Field Testing and QoS Analysis of ESP-NOW Communication on ESP32

This study investigates the performance of the ESP-NOW communication protocol on ESP32 devices through field testing and Quality of Service (QoS) analysis. ESP-NOW is a lightweight, low-energy communication protocol that allows multiple ESP32 devices to communicate without relying on Wi-Fi. The objective of this research is to implement a program capable of measuring QoS parameters, including latency, packet loss, and Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI), across various distances. Field tests were conducted at Tanjungpinang, with devices positioned at heights of 2.5 meters and distances increasing at 10-meter intervals. The results indicate that ESP-NOW communication remains efficient up to 150 meters, with significant performance degradation beyond this range. Latency values ranged from 5.13 ms to 46 ms, and packet loss became substantial beyond 180 meters, with a maximum packet error rate of 99% at 300 meters. RSSI values showed a consistent decrease with increasing distance, falling to -97 dBm at 300 meters. According to TIPHON standards, the latency and packet error rate at closer distances were within acceptable limits, categorizing the protocol's performance as ‘Best’ for latency and ‘Perfect’ to ‘Good’ for packet error rate up to 210 meters. These findings suggest that while ESP-NOW is a viable communication protocol for short to medium distances, its reliability diminishes significantly beyond 200 meters. The study provides valuable insights into the limitations and capabilities of ESP-NOW, aiding users in making informed decisions about its application in various systems. This research supports the use of ESP-NOW in applications requiring robust and efficient short-range communication.