DFRobot launches low-power, low-cost Fermion: BMV080 air quality sensor module

Just last year, we reported on the SparkFun Air Quality PM1/PM2.5/PM10 Sensor, based on the Bosch BMV080 fanless air-quality sensor and priced at around $65. DFRobot has now launched a low-cost alternative, the Fermion: BMV080, which provides the same fanless, laboratory-grade PM1, PM2.5, and PM10 sensing capabilities for just $29.90. The sensor uses laser-based light-scattering technology with fanless optical counting to detect particles as small as 0.5 μm. This avoids fan noise, dust buildup, and mechanical wear, which are common with fan-based PM sensors, and, on top of that, it has a service life of up to 10 years. It measures particulate concentrations in a 0–1000 μg/m³ range with 1 μg/m³ resolution and ±10 μg/m³ of accuracy. The sensor supports I2C and SPI interfaces, and consumes about 70 mA in continuous measurement mode with a 6 μA sleep current, making it suitable for battery-powered systems. DFRobot’s Fermion: BMV080 specifications: Sensor IC

DIN-rail mountable LoRaWAN control terminal offers RS485, analog input, and digital I/Os

The DFRobot LoRaWAN Control Terminal is a compact, DIN-rail mountable industrial IIoT terminal that features long-range LoRaWAN connectivity with local sensing and control capabilities. It’s designed for industrial, agricultural, and building-automation scenarios that need reliable, low-power wireless communication up to 4 km. The terminal supports the standard LoRaWAN protocol (OTAA/ABP, Class A/C) with up to 4 km line-of-sight range and works with private gateways or public networks like TTN. It integrates a 0–10V analog input, optically isolated digital inputs, and RS485/Modbus sensor support, along with a built-in relay output for direct actuation. There's also support for visual rule-based automation for relay switching, RS-485 commands, or uplink messages; the device continues operating offline using preset logic. The unit operates from 12–24V, includes adjustable transmission parameters, and supports firmware upgrades and factory resets. DFRobot LoRaWAN Control Terminal specifications: SoC/Main Controller – TBD Wireless LoRaWAN 863–870 MHz, 16 dBm Tx power (EU, DFR1120-868) LoRaWAN

How to Make an OwlBot: The Bird Intimidator – Part 2: Making Sounds – Motbots

How to Make an OwlBot: The Bird Intimidator – Part 2: Making Sounds – Motbots