2.1 Overview

The ATZB-RF-233-1-C ZigBit module is a compact, low-power, high sensitivity IEEE 802.15.4/ZigBee OEM module with an integrated FEM built in. Based on a solid combination of the latest MCU wireless hardware platform, 2.4 GHz ISM band transceiver and Microchip Studio wireless composer, the ZigBit module offers an unmatched combination of superior radio performance, ultra-low power consumption and exceptional ease of integration.
Figure 2-1. ATZB-RF-233-1-C Diagram

This ZigBit module contains the Microchip AT86RF233 2.4 GHz ISM band transceiver for the ZigBee module and IEEE 802.15.4. For more details, refer to the MS-147 Series Interface RF Connector with Switch, 3.9 mm High, DC to 6 GHz.

The compact board design of the radio transceiver with very minimal components on the RF path to antenna dramatically improves the ZigBit module’s compact size, range performance on signal transmission and increases its sensitivity. This ensures stable connectivity within a larger coverage area and helps develop applications on a smaller footprint. The MS-147 connector can be used as an RF test port. For more details, refer to the MS-147 Series Interface RF Connector with Switch, 3.9 mm High, DC to 6 GHz.

The ZigBit module contains a complete RF design with all the necessary passive components included. The module can be easily mounted on a simple two layer PCB with a minimum of required external connection. The ZigBit module evaluation kit containing the ZigBit extension board for the Xplained PRO hardware evaluation platform can be used to develop firmware using the Microchip Studio and evaluate using the wireless composer. Compared to a custom RF/MCU solution, a module-based solution offers considerable savings in development time and NRE cost per unit during the hardware/firmware design, prototyping and mass production phases of product development.

Depending on the end-user design requirements, the ZigBit module can operate as a sensor node, where it can be paired with a host processor driving the module over a serial interface.

The MAC stack running on the host processor can, then, control data transmission. Thus, very minimal firmware customization is required for a successful module design-in. Third-party sensors can, then, be connected directly to the host MCU.

Every ZigBit module comes pre-loaded with the assigned 64-bit MAC address stored in the EEPROM built in the module. This unique IEEE MAC address can be used as the MAC address of the end product, so there is no need to buy a MAC address separately for the product using the ZigBit module.