As farming becomes more data-driven, the need for reliable internet connectivity in barns is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right connection for your farm? Let’s dive into the three main types of internet access available and how each one stacks up for barn use.

Hardwired Internet:

The Gold Standard—If You Can Get It

When it comes to internet connections, hardwired options like Fiber Optic or it’s older cousins DSL and coax are often seen as the gold standard. Why? Because they offer high speeds, large data caps, and a reliable connection that doesn’t fluctuate with the weather. Sounds perfect, right?

Well, not so fast. The biggest drawback of hardwired internet is the upfront cost—especially if you’re in a remote area. Running new cables to a barn that’s miles away from the nearest infrastructure can be prohibitively expensive. I’ve spoken to farmers in Canada who’ve been quoted staggering amounts just to get connected. The result? Hardwired internet is best suited for barns that are close to existing infrastructure and require a consistent, high-speed connection.

Cellular Wireless Internet:

Flexible, but with Limitations

For many barns, cellular wireless internet is a more accessible option. It’s less expensive to set up than hardwired connections, and it’s relatively quick to get started. You’re likely already familiar with the cellular networks that power your smartphone, and the same technology can be used to connect your barn.

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But there are some caveats. Cellular internet depends heavily on your proximity to a tower, and obstacles like horizon or hills can interfere with the signal. That’s where tools like RF Path Study by ScadaCore come in handy—they help you assess whether your barn is within range of a reliable tower. You can also use Speedtest by Ookla to measure your signal strength before committing.

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One common misconception I hear is that if your cell phone can’t get a signal in the barn, a 4G modem won’t work either. The truth is, the 4G modems we use in barns have larger antennas and can be placed higher up, providing much better reception than a typical phone. This makes cellular wireless a solid option for barns within range of a tower, though it does come with lower data caps and variable speeds.

It’s crucial to consider the right data plan for your needs. All major cell phone companies offer IoT (Internet of Things) plans designed specifically for connected devices like sensors and controllers. These plans often come with lower rates than traditional data plans, the ability to pool data across multiple devices, and detailed data usage controls that help you manage costs and ensure efficient operation. At FeedFlo, we recommend considering a company like Teal, which offers a unique solution by combining multiple carriers into a single SIM card. This approach not only provides better coverage by accessing the strongest available network at any given time but also offers tower redundancy, ensuring that your connection remains stable even if one network experiences issues.

Satellite Internet:

When There’s No Other Option

If you’re in an area where both hardwired and cellular options are impractical, satellite internet might be your best bet. Services like Starlink have made satellite internet more accessible than ever, even in the most remote locations.

Satellite internet offers a reliable connection where other methods fall short, but it comes with its own set of challenges. It’s generally more expensive than cellular options, with a single speed tier and bandwidth cap that might be more than you actually need. And while it’s typically reliable, you’ll need to ensure there are no obstructions like trees near the installation site—though this isn’t usually an issue for barns.

Satellite internet is ideal for site offices that service multiple barns or for very remote locations where other connections aren’t feasible. Just be prepared for the higher cost and the need for a clear line of sight to the sky.

Choosing the Right Connection for Your Barn

So, how do you decide which option is best for your barn? Consider a few key factors: your proximity to infrastructure, your data needs, your budget, and your plans for future expansion. For instance, if you’re planning to integrate more technology into your operations—like FeedFlo’s on-pipe feed sensors—a reliable and scalable internet connection is essential.

FeedFlo’s sensors have helped farmers catch serious out-of-feed issues, preventing costly delays in time to market. One of our customers discovered that their animals would have had empty feeders for 100 hours over a four-month period—a potential loss of $13,529 in productivity. This kind of real-time data, made possible by a strong internet connection, is invaluable.

It’s important to be aware that some technology companies use their internet connections to lock you into their ecosystem. They might offer attractive, proprietary internet solutions that seem convenient at first but limit your flexibility and control. These systems can make it difficult to switch providers or integrate with other technologies, forcing you to stick with their products even if better options become available. At FeedFlo, we believe in giving farmers the freedom to choose the best tools for their operations, which is why our sensors are designed to work with open internet connections and a variety of platforms.

The Future of Barn Connectivity

Looking ahead, the demand for better internet in barns is only going to grow. As AI and machine learning become more integrated into farming, the need for higher bandwidth will increase. The good news is that new technologies, like high-speed satellite services and improved cellular coverage, are making it easier for even the most remote barns to get connected.

At FeedFlo, we believe in the power of open systems and technologies that work well together. Our sensors are designed to integrate seamlessly with a variety of farm management platforms, and internet connections, giving you the flexibility to choose the best tools for your operation. In an industry where adaptability is key, this approach gives our customers a competitive edge.

Conclusion

The right internet connection can transform your barn operations, from improving efficiency to boosting productivity. Whether you’re looking for the reliability of hardwired internet, the flexibility of cellular, or the reach of satellite, there’s an option that fits your needs. Consider your unique situation, and choose the connection that will best support your farm’s growth and success.

For more insights and technology solutions, contact us directly. We’re here to help you navigate the digital future of farming.


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