ZigBit 2.4GHz Wireless Module for Industrial Monitoring

This ZigBit module contains Atmel's ATxmega256A3U Microcontroller and AT86RF233 2.4GHz ISM band Transceiver for ZigBee and IEEE 802.15.4 [1]. The module features 256KB in-system self-programmable Flash memory, 16KB SRAM and 4KB EEPROM. The compact all-in-one board design of MCU and radio transceiver with very minimal components on the RF path to Antenna dramatically improves the ZigBit's compact size, range performance on signal transmission and increases its sensitivity. This ensures stable connectivity within a larger coverage area, and helps develop applications on smaller footprint. The MS-147 connector [2] can be used as an RF Test port. ZigBit Module contains a complete RF/MCU design with all the necessary passive components included. The module can be easily mounted on a simple 2-layer PCB with a minimum of required external connection. The ZigBit Module evaluation kit containing the ZigBit extension board for the Atmel Xplained PRO HW evaluation platform can be used to develop FW using the Atmel Studio and evaluate using the Wireless Composer. Compared to a custom RF/MCU solution, a module-based solution offers considerable savings in development time and NRE cost per unit during the HW/FW design, prototyping, and mass production phases of product development. All ZigBits are preloaded with a bootloader when they are sold as modules, either in single units or T&R. Depending on end-user design requirements, the ZigBit can operate as a self-contained sensor node, where it would function as a single MCU, or it can be paired with a host processor driving the module over a serial interface.

The Zigbit module has various applications such as for building automation and monitoring, HVAC monitoring, inventory management, environmental monitoring, security and any other related industrial monitoring.