German IoT firm Alpha-Omega Technology is using LoRaWan technology from Semtech in its Klax line of smart meter interface modules for enterprise and consumer utility management.

This should help enable the simple deployment and retrofit of legacy metering for real-time utility data transfer over LoRaWans.

“Semtech’s LoRa devices offer significant advantages for the smart utilities industry and bring customers the means to quickly, cost effectively and simply transform their legacy applications with long range connectivity,” said Jan Bose, CEO at Alpha-Omega. “LoRa devices and the LoRaWan protocol provide customers an accurate look into their utility use rates, and represent an effective platform for IoT applications in the utility vertical. With this proven IoT platform, Alpha-Omega was able to create a product in Klax that meets our customers’ needs and delivers a swift return on investment.”

The Klax module monitors energy and gas use in real time and integrates into existing metering infrastructure without the need for external devices, wires or a power source. It deploys magnetically in less than a minute and leverages a simple optical interface to connect with the meter, reducing installation costs.

This simple retrofit enables the smart, remote management of utility data from meters, which previously required in-person reading. The device uses LoRa devices and the LoRaWan protocol to deliver utility data long range, up to kilometres from the nearest gateway, and deep indoors, creating an effective tool for large-scale business campuses and apartment complexes.

Additionally, Klax collaborated with Things Industries and Datacake to create web applications providing end users simple, up-to-date access to their usage data. This delivers tangible cost savings by allowing accurate insight into energy use and enabling a targeted approach to reducing waste, bringing savings on monthly bills and reducing environmental impact.

“The Klax module leverages LoRa and the LoRaWan protocol to allow customers the means to quickly connect their legacy applications and receive the benefits of IoT and smart metering,” said Marc Pegulu, vice president at California-based Semtech. “As there is a continued drive for efficiency and renewable energy as natural resources increase in scarcity, Alpha-Omega’s module brings the feature set for smarter, sustainable and efficient energy use.”

The focus of Alpha-Omega is on the development of IoT. In addition to selling IoT hardware, the company works with its partners to design IoT projects for municipalities and companies.