations, regular maintenance, proper operation, and the use of appropriate fuels.

Sensors like DL-PM | Particulate Matter, Temperature, Humidity and Barometric Pressure Sensor for LoRaWAN® provide accurate measurements of particulate matter. Sensors such as the DL-IAM | Indoor Ambiance Monitor including CO₂, TVOC and Motion Sensor for LoRaWAN® help monitor indoor temperature, comfort and indoor air quality.

Read full article in german, french, italian

Collaboration between Loriot Verso, Datacake and Decentlab

The July newsletter featured Gunter Schobesberger with Loriot Verso's project, 'Forest Fire Risk Assessment in Salzburg', which aims to detect forest fire risks early through environmental sensor monitoring.

Datacake, our partner, has provided a detailed report on the interfaces involved in this project. Datacake collaborates with Ecosensors and Decentlab by offering innovative solutions for collecting and processing environmental data. As a project partner, Datacake facilitates the integration of sensor information into a user-friendly platform. 

The dashboards are user-friendly and configurations are customizable, making it easy for stakeholders like forest owners, managers, and emergency response decision-makers to access relevant information. The platform increases the efficiency of data analysis and reduces response times to potential environmental hazards.

The collaboration between Ecosensors, Decentlab, and Datacake provides a comprehensive solution for detecting and preventing forest fires and other environmental hazards. Ecosensors' environmental monitoring expertise, Decentlab's precise sensors, and Datacake's platform integration combine to create a holistic approach.

Thanks Datacake for the great article.

Field testing of DL-PR21

Our latest newsletter extensively covered the EU-funded DiVES project at the Kokkola University Consortium Chydenius, in collaboration with the University of Jyväskylä. The project aims to explore the advantages of automated measurement methods compared to manual field measurements. As part of the project, Decentlab's DL-PR26 & DL-PR36 sensors underwent comprehensive testing. Furthermore, the DL-PR21 | Pressure / Liquid Level and Temperature Sensor with G1/4'' Pipe Thread for LoRaWAN was recently tested, leading to significant insights.

The development of IoT technology enables the integration of monitoring devices into water production facilities. LoRaWAN-based devices, such as the DL-PR21, offer system-independent capabilities for flexible data collection.

The DiVES project focuses on pressure monitoring at the Veteli waterworks using the DL-PR21 sensor. The sensor transmits water temperature, pressure, and battery voltage every 10 minutes. Measurement intervals can be adjusted remotely via the LoRa network.

The data is sent through a LoRa connection to the project's network server, which then directs the information to the DiVES platform. Visualizations and alarms based on predefined limits are generated, enhancing monitoring efficiency and providing valuable insights for operators. This represents a significant step toward smarter and more effective water infrastructure!

Thanks to cinetcampus for the great work!

Read more about field test of DL-PR21.

New Year Pollution Awareness

As we approach the year-end, it's important to note that the upcoming New Year's Eve celebrations often come with an increase in fine dust pollution. The dazzling fireworks, while beautiful, contribute to the highest levels of particulate matter for the entire year.

Our DL-PM sensor allows us to measure real-time data, including particulate matter, temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure. This graphic clearly depicts peaks on December 31st each year. This year, once again, we'll be utilizing this sensor to precisely document the impact of the New Year's Eve festivities in 2023/2024.

Stay tuned for the results, which we'll be unveiling in our January newsletter! In the meantime, you can check out our current measurements on our realtime demo website. 

Happy Holidays from All of Us at Decentlab

As the year winds down, we want to thank our customers, partners, and friends for your trust and collaboration.

Wishing you a festive season full of joy and great moments. Here's to an exciting New Year ahead with more innovation and continued partnerships.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! 

Impressions from AGU23 in San Francisco

Decentlab at AGU23 in San Francisco!
The AGU23 stands as one of the biggest conferences in the field of geosciences globally.

This significant event provided us with the opportunity to collaborate with leading experts, showcase innovative technologies, and gain insights into the latest developments in geosciences. 

At AGU23, participants immersed themselves in a diverse array of presentations, discussions, and workshops covering topics such as climate science, environmental monitoring, geophysics, and planetary sciences.

The conference served as a hub for groundbreaking research findings, fostering collaborations, and tracking emerging trends.

Our participation not only facilitated valuable discussions but also allowed us to present our latest solutions.

Here are some snapshots from our exciting journey at AGU23. Thanks to AGU and everyone who was part of this event!

For additional insights, engaging discussions, and more impressions, you can also tune in to AGU TV.

Decentlab's new device - DL-SDD

DL-SDD | Soil Moisture, Temperature and Salinity Profile for LoRaWAN®

Decentlab's new device is designed for precise measurements for: 

• Outdoor remote monitoring

• Irrigation control

• Smart agriculture

• Greenhouse and soil-less plantations

• Parks

• Golf courses

Subsurface probe measures soil moisture, temperature and salinity at 3/30 cm, 6/60 cm, 9/90 cm or 12/120 cm levels of depth.

SOIL MOISTURE
Range: 0 ... 100 % volumetric water content (VWC)
Resolution: 0.01 %
Accuracy: ±0.03 %

SOIL TEMPERATURE
Range: -20 ... 60 °C
Accuracy: ±2.0 °C at 25 °C
Note: Inaccuracy can be higher under moderate-to-high solar radiation.
Resolution: ±0.01°C

SALINITY
Range: 0 ... 8000 volumetric ion content (VIC)

More information and full datasheet

Our next event in San Francisco

Next month, we have an exciting event on our calendar! Decentlab will be participating in the AGU Conference in San Francisco from December 11th to 15th.

The AGU (American Geophysical Union) is a globally renowned event that brings together leading scientists, researchers, and professionals from various fields of the geosciences. This conference provides a platform for the exchange of knowledge, ideas, and discoveries in the realm of the geosciences.

We are thrilled to be a part of this event, where we will showcase our latest developments and innovations in environmental monitoring. It's a great opportunity to gain insights into the latest trends and advancements in the geosciences and to connect with professionals from around the world.

If you're also attending the AGUConference, please visit our booth! We look forward to meeting you there and engaging in exciting discussions about the future of environmental monitoring.

DL-PR26 & DL-PR36 field testing in Finland

An exciting field test with Decentlab's DL-PR26 and DL-PR36 Sensors in Finland!

In the EU-funded DiVes project at the Kokkola University Consortium Chydenius, affiliated with the University of Jyväskylä, the DL-PR26 sensor is undergoing initial testing. It remotely monitors water levels, tank capacities, and more with precision, even at depths of up to ten meters.

In contrast, the DL-PR36 employs RS-485 bus technology and allows for impressive measurement depths of up to 300 meters. The DL-PR36 is currently being tested in a 20-meter deep groundwater level well in Veteli.

Both devices utilize LoRaWAN technology for data transmission, enabling highly energy-efficient data transfer and extending the battery life of groundwater sensors to several years.

The primary goal of the pilot project is to explore the benefits of automated measurement methods compared to manual field measurements. Real-time monitoring of the results is conducted through the project's data platform. The project aims to identify concrete savings and efficiency improvements that water supply companies, for example, can achieve through the implementation of automatic monitoring technologies.

Read more about field test of DL-PR26 and field test of DL-PR36.

Decentlab's DL-LP8P demonstrates longevity non-stop

For the past 7 years, this DL-LP8P has been securely attached to a balcony in Zurich, fixed to a rainwater downpipe. It has consistently provided valuable measurement data without a single battery replacement. The picture with the dashboard effectively showcases the measurement data from 2017 to 2023.

The reliable DL-LP8P Sensor is housed in a robust, weatherproof enclosure crafted from UV- and impact-resistant polycarbonate, enabling effortless placement and measurement without the need for intricate setup. Throughout its operational duration, it has reliably transmitted data over LoRaWAN on CO₂ levels, temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure.

With its versatile features and extended battery life utilizing standard alkaline (C-type) batteries, the DL-LP8P is ideally suited for a wide range of environmental monitoring applications. These include monitoring goods and storage conditions, assessing indoor and outdoor air quality, facilitating building automation, supporting energy-saving initiatives, and enhancing smart agriculture practices. 

High resolution picture and plots

The Smart City Expo World Congress was a great success

Our time at the Smart City Expo in Barcelona was very exciting, interesting, and educational!

We had the chance to showcase our latest products and had some fantastic discussions with customers for smart cities, authorities and partners. It was truly inspiring, and we're grateful for the valuable insights we gained.

Thanks to everyone who visited us and the organizers for a fantastic event!

Decentlab's NEW product

DL-CWS | High-Precision Winter Road Maintenance Sensor for LoRaWAN®

Introducing the DL-CWS, a high-precision measuring device by Decentlab designed to reliably capture essential environmental data for effective road management.

Key Applications:

• Frost warning and alerting

• Outdoor remote monitoring

• Road weather information systems (RWIS)

• Winter road maintenance

Measurements:

• Road-surface temperature

• Air temperature

• Relative humidity

• Dew point temperature (calculated)

Remote outdoor monitoring
In addition to road surface temperature, the DL-CWS also measures
air temperature and relative humidity, providing comprehensive environmental data for road monitoring.

Dew point temperature calculation
The sensor calculates the dew point temperature, which is a critical parameter for understanding moisture conditions and potential road icing.

Weatherproof Housing
The robust polycarbonate housing, which is known for its weatherproof, shockproof and UV-resistant properties, ensures the durability of the sensor in harsh outdoor conditions.

Long-term monitoring
Enables continuous real-time monitoring over extended periods of time without the need to change the battery.

For more detailed information, please refer to the datasheet.

Smart City Expo World Congress in November

The series of engaging exhibitions continues. Following the Meteorological Technology World Expo in Geneva in early October, our next destination is Barcelona for the Smart City Expo.

Smart City Expo World Congress is the largest and most influential event in the world dedicated to urban innovation.
It brings together leaders from cutting-edge companies, governments, and organizations, all sharing a common goal: to propel our cities towards a brighter future.

We look forward to sharing our insights on how IoT solutions can help create smarter, more sustainable cities. Join us at the expo in Barcelona from November 7-9 to explore the latest in urban development and learn more about Decentlab's contributions to this exciting field. 

Measurements from DL-TRS12 in a strawberry field

Decentlab Sensor Device DL-TRS12 in wild!

In the landscapes of Finland, a local university laboratory is studying the interplay of fertilizers and weather on soil quality.

As part of this ongoing study, the DL-TRS12 - Soil Moisture, Temperature, and Electrical Conductivity Sensor for LoRaWAN® - has been deployed at a Finnish strawberry farm. Its purpose is to continuously monitor soil conditions in real-time and so giving immediately insights. 

Special thanks to our partner, Effectio, for this picture.

Testing DL-BLG - Black Globe Temperature Sensors

In August, we featured the meteoblue city climate monitoring system. Subsequently, our partner, meteoblue, conducted extensive summer testing of ten DL-BLG | Black Globe Temperature Sensor for LoRaWAN from Decentlab and has recently released a comprehensive report on their findings.

The Black Globe Temperature Sensors measure the mean radiant temperature that reflects the apparent temperature of human bodies, which is the perceived temperature that people experience, considering the influence of shading effects from trees or buildings. 

Initial tests compared two locations: one in a park and one on a street. The first results indicate high differences between shaded (green line) and non-shaded (black line) locations and underline the importance of planting trees and ensuring enough shaded areas in cities. The mean radiant temperatures of the sensor on the sunny footwalk reached up to 49°C. In contrast, the shaded footwalk on the other side of the street reached a maximum 36°C in the analysed time period.

This information is vital for urban planning to enhance human comfort. The project will use these findings for future steps.

Read more

Explore the Meteorological World Expo in Geneva

In October, we have the pleasure of participating in the Meteorological World Expo in Geneva – a unique event that brings together the world of meteorology and climate monitoring.

What can you expect at this exciting expo?

Innovative Technologies:
Learn about the latest developments and technologies in meteorological research and climate monitoring. 

Networking:
The expo offers an ideal opportunity to forge valuable connections, where you can meet professionals, researchers, and enthusiasts from around the world.

Exhibitors:
Alongside Decentlab, other leading companies will also be showcasing their products and services. Discover a wide range of solutions shaping the future of weather and environmental monitoring.

We look forward to meeting you in October at the Meteorological World Expo in Geneva.

Monitoring water levels to prevent water scarcity

When people think of Switzerland, idyllic scenes of green meadows and pristine lakes often come to mind. But the country struggles with seasonal water shortages caused by changing glacier and snow patterns. The integration of IoT sensors, such as the Decentlab DL-PR26 | Pressure / Liquid Level and Temperature Sensor for LoRaWAN, enables precision water level measurements and proactive detection of anomalies. These sensors ensure continuous real-time monitoring for years and eliminate the need to replace batteries.

Our partnership with akenza makes sensor integration via their platform effortless. By leveraging akenza's rules engine, sensor data triggers automatic actions. For example, immediate SMS or email alerts are sent when water levels drop - an important measure to avert potential pump damage.

The interaction of IoT and water monitoring enables Switzerland to optimize the use of water resources and to fight the spectre of water scarcity.

Thanks to our partner akenza for the report and excellent collaboration.

meteoblue – City Climate

Already in the 19th century, people noticed differences in air quality between cities and their surroundings. Cities have their own unique climate, known as the urban climate, which differs from the surrounding areas in terms of temperature, wind, humidity, and other meteorological variables. Nowadays, these climatic disparities are increasing due to climate change.

The new meteoblue city climate monitoring system offers cities an affordable infrastructure to accurately measure, forecast, and model their urban climate in less than a year. This provides reliable information for city planners, decision-makers, and citizens.

The system has undergone testing in Switzerland since 2019 and rapidly evolved through collaboration with universities and partner cities in 2020. In use are Decentlab's new device, DL-BLG | Black Globe Temperature Sensor for LoRaWAN® and DL-SHT35 | Air Temperature and Humidity Sensor with Radiation Shield for LoRaWAN®.

Thanks to meteoblue for the great cooperation.