1121  Sigfox

1121.1 Introduction

⏱️ ~5 min | ⭐⭐ Intermediate | 📋 P09.C11.U01

Sigfox is both a proprietary LPWAN technology and the name of the French company that developed and operates it. Unlike other LPWAN technologies where you can deploy your own network, Sigfox operates as a network operator providing connectivity services globally. Sigfox pioneered the concept of ultra-narrow band (UNB) modulation for IoT, enabling billions of low-power devices to communicate with minimal infrastructure and energy consumption.

This chapter series provides comprehensive coverage of Sigfox technology, from fundamental concepts to hands-on implementation and assessment.

1121.2 Chapter Overview

The Sigfox content is organized into five focused chapters, each covering specific aspects of the technology:

1121.2.1 1. Sigfox Overview

Technology foundations and ultra-narrow band modulation

  • Sigfox company history and business model
  • Ultra-Narrow Band (UNB) technology principles
  • Network architecture and star topology
  • Power consumption analysis and battery life calculations
  • Comparison with LoRaWAN and NB-IoT alternatives

1121.2.2 2. Message Flow and Communication

Understanding uplink, downlink, and message constraints

  • Message flow sequence from device to cloud
  • Uplink characteristics: 12-byte payload, 140 messages/day
  • Downlink limitations: 8-byte payload, 4 messages/day
  • Energy impact of bi-directional communication
  • Common pitfalls: RX window timing, message budgeting

1121.2.3 3. Deployment Considerations

Planning and implementing Sigfox solutions

  • Decision framework for Sigfox suitability
  • Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analysis
  • Payload design and encoding best practices
  • Firmware update strategies
  • Deployment verification checklist

1121.2.4 4. Hands-On Lab

Practical implementation with ESP32 simulation

  • Wokwi ESP32 Sigfox simulator lab
  • Complete device code with UNB modulation simulation
  • Python deployment analyzer tool
  • Payload encoding/decoding implementations
  • Lab exercises with solutions

1121.2.5 5. Assessment and Review

Comprehensive quizzes and knowledge checks

  • Multiple choice questions with detailed explanations
  • Scenario-based analysis exercises
  • Technology comparison tables
  • Quick reference summary

1121.3 Learning Path

TipRecommended Sequence

For the best learning experience, work through the chapters in order:

  1. Overview → Understand the technology fundamentals
  2. Message Flow → Learn communication patterns and constraints
  3. Deployment → Apply knowledge to real-world planning
  4. Hands-On Lab → Build practical skills with simulation
  5. Assessment → Validate your understanding

1121.4 Prerequisites

Before starting this chapter series, you should be familiar with:

1121.5 What’s Next?

Start your Sigfox learning journey with Sigfox Overview to understand the technology foundations, or jump directly to any chapter that matches your current learning needs.

After completing this series, continue exploring LPWAN technologies: