Configuration, programming and implementation of 3 Smart Water network wireless sensor nodes for assessing the water quality

Abstract

This paper aims to present a Wireless Sensor Network using a Libelium Smart Water kit to allow remote water quality monitoring communication in real time. Equipped with multiple sensors that measure the most relevant water quality parameters, the Smart Water kit can be connected to the internet (using a mobile broadband connection) for real-time water quality control. The water quality parameters measured include pH, oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), electrical conductivity (EC) and temperature. The Smart Water platform includes three ultra-low power sensor nodes designed for use in rugged environments. The sensor nodes communicate through low power radio (802.15.4) sending data to the Meshlium Internet Gateway. This Gateway then sends the data to the Cloud or an external database via 3G or GPRS cellular connections. Sensor data is available in real time, even from sensor nodes situated in remote locations. This specific solution was implemented for three experiments performed in a physical sandbox model or artificial aquifer built in the laboratory.