How to Use MKR WAN 1310: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The MKR WAN 1310 is a microcontroller board designed for Internet of Things (IoT) applications, offering long-range communication through LoRa technology. It is built around the SAMD21 Cortex-M0+ 32-bit ARM microcontroller and features a Murata CMWX1ZZABZ LoRa module for seamless connectivity. Additionally, the board includes a built-in battery charger, making it ideal for portable, battery-powered projects. Its compact size and versatile features make it a popular choice for IoT developers.

• Smart agriculture and environmental monitoring
• Industrial IoT (IIoT) applications
• Remote sensing and data logging
• Smart cities and infrastructure
• Battery-powered IoT devices with long-range communication

• Microcontroller: SAMD21 Cortex-M0+ 32-bit ARM
• LoRa Module: Murata CMWX1ZZABZ
• Operating Voltage: 3.3V
• Input Voltage (Vin): 5V via USB or 5-12V via Vin pin
• Digital I/O Pins: 8 (of which 4 can be used as PWM outputs)
• Analog Input Pins: 7 (12-bit ADC)
• Analog Output Pins: 1 (10-bit DAC)
• Flash Memory: 256 KB
• SRAM: 32 KB
• Clock Speed: 48 MHz
• Connectivity: LoRa, UART, I2C, SPI
• Battery Support: Li-Po single-cell, 3.7V, 1024mAh (minimum recommended)
• Dimensions: 67.64mm x 25mm
• Weight: 32g

1. Powering the Board:

   • Connect the board to a computer or USB power source using a micro-USB cable.
   • Alternatively, supply 5-12V to the Vin pin or connect a 3.7V Li-Po battery to the battery connector.

2. Programming the Board:

   • Install the Arduino IDE and add the MKR WAN 1310 board via the Arduino SAMD Boards package.
   • Select the correct board and port in the Arduino IDE before uploading your code.

3. Connecting to LoRa:

   • Use the LoRa library in the Arduino IDE to configure and send/receive data.
   • Ensure the LoRa gateway is within range and configured to the same frequency as the MKR WAN 1310.

4. Connecting Sensors and Actuators:

   • Use the analog (A0-A6) and digital (D0-D7) pins to interface with sensors and actuators.
   • For I2C devices, connect to the SDA and SCL pins, and for SPI devices, use the MISO, MOSI, and SCK pins.

• Battery Usage: Always use a 3.7V Li-Po battery with a minimum capacity of 1024mAh for optimal performance.
• Voltage Levels: The board operates at 3.3V logic levels. Avoid connecting 5V signals directly to the pins.
• Antenna Connection: Ensure the LoRa antenna is securely connected to the board for proper communication.
• Frequency Configuration: Verify that the LoRa frequency matches the regional regulations (e.g., 868 MHz for Europe, 915 MHz for the US).

#include <LoRa.h> // Include the LoRa library

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication at 9600 baud
  while (!Serial);

  Serial.println("Initializing LoRa...");

  // Initialize LoRa with frequency (e.g., 915E6 for 915 MHz)
  if (!LoRa.begin(915E6)) {
    Serial.println("LoRa initialization failed!");
    while (1);
  }

  Serial.println("LoRa initialized successfully.");
}

void loop() {
  Serial.println("Sending packet...");

  // Begin a LoRa packet
  LoRa.beginPacket();
  LoRa.print("Hello, LoRa!"); // Add data to the packet
  LoRa.endPacket(); // Send the packet

  delay(5000); // Wait 5 seconds before sending the next packet
}

1. LoRa Initialization Fails:

   • Ensure the LoRa antenna is properly connected.
   • Verify that the frequency set in the code matches the regional frequency.
   • Check the power supply to ensure the board is receiving sufficient voltage.

2. Board Not Recognized by Arduino IDE:

   • Confirm that the correct board and port are selected in the Arduino IDE.
   • Reinstall the Arduino SAMD Boards package if necessary.
   • Try using a different USB cable or port.

3. Battery Not Charging:

   • Ensure the Li-Po battery is connected correctly to the battery connector.
   • Verify that the board is powered via USB or Vin while charging.

4. No LoRa Communication:

   • Check the range and ensure there are no obstructions between the MKR WAN 1310 and the LoRa gateway.
   • Verify that both devices are configured to the same frequency and spreading factor.

• Can the MKR WAN 1310 operate without a battery?
  Yes, the board can be powered via USB or Vin without a battery.

• What is the maximum range of LoRa communication?
  The range depends on environmental factors but can reach up to 10 km in open areas.

• Is the MKR WAN 1310 compatible with other LoRa devices?
  Yes, as long as the devices operate on the same frequency and protocol.

• Can I use the MKR WAN 1310 with other Arduino shields?
  Yes, the board is compatible with MKR form-factor shields.