CEL Introduces 32-Bit ARM-Based ZigBee Radio Module

Santa Clara, CA — CEL has expanded its line of IEEE 802.15.4 transceiver solutions with the addition of the new FreeStar Pro, the company's first 32-bit ARM-based ZigBee radio module. Based on the Freescale MC13224V 32 bit ARM Platform-in-Package (PiP), the FreeStar Pro is designed to leverage the extensive processing capability of the MC13224V with its extremely low power consumption.

The processing power of the MC13224V enables the FreeStar Pro to provide a level of integration unprecedented in a ZigBee module. The ARM 32-bit processor and expansive on-chip memory enable designers to eliminate the peripheral host processors often required by 8 and 16-bit transceiver solutions. This high level of integration helps reduce component count, lower power consumption, and reduce overall system costs.

FreeStar Pro modules are an excellent choice for remote sensing, AMR/AMI, home and building automation, industrial control, and security applications. With +20dBm output power and a range of over 4000 feet, they're ideal for mesh, point-to-point, and point-to-multipoint networks. Plus, with their low current consumption, they're also ideal for battery-powered designs.

FreeStar Pro modules have a footprint of just 23 x 31 mm, so they require very little real estate. An integrated antenna helps to reduce system size and cost, while an interface for an external antenna can be optionally specified. Modules support the Freescale BeeStack™ software, which streamlines development and gets you quickly to market. Best of all, FreeStar Pro modules will be FCC, IC and CE certified, eliminating the need for a time-consuming, uncertain, and often costly certification process.

FreeStar Pro Evaluation Kits provide two modules mounted on self-contained interface boards. These boards can be optionally battery-powered enabling developers to create and test network connections under real-world environmental conditions. Evaluation Software is also included in the kits. Its easy-to-use GUI interface makes it simple to configure the modules' settings: transmission channel, network ID, node ID, transmission power, send and receive packets; and determine packet error rates.

The FreeStar Pro module joins CEL's growing family of Freescale, Texas Instruments and Ember-based ZigBee solutions.

SOURCE: California Eastern Laboratories