Espressif ESP32-S3 WiFi BLE Dual Core Module for LoRaWAN® with LoRa SX1262

What is RAK3312 WisBlock Core Module for LoRaWAN?

RAK3312 WisBlock Core Module for LoRaWAN combines LoRa, WiFi, and Bluetooth communication into one single low power WisBlock Core module. The dual-core Espressif ESP32-S3 MCU powers the device, paired with Semtech SX1262 LoRa transceivers. The LoRaWAN stack is compliant with V1.0.2, with V1.0.4 support in progress. It controls the Semtech SX1262 LoRa transceiver over its SPI interface.

The ESP32-S3 firmware is based on the Espressif Arduino BSP for the ESP32. WiFi and Bluetooth functionality is provided by the Arduino BSP. The LoRa drivers and LoRaWAN V1.0.2 stack are available as an Arduino library.

RAK3312 comes without a default firmware. We provide code examples in our WisBlock Github repo.

Custom firmware for the module, combining the three connectivity options can be developed with Arduino IDE and the Espressif ESP32 BSP or directly using the Espressif ESP-IDF.

This module complies with Class A & C of LoRaWAN 1.0.2 specifications. An upgrade to LoRaWAN stack V1.0.4 is in development and will support Class A, B, & C.

Please select a variant for your LoRaWAN region according to this table:

Why You Need RAK3312 WisBlock Core Module for LoRaWAN

Integrating RAK3312 reduces hardware complexity and accelerates IoT development, ensuring systems can adapt to changing communication needs without redesigning core electronics.

Why it's useful:

• Design efficiency: Simplifies connectivity integration into IoT devices
• Adaptability: Supports multiple use cases across varied environments
• Scalability: Provides a foundation suitable for both prototypes and deployments

Key Features of RAK3312 WisBlock Core Module for LoRaWAN

• LoRa module for Smart City, Smart Agriculture, Smart Industry
• Compact Form Factor: 20 x 30 x 4.5 mm WisBlock Core Module
• I/O ports: UART/I2C/SPI/ADC/GPIO
• Temperature range: -40 °C to +85 °C
• Supply voltage: 2.0 ~ 3.6 V
• Frequency range:
  • 150 MHz to 960 MHz for LoRa
  • 2.4 GHz for WiFi and Bluetooth
• Low-Power Wireless Systems with 7.8 kHz to 500 kHz Bandwidth
• Ultra-Low Power Consumption in sleep mode
• Espressif ESP32-S3 with Xtensa® 32-bit LX7 dual-core microprocessor with 512kB SRAM, 8MB PSRAM and 16MB external Flash
• AT Command Support
• Supported bands: (RU864, IN865, EU868, AU915, US915, KR920, and AS923)

If you prefer to have a low power STM32 MCU as the main processor, our RAK11162 with STM32WLE5 MCU and integrated ESP8684 WiFi/BLE modem is an alternative.

Key Benefits of RAK3312 WisBlock Core Module for LoRaWAN

This module supports diverse applications, offering practical advantages that extend beyond basic connectivity.

• Reduces time from concept to field-ready device
• Encourages flexibility in application design
• Provides a foundation for sustainable product lifecycles

Use Case #1: Monitoring in Isolated Locations

A water utility uses sensors with RAK3312 to maintain continuous reporting across remote stations, ensuring operational visibility without reliance on traditional network coverage.

Use Case #2: Smart Agriculture Deployment

Farmers integrated RAK3312 into gateways to link field sensors. This enables reliable data gathering for crop insights and reducing manual oversight in large agricultural areas.

Comparison Table: RAK11162 and RAK3312

What’s in the Box

• 1 pc RAK3312
• 1 pc PCB Antenna for LoRa (MHF-4 Connector)
• 1pc Antenna for Bluetooth Low Energy (MHF-4 Connector)

How to Get Started with RAK3312 WisBlock Core Module for LoRaWAN

• Overview for RAK3312 WisBlock LoRaWAN Module
• Quick Start Guide for RAK3312 WisBlock LoRaWAN + BLE + WiFi Module
• Datasheet for RAK3312 WisBlock LoRaWAN Module

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the WisBlock Core Module combine multiple wireless technologies?

RAK3312 integrates LoRa, WiFi, and Bluetooth within a single design. LoRa provides long-range, low-power communication, while WiFi and Bluetooth handle local connectivity and provisioning tasks. By combining these radios under one processing platform, applications can shift between short-range and long-range communication without relying on additional boards. This architecture simplifies system design and enables flexible network topologies for different IoT use cases.

What role does firmware play in using RAK3312?

RAK3312 ships without a preloaded firmware, allowing developers to tailor functionality to their needs. Example code is available in the official repository, covering LoRaWAN, point-to-point LoRa, WiFi client or access point modes, and Bluetooth UART. Developers can use Arduino or Espressif’s SDKs to implement applications, giving control over radio coordination, power management, and protocol behavior. This flexibility ensures the same hardware can support varied projects with minimal rework.

How can RAK3312 be integrated into existing systems?

Integration is achieved by mounting the module onto a WisBlock base or a custom carrier and connecting it through standard interfaces. Communication with host controllers typically occurs via UART, SPI, or I²C. From a system perspective, the module can act as the main controller or as a dedicated connectivity engine. This flexibility allows engineers to either offload tasks to the module or integrate it tightly with their broader architecture.

Why is frequency stability important for RAK3312’s applications?

In long-duration or high-temperature operation, radio transmissions may drift from their intended channel. The inclusion of stability mechanisms helps maintain synchronization across the network, preventing corrupted data during long packets or repeated transmissions. This is critical in IoT deployments where devices must remain reliable for years in the field. By addressing drift, the module supports consistent performance across environments ranging from agricultural fields to industrial plants.

What factors influence reliability in LoRaWAN versus P2P operation?

In LoRaWAN mode, reliability depends on gateway density, network server availability, and adherence to duty cycle limits. P2P mode, by contrast, eliminates infrastructure dependence but requires careful handling of timing, packet acknowledgment, and collision avoidance. Developers choose between the two based on whether managed connectivity or direct peer-to-peer control is more suitable. RAK3312’s support for both modes provides flexibility across deployments with different reliability trade-offs.

How does RAK3312 support future application growth?

With its combination of processing power and triple radio capability, RAK3312 is designed for applications that may evolve over time. A system starting with Bluetooth provisioning could later extend to WiFi data transfer or LoRaWAN backhaul without hardware redesign. This adaptability reduces long-term development costs and ensures devices can scale with new requirements or standards. It also allows a single hardware design to be deployed across multiple markets or regions.