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Updated: 08:42 AM EST RF Monolithics, Inc. Module Sets New Standard for Ease of Use in Wireless Mesh Networking; New DM1800 Module Combines RFM's Virtual Wire(TM) and Microchip Microcontroller in Ultra-low Power Design
DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)----RF Monolithics, Inc. (NASDAQ: RFMI) (RFM) today introduced the DM1800 Module that incorporates several features that make it easy to set up and operate a wireless mesh network. The modules ship pre-configured with their operating profile information so that they are ready to operate when powered up and do not need an external PC application to set up and configure the mesh. The modules include embedded software for encryption and security as well as to examine the condition of the mesh using on-board LEDs.
The DM1800 Module is based on RFM's TR3000 Virtual Wire(TM) transceiver radio and a PIC 16F688 Flash microcontroller from Microchip Technology. The combination of RFM's ultra-low power radio and Microchip's nanoWatt technology makes it possible to offer extremely low power consumption and is ideal for applications that require long-life operation on batteries. Additionally, the PIC microcontroller supports serial communications, analog input and digital I/O with no additional components to minimize module cost.
"With the introduction of the DM1800 Module, RFM continues to build its portfolio of Wireless Systems solutions for serving a broad range of wireless connectivity applications," said Wayne Stargardt, Director of Marketing for RFM's Wireless Systems Group. "The DM1800 Module delivers an extremely cost effective off-the-shelf solution for the large number of applications that mainly require the broader coverage of mesh networking."
The DM1800 Module is a full function module that combines a transceiver, a microcontroller, input and output pins, and embedded software for wireless mesh networking. As a module, it is intended for companies that do not have the time, resources or expertise to design their own wireless mesh solutions from components, but would rather purchase an "off the shelf" solution. The new product is aimed at a wide range of basic wireless connectivity applications that require the extended coverage that mesh networking provides.
RFM's DM1800 Module is an economical embedded solution for mesh networking applications of up to several hundred nodes. The DM1800 Module accomplishes low-power operation while communicating up to 200 meters between nodes in a mesh networking configuration. This compact, full-featured module is available in commercial quantities for under $20. The DM1800 Module provides the best combination of price, operating range between nodes, and low-power operation currently available in a commercial wireless mesh networking product. Samples of the DM1800 Module will be available in January 2006, in frequencies for the U.S. and the European markets.
The DM1800 Module includes RFM's miniMESH(TM) networking protocol. The miniMESH(TM) protocol is designed to provide basic mesh networking functions while operating on inexpensive microcontrollers. Designed for smaller mesh networking clusters, miniMESH(TM) is optimized for low power consumption, automatic mesh setup and low overhead operation. miniMESH(TM) has been used commercially for several years embedded in custom hardware modules, and it serves as an entry level mesh network technology that can meet the needs of a number of connectivity applications.
The DM1800 Module is an embedded module that is designed to be built into products produced by OEM manufacturers. It is ideal for companies seeking to add connections to equipment, machinery or other devices over some distance, particularly when a wired connection is not available or economical. The DM1800 Module's straightforward wireless mesh networking provides a particularly attractive upgrade path to customers of RFM's Virtual Wire(TM) low-power radios who need built in wireless connectivity, but with greater communications range and reliability than direct connections can provide.
About RFM
Celebrating over 25 years of low-power wireless solutions, RFM, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, is a leading designer, developer, manufacturer and supplier of radio frequency wireless solutions enabling wireless connectivity for the automotive, consumer, industrial, medical and communications markets worldwide, allowing our customers to provide products and services that are both cost effective and superior in performance. RFM's wireless solutions are supported by industry leading customer service. For more information on RF Monolithics, Inc., please visit our websites at http://www.rfm.com and http://www.wirelessis.com.
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