Glasgow leads Internet of Things connectivity with new LoRa network

Glasgow is paving the way for the next wave of internet technology, the Internet of Things (IoT), thanks to a collaborative project involving Stream Technologies, Semtech, Boston Networks and CENSIS.

Working with Glasgow University, Strathclyde University and Glasgow Caledonian University, the group has installed a wireless IoT network covering 12km² across the city, including the commercial centre, Merchant City and the West End. The network will enable the development and use of devices such as building and indoor environmental monitors, pollution sensors, tags for tracking valuable assets and social care devices designed to support independent living.

Currently being used to monitor air quality and enhance intelligent transport systems, the introduction of Semtech’s LoRa geolocation solution is helping deliver the next phase of the technology, with capabilities not previously available. The network can now identify the location of devices without requiring more battery power, opening up a host of new applications. The system provides a much lower power and cheaper way of connecting previously isolated devices, giving the public, developers and businesses the ability to create their own IoT infrastructure to develop and demonstrate new business solutions.