Sigfox
Sigfox is a narrowband LPWAN (like NB-IoT) protocol developed in 2009 in Toulouse, France. The founding company goes by the same name. This is another LPWAN technology using the unlicensed ISM bands for a proprietary protocol. Sigfox has some traits that significantly narrow its utility:
- Up to 140 messages per device daily on uplink (duty cycle of 1%, 6 messages/hour).
- A payload size of 12 bytes for each message (uplink) and 8 bytes (downlink). A throughput of up to 100 bps uplink and 600 bps downlink.
Originally, Sigfox was unidirectional and intended as a pure sensor network. That implies that only communication from the sensor uplink was supported. Since then a downlink channel has become available.
Sigfox is a patented and closed technology. While their hardware is open, however, the network is not and requires a subscription. Sigfox hardware partners include Atmel, TI, Silicon Labs, and others.
Sigfox builds and operates its network infrastructure...
