Description
BeeConn is an electronic scale for beehive monitoring and beekeeping management. The wireless monitoring device allows beekeepers to monitor their apiaries, providing real-time information on the weight, temperature and relative humidity of the hives.
Technology
BeeConn uses electronic scales to periodically measure the weight of beehives and monitors weather conditions through its integrated weather station. The system is offered with or without solar panels, depending on power outlet access, with built-in capacitors that eliminate the need for replacement batteries. The measured data are sent and stored to a gateway or an external server via GPRS or Wi-Fi, powered by battery, solar panels or a direct connection to the electric grid. The beekeeper can access the acquired data through a gateway screen, a mobile application or an SMS message. Up to 30 beehives can be connected to one gatekeeper, which needs a SIM card to send the SMS, although a Lite version of the scale is available that can transmit data without a gatekeeper (i.e. one SIM card for each scale). The gatekeeper, which should be no more than 1 km away from the electronic scales, automatically sends SMS messages on such variables as weight and temperature in the individual hives, helping to monitor the current situation and offering a long-term comparison with previous records. An additional GPS functionality provides security against theft.
Target
The scale and app are specifically tailored for small-scale beekeepers, although medium- and large-scale operations can also benefit.
Business model
The BeeConn scales were on sale for EUR 374.99 in of October 2024. The other devices offered by the company can be purchased from the online store on the company’s website. The items have a 2- year guarantee.
Impact
According to the company website, the benefits of the technology include advanced monitoring with GPS precision, security alerts and theft prevention, solar-powered efficiency, cost reductions through the reduced need for field visits, increased honey yield; and damage prevention.
Four Betters
Better production
