LoRaWAN regional parameters
LoRa modulation, like all other radio frequency emissions, is subject to regulation that sets its usage limits. We focus on the regulation of LoraWAN.
LoRaWAN is the application and protocol layer that runs on top of the LoRa radio modulation. LoRa in Spain operates in the unlicensed radio spectrum band, which means that it can be transmitted on that frequency without paying for its use – in the same way as with WiFi. LoRa modulation, like all other radio frequency emissions, is subject to regulation that sets its usage limits.
Like any radio frequency used for data transmission, the generic regulatory standard at European level is defined by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI). Currently, the current regulation is defined by ETSI EN 300 220-1.
However, ETSI EN 300 220-1 specifies how radio waves from a range of 25 MHz to 1000 MHz should be used, meaning that much of this standard does not apply to LoRa, since its majority use in the European area is limited to the 868 MHz free band.
For this reason, the LoRa Alliance has developed a document called LoRaWAN Regional Parameters which explains the specific regulations for LoRa and LoRaWAN. This document differentiates which specific regulations apply to LoRa modulation and which to LoRaWAN (modulation and application layer set).
The Lora Alliance summarized all the regulations worldwide, so in order to know what affects the Spanish level, we will have to follow the European regulation and, therefore, look at those points entitled EU863-870MHz. Although it is true that device manufacturers have to be very attentive to this regulation, at the user level of a LoRaWAN network of their own, what we have to be aware of are the following limitations:
- Frequency bands: 868-869 MHz
- 10 channels, 8 with data rates of between 250bps and 5.5 kbps, 1 of 11kbps and 1 FSK of 50 kbps
- Maximum output power: +14 dBM
- Duty Cycle of between 0.1% and 1% depending on the channel
- In private networks there is no limitation on the length of stay in the channel
It is important to know these limits because if the network is private and self-managed, it is the user’s responsibility to comply with the regulations. In any case, it will always be difficult for devices certified to transmit LoRaWAN to allow non-regulatory configurations.
If you are interested in setting up a LoRaWAN network without risk of non-compliance or more information about LoRaWAN networks, do not hesitate to contact us.
