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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 Button

Bluetooth Connection

Historical 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. In the actual Growbud iOS or Android app, you can access this sync screen using the 3 bar icon (☰) in the top left corner and selecting the SYNC menu.

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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 Communication

Why Choose LoRaWAN?

2mi

Long Range

Up to 2 miles coverage

♾️

Automatic Sync

No manual intervention needed

🔋

Battery Efficient

Very low power consumption

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 over your network. Best for commercial installations and areas without Helium coverage.

Reliable, dedicated infrastructure
Complete data privacy and control

Bluetooth Only

Disable LoRaWAN to conserve battery and use only Bluetooth for manual syncing. Perfect for setup, troubleshooting, or when LoRa coverage isn't available.

Maximum battery life
Manual sync required
Use Sync Button
H

Helium Network

Connect to the public Helium network for automatic data transmission. No additional hardware required - just check coverage in your area.

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

FeatureBluetooth OnlyLoRaWAN PrivateHLoRaWAN Helium
RangeUp to 300 feetUp to 2 milesUp to 2 miles
Automatic SyncManual onlyAutomaticAutomatic
Battery UsageVery LowVery LowVery Low
Setup RequiredNonePurchase gatewayCheck coverage
CostFreeGateway costFree
Best ForSetup, testing, close-range monitoringCommercial, remote areas, full controlUrban areas, existing Helium coverage

Questions?

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