radio module RTLS location CSS Chirp Spread Spectrum data transmission

APC-Hero introduces radio module with precise indoor and outdoor ranging capabilities

News Release from: Advanced Power Components PLC
31/03/2008

Advanced Power Components has announced that Nanotron's 2.4 GHz CSS smart nanoLOC AVR module is available now, exclusively through their APC-Hero division. The smart nanoLOC AVR RF module is the first IEEE802.15.4a CSS radio module with precise indoor and outdoor ranging capabilities. Working at a range of up to one kilometre, the module is also unique in allowing data transmission between modules at a speed of 2MB/second.

The smart nanoLOC AVR RF is the ideal choice for straightforward product integration. Simply by adding a power supply and housing to the module system, integrators or end customers can build their products without the challenges of 2.4 GHz RF design and certification. The module is equipped with a 64 KB FLASH and 4 KB RAM fast 8-bit Microcontroller, and measures just 35 mm x 14 mm x 3 mm, with an integrated chip antenna and a serial UART interface.

The design of the module was driven by explicit customer specification for a small, energy efficient, intelligent tag that can be used for ranging and localisation in combination with robust communication, either as a stand-alone system or as part of a sophisticated Real Time Location System (RTLS). Providing design flexibility without the need for low level RF expertise, the module is a first step towards a successful portable, mobile integration.

Dr. Frank Schlichting, Director of Application Engineering at Nanotron, said:
“Nanotron’s smart nanoLOC AVR RF module makes life easier for applications where positioning is an issue. From tracking valuable assets, e.g. in logistics and the medical market, to safety monitoring applications in mines and harsh industrial environments, a broad spectrum of applications benefits from decentralised and inexpensive RTLS systems based on Nanotron’s unique nanoLOC CSS transceiver”

CSS technology has been approved worldwide and is proposed for ISO 24730-5 and EPC-Global. The Nanotron smart nanoLOC AVR RF module is available immediately through APC-Hero, the sole UK and Ireland distributor.