RF Digital has released a fully FCC and CE-compliant 2.4GHz ULP wireless module in 15 by 15 by 3mm form factor powered by the nRF24LE1 ultra low power single chip transceiver, from wireless specialist Nordic Semiconductor.

The module is supplied tape and reeled at a US$8 unit cost for volume orders. The tape and reeled format enables customers (or their subcontractors) to place the module on the PCB using automated placement equipment. Automated assembly, together with the low price and the fact no further certification is required prior to releasing products to market, makes the module appropriate for production runs from 10 to 100,000 units.

The RFD21733 measures just 15 by 15 by 3mm and is powered by Nordic Semiconductor’s nRF24LE1 2.4GHz ULP transceiver. The nRF24LE1 is a high performance wireless device integrating radio, microcontroller and flash memory. 
 
The RFD21733 is supplied with RF Digital’s proven Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) firmware, or alternatively with no pre-loaded firmware (module part number RFD21731). Both modules feature a built in chip antenna which is matched, tuned and radiation pattern optimized.

A 32kHz crystal required for precision timing when operating in a low duty cycle ULP mode is also integrated into the RFD21732 module which has no pre-loaded firmware. Full access to the wireless module is provided to three digital in/out lines, program line, reset line, power (+V) and ground (GND) connections.

The RFD21733 is particularly suitable for designers that may be new to wireless as everything on the RF side of the device is in place, tested and proven. In this configuration, the module runs at 9600 baud and features N, 8, 1 serial interface firmware allowing it to be connected directly to an RS232 level shifter. In addition, the module features a built in switch follower mode.

Pressing a button on the transmitter will cause the corresponding button on the receiver to activate; this button could, for example, be connected to an LED to facilitate range testing or used in end-product applications such as keyless entry door openers or long range RFID applications.

For experienced designers who want to take advantage of the modules’ high bandwidth (up to 2Mbps raw data rate), ultra low power consumption (down to microamps average current) and ability to communicate with up to five other devices in a point-to-multipoint topology, the modules can be programmed using Nordic’s nRF24LE1 Development and Evaluation Kit.

Because the transceiver used in the modules is an integrated device, there is no requirement for a separate development and evaluation kit to access the microcontroller.

More information: http://www.rfdigital.com