The RAK7246G is a LoRaWAN gateway designed to make developers' work easier. Ideal for prototyping, proof-of-concept and demonstrations, it combines a RAK2246 Pi HAT hub module with a Raspberry Pi Zero W. This combination provides easy access to internal components and reduces costs. Thanks to its Semtech SX1308 chip, the RAK7246G can receive simultaneously on 8 LoRa channels, covering the entire international high-frequency LoRaWAN space. Its simple configuration makes it suitable for both experienced LoRa specialists and novices.
The RAK7246G is a gateway designed for developers and intended for prototyping, proof-of-concept and demonstrations in LoRaWAN networks. It combines a RAK2246 Pi HAT hub module with a Raspberry Pi Zero W, offering easy access to internal components and reduced cost.
Main features
Uses an SX1308 baseband processor with two SX1257 chips, enabling simultaneous reception on 8 uplink channels and 1 downlink channel.
Integrated Ublox MAX-7Q GPS module for tracking.
The pre-installed radiator guarantees stable thermal performance.
Powerful transmission with Tx max 20 dBm.
Highly sensitive receiver with Rx min -139 dBm @ SF12, BW 125 kHz.
Covers all international LoRaWAN high-frequency bands: RU864, IN865, EU868, US915, AU915, KR920, AS923.
Powered by a 5V / 2.5A DC power supply (sold separately).
Equipment details
Card presentation
The RAK7246G features an SD card slot for firmware storage (based on Raspbian OS).
Two SMA connectors are supplied for LoRa and GPS antennas.
Three ports are located on the side (from left to right): mini HDMI, USB MicroB and another USB MicroB/Power (used to power the device).
Dimensions
Both the RAK2246 and the Raspberry Pi Zero W have the same dimensions: 30 x 65 mm.
Housing dimensions are given in the user manual.
RAK2246 concentrator
This hub features an SPI interface for communication with the Raspberry Pi.
It uses the Semtech SX1308 digital baseband chip, offering advanced capabilities for LoRaWAN networks.
Detailed operation
IF channels
The RAK7246G offers 10 programmable reception paths, classified into different channels:
LoRa IF0 to IF7 channels: Designed for massive asynchronous star networks with thousands of sensor nodes.
LoRa IF8 channel: High-speed return link for other gateways or equipment.
IF9 (G)FSK channel: highly configurable channel for demodulating legacy FSK or GFSK signals.
Software
The RAK7246G runs on open-source software available from the LoRa-net project (https://github.com/LoRa-Net). This includes :
Node firmware for different hardware platforms.
Gateway host software (HAL driver for SX1308 packet forwarder).
