How to Integrate LoRaWAN Devices with BACnet Systems: A Guide for Smart Buildings

In the world of IoT, there are two things that always matter: how to connect devices, and how to manage and visualize their data. That’s why the combination of LoRaWAN and Thingsboard is gaining so much attention.

But how exactly do they work together? What does the integration involve? And how can it be simplified?

1. What is Thingsboard?

Thingsboard is more than just an open-source dashboard. It’s a powerful IoT platform offering:

Device management with remote control and monitoring;

Rule engine to trigger alerts, convert data, or forward it;

Custom dashboards for business-specific visualizations;

Multi-tenant architecture for SaaS or enterprise environments;

Open APIs to connect with any third-party system.

    It’s widely used in smart cities, industrial IoT, and agriculture.

    2. What Role Does LoRaWAN Play?

    While Thingsboard manages the application layer, LoRaWAN operates at the network layer, handling how data reaches the server.

    LoRaWAN excels at:

    Long-range wireless transmission (up to 15 km in rural areas);

    Ultra-low power consumption (battery life of years);

    Large-scale deployment in scenarios like smart metering and remote sensing.

      But once the data is in the system—what happens next?

      3. LoRaWAN + Thingsboard: The Traditional Way

      To connect LoRaWAN devices to Thingsboard, you usually need to:

      Manually register every device;

      Build custom Rule Chains for data mapping;

      Set telemetry and attribute mappings;

      Configure integration via MQTT or HTTP.

        For large-scale deployments, this becomes a bottleneck.

        Manthink’s Thinklink LoRaWAN Network Server is purpose-built to automate the entire process.

        Here’s what it brings:

        Automatic device registration to Thingsboard;

        Pre-mapped rule chains so no manual logic setup is required;

        Reusable dashboards that can be cloned across projects;

        Free for up to 1,000 devices — ideal for pilots or small rollouts;

        Stable for industrial use — supports 24/7 operation.

          This means faster deployment, fewer errors, and more time to focus on your application, not configuration.

          5. Final Thoughts

          The combination of LoRaWAN’s connectivity and Thingsboard’s visualization makes for a powerful IoT stack. But without the right integration layer, setup can be a pain.

          Thinklink is the bridge that closes this gap—automating what used to be a manual process.