Recommendations for Improving Gateway Availability

To ensure maximum gateway availability, it is necessary to follow a series of recommendations covering various aspects of its operation. These recommendations include requirements for connectivity, software updates, physical location of the device, and operating conditions.

1. Registration and Verification of the Gateway

The gateway must be registered and verified to ensure Rewards. Read more here.

2. Ensuring Quality Internet Connection

• Wired Connection: It is preferable to use a wired connection as it provides the most stable connection. Use a Category 5 Enhanced (Cat5e) cable for connecting the POE cable. For additional protection, cover the connections with electrical insulation tape.

  • It is recommended to use a POE switch that will be connected through an uninterruptible power supply (UPS).

• Wi-Fi Connection: If a wired connection is not possible, use Wi-Fi. Ensure its stability and the absence of interference.

• SIM Card: In the absence of a wired or Wi-Fi connection, use a SIM card. Check that the SIM card is activated and the balance is topped up.

  • The SIM card can be used as a backup communication channel in case of problems with the primary internet connection.

  • SIM cards in gateways are supplied already inside the gateway from Chirp. The balance on each SIM card should be topped up at least to a small amount to ensure continuous communication.

  • To activate the SIM card, contact support.

• Communication Channel Setup: All communication channels, including LAN and WLAN, can be configured simultaneously to ensure redundancy, so the gateway can switch to another channel if one connection is lost.

  • The priority of communication channels can be individually configured, ensuring optimal switching between them depending on availability and stability.

3. Ensuring Uninterrupted Power Supply

• Recommendation: It is desirable for the gateway to be connected to a UPS to prevent shutdowns in case of power outages.

4. Physical Location of the Gateway

• For more detailed information about the physical location and installation of the gateway, you can read here.

• Ensure there are no metal barriers nearby that could block the GPS signal.

• Check that the gateway is installed in a location with a good GPS signal.

• Ensure that there are no other gateways within a 300-meter radius. If multiple gateways are connected within a 300-meter radius, only the first registered gateway will receive rewards.

• Make sure there are no military objects or other sites using GPS signal jammers nearby.

5. Additional Measures

• Check the correct installation of antennas. Improperly installed antennas can lead to signal degradation. For more detailed information about antenna installation, you can read here, including an article on the importance of antenna placement for signal coverage and crypto rewards.

  • Attention! Do not turn on the gateway without antennas, as this will result in the failure of the LoRaWAN module. This will be considered a non-warranty case! The gateway must be connected to the network only with the antennas connected.

  • Never turn on the gateway without antennas; this can lead to transmitter damage.

  • In rural areas, it is recommended to use routers with cellular support and signal amplifiers.

6. Checking Compatibility with Operators

• Ensure that the SIM card is supported by telecom operators in your country. In some countries, there may be restrictions that need to be considered.

7. Accounting for External Factors

• Monitor weather conditions and other external factors that may affect the stability of the internet connection.