Low Power Wireless Sensor Node Platform for Agriculture Monitoring in Argentina

We present the development and evaluation of a basic building block for a future wireless sensor network for agriculture monitoring in Argentina. The module consists of a compact battery-powered wireless sensor node capable of monitoring the ambient air parameters of temperature, humidity, gas and air pressure in the agriculture industry of Argentina's Pampa region. Further in-and outputs allow the system to be extended flexibly by adding more sensors. Throughout the development, a simple, low-cost and open-source-based approach together with a lightweight communication protocol was pursued. The sensor nodes cover ranges of over 400 metres and can be operated on two AAA alkaline batteries for several years. Detailed current consumption values, range limits and battery life estimates are presented.