IOT FOR AGRICULTURAL USE: DEVELOPMENT OF LOW-COST AUTONOMOUS DEVICE FOR REAL-TIME WEATHER MONITORING

Water scarcity is one of the main difficulties faced worldwide, and irrigation monitoring can allow efficient use of this vital good. This study proposes the development of a low-cost sensor module, combining the Internet of Things (IoT) and Long Range (LoRa). The device integrates solar-powered and waterproofed sensors and electronic components suitable for field use. To test the prototype, we monitored an irrigation system for 30 days. Despite significant rainfall, the device demonstrated high efficiency in radio transmissions, demonstrating good resilience to local weather conditions. Measurements can be accompanied by a computer or mobile device, with the option of setting alerts. The device was considered efficient, practical, and reliable for remote monitoring and decision aid in farming management even with its low manufacturing cost compared to off-the-shelf solutions.