LoRa technology explained
Discover how LoRa radio technology works and why it's perfect for emergency communication without internet
What is LoRa technology?
LoRa stands for Long Range and is a wireless communication technology specifically designed for low power consumption and long range. It's the technology behind MeshCore emergency communication.
Unlike WiFi, Bluetooth, or mobile networks that consume a lot of energy and have limited range, LoRa can communicate kilometers away while devices last months to years on a single battery.
For emergency communication, these are crucial characteristics: you want a network that's always available, reaches far, and doesn't drain quickly. LoRa provides exactly that.
How does LoRa radio work?
LoRa uses a clever technique called chirp spread spectrum modulation. Without technical jargon, this means:
Low frequency = long range
LoRa uses sub-GHz frequencies (868 MHz in Europe). These waves travel further than higher frequencies and can penetrate obstacles like buildings and trees better.
Low data rate = robust signal
LoRa sends data slowly (0.3 - 50 kbps). This sounds slow, but for text messages it's perfect. The signal becomes more robust and less sensitive to interference.
Spread spectrum = interference-resistant
The signal is spread across a wide frequency range. This allows LoRa to punch through noise and interference where other technologies fail.
Low power = long battery life
LoRa devices consume extremely little energy. A device can stay active for days to weeks on a single battery, perfect for emergency situations.
Technical characteristics of LoRa
This makes LoRa uniquely suitable for emergency communication:
Range: 1-10+ kilometers
In urban areas you achieve approximately 1 kilometer range. In open field, without obstacles, this can extend to 10+ kilometers. With a repeater on a high point (building, hill) even 15-20 km is possible.
Frequency: 868 MHz (EU)
In Europe, LoRa uses the 868 MHz ISM band. This is a free, license-free frequency that anyone can use for low-power devices. In the US, 915 MHz is used.
Data rate: 0.3 - 50 kbps
This sounds slow compared to WiFi (Mbps) or 4G (Mbps), but for text messages this is more than sufficient. An average text message is only 100-200 bytes.
Power: 10-25 mW transmission
LoRa devices transmit with very low power (0.01 - 0.025 Watt). For comparison: a WiFi router uses 100-200 mW, a GSM phone 200-2000 mW. Less power = longer battery life.
Battery life: days to months
Depending on usage and settings, a LoRa device can operate for days to weeks on a single battery. In sleep mode, devices can even last months to years.
Benefits of LoRa for emergency communication
Extreme range
Up to 10+ km in open field. Much further than WiFi or Bluetooth. Perfect for bridging large distances.
Long battery life
Days to weeks of active use. Ideal for prolonged crisis situations without access to power.
No infrastructure needed
Works without internet, mobile network, cell towers, or routers. Completely peer-to-peer communication.
Free to use
No subscription, no provider, no monthly costs. One-time purchase of the device.
Robust signal
Penetrates walls, trees, and obstacles. Works even in bad weather or urban areas.
Open standard
LoRa is an open technology. No vendor lock-in, devices from different brands work together.
LoRa compared to other technologies
| Feature | LoRa | WiFi | Bluetooth | Mobile (4G/5G) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Range | 1-10+ km | ~50 meters | ~10 meters | 1-10 km (with tower) |
| Power consumption | Very low | High | Medium | High |
| Infrastructure | Not needed | Router/internet required | Not needed | Cell tower required |
| Data speed | 0.3-50 kbps (slow) | 50-1000 Mbps (fast) | 1-3 Mbps (medium) | 1-100 Mbps (fast) |
| Cost | Free (no subscription) | Internet subscription | Free | Mobile subscription |
| Emergency communication | ✓ Excellent | ✗ Depends on internet | ✗ Too short range | ✗ Depends on tower |
What is LoRa used for?
LoRa technology is applied worldwide in various scenarios:
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Emergency communication: MeshCore uses LoRa for reliable communication during disasters and crises
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IoT sensors: Smart meters, temperature monitoring, air quality measurement – all on battery
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Agriculture: Farmers monitor fields, livestock, and irrigation with LoRa sensors
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Smart cities: Managing parking spaces, waste bins, street lighting
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Tracking: GPS trackers for animals, vehicles, or valuable goods with months of battery life
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Outdoor adventures: Mountaineers, sailors, and hikers use LoRa to stay in contact without mobile coverage
Frequently asked questions
Is LoRa the same as LoRaWAN?
No. LoRa is the radio technology (physical layer). LoRaWAN is a network protocol that works on top of LoRa and uses central gateways. MeshCore uses LoRa but not LoRaWAN – it's peer-to-peer without central infrastructure.
Do I need a license to use LoRa?
No, LoRa uses the ISM band (868 MHz in EU) which is freely available for low-power devices. You can use LoRa without a license.
Can I send video or photos via LoRa?
No, LoRa is too slow for large files. It's designed for text messages, location data, and small data. For emergency communication, sending text messages is perfect.
Does LoRa work everywhere in the world?
Yes, but watch the frequency: Europe uses 868 MHz, US/Canada use 915 MHz, Asia 433 MHz. You must buy devices that support the correct frequency for your region.
How much does a LoRa device cost?
LoRa radio devices for MeshCore cost approximately €50-100. There are no subscription costs or monthly fees. You pay once for the device.
Is LoRa secure and private?
The LoRa signal itself is not encrypted, but MeshCore adds end-to-end encryption for private messages. Only you and the receiver can read them.
Ready to use LoRa technology?
Now that you understand how LoRa works, you see why it's the ideal technology for emergency communication. Long range, low power, no infrastructure – exactly what you need when everything fails.
Get started with MeshCore and experience LoRa technology yourself.