IoT TELEMETRY

Agricultural IoT telemetry systems in South Africa use sensors and wireless technology to collect real-time data on environmental conditions, soil quality, machinery, and livestock, allowing farmers to remotely monitor and automate operations. Key benefits include improved water management, increased efficiency, and data-driven decision-making. 

How They Work

Telemetry systems in South Africa typically use robust, solar-powered, and weather-resistant hardware to transmit data from the field via cellular (GSM), LoRaWAN, or proprietary radio networks to a central platform (web interface or mobile app). 

Key Applications

• Irrigation Management: Sensors monitor soil moisture, temperature, and electrical conductivity, allowing farmers to optimize water usage and prevent over or under-irrigation. This data enables smart, automated irrigation systems.

• Resource and Fleet Management: GPS trackers and telematics technology are used to monitor the location, fuel consumption, and operational status of farm machinery, improving logistical efficiency and reducing costs.

• Environmental Monitoring: Systems collect data on atmospheric conditions like temperature, humidity, and CO2 levels to help manage conditions in greenhouses and outdoor fields.

• Crop and Soil Monitoring: Data from drones, satellite imagery, and soil sensors are consolidated to create high-resolution maps, which inform precision application of fertilisers and pesticides, reducing chemical usage and environmental impact.

• Livestock Monitoring: Specialized systems monitor livestock health and location using sensors and GPS.