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Sensor Communication Guide

Quick Summary

Sync your data with the mobile app using the SYNC DATA button if you don't have a gateway. This will cause the app to retrieve all the data from a single sensor using a Bluetooth connection, and then save the sensor data to your account.

If you have a gateway your data syncs automatically so you never need to use the SYNC DATA button. Previously purchased sensors in Bluetooth mode can switch to LoRa mode using the instructions below.

Bluetooth

Growbud sensors use Bluetooth for setup, spot check, and to sync data if the sensor is not in range of a LoRa gateway. Use the SYNC DATA button in the Growbud app to retrieve all historical data from your sensor.

Growbud sensors ship from the factory in Bluetooth mode with LoRa communication DISABLED. This means you need to use the Bluetooth SYNC to view the historical data, or to turn on a LoRa mode if in range of a LoRaWAN network.

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My Growbud Sensor

Growbud sensor device

Model: Dro Sensor

SN: E10040BE

Firmware: v3.5.0

Last sync: 15 minutes ago

Network: GROWBUD

Battery:

Bluetooth Controls
Spot Check

View live data

Bluetooth Sync

Sync data if LoRa is disabled

Grow Medium

Select a grow medium

Device Alerts

Turn alerts on or off

SYNC DATA

Bluetooth

Data

Try the bluetooth sync screen

Experience the sync process with our interactive simulator. Click the sync buttons to see how the real app works.

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Nearby Sensors

Scanning...

DRO

Dro Sensor

SN E2001000

Needs sync • 2.1 days

BLE MODE

VERO

Vero Sensor

SN E3001000

Needs sync • 8.5 hours

BLE MODE

Unpaired Sensors

LoRaWAN Long-Range

Why Choose LoRaWAN?

2mi

Long Range

♾️

Auto Sync

🔋

Low Power

Network Options

There are 3 options in the Growbud app for using LoRaWAN connectivity:

Private Gateway

Use a dedicated Growbud LoRa gateway for complete control. Best for commercial installations.

Reliable, dedicated infrastructure
Complete data privacy and control

Bluetooth Only

Disable LoRaWAN to conserve battery and use Bluetooth for manual syncing.

Maximum battery life
Manual sync required
Use Sync Button
H

Helium Network

Connect to the public Helium network for automatic data transmission.

Free to use (pay for hotspot if needed)
Coverage dependent on local hotspots

Getting Started with LoRaWAN

For Private Gateway:
  1. Purchase and install Growbud gateway
  2. Set sensor LoRaWAN mode to "Private"
  3. Configure gateway settings
  4. Enjoy automatic data sync
For Helium Network:
  1. Check Helium coverage in your area
  2. Set sensor LoRaWAN mode to "Helium"
  3. Wait for automatic connection
  4. Monitor data in the app

Communication Methods Comparison

Choose the best option for your specific needs and environment

Bluetooth Only

RangeUp to 300 feet
Auto SyncManual only
BatteryVery Low
SetupNone
CostFree
Best for:

Setup, testing, close-range monitoring

LoRaWAN Private

RangeUp to 2 miles
Auto SyncAutomatic
BatteryVery Low
SetupPurchase gateway
CostGateway cost
Best for:

Commercial, remote areas, full control

H

LoRaWAN Helium

RangeUp to 2 miles
Auto SyncAutomatic
BatteryVery Low
SetupCheck coverage
CostFree
Best for:

Urban areas, existing Helium coverage

Questions?

Our support team is here to help you with any questions you may have.