Meshnetics, a leading Zigbee technology provider, is to begin shipping its new 2.4GHz 802.15.4/Zigbee Evaluation Kit.
The kit provides all the hardware and software tools needed to quickly evaluate the performance of the Zigbit mesh-networking module, including tools to test its communication range, power consumption, and the embedded software capabilities.
Thanks to a recently announced partnership between Atmel and Meshnetics, the new 2.4GHz 802.15.4/Zigbee Evaluation Kit will be the first to feature the latest Atmel RF transceiver, the AT86RF230, which is said to have the highest link budget of any 802.15.4 radio.
The Evaluation Kit includes three sensor interface boards, a module sample, software and accessories. At the heart of the board is the ultra-compact (13.5 x 18.8 mm), low-power, high-sensitivity Zigbit module, based on the Atmel's Atmega 1281v MCU and AT86RF230 radio. Thanks to the Atmel radio's outperforming link budget, the Zigbit provides superior line-of-sight range.
Each board features three sensors and a PCB antenna, as well as the interface to connect external sensors. The eZeenet mesh networking stack contains 802.15.4 MAC and Zigbee network layers with a simplified programming interface, while supporting the AT commands. Included with the kit, the easy-to-use WSN Monitor PC application enables users to monitor wireless networks and features real-time capture and display of temperature and light levels read from remote sensors.
Vasiliy Suvorov, CEO of Meshnetics, comments: Since the introduction of the Zigbit module a few months agowe have seen increasing interest from developers. The Evaluation Kit is a first step to start evaluating the module and develop applications. The Zigbee development kit should take them furtherhelping with the full product development cycle. In additionwe are running an extended support program for qualified customers to assist them through all stages of product development."
The Evaluation Kits are available now at EUR314 ($399). This includes technical support by email. The development kit is scheduled to be fully available by the end of 2006. It will enable developers to design new products with wireless capabilityand create custom applications based on a complete eZeenet API. The package will include extended technical support by telephone and email during all stages of developmentsuch as module integrationsensor interfacingcomponent selectionantenna design and more.
For more informationvisit www.meshnetics.com
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