Frequently Asked Questions
TR modules
- TR-54D dimensions are reduced as much as possible
- No supply voltage regulator is used. Thus, supply voltage range is 2.2 to 3.4 V and power consumption 380 nA which is convenient for battery powered applications.
- Number of I/Os is extended, pins are not multiplexed. Series protective resistors are recommended for I/O pins.
- For fast prototyping and maximal compatibility with TR-52D modules the TRDB-54DA development kit is prepared to enable using TR-54DA with SIM connector. Pins can be connected/multiplexed TR-52D-like to allow using standard SW examples.
- For programming the KON-PGM-01 adapter is available. It enables to upload the code in a TR soldered in user equipment.
During initialization the following tasks are performed: waiting for establishing proper power supply, additional time delay for reliability, OS initialization, user RAM clearing, calibration of system RC clock and detection of possible request to enter programming mode.
In datasheets of IQRF TR modules the following is stated regarding operation temperature: "0 °C to +70 °C, -40 °C to +85 °C (Industrial) available on request."
All components and technologies used for TR modules meet Industrial or Automotive temperature ranges. TRs work in lower temperatures like other electronic devices with the following limitations, easily understandable by physical principles:
- RF range decreases with lower temperature.
- Function calibrateTimer() should be used to maintain RF timing.
- Dry frost does no harm but no ice accretion is allowed. This has a strong impact to RF.
- Humidity > 85% and condensed water should be avoided.
The RF range depends on:
- Output power
- Bit rate
- Antenna type (style, dimensions, directionality, …). Antenna orientation should respect radiation patterns. Directional antennas provide several times higher ranges.
- Obstacles and terain reflecivity. 1st Fresnel zone should be free for best results. E.g. avoid attenuation by placing antennas above the ground as much as possible (dependency is important especially up to 1.8 m).
- Other RF signal/packet parameters (coding, error corrections, …)
Intelligent routing and other soft IQ methods are more efficient than simple increasing of output power (some obstacacles can not be penetrated at all, high output power generate undesirable noise, …).
You can simulate signal propagation in your specific environment. The best way is to test the range in the given place with hardware in your intended configuration and example E09-LINK. In case of DK-EVAL-04 kit use an external antenna (this kit is optimized for space but not for the range).
New TR-7xD and 8xD modules with higher output power will be released in 2013.
Explanation: It is an indication of RF programming mode (wireless upload). The TR module has probably uploaded an application containing the enableRFPGM function (e.g. the IQMESH standard example). This function reconfigures OS that it activates RF programming mode after every reset instead of entering the application.
Solution: To reestablish normal operation, upload and invoke any application with the disableRFPGM function at the beginning. See AN009 for details.