In low-power wide-area network (LPWAN) systems, LoRaWAN has become a widely adopted communication technology due to its long-range transmission, low power consumption, and broad coverage. It is commonly used in applications such as smart metering, environmental monitoring, intelligent buildings, and coal-to-electricity conversion projects.
However, as the number of devices increases, two critical issues emerge: battery life and channel resource utilization, which significantly impact system stability and scalability.
To address these challenges, the COV algorithm (Change of Value) was developed. It is a mechanism that intelligently determines the degree of change in sensor data and dynamically decides whether to upload the data. This approach ensures data timeliness while significantly reducing power consumption and channel resource usage.
1. What is the COV Algorithm?
The core idea of the throttling algorithm is:
- When the change in sensor data is small, the device does not actively upload the data.
- Only when the change exceeds a predefined threshold is data transmission triggered.
This mechanism is similar to event-based triggering, effectively avoiding the resource waste caused by periodic data uploads.
Example:
A temperature and humidity sensor collects data every minute. If the temperature changes only slightly (e.g., ±0.5°C), uploading this data provides little value but consumes battery and channel resources. However, if a significant temperature change occurs (e.g., ±2°C), indicating a meaningful environmental shift, the data becomes valuable and triggers an upload.
2. The Role of COV Algorithm in LoRaWAN Systems
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Extended Battery Life
LoRa devices are typically battery-powered, and the communication module is the main source of power consumption. By reducing unnecessary uplink transmissions, the COV algorithm significantly lowers average power usage, thereby extending device battery life. -
Reduced Channel Resource Usage
LoRaWAN networks operate on an Aloha-based protocol, where devices share limited channel resources. Frequent periodic uploads can lead to channel congestion and packet collisions, reducing overall system capacity. The throttling algorithm minimizes the transmission of redundant data, freeing up channel resources and improving network efficiency. -
Improved System Capacity and Stability
In large-scale LoRaWAN deployments, the COV algorithm helps avoid “data storms”, especially in scenarios where devices power up or upload data simultaneously. For example, in coal-to-electricity projects, when devices reboot after a power outage and upload data at the same time, systemic collisions are highly likely. The COV mechanism intelligently staggers uploads, enhancing system stability.
3. Implementation of Throttling Algorithm in EdgeBus
Manthink Technology has integrated the COV algorithm into its LoRaWAN modules and DTUs based on the EdgeBus architecture. Users only need to configure the relevant parameters to enable this feature.
Key Features of EdgeBus Throttling Algorithm:
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Smart Threshold Detection:
Users can define a threshold for sensor data changes; uploads occur only when the change exceeds this threshold. -
Flexible Configuration:
Throttling parameters such as change threshold, minimum upload interval, and maximum upload frequency can be set via platform or handheld tools. -
Data Reorganization and Compression:
Combined with Manthink’s proprietary data reorganization and compression algorithms, the data packet size is further reduced, improving communication efficiency. -
Integration with Heartbeat Mechanism:
Even in throttling mode, devices can periodically send heartbeat packets to ensure the platform maintains control over device status.
4. COV Algorithm vs. Periodic Upload: Which is Better for Low-Power IoT?
| Comparison Dimension | Periodic Upload | COV Algorithm |
| Data Timeliness | Poor (fixed intervals) | High (triggered by changes) |
| Power Consumption | High (frequent uploads) | Low (uploads only when needed) |
| Channel Resource Usage | High | Low |
| System Capacity | Prone to congestion | More stable and scalable |
| Ideal Scenarios | Frequent data changes, scheduled sampling | Infrequent changes, energy-saving and stability required |
5. How Does Manthink Support the COV Algorithm?
Manthink’s LoRaWAN product line includes:
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OMx22S Modules:
Support protocols such as CJ/T 188, DL/T 645, and Modbus, with COV algorithm enabled via EdgeBus. -
RDO21x Waterproof DTU / RDI22x Rail-mounted DTU:
Support multiple sensor types and are equipped with built-in COV mechanism, suitable for complex field environments. -
SE72 Temperature and Humidity Sensor:
IP65 protection rating, 8-year battery life, and supports COV-based uploads to reduce unnecessary communication. -
ThinkLink LoRaWAN NS:
Manthink’s self-developed network server supports free access for up to 1000 devices and allows remote configuration of throttling parameters.
The throttling algorithm is already integrated into the EdgeBus framework, enabling users to utilize it without additional development, thereby significantly lowering deployment and maintenance costs.
6. Conclusion: COV Algorithm – A “Power-Saving Tool” for Low-Power IoT
In LoRaWAN systems, the COV algorithm is not just a communication optimization strategy—it is a key technology for achieving efficient, stable, and low-power IoT systems.
Manthink Technology integrates core features such as throttling algorithms, FUOTA (Firmware Update Over The Air), heartbeat mechanisms, and ADR (Adaptive Data Rate) into its modules and DTUs via the EdgeBus architecture, helping users build intelligent, manageable, and scalable IoT systems.
If you’re looking for a stable, low-power LoRaWAN solution that supports the COV algorithm, Manthink’s ThinkLink Network Server and EdgeBus product series are your ideal choices.
🔗 Learn More About Manthink Products:
- Official Website: https://www.manthink.cn
- LoRaWAN NS (ThinkLink): https://thinklink.manthink.cn
- Contact Email: info@manthink.cn
Manthink Technology – Committed to Building Smarter and More Energy-Efficient LoRaWAN IoT Solutions.