Question 1

How long will a collar run before it needs charging?

Accepted Answer

LoRa collars typically go one to two years between charges on hourly position fixes. 4G collars run from a month up to six depending on how often they report, and the solar-assisted models stretch that considerably.

Question 2

Are the collars tough enough for life outdoors?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every collar is fully sealed against water, built to take knocks and treated against UV, so it holds up through wet winters and bright summers without complaint on stock that's out all year.

Question 3

Does the farm need a broadband connection?

Accepted Answer

Only for LoRa. A LoRa gateway needs to reach the internet via your broadband or a 4G router, after which the collars talk to it for free. 4G collars carry their own SIM and work on their own wherever there's a mobile signal.

Question 4

Can I follow stock that move between holdings?

Accepted Answer

4G collars will, since they report from anywhere with mobile coverage — ideal for rented grazing or split blocks. LoRa collars stay within reach of your gateway, usually five to fifteen kilometres depending on how the land lies.

Question 5

How frequently will I see new positions?

Accepted Answer

That's your call. Hourly fixes suit most farms and preserve battery, but you can pull an on-the-spot position whenever you need one or tighten the interval during lambing, calving or a suspected break-out.

Question 6

Is there an ongoing cost per collar?

Accepted Answer

4G collars run on a small data SIM, generally £3–8 a month each. LoRa collars cost nothing in monthly fees once you own the gateway, which is why they work out cheaper across a larger herd.

Question 7

Can I get alerts for particular animals?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Set your own field boundaries and choose which animals or groups they apply to, then get an instant text or app alert whenever those beasts leave the area you've marked.

Livestock GPS Trackers — Cattle & Sheep, Solar