Product category:
Wireless Communications
News Release from: Alpha Micro Components | Subject: MeshNetics 2.4GHz 802.15 ZigBit module
Edited by the Electronicstalk Editorial
Team on 29 August 2007
ZigBee product cuts development times
The MeshNetics 2.4GHz 802.15 ZigBit module shortens the time to market for a wide range of wireless applications.
Alpha Micro Components has announced a distribution agreement for the UK and Ireland with MeshNetics, a provider of ZigBee OEM modules The MeshNetics 2.4GHz 802.15 ZigBit module eliminates the need for costly and time consuming RF development and shortens the time to market for a wide range of wireless applications
This article was originally published on Electronicstalk on 7 Jul 2008 at 8.00am (UK)
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The ultra compact modules (24 x 13.5mm for ZDM-A-1281-A2 and 18.8 x 13.5mm for the ZDM-A1281-B0) are designed for automated and reliable wireless mesh networking applications.
The 802.15.4/ZigBit module operates over a wide voltage range of 1.8 to 3.6V.
It is based on Atmel ATmega 1281v MCU and an AT86RF230 RF transceiver.
It comes bundled with the eZeeNet networking firmware enabling module-based OEM products to form self-healing and self-organising mesh networks.
It also includes drivers for standard peripherals such as I2C, GPIO, ADC, USART/SPI.
The ZigBit can be used to operate as a sensor node whereby it functions as a single MCU.
Alternatively it can be paired to a host processor where the module serves as a modem and the host processor can control the data transmission and manage module peripherals via a powerful set of AT commands.
The ZigBit wireless module is power efficient, extending critical battery lifetime from a few months to many years thanks to power-saving modes and battery-optimised network parameters.
To save battery power, the MeshNetics configuration allows the network to update the sensor parameters remotely and change its reporting interval.
Current consumption in power save mode is less than 6uA.
Designing with the MeshNetics ZigBit module brings many benefits including easy prototyping with two-layer PCB, more memory for user software applications, robust mesh networking capability and worldwide license-free operation.
The evaluation and development kits for the new modules include sensor boards with multiple interfaces, data acquisition software suite, accessories and documentation.
The ZigBit module can be used in a wide range of applications including building automation, automated meter reading, industrial monitoring, predictive maintenance and asset tracking.
Christos Papakyriacou, Managing Director of Alpha Micro Components, commented: "With increasing adoption of the affordable ZigBee technology, interoperability is becoming a strong market driver".
"The self-healing and self-organising feature of the module is a clear advantage offering new functionality".
"We are pleased to have added ZigBit to our range of module offerings".
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