Configuring and managing a large-scale monitoring network solving real world challenges for ultra low powered and long-range wireless mesh networks

In creating wireless networking solutions suitable for deployment in harsh, unpredictable, and widespread environments, we were confronted with a series of problems as-yet unsolved by commercially available technologies. The purpose of this article is to describe how we addressed mission-critical customer requirements by developing a wireless technology explicitly for devices in Ultra Low Power (ULP) and Long-Range wireless mesh networks. The key end-points in our target implementation are battery-operated devices located in hard-to-reach places, but which are nonetheless expected to offer a lifespan of several years without human intervention.We provide an overview of the technical requirements for building ULP networks, with a focus on configuration and management (including patent pending self-configuration and dynamic-routing features).This is followed by a case study of an existing 25,000 node wireless network deployed for an automatic meter reading (AMR) solution, and examples of provisioning individual nodes in complex real-world networks. We also describe how transmitting information about existing network hierarchy to new nodes not only preserves overall battery life in other network nodes, but also simplifies installation efforts significantly. The technology described here is particularly applicable to metering, telemetry, remote monitoring, and large-scale data collection solutions, while straightforwardly suited for personal and property security, medical surveillance, access control, lighting systems, as well as numerous industrial sectors.With a strong background in utility metering systems, Coronis Systems provides ready-to-use wireless solutions for manufacturers, VARs, and integrators in the automatic remote metering and wireless sensor network industries.