WND UK, which operates Sigfox’s low power wide area network (LPWAN) technology in the UK and Latin America, is collaborating with Jisc to enable universities and colleges to run IoT technology on a dedicated network with low set-up costs. WND UK is seeking universities and colleges across the UK to partner with Sigfox by agreeing to install base stations on their campus. It has offered to provide free kit to interested institutions.
Sigfox’s network allows connected devices such as sensors and vehicle equipment to communicate small amounts of data over large distances using tiny amounts of power. Because of their low power consumption, these remote sensors can run for many years on a single battery and are even safer and more secure than standard wireless networks.
IoT enables new, disruptive services and solutions in areas such as asset tracking, the smart environment and smart cities. Some universities already use IoT in libraries and others are exploring how this could be adopted across their estates. The technology would provide a modern experience that responds to student interactions to help make campuses more digitally intuitive - an integral part of Jisc’s education 4.0 vision to transform education through advanced technologies.
Some 90% of the UK’s population and 56% of its area can currently access the Sigfox network through more than 1,800 base stations. Current partners already include a number of universities as well as E.ON, Thames Water and local authorities.
WND UK will provide 100 free Sigfox subscriptions per year, per approved site, for the duration of agreements with universities and colleges. Those interested in taking part should contact WND UK directly to check coverage and make arrangements for installation.
The collaboration follows an agreement earlier this year with The Things Network (TTN), provider of another global network for IoT devices, which allowed its community network server to run on the Janet Network infrastructure.
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