7 Testing the System

This chapter explains how to run the test, what actions the user needs to take, and how to interpret the receiver indication to determine successful reception at a specific distance.
  1. Place the transmitter (ATA5831-XPRO board (EV14T68A)) at a fixed location.
  2. Apply a constant wake source, for example, via the programming enable jumper.
Figure 7-1. Enable/Disable Programming Jumper

The power supply is available through the ATSAMC21-XPRO board (Supply Voltage (VS) = 3.3V). After completing the setup, the transmitter transmits a Radio Frequency (RF) message approximately every 2.1s. The LED activates periodically to indicate the operation and timing of these transmissions.

The receiver board is mobile. Walk around with it, then press a button and monitor the LED:
  • If the LED turns ON for around two seconds, the hardware successfully receives the message.
  • If there is no reaction, the distance between transmitter and receiver is out of range.
    Note: The LED briefly flashes with the button press (event) to indicate the successful start of the Receive mode.
Note: The system is asynchronous. The activation of the LED can take up to two seconds because of the repetition rate implemented in the transmitter.

End-to-End Transmitter and Receiver Sequence

This section summarizes the intended timing relationship between receiver wake-up, periodic transmitter messages, and the reception indication. The following figure illustrates end-to-end flow of the transmitter and receiver sequence.
Figure 7-2. Transmitter and Receiver Sequence
The following steps outlines the end-to-end transmitter and receiver sequence:
  1. The button push triggers the NPWRON event to wake the receiver.
  2. The transmitter triggers the RF message.
  3. The LED activates to indicate successful reception of the expected pattern.
  4. Turn the receiver OFF because no valid wake source is available (because the button is no longer pressed).
  5. Start the next cycle (periodic transmission).
Note: The user can achieve more advanced settings with higher repetition rates with limited effort. For assistance with any other range test implementation, go to the Microchip Technical Support Portal or contact local Microchip Sales office.