Makerfabs Agrosense_Air Review – A LoRa Powred Temperature and Humidity Sensor for Industrial and Agricultural Applications

The Makerfabs Agrosense_Air is a robust LoRa-powered temperature and humidity sensor designed for use in agricultural and industrial environments. As the module features built-in LoRa capabilities, it features wireless data transmission over long distances (up to 2km in urban settings and 5km in line-of-sight) while remaining compatible with worldwide LoRaWAN networks (EU868/US915).

The device is engineered to be durable and long-lasting with an IP68 waterproof rating on top of that it has an operating temperature range of -40℃ to 85℃, making it ideal for use in harsh outdoor conditions where precise monitoring is essential.

Functionality and Features

The AgroSense sensor is designed to accurately measure temperature and humidity, the most important parameters in agricultural environment monitoring. That is why the device has a range of (-40°C to 85°C for temperature, and 0-100% RH for humidity) which makes it compatible with diverse agricultural environments, from greenhouses to open fields. The accuracy (±0.3°C for temperature, ±2% RH for humidity) is commendable, ensuring reliable data collection for informed decision-making.

As mentioned in the intro section the sensor has built-in LoRaWAN capabilities which is a massive advantage for large fields as now there is no requirement for you to wire up all the sensors in the field and meet their power requirements. LoRaWAN’s long-range communication capabilities (2km in urban areas, 5km in line-of-sight) eliminate the need for complex wiring, simplifying deployment and reducing infrastructure costs. As LoRa is very energy efficient and in a practical environment you don’t need a constant data flow from the sensor the device is designed for battery-powered operations and can run for one year without changing the battery, allowing for placement in remote or hard-to-reach locations.

Durability and Environmental Resilience

The sensor features a rugged construction, with an IP68 rating meaning it is water resistant in fresh water to a maximum depth of 1.5 meters for up to 30 minutes, and is protected from dust. So it can handle heavy rain dust even the water that comes during the irrigation of plants, ensuring uninterrupted operation even in challenging conditions. The wide operating temperature range (-40°C to 85°C) adds another layer of resilience, making it suitable for various climates and seasonal variations.

Cost-Effectiveness and Value Proposition

Another interesting thing about this temperature and humidity sensor is its cost, Makerfabs mentions that the sensor is comparably priced which is half the cost of comparable sensors on the market. This affordability makes it easy for large-scale deployments in farms, greenhouses, and other agricultural settings. The sensor’s long battery life (up to 1 year) further contributes to its value proposition, reducing maintenance requirements and operational costs.

Limitations and Considerations

The AgroSense sensor is really good in many ways, but it does have a few downsides we should talk about. First, while it’s usually pretty accurate, it might not be perfect for really specific jobs that need super precise measurements. Also, it uses LoRaWAN tech to send data, which means you’ll need a special gateway to make it work, and that could cost you more money.

Ease of Use and Configuration

One of the standout features of the AgroSense sensor is its user-friendliness. The provision of LoRaWAN DEV EUI, APP EUI, and APP Key streamlines the configuration process, enabling users to quickly connect the sensor to their LoRaWAN network. The compatibility with popular platforms like The Things Network further enhances accessibility.

Makerfabs Agrosense Features and Specificatios:

• Sensor Type: groSense LoRaWAN Temperature & Humidity Sensor
• Measurement Range:
  • Temperature: -40℃ to 85℃
  • Humidity: 0% to 100%RH
• Accuracy:
  • Temperature: ±0.2℃
  • Humidity: ±0.2%RH
• Waterproof Rating: IP68
• Transmission Protocol: LoRaWAN
• Frequency Bands Supported: EU868/US915
• Transmission Range:
  • Urban Scenes: At least 2km
  • Line of Sight Scenes: At least 5km
• Operating Temperature: -40℃ to 85℃
• Enclosure Type: Industrial-grade IP68-rated
• Power Source: Battery-powered
• Battery Life: Up to 1 year
• Compatibility: Works with LoRaWAN gateway

The device supports LoRaWAN gateways, but if you are planning to purchase one for your industrial or agricultural project, you can surely check out Makerfabs’ Sensecap M2. LoRaWAN gateway which also the company recommends.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the AgroSense LoRaWAN Temperature & Humidity Sensor offers a compelling combination of functionality, durability, and affordability. Its accurate measurements, long-range communication, and robust construction make it well-suited for agricultural monitoring. The sensor’s ease of use and compatibility with popular LoRaWAN networks further enhance its appeal. While it may not be the most precise sensor on the market, its value proposition is undeniable, especially for large-scale deployments where cost-effectiveness is a priority.

If you’re seeking a reliable, user-friendly, and budget-friendly solution for agricultural monitoring, the AgroSense LoRaWAN Temperature & Humidity Sensor is a worthy contender. Its features and performance make it a valuable tool for farmers, agronomists, and researchers looking to optimize crop yields and resource utilization.

Product list:

The Agrosense_Air Temperature and Humidity Sensor is available at Makerfabs for $22.90 other than that the company produces other sensors such as the Agrosense Barometric Pressure Sensor, Agrosense_Light Intensity Sensor, Agrosense_RTD PT1000 Temperature Sensor which you can check out from the companies website.

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