====== LoRa / LoRaWAN ======

LoRa (Long Range) is a low-power, long-range wireless communication technology designed for sparse, distributed sensor networks.  
LoRaWAN defines the network protocol layer used for device addressing, routing, and gateway communication.

===== Purpose in AOFS =====

  * Long-distance soil moisture sensors
  * Remote water tank level monitoring
  * Environmental stations (wind, rainfall, temperature)
  * Large farm perimeter or distributed zone monitoring
  * Sparse deployments where mesh density is impractical

===== Layer Mapping =====

  * Sensor → Field Controller (via local LoRa gateway)
  * Optional Field → Farm Controller aggregation
  * Not used for direct safety-critical actuation without local validation

===== Strengths =====

  * Very long communication range (several kilometers depending on terrain)
  * Extremely low power consumption
  * Suitable for battery-powered or solar-powered remote sensors
  * Reduced infrastructure requirements compared to dense mesh networks
  * Well-suited for large or geographically dispersed farms

===== Limitations =====

  * Low bandwidth (not suitable for high-frequency data transmission)
  * Higher latency compared to short-range mesh protocols
  * Typically requires a gateway device for network aggregation
  * Not suitable for high-speed real-time control loops

===== AOFS Compliance Notes =====

  * LoRa devices must communicate through a locally controlled gateway
  * Field Controller must validate all received data before acting
  * LoRa communication loss must not compromise irrigation safety
  * Actuation commands must always be executed by the Field Controller, not directly by remote nodes
  * All LoRa-originating data and events must be timestamped and logged
  * LoRa connectivity is optional and must not be required for core operation