Date: 10/06/2010

Transcievers for Sub-GHz wireless networks from Microchip

Microchip has introduced the new MRF89XA transceiver at the Embedded Systems Conference in Chicago. It is said to have a low receive current of 3mA for longer battery life in 868, 915 and 950 MHz Sub-GHz wireless networks. The 868 MHz MRF89XAM8A and 915 MHz MRF89XAM9A transceiver modules accelerate design cycles by removing the complexity of designing RF circuitry and the cost of obtaining agency certification.

Designers for a broad range of battery-powered wireless sensor networks and metering communications sometimes prefer the Sub-GHz frequency bands. The MRF89XA transceiver and modules integrate a 12.5 dBm Power Amplifier for long transmission distances and a Low Noise Amplifier for -113 dBm enhanced receive sensitivity. It also combines an integrated packet handler with a 64-byte FIFO for transmit and receive buffering. The MRF89XA transceiver and modules are suggested for remote meter reading, home/building/industrial automation, remote keyless entry, tire-pressure monitoring, points of sale and toys applications.

"The new MRF89XA transceiver and modules are ideal for low-power wireless sensor and metering communication," said Steve Caldwell, director of Microchip's RF Products Division. "The combination of this transceiver with our nanoWatt XLP family of eXtreme Low Power PIC microcontrollers provides an industry-leading platform for Sub-GHz wireless networking."

Package: 5x5 mm 32-pin QFN,

Price:
MRF89XA transceiver is priced at each US$1.76 in 5,000-unit quantities.
MRF89XAM8A and MRF89XAM9A are priced at US $8.50 in single-unit quantities

Availability:
MRF89XA transceiver is available now, The MRF89XAM8A and MRF89XAM9A 12-pin, surface-mountable modules are expected to be available in Calendar Q3 2010.

To know more visit: http://www.microchip.com/get/D2C7