ITU-R REPORT SM.2423-0 PDF

Introduction

A new type of wireless systems has been developed under the generic name of Low-Power Wide-Area Network (LPWAN) that may operate under the regulations for short range devices (SRD). Such innovations complement the range of existing wireless solutions. LPWAN systems do not rely on a single technology, but a group of low-power, wide-area network technologies that may be proprietary or open standards.

These new systems can help to address the challenges raised by the wide-ranging applications under development where numerous devices need only to transmit a few messages per day. Section 4 of this Report provides details on the applications targeted by LPWAN, such as those related to smart cities, manufacturing, home automation, environment and agriculture, transport and logistics, energy and utilities.

These solutions have a number of common technical and operational characteristics that make them suitable for facilitating massive Machine Type Communications (mMTC) and Internet of Things (IoT) applications.

Section 5.1 of this Report provides details on technical aspects, including common spectrum access techniques, a flat network architecture, and frame sizes in the order of tens of bytes transmitted a few times per day at ultra-low speeds.

Section 5.2 of this Report provides details on LPWAN operational capabilities enabling a massive number of connections from cost efficient radio equipment with relatively low output power levels to provide connectivity on average over several kilometres, while maintaining longer battery lifetimes.

In response to Resolution ITU-R 66 "Studies related to wireless systems and applications for the development of the Internet of Things, this Report provides the technical and operational aspects of LPWAN for MTC and IoT in frequency ranges harmonised for SRD operation"