User’s Manual for WS and WM Series DataSling™
LoRaWAN® Wireless Sensors 
Product Description / Overview
Product Overview
This section introduces the sensor, highlighting its key functions and applications. The sensor is part of a wireless end-to-end solution designed for monitoring environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, dierential pressure and more. Its low power consumption and long-range communication capabilities make it ideal for many applications, including pharmaceuticals, HVAC, industrial settings, greenhouses, cleanrooms and others.
Key Features
Wireless Connectivity: Powered by two CR123A lithium batteries, Sensocon® DataSling™ Wireless Sensors leverage LoRaWAN® (Long Range Wide Area Network) technology for long-range, low-power communication with typical battery life 5+ years, dependent upon settings.
Single or Multi-Parameter Monitoring: Oered as a single variable or multi-variable unit capable of measuring multiple environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, dierential pressure, current/voltage input and more in one package.
Easy Integration: Ideal for use with the Sensocon Sensograf™ cloud-based platform, DataSling WS & WM Series Sensors are also compatible with existing 3
party LoRaWAN gateways and network servers, oering seamless integration into various monitoring systems.
Scalable Design: Suitable for small to large-scale deployments, with flexible configuration options to suit dierent operational needs.
Data Accuracy and Reliability: High-precision sensors ensure accurate data collection for reliable monitoring and control of environments.
Applications
Pharmaceuticals: Ensure compliance with stringent environmental standards by monitoring and recording environmental parameters in production and storage areas.
HVAC Systems: Optimize energy usage by providing real-time data on system performance.
Industrial Monitoring: Track critical conditions in equipment, manufacturing, and storage, reducing downtime through predictive maintenance alerts.
Cleanrooms: Maintain controlled environments by monitoring and recording temperature, humidity, and many other variables to prevent contamination.
Greenhouses: Provide precise monitoring to optimize growing conditions, enhancing crop quality and yield while reducing water and energy consumption. User alerts ensure rapid response to environmental changes.
Benefits
Enhanced Operational Eiciency: Helps reduce energy consumption and optimize environmental conditions.
Regulatory Compliance: Supports compliance with industry standards by providing accurate, real-time environmental data.
Reduced Initial Costs: Aordable as single devices, multi-variable units reduce the already low acquisition cost.
Little to no wiring is required and transmission automatic starts upon applying power, reducing installation time.
Ongoing Cost Savings: Minimizes maintenance costs and reduces downtime with predictive alerts and remote monitoring capabilities.
Scalable Solutions: Suitable for diverse applications, from small-scale setups to complex, multi-site deployments.
Specifications
Detailed Technical Specifications
| Weight | 7 oz |
| Enclosure Rating | IP 65 |
| Operating Temperature | -40° to 149°F (-40 to 65°C) -4° to 149°F (-20 to 65°C) differential pressure models |
| Antenna | External Pulse Larsen W1902 (short) Optional External Pulse Larsen W1063 (long) |
| Battery Life | 5+ Years |
| Minimum Interval | 10 minutes |
| Wireless Technology | LoRaWAN° Class A |
| Wireless Range | Up to 10 miles (clear line-of-sight) |
| Wireless Security | AES-128 |
| Max Receive Sensitivity | -130dBm |
| Max Transmit Power | 19dBm |
| Frequency Bands | US915 |
| Battery Type | CR123A (x2) Lithium Manganese Dioxide (U-Mn02) |
Fi gure 1: Genera l Speci fi cati ons
Unit-level specifications can be found on their respective datasheets at www.sensocon.com
Physical Dimensions and Diagrams
Internal Components
Dimensional Drawings
Installation Roadmap
There are three common use cases that determine how best to install a private LoRaWAN network, depending upon where the hardware is purchased from and what platform is being used for device/data management.
- Sensors and gateway hardware purchased from Sensocon, with a Sensograf subscription.
a. Gateway and platform are pre-provisioned. No further programming or settings changes should be needed. Simply power gateway, then sensors, and check platform for successful JOIN. - Sensors and gateway purchased from Sensograf, with a 3 party platform subscription
a. The gateway will be provisioned to recognize the sensors. Platform provider will need to supply rd
APPKEY and APP/JOIN EUI information. Payload information is listed on page 11 and 12 of this manual to assist with ensuring that the 3 party platform recognizes the transmitted data.
3) Sensors and gateway purchased from 3 rd rd party, with Sensograf 3 party subscription
a. Hardware provider will need to provide the DEV EUI from the hardware, as well as Gateway EUI information so that the platform can be set up.
End-to End Installation – Sensocon Sensograf Platform Subscriber
The sequence shown below is the standard sequence of full end-to-end installation of the sensor. Additional steps within each sequence are provided in the next sections.
NOTE: registering the device, whether sensor or gateway, on Sensograf is NOT needed if purchased from Sensocon.
End-to End Installation – 3 To use a 3 rd Party Platform Subscriber
party platform with Sensocon wireless sensors, you will need the App EUI and App Key from the platform provider, in addition to gateway-specific settings. Please refer to gateway and platform manuals for detailed instructions.
Installation
Unpacking and Inspection
Before installing the sensor, carefully unpack and inspect the device and all included components. Ensure that no parts were damaged during shipping.
Included Components:
- LoRaWAN Sensor
- 2x CR123A Battery (pre-installed with insulated pull tabs)
- Quick Start Guide
- Enclosure Mounting Screws (#8 x 1” self-tapping)
Registering Device, Connecting to Gateway & Sensograf Platform
The addition of a Sensocon DataSling WS or WM sensor to the Sensograf device management platform is designed to be simple and fast. Sensocon-supplied gateways are pre-provisioned to begin communication to the platform with little to no further intervention. This should enable instant communication upon sensor power-up. However, it may be necessary at times to ensure that the following fields under “Add Device” on the Sensograf platform are populated correctly:
- DEV EUI: A 16-digit identifier that serves as the address of the device. Pre-populated on platform and located on device product label.
- APP EUI: A 16-digit identifier that tells the network where to route data. Pre-populated on platform and printed on individual label inside sensor box.
- APP KEY: A 32-digit security key for encryption and authentication. Pre-populated on platform and printed on individual label inside sensor box.
If any of these items are inaccessible, please call or email Sensocon customer support via email at info@sensocon.com or telephone at (863)248-2800.
Step-By-Step Process for Registering & Confirming Device on Sensograf Platform
For devices not pre-provisioned by Sensocon.
Registering Device, Connecting to Gateway & 3rd Party Platforms
This section is provided as a general guide. Please refer to the gateway user’s manual and platform provider guide for detailed instructions. Both the gateway and device will need to be registered on the 3 party platform with the proper information for routing traic from the sensor to the application.
Step-By-Step Process for Registering & Confirming Device on 3 rd Party Platform
Payload Configuration (3rd Party Platforms Only)
Sensocon DataSling Sensors are designed to work well with third-party platforms that have custom payload decoders. Information about how the sensor data is formatted, including encoding details, is included below to streamline setup. This will ensure the platform can interpret the data correctly.
STX = Start of Text = “aa”
Within each measurement:
Byte [0] = type (see “Measurement Types” below)
Byte [1-4] = data IEEE 754 floating
| Base Unit | ||
| 0 | Pressure | Inches of WC |
| 1 | Humidity Temperature | F |
| 2 | Humidity | % |
| 3 | Battery Voltage | V |
| 4 | Contact | 0=No Contact, 1=Contact |
| 5 | Velocity | |
| 6 | Voltage | V |
| 7 | Current | mA |
| 8 | Temperature | F |
| 9 | Altitude | |
| 10 | Latitude | |
| 11 | Light | |
| 12 | Longitude | |
| 13 | Resistance | |
| 14 | Vibration | |
| 15 | X Position | |
| 16 | Y Position | |
| 17 | Z Position | |
| 255 | Empty |
Figure 9: Measurement Types
Troubleshooting
If the sensor does not respond to configuration changes, ensure it is properly connected. Review the configuration settings for accuracy and consult the troubleshooting guide for further assistance.
Wiring External Inputs
Connect external probes to the pluggable connector provided on the PCB board. The connector needs to be removed from the board for wiring and re-installed when wiring is complete.
- Thermistor and Contact inputs (Sensocon supplied): wiring is not polarity sensitive.
- Industrial Input Sensors (e.g. 4-20mA, 0-10V): see below
Sensor Power-up Procedure, LED Indicators & Button
To activate the sensor, remove the battery insulation tabs (shown below). The sensor will power up automatically once the batteries are in contact with the battery holder.
Once powered and initialization is complete, the JOIN procedure will commence. The internal LEDs will indicate progress towards joining LoRaWAN Server Network (LNS) via the gateway.
LED FUNCTIONS
If JOIN is unsuccessful, ensure gateway is powered, within range, with the correct credentials. The sensor will continue JOIN attempts until successful. See the troubleshooting guide on page 18 in this manual for help.
BUTTON FUNCTIONS
Mounting and Physical Setup
Location
Select an appropriate location for installation, considering the following:
- Height and Position: Install the sensor at a height of at least 1.5 meters above ground level. Transmission will often improve by increasing elevation where possible.
- Obstacles: Minimize obstacles such as walls, metal objects, and concrete that could impede wireless communication. Position the sensor near an opening (e.g., window) when possible to enhance signal strength.
- Distance from Interference Sources: Keep the sensor a minimum of 1-2 feet away from other electronic devices that might cause interference.
Mounting
Depending on the sensor model, dierent mounting options are available:
- Wall Mounting
- Use the provided screws or ones more appropriate for your installation to secure the sensor onto a flat surface, ensuring the sensor is firmly attached.
- Pipe or Mast Mounting:
o Use clamp fasteners (not included) to secure the sensor to a pipe or mast. Ensure the sensor is oriented correctly and securely attached to prevent movement.
Testing and Verification
- After installation, confirm that the sensor is communicating correctly with the network. Use the device’s status indicators or the network platform to verify.
Safety and Maintenance
- Regularly check the sensor for signs of wear or damage, especially if installed in harsh environments.
- Replace batteries as needed as indicated in Sensograf (or 3 party platform), or according to a planned maintenance schedule that incorporates battery life expectations based on interval selection.
- Clean the sensor gently with a dry cloth. Avoid using water or cleaning agents that could damage the device.
Note: Refer to the troubleshooting section on page 18 if any issues arise during installation or operation.
Configuration
Initial Setup and Configuration
Configuring your LoRaWAN sensor correctly is essential for ensuring optimal performance and reliable data transmission. The sensor uses Over-the-Air (OTA) methodology. OTA configuration allows the sensor settings to be adjusted remotely via the Device Management Platform. Configuration of the sensor requires that it be registered on the platform and communicating properly.
- Configuration Commands: Access the platform and navigate to the sensor’s settings. Use the available configuration commands to adjust parameters such as data reporting interval, alert settings, and sensor scaling.
- Monitor and Confirm: After sending the configuration commands, monitor and/or test the changed parameters to ensure that the sensor begins operating with the new settings.
Configuration Options
Below are key configuration parameters that can be adjusted from the device platform during setup:
- Reporting Interval: Defines how often the sensor transmits data. This can be set to intervals ranging from minutes to hours, depending on the application.
- Alert Thresholds: Set alerts as upper and/or lower limits for parameters like temperature, humidity, or pressure to trigger alerts via email and/or text when these limits are breached.
- Battery Status Monitoring: Enable battery status monitoring to receive alerts when the battery voltage drops below a specified level.
- Lost Communications: Configure the system to alert designated users when a defined number of check-ins are missed.
Battery Information
Battery Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| ‘Type | Lithium Manganese Dioxide (Li-Mn02) |
| Nominal Voltage | 3.0 V |
| Cutoff Voltage | 2.0V |
| Capacity | 1600 mAh each |
| Max Continuous Discharge | 1500 mA |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F) |
| Shelf Life | Up to 10 years |
| Dimensions | Diameter: 17 mm (0.67 in). Height: 34.5 mm (1.36 in) |
| Weight | Approx. 16.5g |
| Self-Discharge Rate | Less than 1% per year |
| Chemistry | Non-rechargeable Lithium |
| Protection | No built-in protection circuit |
Figure 10: Battery Specifications
Key Battery Features
- High Energy Density: Provides a longer run time compared to other batteries of similar size.
- Wide Operating Temperature Range: Suitable for use in extreme temperatures, making it ideal for industrial and outdoor applications.
- Low Self-Discharge Rate: Maintains charge during long-term storage, making it reliable for devices that are used infrequently.
- Long Shelf Life: Up to 10 years, ensuring reliable performance when stored.
These specifications are typical of CR123A lithium batteries, though exact values may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer.
Troubleshooting Guide
| SYMPTOM | POSSIBLE CAUSE | SOLUTION |
| Sensor not connecting to network | Incorrect network settings | Verify the gateway network configuration settings. |
| Weak signal | Ensure the sensor is within range of the gateway by testing closer to gateway. Verify connection at close range, then move to final installation location. | |
| Check for any obstacles blocking the signal and reposition the sensor if necessary and possible. | ||
| Check for any obstacles blocking the signal and reposition the sensor if necessary and possible. | ||
| Data not updating on platform | Configuration issues or communication errors | Check the sensors reporting interval settings. |
| Restart the sensor by disconnecting batteries for 10 seconds to clear any misconfigurations. | ||
| Short battery life | High frequency of data transmission | Reduce the reporting frequency or adjust alen/notification thresholds to balance transmission frequency with battery life. |
| Extreme environmental conditions | Extreme cold or heat can significantly impact battery performance, move to cooler/warmer location if practical. | |
| Incorrect temperature or humidity readings | Environmental interference | Make sure the sensor is installed in a location free from direct sunlight, drafts, or moisture that could affect readings. |
| Condensation on humidity sensor | Remove from condensing environment and allow sensor to dry. | |
| Sensor not responding to commands | Power problems | Check the power source and replace the batteries if necessary. |
| Missed check-ins | Signal interference caused by obstacles such as metal objects or thick walls | Relocate the sensor to an area with fewer obstructions. Elevate the sensor to improve line-of-sight with the gateway. |
| LED indicators do not turn on | Power supply issues or incorrect installation | Check the battery connections and ensure the sensor is properly installed. Replace batteries if necessary. |
Figure 11: Troubleshooting Chart
Customer Support
Contact Information for Technical Support
At Sensocon, Inc., we are committed to providing exceptional support to ensure that your LoRaWAN sensor operates eiciently and meets your needs. If you encounter any issues or require assistance with your sensor, please do not hesitate to reach out to our customer support team.
Contact Information:
Address:
Sensocon, Inc.
3602 DMG Dr
Lakeland, FL 33811 USA
Phone: 1-863-248-2800
Email: support@sensocon.com
Support Hours:
Our customer support team is available Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST.
Compliance and Safety Precautions
Compliance Statement
This device complies with all applicable national and international standards, including:
Federal Communications Commission (FCC): This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following conditions:
- This device may not cause harmful interference.
- This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
FCC Radiation Exposure Statement: This equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20 cm between the radiator and your body. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Industry Canada Compliance: This device complies with Industry Canada’s license-exempt RSS standards. Operation is subject to the following conditions:
- This device may not cause interference.
- This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
IC Radiation Exposure Statement: This equipment complies with IC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment and should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20 cm between the radiator and your body.
RoHS Compliance: The product complies with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive, ensuring it contains no more than the allowable levels of lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, and other hazardous materials.
Safety Precautions
Installation and Use
Install the device with a minimum distance of 20 cm from all persons. For best results, ensure the device is not co-located with any other transmitter.
Battery Safety
The device contains lithium batteries. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 100°C (212°F), or incinerate. Replace only with approved battery types as specified in this manual. Ensure proper handling and disposal in accordance with local regulations.
Handling and Maintenance:
Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, water, or moisture beyond the rated enclosure protection level (IP65). Handle the device with care to avoid damage. Improper handling may void warranty and compliance status.
Regulatory Warnings:
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the responsible party for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. Ensure that all local and national regulations are adhered to when deploying and operating this device.
Legal Notices
Disclaimers
The information in this manual is provided “as is” without any warranties of any kind, either express or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided in this manual, Sensocon, Inc. assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or inaccuracies and shall not be liable for any damages arising from the use of the information contained herein.
Product Usage: The LoRaWAN sensor is intended for monitoring and data collection purposes only. It should not be used as the sole means of monitoring critical conditions that could result in harm to persons, property, or the environment. Sensocon, Inc. shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from the misuse or misapplication of this product.
Regulatory Compliance: It is the user’s responsibility to ensure that the installation and use of this product comply with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations. Sensocon, Inc. assumes no liability for improper installation or use of the product that does not comply with applicable laws and standards.
Modifications and Unauthorized Use: Unauthorized modifications, alterations, or repairs to the product void the
warranty and may affect the performance, safety, and regulatory compliance of the device. Sensocon, Inc. is not responsible for damages resulting from any unauthorized use or modification of the product.
End-of-Life and Disposal: This product contains materials that may be hazardous to the environment. Proper disposal in accordance with local regulations is required. Do not dispose of this product in household or general waste facilities.
Firmware and Software Updates: Sensocon, Inc. reserves the right to make changes to the product, firmware, or
software without prior notice. Regular updates may be required to ensure optimal performance and security of the device. Sensocon, Inc. does not guarantee backward compatibility with all previous versions of firmware or software.
Limitation of Liability: To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, Sensocon, Inc. disclaims any liability for any personal injury, property damage, or any incidental, special, indirect, or consequential damages whatsoever, including without limitation, damages for loss of profits, data, business, or goodwill, arising out of or related to the use, inability to use, or misuse of this product, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.
Intellectual Property Rights: All trademarks, product names, and company names or logos cited herein are the property of their respective owners. No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, for any purpose without the express written permission of Sensocon, Inc.
Changes to This Document: Sensocon, Inc. reserves the right to revise this document and to make changes to its content without obligation to notify any person or organization of such revisions or changes. By using this product, you agree to the terms and conditions set forth in this disclaimer.
Trademarks and Copyright Notices
Trademarks:
Sensocon, Inc., the Sensocon logo, and all product names, trademarks, logos, and brands are property of Sensocon, Inc. or its subsidiaries. All other trademarks cited herein are the property of their respective owners.
- The use of any third-party trademarks, product names, or brand names does not imply endorsement or ailiation with Sensocon, Inc. unless otherwise stated.
Copyright Notice:
- © 2024 Sensocon, Inc. All rights reserved. This manual and the information contained herein are the property of Sensocon, Inc. and are protected by United States and international copyright laws.
- No part of this manual may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of Sensocon, Inc., except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.
Proprietary Information:
- The information contained in this document is proprietary to Sensocon, Inc. and is provided solely for the purpose of operating and maintaining Sensocon products. It must not be disclosed to any third party without the express written consent of Sensocon, Inc.
Restrictions on Use:
- The content of this manual is provided for informational purposes only and may be subject to change without notice. Sensocon, Inc. makes no representations or warranties, either express or implied, with respect to the content of this manual or the products described herein.
No License:
- Except as expressly provided herein, nothing in this document shall be construed as conferring any license under any of Sensocon, Inc.’s intellectual property rights, whether by implication, estoppel, or otherwise.
Updates and Revisions:
- Sensocon, Inc. reserves the right to make changes to this document and the product described herein without notice. Sensocon, Inc. assumes no liability for inaccuracies or omissions and specifically disclaims any commitment to update or keep current the information contained in this document.
For any questions regarding trademarks, copyright notices, or the use of this document, please contact Sensocon,
Inc. at info@sensocon.com.
Limited Warranty
SENSOCON warrants its products to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of shipment, subject to the following terms and conditions: Without charge, SENSOCON will repair, replace, or refund the purchase price at SENSOCON’s option products found to be defective in materials or workmanship within the warranty period; provided that:
i. the product has not been subjected to abuse, neglect, accident, incorrect wiring not our own, improper installation or servicing, or use in violation of labels or instructions provided by SENSOCON;
ii. the product has not been repaired or altered by anyone except SENSOCON;
iii. the maximum ratings label and serial number or date code have not been removed, defaced, or otherwise changed;
iv. examination discloses, in the judgment of SENSOCON, the defect in materials or workmanship developed under normal installation, use and service; and
v. SENSOCON is notified in advance of and the product is returned to SENSOCON transportation prepaid before expiration of the warranty period.
THIS EXPRESS LIMITED WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF AND EXCLUDES ALL OTHER REPRESENTATIONS MADE BY ADVERTISEMENTS OR BY AGENTS AND ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, BOTH EXPRESS AND IMPLIED. THERE ARE NO IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABLILTY OR OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE FOR GOODS COVERED HEREUNDER.
Revision History
Document Version History
| Version | Date | Change(s) |
| 1.0 | 9/23/2024 | Initial Version |
Figure 12: Revision History Chart
Documents / Resources
 |
Sensocon WM Series DataSling LoRaWAN Wireless Sensors [pdf] User Manual WS, WM, WM Series DataSling LoRaWAN Wireless Sensors, WM Series, DataSling LoRaWAN Wireless Sensors, LoRaWAN Wireless Sensors, Wireless Sensors, Sensors |