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IT students, professor embrace LoRa wireless innovations

Assistant Teaching Professor of Programming Raymond Williams and his students, Timothy Anderson and Dalton Pellerin, embarked on a project to set up a LoRa network using Meshtastic. LoRa, which stands for Long Range, is a wireless communication technology known for its ability to transmit data over long distances with low power consumption. Meshtastic is an open-source platform that simplifies the creation and management of LoRa mesh networks.

The team successfully configured their LoRa devices using Meshtastic and established a mesh network across their campus. This network allowed them to exchange text messages seamlessly, demonstrating the practicality and efficiency of LoRa technology in real-world scenarios.

In laymen’s terms: LoRa uses radio frequencies to send messages between devices without using a cellular network, SIM cards, or data plans.

Their project highlights the value of collaboration between academia and students in exploring emerging technologies. By leveraging the capabilities of Meshtastic and experimenting with LoRa networks, Professor Williams and his students not only expanded their understanding but also contributed to the advancement of wireless communication technology in the area.

The collaboration between Professor Raymond Williams and his students Timothy Anderson and Dalton Pellerin exemplifies the potential of hands-on learning in exploring innovative technologies like LoRa networks. Through their project, they showcased the practical applications of LoRa and demonstrated its viability for various communication needs.

For more information about the different Information Technology programs offered at UA-PTC, visit uaptc.edu/information-technology.

Pictured, from left: Timothy Anderson, Assistant Teaching Professor of Programming Raymond Williams, and Dalton Pellerin