One-Channel Hub: A Compact LoRaWAN® Access Point for Cost-Effective Internet of Things (IoT)

awaSemtech’s One-Channel Hub reference design enables affordable LoRaWAN® sensor networks, meeting the needs of smart homes and small setups with only a few connected devices. This solution suits homeowners, Internet Service Providers expanding connectivity, insurance companies managing risks, property managers seeking better control, and security system operators developing cost-effective home options. 

A Day in a Connected Home: How the One-Channel Hub Keeps the House Safe and Smart 

Coming Home to Intelligence 

It's a calm Saturday afternoon when Mira and Tia approach their front door. Something magical happens—the house recognizes them. 

The moment they step inside, their home springs to life. Lights adjust automatically. The temperature shifts to their preferred setting. Ventilation systems optimize air flow. When Tia rushes upstairs to her bedroom, the lights brighten and the temperature adjusts to her personal comfort level. 

This isn't just automation—it's adaptation. Environmental sensors maintain the perfect balance of temperature and humidity throughout the house. CO₂ and air quality monitors in Tia's room ensure she always breathes fresh, clean air. Even the pool temperature sensor is quietly preparing the water for an evening swim. 

All of this happens seamlessly, orchestrated by the compact One-Channel Hub that connects every corner of their home. 

Security That Works in Silence 

As Aarav pulls into the driveway, the garage door sensor detects his car and opens automatically. A gentle ping on Mira's phone confirms his arrival. The smart camera at the front door recognizes him as a trusted user, unlocking just as he reaches the porch. No keys needed, no fumbling—just seamless access. 

Later in the day, the mailbox sensor sends a notification when the mail carrier drops off a package. If someone lingers near the gate, the system quietly logs the activity. There's no panic, no delays—just steady, reliable security powered by LoRa® technology and the One-Channel Hub. 

Protection You Can't See But Can Trust 

In the kitchen, Aarav's sister Nina starts preparing dinner. As she cooks, a gas detection sensor silently monitors the air quality. When a faint leak occurs—too small for human senses to detect—the sensor responds within seconds. Nina's phone flashes a warning while the central gas valve automatically shuts off, preventing any danger. 

Down in the basement, another guardian stands ready. A leak detection sensor positioned near the washing machine constantly monitors for even the smallest drops of water. When a leak begins, the hub instantly alerts the system, preventing flooding and protecting appliances from hidden water damage. 

In the cozy guest cottage behind the main house, Grandma Emma enjoys her evening tea. She wears a simple LoRa-enabled fall detection band connected to the hub. When she slips near the kitchen, an instant alert reaches Aarav and Mira's phones. No shouting for help, no waiting—just immediate notification when assistance is needed. 

A Home That Never Sleeps 

As dawn breaks, the house awakens gently. Lights illuminate only occupied rooms. Fans adjust airflow automatically. Smart plugs power the water heater and purifier exactly when needed. LoRa-connected thermostats balance comfort with energy efficiency throughout the day. 

When night falls and the family settles in, the house grows quiet—but the LoRa sensors never rest. They continue listening, learning, and protecting. Even in stillness, the home pulses with quiet intelligence. 

The Connected Future, Today 

Security. Safety. Sustainability. All seamlessly connected through LoRa technology and managed by one powerful hub. 

This is more than a smart home—it's a home that truly cares. 

Reference Design 

The One-Channel Hub reference design provides LoRaWAN network connectivity using the most cost-effective solution available. It combines Semtech’s LoRa Connect™ sub-GHz transceivers with a low-cost Espressif SoC that acts as a packet forwarder and provides Wi-Fi backhaul.  

When implemented with LR1121, the hub can detect a LoRa preamble over two spreading factors (SFs) and trigger the demodulation upon positive detection. This capability enables greater network versatility, minimizing time-on-air and power consumption for indoor sensors while maximizing the supported range for remote sensors. 

One-Channel Hub Reference design: LRWHUB1EVK1A 

Customer Platforms (Wi-Fi Backhaul)

1. Seeed Studio SenseCAP Indicator 

Customer Platforms (Wi-Fi Backhaul) 

2.Seeed Studio Xiao  

Hardware: XIAO ESP32S3 & Wio-SX1262 Kit for Meshtastic & LoRa  

Software: GitHub – XIAO ESP32S3 

Ready to get started?

Implement the One-Channel Hub in your smart home project and tap into the extensive LoRaWAN ecosystem of devices for a diverse and cost-effective solution. To learn more about Semtech’s One-Channel Hub solution, visit our website.

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