low throughput network (LPWAN) (LTN)

Low Throughput Network (LTN) is a low power WAN( LPWAN) specified by ETSI for the Internet of Things( IoT) and machine-to-machine communication( M2M).

LTN networks are characterized by low-cost implementation, where the connection of the objects and the modems cost only a few euros. LTN networks require only a few milliwatts of transmitting power for data transmission because of the low throughput. This means that normal batteries used in the radio-based sensors and actuators can be operated for many years without requiring maintenance.

LTN networks transmit their data using Ultra Narrow Band( UNB); in Europe with a channel width of 100 Hz in the frequency range of868 MHz. The advantage of this method is that the LTN endpoints require little energy for data transfer. In addition, a high sensitivity of -135 dBm is recommended in the specifications. Two- phase shift keying(BPSK) is used as modulation. The distance range that can be bridged by LTN networks is about 40 km in rural areas.

The MAC frame for the uplink comprises relatively few data fields. For example, the preamble (4 bytes), the 2- byte frame synchronization, the end address (4 bytes), the payload with a maximum of 12 bytes, the variable data field for authentication and 2 bytes for cyclic block checking. The downlink frame is somewhat longer.