Contents
The LSN50v2-8 and SN50V3 -LB/LS are both open-source LoRaWAN base nodes from Dragino. Although they share a few common features, there are some important differences that may impact their suitability depending on the application. Below, we will explore the main distinctions between these two devices:
LoRaWAN Version and Class
Both devices operate on LoRaWAN version 1.0.3 and adhere to Class A specifications, meaning they function in low-power modes and can transmit and receive data at certain intervals. This ensures they are suitable for low-power IoT applications where energy efficiency is critical.
LoRa Core
The LSN50v2-8 uses the SX1276/78 LoRa core. Whereas the SN50V3 uses the more advanced SX1262. The SX1262 offers improved performance in terms of power consumption and range, making the SN50V3 more efficient in scenarios where these factors are crucial.
Available Frequency Bands
The LSN50v2-8 supports the following common frequency bands: 433/868/915/920 MHz, covering the majority of Europe and the US. The SN50V3 however offers more extensive regional support, covering CN470, EU433, KR920, US915, EU868, AS923, AU915, and IN865, making it a better choice for global deployments.
I/O Interface
The LSN50v2-8 features 18 digital I/Os, an I2C interface, and an LPUSART interface. The SN50V3 has a more versatile I/O setup with 3 interrupt or digital IN/OUT pins, 3 one-wire interfaces, 1 UART, and 1 I2C interface.
The LSN50v2-8 offers more general-purpose digital I/O’s, while the SN50V3 has a more diverse interface set, which includes one-wire interfaces useful for specific sensors.
Configuration
Both devices support downlink commands and AT commands (for wired configuration). However, the SN50V3 also supports Bluetooth for remote configuration, providing greater flexibility for over-the-air (OTA) adjustments.
Firmware Updates
The SN50V3 supports FUOTA, allowing firmware updates over-the-air. This is an important feature for large deployments where remote updates are needed. The LSN50v2-8 unfortunately does not support this feature, making firmware updates much more time-consuming and less convenient for large deployments.
Battery and Power Options
Both devices are supplied with an 8500mAh Li/SOCI2 replaceable battery which can (depending on uplink interval and use case) last up to 10 years! However; the SN50V3 includes the option for a solar panel (the SN50V3-LS), making it more sustainable and suitable for off-grid installations.
Neither device is supplied with rechargeable batteries, so the solar panel version of the SN50V3 offers a workaround for this limitation.
IP Rating
The LSN50v2-8 has a higher IP66 rating, providing better protection against dust and strong water jets. Whereas the SN50V3 has an IP65 rating, which is still strong but offers slightly less protection against water ingress. This is due to the addition of the pressure valve on the SN50V3 which helps protect against condensation forming within the device whilst slightly compromising on ingress protection.
For applications in harsher environments, the LSN50v2-8 may be preferable due to its superior ingress protection.
Additional Features
The SN50V3 includes several extra features not found in the LSN50v2-8:
– An external Power/Function button for easier control without opening the device.
– An external LED, which is useful for diagnostics or status indication.
These added features make the SN50V3 more user-friendly and adaptable device in various use cases.
Summary of Key Differences
– LoRa Core: The SN50V3’s SX1262 is more power-efficient and has a better range than the LSN50v2-8’s SX1276/78.
– Frequency Bands: The SN50V3 supports a wider range of regional frequency bands.
– I/O Interface: The LSN50v2-8 offers more digital I/Os, but the SN50V3 has a more diverse set of interfaces.
– Bluetooth and FUOTA: Only the SN50V3 supports Bluetooth for remote configuration and FUOTA.
– Solar Power: The SN50V3 is compatible with solar panels, making it ideal for remote or off-grid installations.
– Ingress Protection: The LSN50v2-8 has a higher IP66 rating compared to the SN50V3’s IP65, giving it better environmental protection.
The choice between the LSN50v2-8 and the SN50V3 will depend on the specific needs of the project. If the application requires better ingress protection and a simpler setup with more digital I/Os, the LSN50v2-8 may be the better option. On the other hand, if advanced features like Bluetooth configuration, FUOTA, solar power, and wider frequency band support are more important, the SN50V3 offers these enhancements and more.
| Feature: | LSN50v2-8 | SN50V3 |
| Open Source? | Yes | Yes |
| LoRaWAN Class? | Class A | Class A |
| LoRa Core? | SX1276/78 | SX1262 |
| Available Bands? | 433/868/915/920 | CN470/EU433/KR920/US915/EU868/AS923/AU915/IN865 |
| I/O Interface? | 18x Digital I/Os 1x I2C interface 1x LPUSART 1 interface | 3x Interrupt or Digital IN/OUT pins 3x One-wire interfaces 1x UART interface 1x I2C interface |
| Supports Downlink Commands for Configuration? | Yes | Yes |
| Supports AT Commands for Wired Configuration? | Yes | Yes |
| Supports Bluetooth for Remote Configuration? | No | Yes |
| Supports FUOTA? | No | Yes |
| Battery Type? | 8500mAh Li/SOCI2 | 8500mAh Li/SOCI2 |
| Battery Life? | Up to 10 yrs (Dependant on uplink interval and use case) | Up to 10 yrs (Dependant on uplink interval and use case) |
| Replaceable Battery? | Yes | Yes |
| Rechargeable Battery? | No | No |
| Solar Panel Version Available? | No | Yes |
| IP Rating? | IP66 | IP65 |
| External Antenna? | Yes | Yes |
| External PWR/FCN Button? | No | Yes |
| External LED? | No | Yes |