Skip to main content

Node Tracker – Technical Specifications

Current Sensing Module​

Requirement: 10A – 1500A, AC/DC, rugged, isolated.

Options:

  • LEM HASS 200/300-S – Hall‑effect, isolated, industrial grade
  • Allegro ACS758 / ACS770 Series – Hall‑effect, compact, high‑current sensing
  • Rogowski Coil (Custom Integration) – Flexible wide‑range sensing (AC only; requires rectifier + integrator)

Recommendation: Hall‑effect based (LEM or Allegro) for stable sensing across AC & DC welding currents.

Wireless Communication (LoRa)​

Requirement: Long‑range, low‑power, secure wireless communication.

Options:

  • Semtech SX1276 / SX1278 – Proven industrial LoRa transceiver
  • STM32WL55 – Integrated MCU + LoRa RF (space‑saving, lower BoM)

Recommendation: SX1276/78 or STM32WL depending on footprint and cost structure.

Display Module​

Requirement: Compact, low‑power, readable in industrial environments.

Options:

  • OLED 0.96” / 1.3” (I²C) – Battery %, node ID, pairing info
  • Segmented Custom LCD – Ultra‑low power, readable outdoors
  • TFT 1.8”–2.0” – High visibility, higher power consumption

Recommendation: Segmented Display or 0.96–1.3” OLED for optimal power efficiency and clarity.

Battery & Power Management​

Requirement: Rechargeable, supports 3‑month operation, induction charging.

Battery Options:

  • Li‑Ion 18650 (2600–3400 mAh) with BMS
  • LiFePO4 14500 (1500 mAh) – Safer, longer cycle life

Induction Charging Options:

  • Qi‑based wireless charging modules (XKT412 / XKT515)
  • Custom induction coil around welding ground cable

Recommendation: Li‑Ion + Qi‑standard wireless charging for best efficiency and flexibility.

Enclosure & Protection​

Requirement: IP55/IP65, rugged, antenna fully enclosed.

Options:

  • ABS / Polycarbonate IP65 Enclosure (off‑the‑shelf, gasket sealed)
  • Custom‑molded enclosure with isolated antenna chamber

Recommendation: Standard IP65 ABS housing + CNC modifications for induction coil or connectors.

MCU & Control Unit​

Requirement: Low‑power MCU capable of sensing + LoRa + display control.

Options:

  • STM32L Series – Ultra‑low‑power ARM Cortex‑M, industrial reliability
  • nRF54L / nRF5340 + SX1276 – If BLE is needed in future
  • STM32WL – Integrated LoRa MCU for compact PCB design

Recommendation: STM32L series or STM32WL depending on BLE requirement and BoM constraints.