RAK2470 WisNode Bridge Serial Prime Quick Start Guide
The RAK2470 WisNode Bridge Serial is an industrial-grade LoRaWAN bridge that connects RS-485 devices to a LoRaWAN network. This guide covers hardware setup, wiring, and basic configuration before deployment.
Hardware Preparation
Package Inclusion
Figure 1: RAK2470 Package Inclusions- One (1) RAK2470 WisNode Bridge Serial Prime
- One (1) Mounting Kit
- One (1) T-Type Conversion Cable
- One (1) Power Adapter
Prerequisite
Before installation, ensure the external devices are ready.
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RS-485 devices
Hardware Assembly
Connect Device to BridgeIO Device
Connect the external RS-485 devices to the corresponding terminal blocks on the RAK2470 (see Connect the RAK2470 to the Sensor).
This enables the device to collect field data and control equipment via LoRaWAN.
Power On the Device
The RAK2470 device can be powered with 5~12 VDC wide-range input via a 12 VDC adapter. Simply connect the adapter to the DC port of the T-type conversion cable.
Figure 1: Power interface connectionNetwork Setup Before Deployment
Before deploying the RAK2470 in the field, configure the RS-485 interface and LoRaWAN parameters locally to ensure proper operation and minimize on-site configuration issues.
Prerequisites
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A LoRaWAN gateway within range
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A Windows / macOS / Linux computer
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Download and install the IO.Box Desktop application (RAK2470 supports IO.Box v2.2.0).
After installation, launch the application to proceed.
Connect the RAK2470 to the IO.Box
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Connect the RAK2470 to a computer via the USB configuration cable.
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Click Connect Device in the IO.Box console.
Figure 1: IOBox get startedIf an error occurs indicating that no device is detected, a common cause is that the RAK2470 has been connected to the PC for more than 30 seconds without any action. In this case, simply unplugging and re-plugging the device should resolve the issue.
Figure 1: No device error- On the IO.Box dashboard screen, you can see information about the devices connected to the PC in the form of a list of connected devices with device models and EUIs. Choose the device that you wish to configure via the Connect button next to it.
Interface Configuration
After connecting to IO.Box, configure the RS485 interface as described in the RS485 Interface Configuration.
Configure LoRaWAN Parameters
After configuring the device interfaces, select LoRaWAN from the left menu in IO.Box to configure the LoRaWAN parameters. Once completed, the device can join the LoRaWAN network and transmit data.
On the main menu to the left, choose LoRaWAN to configure the LoRaWAN settings as needed. Do not forget to click Save below the changes.
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Device EUI: This is the unique identifier provided by RAKwireless.
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Region: The LoRaWAN region/band.
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Join Mode: Choose between OTAA and ABP according to LoRaWAN protocol.
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Class: The LoRaWAN Class (C).
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Application EUI: Enter the unique identifier for your application.
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Application Key: Enter the unique secure key for your application.
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Confirm Mode: Activate to receive confirmation messages from the network server for each uplink.
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ADR: Enable Adaptive Data Rate allowing the network server to control the data rate for your device.
- DataRate: Manually set the data transmission rate. Lower rates extend coverage but increase transmission time and power usage. Choose based on the distance and signal quality to the gateway.
- TX Power Level: Adjust the transmission power level. The lower the number the higher the power. 0 is the maximum allowed in the selected region and each incrementation of 1 to the number reduces the power by 2 dBm.
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Data Collection Period: Set up the global data report period of the device. Range: 60–86400 in seconds.
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LoRaWAN Status: Indicates the activity of the device in the LoRaWAN network.
Figure 1: LoRaWAN tabConnect the RAK2470 to LoRa Network Server
After configuring the interface and LoRaWAN parameters, connect the device to the LoRaWAN Network Server (LNS) to transmit RS-485 data as LoRaWAN uplinks.
For detailed steps, see RS-485: Connect the RAK2470 to LoRa Network Server.
Installation and Deployment
RAK2470 allows for pole mounting. Follow the provided installation steps to ensure secure mounting.
- Fix the RAK2470 to the mounting kit with four (4) M4*20 screws.
Figure 1: Fixing the device to the mounting kit- Using two (2) steel strips, fasten the RAK2470 on the pole.
Figure 1: Using the steel stripsThe pole diameter supported by the included steel strips is 55~80 mm.
- Link the connector of the RAK2470 to the corresponding port.
Figure 1: Adding the connectorAfter installation, power on the device and verify uplink data transmission. Once communication is confirmed, the device is ready for normal operation in the field.
