Running a Helium Miner in Canada: What to Know
Mapping Network sells hardware only. We make no promises about Helium network rewards, token value or earnings, which can change at any time. Check current details on the official Helium network page before you buy.
The Helium IoT network is a public LoRaWAN network built by people and businesses who host hotspots. Canada has active hotspots in many cities and towns. Here is what to know before you set one up.
Is it legal to run a Helium hotspot in Canada?
Yes. Hotspots sold for North America use the US915 plan, the 902 to 928 MHz licence-exempt band used for LoRaWAN in Canada. Buy US915 hardware: EU868 or other regional versions are not for use here.
What hardware do you need?
- A US915 hotspot or gateway, such as the SenseCAP M1, Nebra ROCK Pi or Bobcat 300.
- An outdoor 915 MHz antenna, mounted high.
- Low-loss cable, or an outdoor enclosure so the hotspot sits beside the antenna.
- A lightning arrestor and a wired internet connection.
Not sure which antenna, cable and mount suit your site? Try our free Antenna Setup Planner.
Where should it go?
Check the Helium network map first. A hotspot adds the most useful coverage where few others are nearby, and its range depends mostly on antenna height and a clear line of sight. Canadian winters matter too: use outdoor-rated gear and keep snow and ice off the antenna.
What does it cost to run?
A typical hotspot draws only a few watts, so power costs are small. The main ongoing needs are an internet connection and occasional maintenance.
Before you buy
Network rules and incentives change over time, so read the current details on Helium's official site. Buy hardware for what it does: providing LoRaWAN coverage for devices.
