News and New Products

$20 module replaces RS-232 wiring

By Warren Webb -- EDN, 3/4/2004

A new wireless module from Radiotronix combines a spread-spectrum transceiver with a protocol controller for transparent wire-replacement applications. The Wi.232 replaces RS-232/422/485 wiring and supports low-data-rate, low-power embedded-wireless applications, such as automated meter reading, industrial automation, home automation, medical instrumentation, and RFID. Initially available in a 915-MHz version, the module employs a true MAC (media-access-control) layer with no restrictions on addressing schemes and provides support for higher level protocols, including TCP/IP.

You can use the Wi.232 in point-to-point, point-to-multipoint, and multipoint-to-multipoint applications. Multiple modules can communicate on the same channel because of the built-in CSMA (carrier-sense-multiple-access) protocol. In its high-power mode, the module’s transmit power is as high as 11dBm, the maximum RF data rate is 152.34 kbps, and the device supports 36 channels. With proper antennas, a pair of Wi.232 modules can communicate over distances of 500 to 800 feet indoors and 1500 to 2500 feet outdoors.

The module is available in a pick-and-place-compatible surface-mount package measuring 0.8×0.97×0.08 in. and sells for less than $20 (production quantities). An optional development kit is also available that includes RS-232 and USB interfaces, battery and wall power supplies, debugging ports and connectors, and a prototyping area.

Radiotronix Inc, 1-405-794-7730, www.radiotronix.com.