Drop-in radio modules get firmware upgrade

Responding to customer calls for features like brown-out recovery, Low-Power Radio Solutions Ltd has upgraded to version 2 the firmware in its easy-Radio family of software-embedded wireless modules. Other improvements in the firmware include a tighter and more stable frequency tolerance (to ±10 percent), extended operating temperature range (from -40°C to 85°C), and user selectable channel settings in the 433MHz to 434MHz and 868MHz to 928MHz bands.

In addition to having user settings that persist even when modules are powered down to save energy, enhancements have been made to simplify communication between easy-Radio modules and reduce the time to issue commands. In addition, separate, user-defined default power settings are available for each channel, and modules can be given a customizable 16-bit data identification code to prevent unintended communication with other modules. Also, for increased range, a repeater mode is available to relay data across successive modules. Still other improvements include a data rate that can be lowered to increase range, and an adjustable packet size to optimize transmission time.

Easy-Radio wireless modules embed all radio communications and data I/O software in a fully compliant module that needs no software coding nor RF testing and approvals. Among the models available, the ER900TRS transceiver module, which comes in a 2-in. single in-line package, operates at frequencies between 860MHz and 920MHz, making it suitable for both the US approved 902MHz to 928MHz and pan-European 868MHz to 970MHz bands. Its data rate defaults to the industry standard 19.2kbps, but can be programmed to rates between 2.4kbps and 38.4kbps. The module operates at voltages from 3.6V to 5.5V and draws typical currents of 23mA on transmit and 17mA on receive.

The upgraded firmware is free with ER900TRS easyRadio modules in a starter kit that sells for $155.

- Gil Bassak
eeProductCenter