# Haystack Fires in Australia: Causes and Considerations for Preventative Management
## 6 Introduction of 'Smart Agriculture' for Haystack Management
### Communication Technologies and Protocols  
Communication with the device may be achieved through multiple protocols: a text message sent directly from the device, the design of an antenna to send out a signal, and other means of communication. A key factor in IoT technology is the need for M2M (machine to machine) communication which traditionally has utilised a mobile data service using cellular networks. However, many mobile operators are switching off their GPRS and 3G networks, meaning alternatives are required for M2M communication [95]. There is a wide range of advanced wired and wireless communication technologies available. Protocols are being developed for the interconnection of M2M (machine to machine) communication for the precise and efficient monitoring, storage of sensor information and data communication. Both wired and wireless technologies have their own privileges considering the purpose and area under coverage. Wired technologies (Ethernet, serial communication (RS232/RS422/RS485), etc.) tend to be more secure as they are typically installed behind a Local Area Network (LAN) firewall that prevents interference of transmitting data. They have fast data transfer speeds due to a minimum of signal interference/distortion by physical hindrances (walls, ceilings, etc.) or from any other electronic devices. Wired communication devices tend to be more reliable as these are less prone to disconnections, and therefore, do not need constant debugging and troubleshooting. Despite the widespread use of wired technologies over the years, the literature suggests that wireless technologies are now becoming increasingly popular over wired technologies due to vast advancements in speed, security, reliability and the variety of options available [96; 97; 98; 99]. Wireless technologies (Zigbee, WiFi, Bluetooth, EnOcean, etc.) are more scalable, mobile and free from extensive hardware installations. Therefore, no additional cable installation/repair and labour costs are required, which is generally economical to the end user. In remote areas of Australia where connectivity via cellular (2G/3G/LTE) networks is not available, low earth orbit (LEO) satellites may be used to overcome communication limitations [100]. During communication, the distance between a satellite transmitter and a LEO satellite varies between 500 and 2500 km, depending on the altitude and elevation of the satellite. In comparison, terrestrial IoT solutions might work within a few tens of kilometres range. Considering all the advantages and limitations, both sets of technologies have a place in the market; therefore, it is vital to assess the viability and suitability of each technology prior to selection to ensure maximum performance to meet their respective requirements. Table 9 presents an overview of the most prominent and commercially \begin{table}
\begin{tabular}{c c} \hline \hline
**Requirement** & **Reasoning** \\ \hline \multirow{3}{*}{Connectivity} & Stable internet connectivity is the most important and basic \\  & requirement. The connection needs to be reliable, withstand various \\  & climatic conditions and be available throughout the area of interest. \\  & Appropriate sensors are required. Quality, security and privacy of \\  & sensors need to be considered before implementation ensuring long \\  & and sustainable use. \\ \multirow{2}{*}{Data analysis tools} & Tools or software to analyse the data using various algorithms and \\  & machine learning to gain predictive insights are required. \\  & The software should have proper security which prevents the stealing \\ \multirow{2}{*}{Secure internal systems} & of data. The software should also be easy to use for the farmers \\  & and accessible. \\ \multirow{2}{*}{Management system} & Sensors require maintenance at regular intervals of time. They are \\  & sensitive devices that require cleaning and the replacement of \\  & batteries and degraded components. \\ \hline \hline \end{tabular}
\end{table} 
Table 8: The requirement for IoT-based agriculture and farming activities.