16km (10-mile) video connectivity through 900MHz Wi-Fi HaLow
At Morse Micro, we thrive on testing the boundaries of what’s possible with Wi-Fi technology. That’s why we recently ventured to Joshua Tree National Park—renowned for its expansive, open spaces and minimal RF noise—to conduct a series of rigorous Wi-Fi HaLow tests. This iconic location provided the ideal setting to explore the true capabilities of our cutting-edge technology.
Setting the stage: preparing for the test
Our testing kicked off with the setup of an evaluation kit as an access point (AP) at the edge of a quiet valley. We used our off-the-shelf MM6108-EKH01 evaluation kit, available for sale on Mouser, which contains a Raspberry Pi 4 with a MM6108-MF08651 Wi-Fi HaLow reference module. The evaluation kit outputs 21 dBm (125mW) through a standard 1 dBi low-gain dipole antenna, resulting in a total radiated power of 22 dBm. Why this kit? We aimed to test connectivity at the extreme edge of Wi-Fi HaLow’s range using standard equipment, which can be deployed in battery-powered devices, such as cameras. We did not use high-gain directional antennas or extreme high output powers intentionally, as they would limit the usability in the field. We’ve also decided not to tweak the 802.11ah parameters to increase the range further, so that we can maintain interoperability and remain Wi-Fi CERTIFIED HaLow.
Finding the edge: Calculating the theoretical maximum range
To determine where this edge lies, we calculated the theoretical maximum range by considering the maximum time of flight as specified by the IEEE 802.11ah standard. Next, we calculated the theoretical maximum throughput at that range, taking into account the module output power, antenna gain and free space path loss calculation. Using the Friis transmission equation, we anticipated a signal loss of 116 dB at a maximum range of 15.9km (approximately 10 miles).
Crunching the numbers
In the accompanying video, you’ll see us calculate the maximum range using the equation:
Distance = Speed × Time
Wi-Fi HaLow RF signals travel at the speed of light, and the IEEE 802.11ah specification, which Morse Micro’s chips adhere to, specifies a slot time of 52µs. Morse Micro’s implementation allows for a maximum time of flight of 53µs to allow for slight variations between devices. This results in a theoretical maximum range of 15.9km (approximately 10 miles).
It’s important to note that all Wi-Fi technologies must meet several constraints that impact the maximum range of transmission to provide for reliable, compliant, and high-throughput connectivity, such as Slot Time, CTS timeout, and ACK timeout. The good news is that for Wi-Fi HaLow, this maximum range limit is significantly better than that of any other Wi-Fi technology.
While Wi-Fi HaLow signals can theoretically travel and be detected over vast distances (hundreds of kilometers), the maximum range that meets the requirements of the IEEE 802.11ah standard is limited by the Slot Time parameter.
From theory to reality: testing the throughput
Next, we calculated the theoretical throughput at the maximum range. Using our MCS rates table and based on the signal strength of -94 dBm, we expected to achieve MCS2 at 4 MHz (sensitivity = -95 dBm), which provides a throughput of 4.5 Mbps or a UDP MAC throughput of 4 Mbps.
Performance in the field
The results? In Joshua Tree National Park, which is close to ideal conditions, we achieved an impressive 2 Mbps UDP throughput at 15.9km (approximately 10 miles). This isn’t just about maintaining a connection—it’s about delivering meaningful data rates that can support practical applications. Imagine peer-to-peer communication for bodycams, walkie-talkies for outdoor adventures, or IoT solutions for agriculture and mining—scenarios where both range and reliability are critical.
Our testing in Joshua Tree National Park demonstrates that Morse Micro’s Wi-Fi HaLow isn’t just about impressive numbers—it’s about delivering real value in environments where you need it most. This test proves that we can reach the maximum theoretical Wi-Fi HaLow range while still providing significant and usable throughput. Whether you’re working in remote, rural areas or deploying IoT solutions across vast landscapes, Wi-Fi HaLow can perform consistently and reliably.
Remember, when it comes to Wi-Fi HaLow, it’s not just about distance—it’s about delivering real, usable connectivity where it counts.
What if you don’t need a rural deployment? We’ve previously tested Wi-Fi HaLow in a noisy RF environment at Ocean Beach, California. Check out that video here.
