Software RS232 and wireless modules

[Michael]

I have a PIC that implements software rs232 and all is fine with a wired connection.

I can talk to another PIC or the serial input on my PC....never a problem.

Yet, I've tried to get a wireless connection to work and can't. (only using 1200 baud).

The latest effort are a couple of xstream oem modules that just need ground, +5v and data and are supposed to work right out of the box.

Is there something I'm missing? Is there a problem with software rs232 compared to hardware when using these?

[mackrackit]

Not sure about this, but looking at the data sheet seems like they are preset to work with
9.6 or 19.2 Kbps.

And

What do you have for an antenna?

[skimask]

Not sure about this, but looking at the data sheet seems like they are preset to work with 9.6 or 19.2 Kbps.

What data sheet? :)

[mackrackit]

What data sheet? :)

I googled xstream oem modules and found some very poor documentation.

[Archangel]

What data sheet? :)
Have a go at these . . .
http://ftp1.digi.com/support/documentation/productmanual_xstream_oem_rfmodule_v5.x00.pdf
http://ftp1.digi.com/support/documentation/productmanual_xstream_oem_rfmodule.pdf

[mackrackit]

After scrolling through the first link that Joe found...

These things look to be set up before use?

MaxStream’s X-CTU
Software facilitates
module programming.

Michael,
do you have the software and did you go through the setup?

[Michael]

They are the xstream x24-009nsc and I looked everywhere for a baud setup but it doesn't show anything.

It looks from the literature that you just give it data and presto. ?

I know it takes 1200 baud and a broad range of data rates.

I tried taking CTS low and nothing but I don't think you need to do anything except give it +5v, ground and the serial data....it's xcvr so it has data in and data out pins.

Have a nice stubby Linx antenna on both....they're very well made modules....but they AIN'T WORKIN' as goober would say.

[Michael]

In a hurry today -- seems there may be some software and a setup board involved with these -- and a default baud rate?

If anyone runs across this thread and is familiar with these Maxstream xstream modules, I'll be grateful for any timesaving help you can supply.

THANKS kindly.

-- Michael

[Gixxer]

Depending on your application, you might consider trying the Digi Xbee modules. They are super small with excellent range and built in encryption and error checking. They operate in the 2.4ghz band under the Zigbee protocol, 802.15.4. All you do is add 3.3v power, serial TX/RX lines from your pic and you in business, it's that easy. They also use free Digi software(X-CTU) to make any config changes, although they work at 9600 baud right out of the box. I have been playing with these for a little while and am very impressed.

John

[Michael]

John --

Zigbee seems to be the "new" standard in the neverending saga of wireless.

I bought some of these Xstream 2.4ghz oem modules el cheapo and as it turns out, you use the xctu software and a 60 buck development board from digi key. (have you ever used them?)
(X24-009NSI)

I think I can also use this board (XBIB-R) for doing the zigbee modules?

I'll have to sit down one day and get up to date on the latest and greatest in wireless....
has the dust settled? does zigbee look like something that's here to stay?

[Gixxer]

Hi Michael

The modules I am currently using with excellent results are called the Xbee Pro, I got mine from Digi at www.digi.com/products/wireless/zigbee-mesh/xbee-zb-module.jsp, their shipping is next day and only 8 bucks ! Now you do need some sort of pcb to plug these into as they have a non standard pin spacing of 2mm(won't fit in breadboard). That being said there are alot of interface boards to choose from. I use an great interface that of coure has the requied connectors for the xbee along with a pic 18f2520 running @ 40Mhz. Its an all in one pic/xcvr package, with built in ICSP or serial programming ports. I also use a serial DTE interface board made by the same company, which has built in v/reg, rs232 level shifter and DB9 connector, ready to plug into pc com port, they also have USB. I got mine here : http://microcontrollershop.com/product_info.php?cPath=297_380&products_id=2370 .
And to answer your other question, the Zigbee protocol is here to stay, already being used in a ton of remote sensing and monitoring apps(power,gas and water metering) The IEEE developed the zigbee standard in '04 and revised it in '07, so it IS quite new.

John