As a recap on IoT technologies, coverage (both geographic and penetrative) is primarily determined by channel size. Channel size in turn defines receiver sensitivity - the smaller the channel, the more sensitive the RF headend can be. When factoring in regulatory transmit power limitations this gives us a working figure for Maximum Coupling Loss (MCL).

The consequence however is that a smaller channel size provides less capacity. When selecting a wireless IoT technology a compromise must be struck between throughput and coverage that balances performance against build cost.

Across the globe Mobile Network Operators have generally implemented both NB-IoT and LTE-M networks, covering off two use cases - long range + low data rate, medium range + medium data rate, respectively.

For companies and individuals, class-licensed technologies (i.e., those that can operate in public-park spectrum) are the only available choices. The two most common are LoRa and Sigfox. Sigfox however requires authorisation to become a geographic region's accredited Sigfox Operator, putting the technology out of reach for most businesses.

This leaves LoRa as the key IoT technology for ad hoc network builds. LoRa provides performance similar to NB-IoT, with a notable reduction in coverage due to the 1 Watt EIRP limit imposed in Australia. In terms of effective range Australian LoRa networks can provide connectivity up to about 15 kilometres, although performance can be highly variable past the 3 to 5 kilometre mark.