bhBase GSM Module for Hive Scales

bhBase connects to the scales via Bluetooth and sends data for all of them at once. One gateway covers the entire apiary - you do not need a gateway at each hive.

A shorter interval gives a more precise picture of what is happening during the day - you see changes every hour. A longer interval saves battery. For normal operation we recommend an 8-hour interval.

Measured values are sent to the server at the configured interval and appear in the app for each scale. Data usage is low - on the order of a few MB per month. The cheapest data plan is enough, or a prepaid SIM with a small data package.

With data connection, measured values are sent to our server. This service is provided free of charge - no subscription, no ads.

bhBase sends SMS notifications for extraordinary events. BG alerts about a critical scale battery condition. BGE additionally reacts to an event from the external input - when the alarm is triggered, it sends an SMS and calls the configured phone number, up to 3 numbers in sequence.

Any sensor with a relay output can be connected - motion sensor, magnetic door sensor, float switch, smoke detector. It supports NO/NC configuration (closing and opening). The magnetic sensor is included with the BGE variant.

With each data transfer from bhScale, bhBase also sends its own information, such as battery status or information about connection problems.

Bluetooth Low Energy - low power consumption, so it does not affect battery life. The scales need to be placed within 10 meters of the gateway.

You can view the data on any platform. The app is free, without ads, and without any subscription.

Data is synchronized through our server - you can check it on any device.

Any micro SIM with a data plan works (given the small amount of data, a prepaid SIM is suitable). It is not tied to any specific operator.

Battery life depends on the number of scales and transfer frequency. With three transmissions per day and one scale, it is approximately 3 months. With more scales or more frequent transfer, battery life decreases.

bhBase transfers data actively - it wakes up regularly, communicates with the scales via Bluetooth, and sends data over GSM. This cycle is more energy-demanding than passive measurement with bhScale. A Li-Ion battery makes sense here - higher capacity in a small volume, without space constraints.

A standard cable, a standard power bank. No mains power is needed at a remote apiary.

bhBase is not intended for permanent outdoor placement - IP30 means basic dust protection, not rain protection. It should be placed in a dry location within Bluetooth range of the scales: a shed, shelter, hive body, or waterproof box. Before installation, we recommend checking GSM coverage directly on site - a mobile phone is enough.

The scales continue measuring and storing data. bhBase repeatedly tries to send it. After a longer outage, once the connection is restored, it sends part of the missing data.

Data transferred via GSM is displayed in the app next to individual scales. All data is available as a chart for the entire period - without any time limit.

Data is stored on the server - after replacing your phone or computer, you still see the complete history without losing records.