How do LPWA technologies achieve extended coverage compared to traditional cellular networks?

Low Power Wide Area (LPWA) technologies are designed to provide long-range communication with low power consumption, making them suitable for applications that require extended coverage and operate on battery-powered devices. LPWA technologies achieve extended coverage compared to traditional cellular networks through several technical mechanisms:

1. Modulation Schemes:
   LPWA technologies often use different modulation schemes compared to traditional cellular networks. These modulation schemes are optimized for long-range communication and are capable of covering larger distances with lower signal degradation. These modulation schemes prioritize reach over data rate, allowing devices to communicate over extended ranges.
2. Frequency Bands:
   LPWA technologies typically operate in lower frequency bands, such as sub-GHz frequencies. Lower frequencies can penetrate obstacles more effectively and have better propagation characteristics, enabling signals to travel longer distances and penetrate buildings more easily. Traditional cellular networks, in contrast, often use higher frequencies that may offer higher data rates but are limited in terms of coverage.
3. Narrowband Communication:
   LPWA technologies often use narrowband communication, which means they transmit data over a smaller portion of the frequency spectrum. This allows them to operate more efficiently over longer distances, as narrower bandwidths experience less attenuation and interference. Traditional cellular networks, on the other hand, often use wider bandwidths to support higher data rates.
4. Power Efficiency:
   LPWA technologies are designed to be power-efficient, allowing devices to operate on batteries for extended periods. These devices typically use low-power transmission modes and can enter sleep modes when not actively transmitting or receiving data. This power efficiency is crucial for devices deployed in remote areas where power sources may be limited. Traditional cellular networks, optimized for higher data rates, may consume more power and may not be suitable for battery-powered devices with the same longevity requirements.
5. Cell Size and Density:
   LPWA networks can support larger cell sizes, meaning that each base station can cover a larger geographical area. This reduces the overall infrastructure requirements and cost for deploying LPWA networks in remote or sparsely populated areas. Traditional cellular networks, with smaller cell sizes to support higher user densities in urban areas, may not be as cost-effective in extending coverage to remote locations.
6. Deployment Cost:
   LPWA technologies often have lower deployment costs compared to traditional cellular networks. The infrastructure required for LPWA networks, such as base stations, is less complex and can cover larger areas with fewer units. This makes it economically feasible to extend coverage to remote and low-density regions.