IoT Hacks #3 Wi-SUN protocol in IoT

In the third part of our IoT Hacks series, we’ll share some useful insights about the Wi-SUN protocol. In our previous article, we’ve talked about energy harvesting within the context of low-power embedded systems, and powering smart sensors with solar panels.

Wi-SUN — the definition

Wi-SUN is a recently developed wireless communication protocol , based on the IEEE 802.15.4g standard. It enables data exchange at distances of up to 4 km with a speed of 50–300 kb/s, with a 0.002–1 seconds delay. Wi-SUN is specifically designed for use in various applications in outdoor IoT wireless communication networks. The protocol operates on unlicensed Wi-Fi bands, eliminating the need for additional fees or charges.

The technology behind the Wi-SUN protocol

In the portfolio of integrated circuits manufacturers you can find modules for the following frequencies: 433, 512, 868, 920 MHz, 2.4 GHz and many others. The MESH network topology is supported by Wi-SUN, which enables the expansion of a local area network to 5,000 devices and 10 million endpoints worldwide.

Essentially, this network offers native public key integrity (PKI). As a result, each device can have its own certificate that protects its firmware against unauthorized changes. Also, this type of network supports all security features related to the IPv6 standard.

Benefits of Wi-SUN support systems

As the creators of Wi-SUN FAN (Wi-SUN Field Area Network) supporting systems assure, this system guarantees lower power consumption compared to competitors such as LoRAWAN or NB-IoT with similar network setups.

Another benefit of this solution (from the production point of view) is that it does not have to be tied to one manufacturer. The portfolio of Wi-SAN communication support systems includes such companies as ST, Texas Instrument, Renesas, ROHM and Silicon Labs.

Wi-SUN — Communication modules

Ready-made, certified modules that support Wi-SUN communication may be easily found on the market. Usually they support USB, UART and SPI interfaces. Some brands offer processors that have a Wi-SUN module built in, and a premade communication stack. Adapting such modules to one’s needs and technology is much easier. Otherwise, the existing solution may be used interchangeably.

Summary

The parameters of Wi-SUN’s Field Area Network are highly promising, with the potential to optimize communication among IoT devices. . From smart sensors to much larger systems, it works with all of them. Wi-SUN offers significant improvements in communication range and reliability, network scalability, reduced power consumption, and robust security. Although its main focus is not speed, the other features make it a highly effective communication solution.

If you’re looking for a technology partner to create a dedicated IoT solution, or if you consider improving the battery life of your IoT devices, contact us! We delivered many energy harvesting projects successfully, and will be more than glad to show you how we do it. Get in touch with us for a free consulation!

The article originally appeared on Solwit blog.

Written by Solwit Team