RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 1 of 24
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High Power Multi-Channel RF Transceiver Module
Product Description
The RC11XXHP-RC232 RF Transceiver Modules are compact surface-mounted high
performance modules for FSK operation with embedded protocol. The modules are completely
shielded and pre-certified for operation under the European and Indian radio regulations.
Applications
Home and building automation
AMR, Automatic Meter Reading
Radio modems
Alarm and security systems
Point-of-sales terminals
Bar code scanners
Telemetry stations
Fleet management
Features
High Power, long range (3-5 km Line-Of-Sight)
Completely Shielded module for SMD mounting
Embedded RC232™ protocol with Addressing and Error check
Two-wire UART interface for easy RS232/422/485 wire replacement (handshake optional)
No external components
No configuration required for single-channel use
Pin compatible with the low cost family RC11XX (including –MBUS and –KNX versions) and
2.4 GHz versions RC2500/2500HP from Radiocrafts
Close to pin compatible with RC12XX narrowband family from Radiocrafts
(available modules for China, Japan and Korea)
12.7 x 25.4 x 3.3 mm compact module for SMD mounting
2.7 – 3.3 V supply voltage, ultra low power modes
Designed for EX compliance
Quick Reference Data
*HP: High Power, LP: Low Power
Parameter
RC1170HP-RC232
RC1180HP-RC232
Unit
Frequency bands
865.0 – 867.0
868.0 – 870.0
MHz
Number of channels
20 (HP)*
3 (HP)*, 18 (LP)*
Data rate
1.2 – 100
1.2 – 76.8
kbit/s
Max output power
27
27
dBm
Sensitivity
-109
-109
dBm
Supply voltage
2.7 – 3.3
2.7 – 3.3
Volt
Current consumption, RX / TX
24 / 560
24 / 560
mA
Current consumption, SLEEP
Typ. 3.4
Typ. 3.4
uA
Temperature range
-40 to +85
-40 to +85
C
Conforms with
G.S.R. 564(E)/168(E) (India)
EU R&TTE directive
(EN300220, EN301489, EN60950)
Module status
Available on request
Full production
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 2 of 24
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Typical application circuit
See page 19 for additional schematic information regarding recommended Reset and Power
supply filtering, and how to include a firmware upgrade connector.
Quick Product Introduction
How do I transmit data?
Send your data to the RXD pin on the module. Use the UART format with settings (19200, 8, 1,
N, no flow control). Up to 128 bytes are buffered in the module. The module will transmit the data
when
the max packet length is reached
the unique end character is sent
the modem timeout limit is reached
The packet length, end character and timeout limit are configurable in-circuit.
How do I receive data?
Any received data packet with correct address and check sum will be sent on the TXD pin using
the same UART format as for transmit.
What about the antenna?
In most cases a simple quarter wavelength wire or a PCB track will do. Connect a piece of wire to
the RF pin with length corresponding to the quarter of a wavelength. For space limited products,
contact Radiocrafts and we will recommend the best antenna solution for your application.
How do I change the RF channel or any other parameter?
To change configurable parameters, assert the CONFIG pin, and send the command string using
the same serial interface as for transmitting data. Parameters can be changed permanently and
stored in non-volatile memory in the module.
RCTools
RCTools is a powerful and easy to use PC suite that helps you during test, development and
deployment of the RC11XXHP-RC232. Visit www.radiocrafts.com for a free download and full
documentation.
GND
CTS
RTS
CONFIG
TXD
RXD
GND
GND
VCC
RESET
NC
GND
RF
GND
2.7 –3.3 V
Antenna
{
To actuator or
from sensor or
towards
RS232/422/485/
USB driver
NC
Optional
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 3 of 24
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Pin Assignment
Pin Description
Pin no
Pin name
Description
Equivalent circuit
1
GND
System ground
2
CTS/RXTX
UART Clear to Send or UART
RXTX
3
RTS/SLEEP
UART Request to Send. Can be set
low to enter Sleep mode if RTS
handshake is not in use.
4
CONFIG
Configuration Enable. Active low.
Should normally be set high.
5
TXD
UART TX Data
6
RXD
UART RX Data.
Use external max 8k2 kohm pull-up
resistor if connected to an open
collector output from a host MCU or
other high impedance circuitry like
level shifters.
7
GND
System ground
8
GND
System ground
GND
GND
VCC
Output:
20k
Input:
GND
CTS/RXTX
RTS/SLEEP
CONFIG
TXD
RXD
GND
GND
VCC
RESET
NC
GND
RF
GND
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
14
13
12
11
10
9
8
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23
VCC
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 4 of 24
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9
RF
RF I/O connection to antenna
10
GND
System ground
11
NC
Not connected
12
RESET
Main reset (active low). Should
normally be left open. Internal 12
kΩ pull-up resistor.
13
VCC
Supply voltage input. Internally
regulated.
14
GND
System ground
15-22
RESERVED
Test pins or pins reserved for future
use. Do not connect!
23-30
RESERVED
Test pins or pins reserved for future
use. Do not connect!
Note 1: For UART communication the TXD and RXD are used for serial data, and CTS and RTS for flow control
(optional).
Note 2: The internal pull-ups on CONFIG and RTS/SLEEP pin are disabled in Sleep mode to minimise the sleep current.
GND
GND
1.8 V
VREG
VREG
2u2
VCC
10k
RF
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 5 of 24
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Block Diagram
Circuit Description
The module contains a communication controller with embedded RC232™ protocol software, a
high performance RF transceiver with an internal voltage regulator and a Power Amplifier.
The communication controller handles the radio packet protocol, the UART interface and controls
the RF transceiver. Data to be sent by the host is received at the RXD pin and buffered in the
communication controller. The data packet is then assembled with preamble, start-of-frame
delimiter (SOF), address information and CRC check sum before it is transmitted on RF. The
preamble and SOF is always used. The address and CRC are optional.
The RF transceiver modulates the data to be transmitted on RF frequency, and demodulates data
that are received.
Received data are checked for correct address and CRC by the communication controller. If the
address matches the modules own address, and no CRC errors were detected, the data packet is
sent to the host on the TXD line after removing the header.
The asynchronous UART interface consists of RXD and TXD. Optionally CTS, RTS can be used
for hardware handshake flow control. RXTX can be used to control the direction of an RS485
driver circuit.
When the CONFIG pin is asserted the communication controller interprets data received on the
RXD pin as configuration commands. There are commands to change the radio channel, the
output power, the destination address etc. Permanent changes of the configuration is also
possible and are then stored in internal non-volatile memory.
The RF protocol and the configuration commands are described in detail in the RC232™ User
Manual.
The supply voltage is connected to the VCC pin. The module contains an internal voltage
regulator for the transceiver.
GND
CTS/RXTX
RTS/SLEEP
CONFIG
TXD/SCL
RXD/SDA
GND
Communication
controller
GND
VCC
RESET
NC
GND
RF
GND
Voltage Regulator
RF Transceiver PA
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 6 of 24
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RC232™ Embedded Protocol
The module offers a buffered packet radio in the RC232™ embedded protocol. Using the
buffered packet radio mode, all data to be sent is stored in the module before they are transmitted
by the RF circuitry. Likewise, when data is received they are stored in the module before they are
sent to the host. This allows the communication controller to add address information and to do
error check of the data. In buffered mode the UART interface is used to communicate with the
host.
The embedded protocol, configuration commands and configuration memory is described in the
RC232™ User Manual. This protocol is used in a wide range of RF modules available from
Radiocrafts. Please refer to the latest revision available on Radiocrafts web-site.
Power Management
The module can be set in SLEEP mode in order to reduce the power consumption.
The low power SLEEP mode is entered by using the SLEEP command „Z‟ after the module is set
in configuration mode, or by pulling RTS/SLEEP pin low after being configured for this feature. In
sleep mode the module will not receive or detect incoming data, neither from the host (UART
port) nor from the RF transceiver. The module is awakened from the SLEEP mode by a positive
edge on the CONFIG pins if the module was set in SLEEP mode using the „Z‟ command. The
module is awakened by a positive edge on the RTS/SLEEP pin if this pin were used to enter
SLEEP mode. CONFIG must be high when awakening the module to avoid setting the module
directly in configuration mode. UART data on RXD to the module should be avoided in sleep
mode.
All configuration settings and RAM values are retained during Sleep. The pull-ups on RTS/SLEEP
and CONFIG pin are disabled during sleep mode in order to minimise the sleep current
consumption.
If the module is shut completely off, all configuration settings in non-volatile memory is restored,
but values in RAM are overwritten with default settings.
IDLE SLEEP IDLEMODE
RTS/SLEEP
Enter SLEEP Mode Using RTS/SLEEP pin
IDLE SLEEP IDLEMODE
CONFIG
Enter SLEEP Mode Using CONFIG and Z Comand
UART Comand Z
CONFIG
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 7 of 24
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Timing Information
The figure and table below shows the timing information for the module when changing between
different operating states.
The IDLE state is the normal state where the module search for preamble on the air and wait for
a character to be received on the UART. RXD is the state when receiving characters from the
host filling up the internal buffer. TX state is when the data is transmitted on the air. RX state is
when data is received from the air after preamble detection. TXD is the state where the received
data is sent to the host on the UART.
CONFIG is the state entered by asserting the CONFIG pin and used during parameter
configuration, while MEMORY CONFIG is the sub-state entered by the „M‟ command where the
configuration memory is being programmed. Note the limitation on maximum number of write
cycles using the „M‟ command, see Electrical Specifications.
IDLE TX
tRXD-TX
First character on
UART RXD
IDLE
tTX-IDLE
RXD tPACKET_TIMEOUT
Last character on
UART RXD
tTX
IDLE TXD
tRX-TXD
Preamble detected
IDLE
tTXD-IDLE
RX
First character on
UART TXD
tTXD
Last character on
UART TXD
tRXD-CTS
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 8 of 24
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Symbol
Value
Description / Note
tRX-TXD
180 us
Time from last byte is received from the air until first character is sent
on the UART
tTXD
Min 590 us
tTXD = # bytes received x 590 us/char (10 bits at 19.2 kBd + 70 us delay
per character)
tTXD-IDLE
900 us
Time from last character is sent on the UART until module is in IDLE
mode (ready for RXD and RX)
TRXD-CTS
20 us
Time from last character is received by the UART (including any
timeout) until CTS is activated
tRXD-TX
960 us
Time from last character is received by the UART (including any
timeout) until the module sends the first byte on the air.
TTX-IDLE
960 us
Time from last character is sent on the air until module is in IDLE mode
(ready for RXD and RX)
tOFF-IDLE
3.2 ms
tRESET-IDLE
3.0 ms
tSLEEP-IDLE
1.28 ms
tCONFIG-
PROMPT
590 us
Time from CONFIG pin is set low until prompt (“>”)
tC#-CONFIG
1.1 ms
Delay after channel-byte is sent until prompt (“>”). (For other
commands like ‟M‟, ‟T‟ there is no delay but immediate prompt)
tMEMORY-
CONFIG
30.52 ms
In this period the internal flash is programmed. Do not reset, turn the
module off, or allow any power supply dips in this period as it may
cause permanent error in the Flash configuration memory. After 0xFF
the host should wait for the ‘>’ prompt before any further action is done
to ensure correct re-configuration.
TCONFIG-
IDLE
1.42 ms
tTX
Min 20 ms
tTX = # bytes to send x 1.67 ms/byte (at 4.8 kbit/s) + 7 bytes preamble,
sync and length + 2 bytes address + 2 bytes CRC
TRSSI
4 ms
Time from end of S command to start of RSSI byte received on UART
OFF IDLE
tOFF-IDLE
SLEEP IDLE
tSLEEP-IDLE
RESET IDLE
tRESET-IDLE
CONFIG CONFIG
tC-CONFIG IDLE
tCONFIG-IDLE
’C’ ’X’
CONFIG MEMORY CONFIG CONFIG
tMEMORY-CONFIG
’M’ 0xFF IDLE
tCONFIG-IDLE
’X’
IDLE tCONFIG-PROMPT
CONFIG
set low
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 9 of 24
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RF Frequency, Output Power Levels and Data Rates
The following table shows the available RF channels and their corresponding frequencies,
nominal output power levels and available data rates.
Model
RF channel
Output power
Data rate
RC1170HP-RC232
20 channels
1: 0 dBm
2: 10 dBm
3: 14 dBm
4: 25 dBm
5: 27 dBm
1: 1.2 kbit/s
2: 4.8 kbit/s
3: 19.0 kbit/s
4: 32.768 kbit/s
5: 76.8 kbit/s
6: 100 kbit/s
7: For future use
RC1180HP-RC232
1: 868.050 MHz
2: 868.150 MHz
3: 868.250 MHz
4: 868.350 MHz
5: 868.450 MHz
6: 868.550 MHz
7: 868.650 MHz
8: 868.750 MHz
9: 868.850 MHz
10: 868.950 MHz
11: 869.050 MHz
12: 869.150 MHz
13: 869.525 MHz
14: 869.750 MHz
15: 869.850 MHz
16: 869.950 MHz
17: 869.475 MHz
18: 869.575 MHz
1: 0 dBm
2: 10 dBm
3: 14 dBm
4: 25 dBm
5: 27 dBm
1: 1.2 kbit/s
2: 4.8 kbit/s
3: 19.0 kbit/s
4: 32.768 kbit/s
5: 76.8 kbit/s
6: NA
7: For future use
Channel 1-16 corresponds with channels in RC1180 (non-HP-version) and channel 13, 17 and 18
are the only channels to be used with 500mW settings in Europe. For channel 17 and 18
maximum RF speed is 1.2 kbit/s due to limitations in spectrum spread at the 869.4-869.65 MHz
band-edges.
RF channel and output power level can be set using the configuration commands „C‟ and „P‟
respectively. The data rate can only be changed in configuration memory by using the „M‟
command setting RF_DATA_RATE. The default RF channel and output power level can be set in
the configuration memory by using the „M‟ command setting RF_CHANNEL and RF_POWER.
The default values are used after power ON and RESET. The default factory settings are shown
in bold in the table above.
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 10 of 24
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For more details on changing the RF channel, output power or data rate, refer to the description
of the configuration commands.
The use of RF frequencies, maximum allowed RF power and duty-cycles are limited by national
regulations. The RC1180HP-RC232 is complying with the applicable directives within the
European Union when used within these limitations. The RC1170HP-RC232 is complying with the
applicable directives in India when used within the local regulations for India.
Multi-channel usage
All modules from Radiocrafts embed a high performance transceiver which can transmit and
receive on one out of several channels. It is clear that other transmitters present on the same
channel at the same time can cause interference (from bit errors until no detection of the wanted
signal) if they have a higher signal level from the non-friendly transmitter than the wanted signal
present at the receiver. To avoid this, configure the radio to use the channel with least
interference. At 868 MHz, radios are allowed to transmit only short bursts before leaving the
channel free for other radios, thus the interference can be expected to be of short duration.
Co-located radios
Precautions have to be taken in a so-called co-location (also named collocation) operation of
transceivers. This means reception and transmission at different channels at the same time with
the intention that the two channels shall be able to operate without disturbing each other.
As indicated in the figure above a module B is receiving a message from A on channel X while
another module C is transmitting at the same time on another channel Y (a message intended
for module D). As any radio device has a limited suppression of signals at any other channel,
some power of the signal at the other frequency will enter into the receiver B. Normally, the
suppression increases versus the frequency separation between the two channels. The phrase
“adjacent” means the channel next to while the definition “alternate” means the channel(s) further
apart. The ability of a receiver to reject any out-of-band interferer is named ACR, adjacent
channel rejection.
Friis formula and empirical adaptations of this predicts the path loss between a transmitter and a
receiver. The path loss increases (1/R)n where R is the radius and n is between 2 and 5 and
heavily depending on the surroundings. Knowing the TX output power, the path loss between A-B
decides the amount of power entering the receiver B as well as the path loss between B-C
decides the amount of interferer power entering the same receiver. If we assume there is identical
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 11 of 24
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antenna performance on A and C and they have identical output power it is clear that when the
path loss A-B equals ACR then the interferer C can be placed in immediate proximity of B.
As the path loss increases with from R2 to R5, C has to be moved further and further apart from B
as the distance A-B increases (causing lowered received friendly signal power).
At a distance when the signal power from A reaches the sensitivity level of B, C for all practical
reasons has to be so far from B that simultaneous operation has very limited practical usage.
Useful collocation operation is when we are well above the sensitivity level of B.
Another important parameter for ACR is the selected RF data rate, as this parameter defines the
receiver bandwidth and as such, the rejection of interference at a fixed frequency deviation. As
the regulatory bandwidth for 500mW operation is limited, the channels have to be close in
frequency, and it is not possible to have collocation combined with high data rate. Only data rate
1.2 kbps can be used in a collocated scenario, higher data rates must rely on a time-division
channel usage and then on channel 13 only.
The values for RC1180HP-RC232 are shown below. The RSSI value is read via the embedded
detector and performance is measured with Radiocrafts Demo Boards equipped with quarter
wave whip-antennas and inside an office building.
Conditions: Data rate setting 1.2 kbps with FSK modulation, operation on various channels and
interferer continuously transmitting on another channel
TX, 27
dBm
Distance to interferer at given reception levels for friendly signal
Channel 17
Channel 18
-60 dBm
-80 dBm
-100 dBm
-60 dBm
-80 dBm
-100 dBm
Ch. 13
3 m
20-25 m
N/A
3 m
20-25 m
N/A
Ch. 17
X
X
X
1 m
10-12 m
N/A
Ch. 18
1 m
10-12 m
N/A
X
X
X
General recommendations:
Due to ACR versus channel bandwidth, collocation of equipment is not possible on other RF data
rates than 1.2 kbps. Practical collocation can be done if the signal strength of the friendly channel
is above -80 dBm.
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 12 of 24
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RSSI Reading
The module provides a digital Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) through the „S‟
command, or attached to received messages. The module returns an 8 bit character (one byte)
indicating the current input signal strength (followed immediately by a second character which is
the prompt („>‟) when in command mode). The signal strength can be used as an indication of
fading margin, or as a carrier sense signal to avoid collisions.
The signal strength measure by the S command is the instantaneous value. The RSSI value
appended to a received message (RSSI_MODE = 1) is the signal strength of that received
packet.
The RSSI value increases with increased input signal strength in 0.5 dB steps. Input signal
strength is given by (typ.):
P = - RSSI / 2 [dBm]
Temperature Reading
The module provides readings of an internal digital temperature monitoring sensor (TEMP)
through the „U‟ command. The module returns an 8 bit character (one byte) indicating the current
temperature in degrees Celsius (°C) followed immediately by a second character which is the
prompt („>‟).
The TEMP value increases with increased temperature in 1 °C steps and accuracy of +/- 2 °C.
Temperature is given by:
T = TEMP(dec) - 128 [°C] (example: TEMP=0x98 equals +24 °C)
Power Supply voltage Reading
The module provides readings of an internal power supply voltage monitoring sensor (VCC)
through the „V‟ command. The module returns an 8 bit character (one byte) indicating the current
power supply voltage level followed immediately by a second character which is the prompt („>‟).
The command can be useful for battery power monitoring.
The VCC value increases with increased power supply voltage in 30 mV steps. The power supply
voltage is given by:
V = VCC(dec)*0.030 [V] (example: TEMP=0x68 equals 3.12 V)
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2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 13 of 24
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Module Configuration
The configuration of the module can be changed in-circuit from the host during operation, at the
time of installation of the equipment, at the manufacturing test, or even as a standalone module.
The configuration is changed sending commands on the UART interface after the module is set in
configuration mode. The configuration mode is entered by asserting the CONFIG pin (set low).
In command mode the module will respond by sending a „>‟ prompt on the TXD pin. This
indicates that the module is ready to receive commands. The CONFIG pin can then be de-
asserted. Note that the CONFIG pin must be de-asserted before the Exit command („X‟) is sent to
the module in order to return to normal operation.
After a command is executed, the module responds with the „>‟ prompt character again indicating
it is ready for a new command. Do not send a new command before the „>‟ prompt is received.
The time required to execute a command can vary depending on the command (see the Timing
Information section). There is no „>‟ prompt after the „X‟ exit command.
The parameters that are set by commands directly take immediate effect after returning to normal
operation (IDLE), but will not be stored in non-volatile memory, and will be lost in case the supply
power is turned off or if the module is reset. These parameters are for example the radio channel
and output power.
A list of commands is shown in the table below with typical values for RC1180HP-RC232.
Parameter
Command
Argument in hex (decimal)
Note
Channel
„C‟ – 0x43
0x01-0x0D (1-13)
Data is stored in volatile
memory only. For variants
not listed here, refer to the
specific data sheet.
Output power
„P‟ – 0x50
0x01-0x05 (1-5)
Data is stored in volatile
memory only.
Signal
Strength
(RSSI)
„S‟ – 0x53
Returns one byte indicating
the signal strength
Destination
address
‘T’ – 0x54
0x00 – 0xFF (0-255)
Data is stored in volatile
memory only.
Temperature
monitoring
‘U’ – 0x55
Returns one byte indicating
the temperature.
See page 12 for details
Battery
monitoring
‘V’ – 0x56
Returns one byte indicating
the power supply voltage.
See page 12 for details
Memory
configuration
„M‟ – 0x4D
(Address, Data): see list of
parameters below.
0xFF exits memory
configuration.
Used to enter memory
configuration menu.
Parameters changed are
stored in non-volatile
memory.
Memory Reset
„@RC‟
No arguments, but CONFIG
must be asserted low during
this command.
Resets the configuration
memory back to factory
default values in the whole
non-volatile memory.
Exit command
„X‟ – 0x58
(none)
Exit to normal operation
mode. All changes of
parameters take effect.
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Sleep mode
„Z‟ – 0x5A
(none)
CONFIG pin must be
asserted while in SLEEP
mode. Exit sleep mode by
releasing CONFIG pin.
Test mode 0
„0‟ – 0x30
(none)
List all configuration
memory parameters
Test mode 1
„1‟ – 0x31
(none)
TX carrier
Test mode 2
„2‟ – 0x32
(none)
TX modulated signal
PN9 sequence
Test mode 3
„3‟ – 0x33
(none)
TX Off, RX mode
Test Mode 4
„4‟ – 0x34
(none)
Radio off mode
(RX and TX off)
Note: ASCII characters are written as „X‟, hexadecimal numbers are written like 0x00, and
decimal numbers are written like 10 throughout the text. A table of ASCII characters and their
respective hex and decimal values are found in the Appendix.
Commands must be sent as ASCII characters or their corresponding binary value. All arguments
must be sent as binary values to the module (not as ASCII representation for hex or decimal).
Any invalid command will be ignored and the „>‟ prompt will be re-sent. The CONFIG line must be
de-asserted after the first „>‟ prompt was received, but before the „X‟ command.
To make permanent changes to default values and other parameters, the Memory Configuration
command „M‟ is used. This command should be followed by pairs of byte being the memory
address and the new value to be stored at that address. In order to exit the Memory Configuration
mode command „X‟ must be sent.
Example:
To select RF channel 3, send the follow sequence after asserting the CONFIG line and the „>‟
prompt is received:
Command Hex Response Comment/Note
CONFIG asserted „>‟ De-assert CONFIG after „>‟ prompt
„C‟ 0x43 „>‟
3 0x03 „>‟ Wait for „>‟ prompt
[A new command could be issued here]
„X‟ 0x58 (none) Module returns to IDLE state
It is important to enter Test mode 3 before exiting the configuration mode („X‟) if Test mode 1 or 2
has been used. This will ensure proper operation in normal mode.
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2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 15 of 24
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Configuration Memory
The table below shows the complete list of configurable parameters stored in non-volatile
memory. These values can be changed using the „M‟ command. All addresses and arguments
must be sent as binary values to the module (not as ASCII representation for hex or decimal).
Parameter
Description
Address
hex
Argument
dec
Factory
setting
hex (dec)
Comment
Radio configuration
RF_CHANNEL
Default RF
channel
0x00
RC1180HP: 1-16
0x0D (13)
See table page 9 for details
RF_POWER
Default RF
output power
0x01
1-5
0x05 (5)
See table page 9 for details
RF_DATA_RATE
Default RF data
rate
0x02
RC1180HP: 1-6
0x03 (3)
See table page 9 for details
RSSI_MODE
Append RSSI
0x05
0-1
0x00 (0)
0: No RSSI append No
1: RSSI append
Radio packet configuration
PACKET_LENGTH
Max packet
length.
0x0F
0x01-0x80
(1-128)
0x80
(128)
PACKET_TIMEOUT
Time before
modem time-
out and
transmitting the
buffer
0x10
0x00-0xFE
(0-254)
0x00 (0): None
0x01 (1): 32 ms
0x02 (2): 48 ms
0x03 (3): 64 ms
0x7C (124): 2 s
0xF9 (249): 4 s
0x7C
(124)
None means packet timeout
is disabled (not 0 s).
Timeout value is
(PACKET_TIMOEOUT x 16
ms) + 0/16 ms min/max
0xFE (254) is max, giving
4.080 sec.
Default is 2 s = 0x7C (124)
PACKET_END_
CHARACTER
0x11
0x00: Off
0x01-0xFF: On
0x00
0: No end character
1-255: Use value as end
character
Medium access, addressing and network management
ADDRESS_MODE
0x14
0x02 (2)
0: No addressing
2: Use addressing
CRC_MODE
0x15
0x02 (2)
0: None
2: CRC16
UNIQUE_ID (UID)
0x19
0-255
0x01 (1)
SYSTEM_ID (SID)
0x1A
0-255
0x01 (0)
DESTINATION_ID
(DID)
0x21
0-255
0x01 (1)
BROADCAST_
ADDRESS
0x28
0-255
0xFF
(255)
Data and configuration interface, UART Serial Port
UART_BAUD_RATE
Baud rate
0x30
0x00: Not used
0x01: 2400
0x02: 4800
0x03: 9600
0x04. 14400
0x05: 19200
0x06: 28800
0x07: 38400
0x08: 56700
0x09: 76800
0x0A: 115200
0x0B: 230400
0x05 (5)
BE CAREFUL
IFCHANGING AS HOST
MAY LOOSE CONTACT
WITH MODULE!
Does not take effect until
module is re-booted / reset.
UART_FLOW_CTRL
UART flow
control
0x35
0: None
1:CTS only
3:CTS/RTS
4:RXTX(RS485)
0x00 (0)
PART_NUMBER
0x3C-
0x49
RCxxxxH
P-RC232
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 16 of 24
Radiocrafts
Embedded Wireless Solutions
HW_REV_NO
0x4B-
0x4E
x.yz
x, y and z; Any number 0d-
9d
FW_REV_NO
0x50-
0x53
x.yz
x, y and z; Any number 0d-
9d
Note: Address locations not listed should not be changed from the default value.
Antenna Connection
The antenna should be connected to the RF pin. The RF pin is matched to 50 Ohm. If the
antenna connector is placed away from the module at the motherboard, the track between the RF
pin and the connector should be a 50 Ohm transmission line.
On a two layer board made of FR4 the width of a microstrip transmission line should be 1.8 times
the thickness of the board, assuming a dielectric constant of 4.8. The line should be run at the top
of the board, and the bottom side should be a ground plane.
Example: For a 1.6 mm thick FR4 board, the width of the trace on the top side should be 1.8 x 1.6
mm = 2.88 mm.
The simplest antenna to use is the quarter wave whip antenna. A quarter wave whip antenna
above a ground plane yields 37 Ohm impedance and a matching circuit for 50 Ohm are usually
not required.
A PCB antenna can be made as a copper track where the ground plane is removed on the back
side. The rest of the PCB board should have a ground plane as large as possible, preferably as
large as the antenna itself, to make it act as a counterweight to the antenna. If the track is shorter
than a quarter of a wavelength, the antenna should be matched to 50 ohms.
The lengths of a quarter wave antenna for different operational frequencies are given in the table
below.
Frequency
[MHz]
Length
[cm]
865-868
8.2
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 17 of 24
Radiocrafts
Embedded Wireless Solutions
PCB Layout Recommendations
The recommended layout pads for the module are shown in the figure below. All dimensions are
in thousands of an inch (mil). The circle in upper left corner is an orientation mark only, and
should not be a part of the copper pattern.
A PCB with two or more layers and with a solid ground plane in one of the inner- or bottom
layer(s) is recommended. All GND-pins of the module shall be connected to this ground plane
with vias with shortest possible routing, one via per GND-pin.
On the back side of the module there are several test pads. These test pads shall not be
connected, and the area underneath the module should be covered with solder resist. If any
routing or vias is required under the module, the routing and vias must be covered with solder
resist to prevent short circuiting of the test pads. It is recommended that vias are tented.
Reserved pins should be soldered to the pads but the pads must be left floating.
Note that Radiocrafts technical support team is available for schematic and layout review of your
design.
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 18 of 24
Radiocrafts
Embedded Wireless Solutions
Mechanical Drawing
Alignment marking: On the top side there are 8 alignment markers which align with the
corresponding pad on the bottom side.
Mechanical Dimensions
The module size is 12.7 x 25.4 x 3.3 mm.
Carrier Tape and Reel Specification
Carrier tape and reel is in accordance with EIA Specification 481.
Tape width
Component
pitch
Hole pitch
Reel
diameter
Units per
reel
44 mm
16 mm
4 mm
13”
Max 1000
Soldering Profile Recommendation
JEDEC standard IEC/JEDEC J-STD-020B (page 11 and 12), Pb-Free Assembly is
recommended.
The standard requires that the heat dissipated in the "surroundings" on the PCB is taken into
account. The peak temperature should be adjusted so that it is within the window specified in the
standard for the actual motherboard.
Aperture for paste stencil is normally areal-reduced by 20-35%. A nominal stencil thickness of
0.1 - 0.12 mm is recommended. Consult your production facility for best experience aperture
reduction.
Top view
Side view
Bottom view
End view
Drawings are not to scale
Radiocrafts
25.4 mm 12.7 mm
8.5 mm
13.6 mm
0.9 mm
1.4 mm
2.1 mm
2.1 mm 0.38 mm
23.6 mm 10.9 mm
1.9 mm
3.2 mm
RCXXXX YYYYWW
NN A.BB
Part nr: RCXXXX
Lot code: YYYYWW (YYYY=prod. year, WW= prod. week)
Hardware revision: A.BB
Approval marking: NN = CE, FCC or others
3.3 mm
1.9 mm
3.2 mm
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 19 of 24
Radiocrafts
Embedded Wireless Solutions
Absolute Maximum Ratings
Parameter
Min
Max
Unit
Caution ! ESD sensitive device.
Precaution should be used when handling
the device in order to prevent permanent
damage.
Supply voltage, VCC
-0.3
3.6
V
Voltage on any pin
-0.3
VCC+0.3V
V
Input RF level
10
dBm
Storage temperature
-50
150
C
Operating temperature
-40
85
C
Under no circumstances the absolute maximum ratings given above should be violated. Stress
exceeding one or more of the limiting values may cause permanent damage to the device.
Electrical Specifications
T=25 C, VCC = 3.3V if nothing else stated.
Parameter
Min
Typ.
Max
Unit
Condition / Note
Operating frequency
RC1170HP
RC1180HP
865.0
868.0
867.0
870.0
MHz
Number of channels
RC1170HP
RC1180HP
20
16
Input/output impedance
50
Ohm
Data rate
1.2
4.8
19.0
32.768
76.8
100
kbit/s
For RC1170HP only
Frequency stability
+/-40
ppm
Including 10 years of aging.
Frequency stability aging
1
ppm/year
Starting after 10 years
Transmit power
0
27
dBm
FSK deviation
5.2
127
kHz
Depends on data rate
Channel Filter bandwidth
58
540
kHz
Depends on data rate
Spurious emission, TX
< 1 GHz
> 1 GHz
47 – 74 MHz
87.5 – 118 MHz
174 – 230 MHz
470 – 862 MHz
-36
-30
-54
-54
-54
-54
dBm
Sensitivity
1.2 kbit/s
4.8 kbit/s
19.0 kbit/s
32.768 kbit/s
76.8 kbit/s
100 kbit/s
-109
-106
-104
-101
-99
-97
dBm
Measured at BER 10(-3)
Adjacent channel rejection
27
dB
Alternate channel selectivity
36
dB
Image channel rejection
28
dB
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 20 of 24
Radiocrafts
Embedded Wireless Solutions
Blocking / Interferer rejection /
desensitization
+/- 1 MHz
+/- 2 MHz
+/- 5 MHz
+/- 10 MHz
30
35
50
60
43
49
68
72
dB
Wanted signal 3 dB above
sensitivity level, CW
interferer.
Minimum numbers
corresponds to class 2
receiver requirements in
EN300220.
Saturation
-14
dBm
Spurious emission, RX
-57
dBm
Supply voltage
2.7
3.3
V
Current consumption, RX/IDLE
24
mA
Apply over entire supply
voltage range
RC1170HP/1180HP TX
Current consumption, TX
0 dBm
10 dBm
14 dBm
25 dBm
27 dBm
20
60
80
530
560
mA
Current consumption, SLEEP
3.4
10.0
uA
Digital I/O
Input logic level, low
Input logic level, high
Output logic level, low (1µA)
Output logic level, high(-1µA)
70 %
0
TBD
30 %
TBD
VCC
V
Of VCC
Of VCC
RESET pin
Input logic level, low
Input logic level, high
70 %
30 %
V
Minimum 250 ns pulse
width
UART Baud Rate tolerance
+/- 2
%
UART receiver and
transmitter
Configuration memory write
cycles
1000
The guaranteed number of
write cycles using the „M‟
command is limited
Regulatory Compliance Information
The use of RF frequencies and maximum allowed RF power is limited by national regulations.
The RC1180HP-RC232 has been designed to comply with the R&TTE directive 1999/5/EC.
According to R&TTE directives, it is the responsibility of Radiocrafts‟ customers (i.e. RC11XXHP-
RC232 end user) to check that the host product (i.e. final product) is compliant with R&TTE
essential requirements. The use of a CE marked radio module can avoid re-certification of the
final product, provided that the end user respects the recommendations given by Radiocrafts. A
Declaration of Conformity is available from Radiocrafts on request.
The relevant regulations are subject to change. Radiocrafts AS do not take responsibility for the
validity and accuracy of the understanding of the regulations referred above. Radiocrafts only
guarantee that this product meets the specifications in this document. Radiocrafts is exempt from
any responsibilities related to regulatory compliance.
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 21 of 24
Radiocrafts
Embedded Wireless Solutions
Power Supply
Noisy external circuitry may under certain scenarios affect the transmitted signal on RC11XXHP-
RC232 and precaution should be taken for EU R&TTE conformity. Example of circuits that can
generate noise on the RC11XXHP-RC232 transmitted spectrum may be DC/DC converters and some
level converters like RS232 and RS485. To increase spectrum margin it is important to add an EMI
filter bead on the VCC pin of the RC11XXHP-RC232 module. Alternatively the RC11XXHP-RC232
may be powered form a separate voltage regulator. This will ensure that potential switching noise is
filtered out from the power supply to the RC11XXHP-RC232. A block diagram of a typical PC serial
port interface is illustrated below.
Suggested part numbers:
Component
Manufacturer
Part number
EMI filter bead,
1500 mA
Murata
Ordering code
BLM18SG331TN1
Programming Interface
For future firmware updates and possible custom variants it is recommended to include a 2x5 pins
programming connector to the module programming pins. The connector should be a 2.54 mm pitch
pin-row (same pitch in both directions), SMD or through-hole version, with the connections shown
below.
Reset Pin
It is recommended to connect Reset to either a supervisory circuit or microcontroller I/O-pin. If the
Reset is driven by a push-pull output, a series resistor of 5k6 shall be connected in series to allow an
external programmer used for firmware upgrade to assert Reset low.
In noisy surroundings and where RESET is not driven by a push-pull output, it is recommended that
the Reset-pin is pulled to VCC via one or more resistors where the equivalent pull-up resistor is close
to 5k6.
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 22 of 24
Radiocrafts
Embedded Wireless Solutions
Appendix: ASCII Table
HEX DEC CHR CTRL HEX DEC CHR
0 0 NUL ^@ 40 64 @
1 1 SOH ^A 41 65 A
2 2 STX ^B 42 66 B
3 3 ETX ^C 43 67 C
4 4 EOT ^D 44 68 D
5 5 ENQ ^E 45 69 E
6 6 ACK ^F 46 70 F
7 7 BEL ^G 47 71 G
8 8 BS ^H 48 72 H
9 9 HT ^I 49 73 I
0A 10 LF ^J 4A 74 J
0B 11 VT ^K 4B 75 K
0C 12 FF ^L 4C 76 L
0D 13 CR ^M 4D 77 M
0E 14 SO ^N 4E 78 N
0F 15 SI ^O 4F 79 O
10 16 DLE ^P 50 80 P
11 17 DC1 ^Q 51 81 Q
12 18 DC2 ^R 52 82 R
13 19 DC3 ^S 53 83 S
14 20 DC4 ^T 54 84 T
15 21 NAK ^U 55 85 U
16 22 SYN ^V 56 86 V
17 23 ETB ^W 57 87 W
18 24 CAN ^X 58 88 X
19 25 EM ^Y 59 89 Y
1A 26 SUB ^Z 5A 90 Z
1B 27 ESC 5B 91 [
1C 28 FS 5C 92 \
1D 29 GS 5D 93 ]
1E 30 RS 5E 94 ^
1F 31 US 5F 95 _
20 32 SP 60 96 `
21 33 !61 97 a
22 34 "62 98 b
23 35 #63 99 c
24 36 $64 100 d
25 37 %65 101 e
26 38 &66 102 f
27 39 '67 103 g
28 40 (68 104 h
29 41 )69 105 i
2A 42 *6A 106 j
2B 43 +6B 107 k
2C 44 ,6C 108 l
2D 45 6D 109 m
2E 46 .6E 110 n
2F 47 /6F 111 o
30 48 070 112 p
31 49 171 113 q
32 50 272 114 r
33 51 373 115 s
34 52 474 116 t
35 53 575 117 u
36 54 676 118 v
37 55 777 119 w
38 56 878 120 x
39 57 979 121 y
3A 58 :7A 122 z
3B 59 ;7B 123 {
3C 60 <7C 124 |
3D 61 =7D 125 }
3E 62 >7E 126 ~
3F 63 ?7F 127 DEL
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 23 of 24
Radiocrafts
Embedded Wireless Solutions
Document Revision History
Document Revision
Changes
1.00
First Release
1.01
Added info about U, V command, corrected text concerning RSSI-readings,
new application circuit drawing
Product Status and Definitions
Current
Status
Data Sheet Identification
Product Status
Definition
Advance Information
Planned or under
development
This data sheet contains the design
specifications for product
development. Specifications may
change in any manner without notice.
Preliminary
Engineering Samples
and First Production
This data sheet contains preliminary
data, and supplementary data will be
published at a later date. Radiocrafts
reserves the right to make changes at
any time without notice in order to
improve design and supply the best
possible product.
X
No Identification Noted
Full Production
This data sheet contains final
specifications. Radiocrafts
reserves the right to make
changes at any time without notice
in order to improve design and
supply the best possible product.
Obsolete
Not in Production
This data sheet contains
specifications on a product that has
been discontinued by Radiocrafts.
The data sheet is printed for
reference information only.
RC11XXHP-RC232
2009 Radiocrafts AS RC11XXHP-RC232 Data Sheet (rev. 1.01) Page 24 of 24
Radiocrafts
Embedded Wireless Solutions
Disclaimer
Radiocrafts AS believes the information contained herein is correct and accurate at the time of this printing. However,
Radiocrafts AS reserves the right to make changes to this product without notice. Radiocrafts AS does not assume any
responsibility for the use of the described product; neither does it convey any license under its patent rights, or the rights
of others. The latest updates are available at the Radiocrafts website or by contacting Radiocrafts directly.
As far as possible, major changes of product specifications and functionality, will be stated in product specific Errata
Notes published at the Radiocrafts website. Customers are encouraged to check regularly for the most recent updates on
products and support tools.
Trademarks
RC232™ is a trademark of Radiocrafts AS. The RC232™ Embedded RF Protocol is used in a range of products from
Radiocrafts. The protocol handles host communication, data buffering, error check, addressing and broadcasting. It
supports point-to-point, point-to-multipoint and peer-to-peer network topologies.
All other trademarks, registered trademarks and product names are the sole property of their respective owners.
Life Support Policy
This Radiocrafts product is not designed for use in life support appliances, devices, or other systems where malfunction
can reasonably be expected to result in significant personal injury to the user, or as a critical component in any life support
device or system whose failure to perform can be reasonably expected to cause the failure of the life support device or
system, or to affect its safety or effectiveness. Radiocrafts AS customers using or selling these products for use in such
applications do so at their own risk and agree to fully indemnify Radiocrafts AS for any damages resulting from any
improper use or sale.
© 2009, Radiocrafts AS. All rights reserved.
Contact Information
Web site: www.radiocrafts.com
Address:
Radiocrafts AS
Sandakerveien 64
NO-0484 OSLO
NORWAY
Tel: +47 4000 5195
Fax: +47 22 71 29 15
E-mail: radiocrafts@radiocrafts.com
sales@radiocrafts.com
support@radiocrafts.com