LoRaWAN microwave radar distance sensor EU868 Dragino MDS200-LB

The Dragino MDS200-LB measures distance using 24 GHz microwave radar and is intended for environments where other sensing methods reach their limits more quickly. Unlike ultrasonic or LiDAR measurement, radar remains more dependable where condensation, moisture, or heavier dust build-up is present at the measuring point. That makes it a practical fit for shafts, process areas, technical tanks, wastewater installations, or dusty industrial sites.

Typical use cases include level measurement in tanks and process media, distance monitoring in shafts, occupancy and presence detection in parking and access areas, monitoring of deposit points, or object detection in harsher environments. It also makes sense in barns, storage zones, waste handling areas, or exposed technical outdoor sites where moisture, dirt, or varying surface conditions affect measurement quality.

The MDS200-LB can evaluate two distances at once: the nearest object and the next object behind it. This matters when there are intermediate surfaces, obstructions, or changing objects in front of the actual target. For integrators, that can provide a better picture of the sensing situation than a simple single-distance reading.

The sensor also supports an alarm feature, allowing shorter uplink intervals when the measured distance moves outside a configured range. That is useful for threshold monitoring in level sensing, approach detection, occupancy status, or other state changes. Bluetooth v5.1 helps with setup, OTA updates reduce maintenance work, and the LB version with its 8500 mAh Li/SOCl2 battery is intended for long-term deployment at fixed measurement points.