LoRaWAN® is a wireless system that delivers data over long distances and in congested spaces. In any real-world setup, power loss can occur at any time. What happens when the power goes out? More importantly, what happens to the VoBo and the data it collects? We’ll explore this question in this article.
Battery Powered IIoT Device That Keeps Collecting Data
VoBo is a battery-powered IIoT device designed to bridge wired sensors to a LoRaWAN® network. Its battery typically lasts years, depending on the sensor power draw, and in most cases, it requires no external power to collect data. As long as the VoBo powers the connected device or has its own power supply, the VoBo operates as normal. Often, the VoBo can power the IIoT devices it monitors, ensuring that sensors remain operational even during a power outage.
Onboard Storage for Reliable Data Logging
Every VoBo includes onboard flash memory, capable of storing thousands of sensor payloads. It stores these payloads in both online and offline modes. If the VoBo loses communication with the gateway, it continues to log data, storing all collected data until it is retrieved or overwritten. This feature is automatic, so no setup is needed.
Retrieving Stored Data
A VoBo allows for local data retrieval via a serial connection. Users can access stored data by physically connecting to the device using a serial cable and the VoBoConfig tool, which exports data in CSV format.
When the VoBo’s memory reaches capacity, new data overwrites the oldest records. With storage for thousands of sensor payloads, users have days or weeks to collect their data.
Monitoring Power with VoBo
If the power fails at the VoBo’s location, but the central monitoring office remains online, how can the network detect the outage?
- The VoBo Continues Operating – As a battery-powered IIoT device, the VoBo remains active. However, its sensor data may indicate if the monitored system loses power.
- The VoBo Can Monitor Power – the VoBo can integrate with current and voltage transducers and relays, making it a valuable tool for detecting and reporting the power status at remote locations.
What Happens When the VoBo Battery Needs Replacing?
As a battery-powered IIoT device, VoBo’s battery voltage is included in both its payload data and daily heartbeat signal, allowing users to monitor battery health. This allows you to plan for battery replacement when it’s most convenient, eliminating interruptions.
When the battery level drops below 2.9V, the VoBo stops performing its normal measurement cycles and sends one Heartbeat payload daily until the battery is replaced and normal operation continues. This voltage is the default setting, but it can be adjusted in the firmware.
Even if VoBo’s battery runs out, stored data remains in flash memory and can be retrieved later.
The Advantage of Data Logging
As we’ve seen, power loss isn’t a problem for a VoBo. Whether it’s a temporary outage or an extended blackout, the VoBo continues logging data, ensuring that no critical information is lost.
Since the VoBo is a battery-powered IIoT device with flash memory, it has the ability to function as a data logger in offline mode if a LoRaWAN® network is not available. This adds another option for collecting data, making VoBo a reliable solution for industrial IIoT connectivity and stand-alone data collection applications.
Your Data is Not Lost
With a VoBo, power failures don’t mean data loss. Whether monitoring sensors, tracking equipment status, or ensuring power reliability, the VoBo keeps working even when the lights go out. It has enough storage so that you can collect your data at your earliest convenience.
Conclusion and How to Purchase
VoBo is the ideal battery-powered IIoT device for data integrity, power monitoring, and industrial connectivity.
You can purchase a VoBo on our website. Corporate accounts and integrators: please contact us at info@volleyboast.com or +1 250-412-5679.