Device Overview
Introducing NCD’s Long Range Industrial IoT Wireless Particulate Matter Sensor for Air Quality Monitoring, featuring temperature and humidity sensors with a 2-mile wireless range. It uses SPS30 and SHT30 sensors to transmit accurate particle size, mass concentration, temperature, and humidity data at user-defined intervals.
PM2.5 and PM10 particles are small pollutants dangerous to human health, linked to conditions like asthma and cardiovascular disease. The sensor measures PM1.0, PM2.5, PM4.0, and PM10.0, cleaning itself every 256 transmissions via an internal fan.
Laser scattering technology ensures accurate particle measurements over an eight-year lifetime.
The temperature sensor operates between -25°C and 85°C, while the humidity sensor handles up to 100% RH. Powered by 6 AA batteries, it lasts up to 5 years, with optional external power.
With an open communication protocol, this sensor integrates with various systems like PCs, Raspberry Pi, Microsoft Azure, AWS, and MQTT servers. Configurable transmission settings make it versatile for diverse applications.
Its long range, accuracy, affordability, and battery life make it ideal for industrial and consumer markets.
Feature
- Industrial Grade Sensor Mass Concentration Range 0-1000 μg/m^3
- Mass Concentration Resolution of 1 μg/m^3
- Mass Concentration Size Range PM1.0, PM2.5, PM4.0, PM10.0
- Number Concentration Range 0 to 3000 1/cm^3
- Number Concentration Size Range PM0.5, PM1.0, PM2.5, PM4.0, PM10.0
- Unique Long-Term Stability of up to 8 Years
- Laser-Based Scattering Principle and Advanced Algorithms
- Inbuilt Auto Cleaning Feature After Every 256 Transmissions
- Industrial Grade Sensor with 0 to 100% RH / -25°C [-13°F] to 85°C [185°F])
- Resolution 0.04% RH/0.025°C Accuracy 2% RH/ 0.3°C
- Includes Battery Level with Every Transmission
- Validates and Retries Lost Communication Packets
- Encrypted Wireless Communications up to 2 Mile Range
Wireless Technology
The NCD Industrial range of sensors utilizes DigiMesh, a proprietary networking technology designed by Digi® International. It is especially suitable for IIoT applications as it provides a number of benefits over conventional wireless stacks:
- Long range – up to 1000 feet in urban environments and 2 miles+ in line of sight environments with the included antennas
- Mesh networking topology – no single point of failure, self healing network with high redundancy.
- Long battery life due to low power consumption – up to 5 years
- Simplified provisioning – extending the mesh network via repeater at no additional configuration complexity
- Works in the 868MHz, 900MHz and 2.4GHz bands – worldwide region interoperability.
Battery Life
| Specifications | Minimum | Nominal | Maximum | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Batteries | 2 | 6 | 6 | May be Powered by 2 or 6 AA Batteries |
| Battery Life 1 TPD | 5 Years | TPD Transmissions per Day | ||
| Battery Life 12 TPD | 2 Years | TPD Transmissions per Day | ||
| Battery Life 24 TPD | 1 Year | TPD Transmissions per Day |
The Truth About Battery Life
Under the best of circumstances, the best non-rechargeable batteries commonly available today are limited to a 10 year non-working shelf life in a room temperature environment. Factors such as actual usage, temperature, and humidity will impact the working life. Be wary of any battery claims in excess of 10 years, as this would only apply to the most exotic and expensive batteries that are not commonly available. Also note that most battery chemistries are not rated for use in extreme temperatures. NCD only uses the best Non-Rechargeable Lithium batteries available today, which are also rated for use in extreme temperatures and have been tested by our customers in light radioactive environments. Lithium batteries offer a 10 year maximum expected shelf life due to limitations of battery technology. NCD will never rate sensor life beyond the rated shelf life of the best batteries available today, which is currently 10 years.
Applications & Use-cases
The Industrial IoT Wireless Particulate Matter Sensor is capable of monitoring key environmental metrics like dust particle quantity in the air and temperature, humidity in real-time. Such a sensor can be useful in various industries and sectors due to its ability to wirelessly transmit critical environmental data for analysis and decision-making.
Industrial IoT Wireless Particulate Matter Sensor Applications
Indoor Air Quality Management
The wireless particulate matter sensor ensures air quality in enclosed environments like office buildings, schools, or hospitals. It monitors particles such as dust, smoke, and pollen, triggering ventilation systems or air purifiers when dangerous levels are detected, creating healthier spaces for occupants and improving overall indoor air quality.
Industrial Pollution Control
In manufacturing plants, where processes can release harmful particulate matter, the sensor continuously monitors PM levels. This helps facilities remain within regulatory limits for emissions, protecting both workers and the surrounding environment while improving compliance with health and safety standards.
Smart City Solutions
Cities can deploy these sensors as part of a broader network to monitor air pollution across different areas. By tracking particulate matter in real time, cities can identify pollution hotspots, inform residents about air quality, and drive efforts toward urban planning that reduces environmental pollution and enhances public health.
Agricultural Dust Monitoring
Dust generated in agricultural operations, such as during harvesting or processing, can affect workers and nearby communities. The sensor monitors dust levels in barns, silos, or fields, ensuring compliance with occupational health regulations and helping to implement dust control measures like misting or air filtration systems to protect workers and crops.
Industrial IoT Wireless Particulate Matter Sensor Use-cases
Office Building Air Quality
In a high-traffic corporate office, where dust, allergens, and particulate matter can accumulate, this sensor is integrated into the HVAC system to monitor air quality. When pollutant levels rise, it automatically triggers ventilation adjustments or air purifiers to ensure that the air remains clean and breathable, helping to reduce employee sickness and absenteeism.
Manufacturing Emission Tracking
A chemical plant installs this sensor to monitor particulate matter released during manufacturing. The sensor tracks pollution in real time, ensuring emissions are kept within legal limits and alerting managers if levels approach dangerous thresholds. This allows the plant to react quickly, reducing pollution and improving compliance with environmental and occupational health regulations.
Urban Pollution Mapping
Deployed on streetlights or building rooftops in a smart city, these sensors provide real-time data on air quality. City officials can monitor pollution trends, identify areas with consistently poor air quality, and create policies to reduce pollution. This data can also be used to inform citizens of unsafe air quality levels through public apps or digital signage, encouraging them to limit outdoor exposure.
Agricultural Dust Control
A large farm uses these sensors during the harvesting season to monitor dust levels in work areas. When dust levels exceed safe thresholds, misting systems are activated to reduce airborne particles, protecting workers from respiratory issues. Additionally, this data helps the farm comply with occupational health regulations and minimize the environmental impact of dust on nearby communities.
