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PRACTICAL GUIDE

How to choose a hive monitoring setup

Hive monitoring combines readings from connected sensors with your observations at the apiary. Choose temperature and humidity monitoring to follow conditions inside a hive, GPS to track its location, and an app to keep inspection records. These tools support regular hands-on inspections.

By the Beekeeper.Tech team ·

Which device do I need?

SmartBeePro measures temperature and humidity and includes GPS tracking and movement alerts. SmartBeeGPS is the dedicated location-tracking option. You do not need both on the same hive for these functions.

Start with the Beekeeper app if your priority is recording inspections, photos, feeding and treatments. It works with or without connected hardware.

How often are hive readings sent?

In normal operation, SmartBeePro collects four readings each day and sends them together in one daily transmission. This is periodic monitoring, not a continuous live feed. Unexpected movement triggers an immediate transmission and more frequent GPS updates when connected.

Does hive monitoring need Wi-Fi?

SmartBeePro and SmartBeeGPS use their own SIM and a compatible cellular network. They do not require Wi-Fi or a local gateway. Confirm coverage and local network compatibility at your apiary with our team before ordering. Alerts and uploads depend on connectivity.

When should I add a scale or brood sensor?

A hive weight scale adds weight trends to your observations. A brood temperature and humidity sensor adds measurements at the brood nest. Both are optional SmartBeePro accessories, quoted separately; confirm compatibility and placement for your hive.

A weight change alone does not establish honey yield, and temperature or humidity readings alone do not diagnose a colony. Compare measurements with inspection notes and field conditions.

What does a connected setup cost?

SmartBeePro is USD 149 and SmartBeeGPS is USD 55, each with a separate USD 27 per device/year subscription for connectivity, monitoring and alerts. Check current pricing and availability before deciding.

Devices are currently out of stock. Reservation requests require no payment and do not guarantee a delivery date. The free app plan has limits confirmed by our team when arranging access. Beezy, the planned AI assistant, is coming soon.

What should I confirm before a deployment?

  • The locations, hive count and purpose of monitoring.
  • Cellular coverage, device placement and charging access.
  • Which hives need individual readings or GPS tracking: each device measures or tracks the hive carrying it.
  • Accessory compatibility, installation support and software access.
  • A written quote with shipping, taxes, availability and subscription terms.

See the AlUla project for field experience, or discuss an organizational deployment.

Beekeeper.Tech and local beekeepers beside hives in AlUla.
Beekeeper.Tech and local beekeepers beside hives in AlUla.

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