Design of a low power wireless sensor network platform for monitoring in citrus production.

Abstract

Wireless sensors networks (WSN) enable the acquisition of valuable data directly from the production field that, in turns, open unprecedented opportunities for data analysis and decision making systems. Monitoring microclimate variations, typical in citrus crops, could allow precise irrigation scheduling and harvest planning. However, a limited lifetime of battery-powered sensor nodes may impose barriers to its widespread adoption. This work presents the overall architecture and main characteristics of a WSN solution based on open standards and free software. The main techniques applied to reduce power consumption are described, obtaining an expected node battery lifetime of more than two years.