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I'm fairly new to all things RPi so im still trying to get my bearings. I want to control a robot from a distance, about a Mile approx. I have build the robot and i have no problem controlling it through SSH, but I want to deploy it in a field without internet.

I'm thinking of building some sort of remote controller that would include sensors both analog and digital and send that data wireless to the Pi in the robot.

I've read a bit about LoRa and LoRaWan but Im not sure the bandwith is sufficient to transmit the controller's data and latency is definitely a factor to consider.

Would that be the only option?

Any guidance is greatly appreciated!

Bernardo Belmar
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You can use Ubiquiti AirMAX products to easily get a connection across 1 mile, if you have line-of-sight.

Even the cheap Nanostation units would do it. I've used these on multiple setups with good success.

Then, you could install wireless repeaters in the middle of the field, to give you all-around coverage.

Note that you'll need reliable power in the field.

If you can run a cable, then you have more options. Fiber is the fastest but most expensive. You can also get over a mile from an ethernet-to-coax or ethernet-to-twisted-pair converter (see StarTech for options) for very little cost.

However, if I misunderstood, and you want to control the robot anywhere within a 1 mile radius of your location, then you'd need something totally different. I understood the question to imply that the robot is fixed in one place (or a small area) approximately 1 mile away from you. Please correct me if I'm wrong.

Good luck.

Ryan Griggs
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I think the issue is that you are asking for a mile or more of range and that seriously limits the options here. You will need a radio service that has that sort of capability. Assuming you're looking at using this unlicensed, that rules out many options open to licensed business users or licensed radio amateurs which could easily reach a mile.

FRS or GMRS are unlicensed services and can be used to transmit data and the equipment is relatively inexpensive. You'd need some sort of modem (modulator/demodulator) on each end and some sort of protocol but much of this sort of equipment is readily available.

jwh20
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If you ar trying to work within a mile then you need an NRF module. What you need is to porgram another microcontroller and then make a transmitter. It would be great if you use some sort of amplifier to boost the signal.

Sohan Arafat
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