Wireless Sensor Module for Habitat Monitoring

Wireless sensor networks for outdoor applications, such as habitat monitoring, are expected to require wireless link ranges that are longer than achievable with commonly available platforms. We discuss ways to extend link range within the constraints typical of wireless sensor networks and incorporate these aspects into the design of a wireless module. We report on the use of this module in a wireless sensor network designed for habitat monitoring. This application involves tracking the movement of RFID tagged bats between their nesting boxes.