ZigBee Development Platform Supports Multiple Transceivers

Supporting the ZigBee protocol for wirelessly networked control and monitoring applications, the PICDEM Z 2.4 GHz evaluation and development platform supports multiple RF transceivers and provides a free software stack. The kit includes all of the hardware, software source-code, and printed-circuit board layout files needed to render prototypes and includes an instructional application note. The platform incorporates the PIC18LF4620 microcontroller with integrated nanoWatt Technology power-managed modes, 64 KB of flash memory, and advanced analog, control, and communications peripherals. It also incorporates Chipcon’s CC2420 2.4 GHz RF transceiver that interfaces to the PIC18 via the SPI port. Other features include support for reduced function device (RFD) and full function device (FFD), a transceiver and PCB antenna, modular software design with a cooperative multi-tasking architecture, and RTOS independence. The full kit consists of the DM163027-2 demo kit, AC163027-1 motherboard, and AC163027-2 RF card. Prices are $199, $89, and $49, respectively. MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGY INC., Chandler, AZ. (888) 628-6247.