Long range, battery powered, wireless environmental sensor interface
devices that can be connected to a plurality of sensors and wirelessly
communicate the sensor readings back to a central collection device or
Internet terminal. Instead or additionally, sensors can be integrated
with the device for added efficiency. The devices incorporate a rugged
enclosure and an internal power supply that allows them to be placed in
harsh environmental conditions and operate for multiple years without
maintenance due to unique power-saving design features. The RF circuitry
is specially optimized for long-range outdoor communications of small
quantities of data. Line-of-sight communication range of several miles is
possible with this device. Various embodiments are disclosed.