Feasibility Analysis of Multi-hop Underwater LoRa Networks: an Experimental Approach

In this thesis, the results of a series of measurements performed to analyze the transmission capabilities of LoRaWAN technology for underwater (transmitter-receiver) transmission are presented. Tests were carried out on communication between Arduino MKR WAN boards using the multi-hop method. In laboratory tests, data transfer was observed by creating double, triple and quintet nodes and focusing on the transmitter and receiver mechanism. Field tests were carried out in the Piovego Canal. During these tests, the transmitting node was sent underwater, and based on this, the data obtained by the receiving node from the transmitting node and the RSSI values of the receiving node were analyzed according to the amount of depth under water. Accordingly, the results obtained show that LoRaWAN transmitters can be used in all those conditions where they are expected to be partially or completely submerged under still water. As a result of this study, it can play an important role in the use of surface marine sensor networks in the context of the Internet of Underwater Things (IoUT) in general.