RAK Outdoor LoRaWAN Gateway Mesh with Sub-G Backhaul Repeater External Anetnna
The Gateway Mesh is an open-source protocol co-developed by ChirpStack and RAKwireless. It enables a multi-hop LoRaWAN mesh network, significantly extending coverage beyond standard single-hop gateways. Designed for outdoor scenarios, this solution uses Sub-G LoRa for gateway-to-gateway communication.
Note: Please add a suitable antenna to the order (the default kit does not include an antenna).
This option uses the sub-GHz band for relaying, providing long-distance coverage between gateways. It is a cost-effective solution as it requires only one concentrator, making it ideal for large areas like agricultural fields, remote monitoring sites, and expansive industrial facilities. However, the sub-GHz band is shared with end devices, which may lead to lower network capacity. Additionally, duty cycle limitations can vary depending on the region. Sub-G Relays are best suited for deployments where extending range is the primary goal and the message count remains in the low thousands per day.
Solution characteristics (for sub-GHz relay)
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Devices per network
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Typically 1000 sensors, depending on topology and messages/day
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Distance between gateways
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Between 2 and 10 km, depending on the locations
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Radio channels
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8 RX + 1 TX
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Relay configuration
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Selectable SF, BW and TX power
Channel hopping
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Maximum hops
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8, recommended 3-4
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Network monitoring
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Heartbeat messages
Info page on LNS
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Network flooding management
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Per-gateway message ID cache
Per-gateway max hop count
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Network security
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Standard LoRaWAN security for messages to/from end-devices
Shared key for MIC checking for messages between gateways
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Gateway power
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Power adapter
Battery Plus compatible (battery+solar)
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Gateway installation
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Pole mount
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Gateway Mesh Protocol Advantages
- Extends LoRaWAN coverage through relay gateways
- Supports multi-hop mesh networking
- No modifications needed for end devices
- Works for end devices that move between gateways
How Does Gateway Mesh Work?
The Gateway Mesh protocol relays LoRaWAN payloads via gateways in remote areas where backhaul internet is sparse. Relay gateways forward data to border gateways, which connect to the network server (LNS). This process supports uplink and downlink messages and requires no changes to end devices.
The solution includes:
- RAK7289CV2 (with LTE) as the border gateway
- One or more relay gateways RAK7289V2
You can purchase multiple relay gateways depending on the range you plan to cover for testing and deployment.
All gateways use the latest SX1303 LoRa core, providing enhanced sensitivity and performance. The concentrator is shared for both end-device communication and mesh networking, which might impact overall network capacity.
Product Features:
Border Gateway: RAK7289CV2 (with LTE)
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Multi-Backhaul Support: Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Cellular (RAK7289CV2)
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Power Options: Compatible with the RAK Battery Plus off-grid system
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Enclosure Design: IP67-rated enclosure with internal LTE, Wi-Fi, and GPS antennas
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Pre-Flashed Software: ChirpStack Gateway OS with Gateway Mesh protocol
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Connectivity: LoRa Sub-GHz and LTE
Relay Gateway RAK7289V2 (without LTE)
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Enclosure: IP67/NEMA-6 industrial-grade enclosure with cable glands
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8-Channel LoRaWAN Support: Sub-GHz LoRa concentrator (RAK5146)
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Multi-Backhaul Support: Wi-Fi, Ethernet (RAK7289V2)
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External Antennas: External LoRa antenna; internal for Wi-Fi, GPS
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Power Options: PoE (802.3af) with Surge Protection, or DC 12V
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Dying Gasp: Power failure protection with advanced "dying gasp" function
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Compatibility: Supports RAK Solar Battery Kits
Software Features (for Both Border and Relay Gateways)
- ChirpStack Gateway OS Pre-Flashed
- LoRaWAN Versions Supported: 1.0.0 to 1.0.4, 1.1.0
- Mesh Whitelisting and Filtering Capabilities
Product Inclusions
For the Border gateway (RAK7289CV2)
- 1pc Gateway (As per option selected)
- 1pc Ethernet Cable Gland (As per option selected)
- 1pc POE Injector (As per option selected)
- 1pc Mounting Bracket (As per option selected)
- 1 Screw set (As per option selected)
For External Antenna Relay gateway (RAK7289V2)
- 1pc Gateway (As per option selected)
- 1pc Ethernet Cable Gland (As per option selected)
- 1pc POE Injector (As per option selected)
- 1pc Mounting Bracket (As per option selected)
- 1 Screw set (As per option selected)
Documentation
