Connectivity

Access to quality and consistent connectivity across large areas of Australia is an ongoing challenge. Connectivity is becoming more commonly used throughout agriculture and is relied upon to access and implement various agtech solutions.

From an individual’s perspective:

• Telephone services – mobile, satellite, and standard landline phones are required for day-to-day activities.
• Internet and WiFi – access to mobile devices and internet services, including WiFi are considered a must have in households.

From a business perspective:

• Hosting conferences via podcasts and virtual meetings are now a common attendance option.
• An increase in consumer interest for where their products come from has led to businesses requiring added visibility and traceability throughout their whole production system e.g. livestock movement and management, product tracing, chemical use, and key areas of infrastructure.
• The use of online marketing and sales is becoming a standard practice for some consumers. As a result, businesses are reliant on access to mobile phones and the internet to meet the demands of these consumers.
• The need for access to in-field connectivity is becoming more substantial to increase communication levels, achieve enhanced management, as well as comply with updated WHS requirements.
• Having the ability to connect to in field internet of things (IoT) devices and widgets is essential to enable the use of current digital technology and IoT.
• A lack of connectivity has been a key contributing factor to the hesitation around adoption and implementation of digital technologies in Australian Agriculture.

There are a variety of options that exist to identify and enhance connectivity around Australia.

Note: It is important to understand the different requirements (and hence solutions sought) for office/homestead connectivity and in-field connectivity.

In-Field Connectivity

Some end-users are fortunate enough to have access to in-field connectivity such as cellular data. In many cases installing IoT devices to available networks are the most cost-effective solution for end-users. Where available in-field connectivity doesn’t exist, there are options available to identify connectivity. Not all solutions are effective, so it is important to identify what is available for you and select devices that are compatible.

Common in-field available connectivity networks include Cellular data (3G – 4G – 5G).