Lowest Power Mesh Network

Hi everyone,

I’m working on implementing a LoRa Mesh network using RAK4631 modules, with a strong focus on minimizing power consumption since the devices will be battery-powered. To reduce costs, I’ve opted for LoRa P2P instead of LoRaWAN, as there’s no gateway in the setup. In this setup, only one node (the master node) will operate on mains power and have GSM connectivity to push sensor readings to the cloud.

I’m seeking advice from the experts here to figure out the best starting point and development path. I’ve already explored some excellent examples, particularly those by @beegee on RUI3-MESH. However, I’m wondering if these examples are optimized for the lowest possible power consumption.

For instance, the example I reviewed operates in “Enable RX mode (always with TX allowed).” Is it possible to disable RX entirely and put the nodes into deep sleep to save power? My idea is to program the nodes to wake up at specific intervals, communicate with each other, and then return to deep sleep.

Would sticking with RUI3 give me the best power optimization? Or should I consider switching to the WisBlock API for better results? Any insights, recommendations, or experiences you can share would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you in advance for your help!

If you are using a Mesh network, you will have to keep all nodes in RX mode all the time. Otherwise they cannot work as repeater/forwarder to receive packages addressed to your “gateway” and forward them in case the sending node is out of range to the “gateway”.

There are options that I didn’t explore yet, like using synchronized send/receive times for all nodes which would allow to have nodes opening the RX window only on defined windows.
I know other Mesh networks are using this to reduce power consumption, but I am not sure how difficult it is to implement something like this.