The new 868MHz NT Series RF transceiver module from Linx makes it simple to send and receive digital data in the 863 to 870MHz band. The module offers the option of UART or True Transparency™ interfaces which lets the user create a wireless wire for use with nonstandard data rates, custom protocols, or encodings such as PWM and Manchester. The module features best-in-class receive sensitivity (up to −113dBm) and low power consumption (only 19.2mA in receive mode and 16mA in transmit mode at 0dBm).
Unlike so-called transparent modules that require a UART interface and buffering scheme, the True Transparencyâ„¢ feature of the NT Series reduces latency by transmitting raw data. All the user has to do is connect circuitry to the input line of the sending transceiver and the output line of the receiving transceiver. The module is completely hardware-configurable up to 8 channels. Although programming is not required, the NT Series has a UART interface that enables more advanced configuration with a microcontroller, RS-232 interface or USB interface. The 868MHz version offers 68 channels, which lets the user implement a frequency agility scheme such as frequency hopping or listen before talk.
The module has a maximum output power of +12.5dBm and a receiver sensitivity of –113dBm. This gives the module a typical line of sight range of up to 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) at the maximum output power with typical monopole whip antennas. Regulations in the country of operation dictate the maximum legal output power, so the final system range may be less depending on the country of operation. Typical range at 0dBm is up to 914 meters (3,000 feet).
To aid rapid development, the NT Series transceiver is available as part of a master development system. The system comes with two development boards for benchmarking and prototyping, each of which is populated with a transceiver. The boards include lights that show you which areas are active as well as other enhancements that simplify the development experience. To help you get started, the system also includes antennas, a daughter board with a USB interface, demonstration software, extra modules and connectors.
For more information about the NT Series, please visit www.linxtechnologies.com.
About Linx Technologies
Linx Technologies makes wireless simple by developing and manufacturing wireless products that are easy for engineers of all skill levels to use. The company’s RF modules, remote controls, antennas and connectors make it easy for engineers to integrate wireless features without the hassle and expense of engineering RF functionality from scratch.
For more information about wireless products from Linx, visit www.linxtechnologies.com.