KPN is going to set up a network to so-called LoRa connections as possible. This can, for example, cars and vuilniscontainers to connect with other devices, using low-frequency long-distance links with low data capacity.
KPN is going to the LoRa network this year, already know the provider is still not exactly how the network is set up will be. “We are now working with the development of the protocol, together with the LoRa Alliance,” said spokesperson Nienke Faster. So will the provider ensure that the network is compatible with the networks of other providers.
The LoRa network is designed for devices that are not continuously connected to the internet need to have, but which is only occasionally dates need to give. That, for example, in cars; transporters would be the position of their vehicles to track. Also flexible streetlights that are on or off remotely and can be set and smart bins that can pass when they are full, belong to the possibilities.
At this moment KPN, like other providers, all m2m applications over existing 2g, 3g and 4g networks, but the advantage of LoRa connections is that they are much less energy devoid. A device with a LoRa-connection can, according to KPN ten years on a simple AA battery to work. However, the maximum throughput is limited: that is a maximum of 50 kilobits per second. That, incidentally, is still twice as fast as gprs.
It is not yet known what a LoRa-connection costs. KPN is going to the connections housing at a frequency of 868MHz. “That is a public band,” says Faster. KPN do this, so no license to have. In ideal circumstances, have the connections, a range of 15 kilometers. “But in cities, of course, that less,” says Faster.
Users will equipment need to purchase that is compatible with the network; at this time support is not yet widespread. The network is primarily intended for corporate customers; KPN know whether or not the technique also to consumers is going to offer, for example, smart refrigerators to internet nodes.