COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION OF EMPIRICAL MODELS FOR LPWAN DEPLOYMENT FOR SELECTED ENVIRONMENTS IN EDO STATE

ABSTRACT

Low-Power Wide-Area Networks (LPWANs) have emerged as a pivotal technology for connecting remote sensors and devices in IoT applications. To optimize LPWAN deployments, accurate prediction models are essential. These models help determine coverage, capacity, and energy consumption, improving the overall reliability and effectiveness of LPWAN systems across diverse environments, including urban, suburban, rural, and industrial areas. Thus, this project presents a comprehensive comparative analysis and evaluation of empirical models used for predicting the performance and characteristics of LPWAN deployments. The method adopted involves the data collection, model calibration, and performance assessment of empirical across diverse deployment scenarios. Ten empirical models were reviewed from literature and selection of the models for analysis were carried out using certain criteria such as frequency range, suitable terrain type, coverage range, propagation path, antenna gain. The selected empirical models were investigated, compared and evaluated using the data obtained from measurement campaign in urban, rural and open space environments. Using the criteria mentioned above, a total of three empirical models were selected for comparison and evaluation. The results of the analysis shown that the Log Distance Model has more flexibility and adaptability to different LPWAN technologies and environments. These findings provided insights into the accuracy and suitability of each model and offer practical recommendations for LPWAN deployment.