Radiocontrolli RC-SPIRIT2-915 Transceiver Module User Guide

RC-SPIRIT2-915 Transceiver Module

Product Information

The RC-SPIRIT2-915 module is a sub-1GHz programmable transceiver module designed for maximum performance in minimal space. The module is based on STMicroelectronics S2-LP transceiver and is pin-to-pin compatible with the SPSGRFC family modules manufactured by STMicroelectronics. It is an easy-to- use certified module with many programmable features and 4 programmable I/O pins. The module can be programmed from an external microcontroller via SPI interface. The module comes with mechanical dimensions of 11.5 x 13.5 x 2.5mm with a metal shield. It is suitable for low-power wireless systems, home and building automation, smart grid and automatic meter reading, wireless sensor network, and 6LoWPAN systems.

Features

• Ultra-low consumption technology
• Easy to use
• Small dimension SMD mounting
• CE certified

Technical Characteristics

Product Usage Instructions

The RC-SPIRIT2-915 module can be easily used by following these steps:

1. Connect the module to an external microcontroller via SPI interface.
2. Program the module as per the requirement using the programmable features.
3. Connect the antenna using a UFL connector or a pad version.
4. The module is now ready to use for low-power wireless systems, home and building automation, smart grid and automatic meter reading, wireless sensor network, and 6LoWPAN systems.

Note: Radiocontrolli s.r.l refuses any responsibility for irregular uses of the devices and for any possible lack or inaccuracy of the data and reserves the right to change in whole or in part this information without notice. For more information and details, please refer to the S2-LP datasheet available at www.st.com.

Sub-1GHz programmable transceiver module

The RC-SPIRIT2-915 module is based on STMicroelectronics S2-LP transceiver. Pin to pin compatible with the SPSGRFC family modules manufactured from STMicroelectronics. This device is an easy-to-use sub 1GHz transceiver certified module with many programmable features. The module is designed for a maximum performance in a minimal space, with 4 programmable I/O pins.

Programmable from external microcontroller via SPI interface.
Mechanical Dimensions : 11.5 x 13.5 x 2.5mm Metal shield.
For more information and details, please refer to the S2-LP datasheet (www.st.com).

Module Information standard version :

Using this module, it will be possible to easily update a product designed with Spirit1 technology (SPSGRF modules) with the new S2-LP device. These RF modules are CE certified and integrate wireless connectivity in target electronic devices without requiring particular RF experience or expertise. This certified solution optimizes the time to market of the final applications.

Applications

• Low-Power Wireless Systems
• Home and Building Automation
• Smart Grid and Automatic Meter Reading
• Wireless Sensor Network
• 6LoWPAN systems

Features

• Ultra Low consumption technology
• Easy to Use
• Small Dimension SMD mounting
• CE CERTIFIED

Technical Characteristics

(*) It is possible to reach the max value if the device (S2-LP) is programmed in Boost Mode (see the STMicroelectronics S2LP datasheet).

Electrical Parameters about the crystal XTAL used Block DiagramRF BALUN Used :

Frequency : 868/915MHz
Model : BALF-SPI2-01D3
STMicroelectronics Datasheet:
https://www.st.com/resource/en/datasheet/balf-spi2-01d3.pdf

Pin out device

Version with UFL Connector
RC-SPIRIT2-XXX (Antenna through UFL Connector)

RC-C1-SPIRIT2-915

Pin out device

Version without UFL Connector
RC-SPIRIT2-XXX-NA (Antenna connection through PAD N.13)

STANDARD Version = RC-SPIRIT2-XXX

«NA» Version = RC-SPIRIT2-XXX-NA

Mechanical dimensions Recommended PCB Layout

Recommended Hardware design

1. Hardware
   All unused pins should be left floating; do not ground. All GND pins must be well grounded. Traces should not be routed underneath the module.

2. Power Supply
   The transceiver module must be powered from a regulated voltage. It is recommended to keep the power supply line for VCC as short and low impedence as possible. Near the power pins it is recommended to insert a ceramic the decoupling capacitor (100nF).

3. Ground Plane
   It is recommended to have a copper ground plane under the shielded zone of the module. The ground plane should be unbroken.

4. Module Placement
   The antenna on the PCB has an omnidirectional radiation pattern. To maximize antenna efficiency, an adequate grounding plane must be provided under the module. Instead the areas underneath and surrounding the antenna area must be free of copper.

Recommended Reflow Profile for Lead Free Solder

Sub-1 GHz transceiver development kit based on RC-SPIRIT2-XXX module.
The RC-SPIRIT2-XXX-EK is an evaluation board based on the RC-SPIRIT2-XXX module. This module is based on STMicroelectronics chip (S2-LP) that is a sub-1 GHz ultra-low power, data-rate transceiver, suitable for ISM bands and Wireless M-Bus.

The Evaluation board can be used instead of those provided by the chip manufacter (www.st.com) denominated STEVAL-FKIXXXV2. With this board it is possible to use all the SW resources provided for the development activity.

Hardware description

The RC-SPIRIT2-XXX-EK evaluation boards are designed to work in the sub 1GHz band (433/868). Some features on the boards are (see the picture below) :

• RC-SPIRIT2-XXX module (A)
• Two rows with Arduino compliant connectors (D1-4)
• UFL connector (B)
• A NUCLEO-L152RE or NUCLEO-L053R8 evaluation board (G)
• A jumper for RC-SPIRIT2-XXX current measurement (H)

RC-SPIRIT2-XXX signal test points are split across two rows which are Arduino compliant connectors: CN1,CN2,CN3,CN4.
The RC-SPIRIT2-XXX shield is connected to the Nucleo motherboard via the Arduino connectors.

Hardware Setup

The board can be powered by the Nucleo evaluation board mini USB connector. When the JP1 jumper is fitted (H) in the previous figure, the radio section is supplied. By removing this jumper and connecting a power meter, you can measure the RC-SPIRIT2-XXX current consumption.

1. Connect an antenna to the SMA connector
2. Ensure the jumper configuration on the board is correct
3. Connect the STM32 Nucleo board to the PC through a USB cable (via CN5 connector)

To use the application Notes STSW-S2LP-DK follow step by step the document «Getting Started with the S2-LP development kit» from STMicroelectronics denominated UM2149.pdf.

Evaluation Software package
The STSW-S2LP-DK is an evaluation SW package based on the S2-LP high performance ultra-low power RF transceiver for RF wireless applications in the sub-1 GHz band. It is designed to operate in the license-free ISM and SRD frequency bands at 433, 868 and 920 MHz, but can also be programmed to operate at additional frequencies in the 413-479, 452-527, 826-958, 904-1055 MHz bands. The STSW-S2LP-DK package supports the S2-LP kit platforms available on the associated web pages. It provides an S2-LP library with a complete set of APIs to interface with the S2-LP features, as well as a set of applications demonstrating the use of features of the same device. Each demonstration application comes with a complete set of source files. The S2-LP_DK GUI application provides an interactive PC interface for the registers on the S2-LP. Its main function is to configure the analog radio section and the packet handler in a user friendly manner for the most common applications.

NUCLEO BOARD L0

• Notes for using the STMicroelectronics application «STSW-S2LP-DK»

In the last version of this application (versions higher than 1.3.1) the following things happen:

• When you work with the STEVAL board everything works fine !!
• When you work with the RC-SPIRIT2-XXX-EK board there will be the following request :

If your answer is “CANCEL” everything works well and you can use this software to verify all the features about the RadioControlli module . We suggest pressing the «CANCEL» button, in this way it will be possible to use the application created by STMicroelectronics to check all the features of the RC- S2LP-XXX module. Instead, if your answer is “OK” there will be the update of the NUCLEO board and it will no longer be possible to work with the Radiocontrolli board (instead with the STEVAL is everything OK). (The problem is that in the STEVAL board there is an EEPROM where the STMicroelectronics write a secret code, and this applica on recognizes this code, instead the RadioControlli evalua on board does not contain this secret code (infact the EEPROM is not mounted on the board). To return in the old condition and enable you to try the RadioControlli module, you will must update the NUCLEO board with another software version (provided by us) and transfer it to the Node_L053R8.
Contact sales@radiocontrolli.com to achieve this Nucleo version.

N UCLEO BOARD L1

Notes for using the STMicroelectronics application «STSW-S2LP-DK»
Using a board NUCLEO L1 is not possible to run the application STWS-S2LP-DK with the RadioControlli evaluation board RC-SPIRIT2-XXX-EK. The application always tries to recognize the secret code (STMicroelectronics) inserted in the EEPROM of the STEVAL board. The RadioControlli evaluation board does not contain this secret code (the EEPROM is not mounted).

FCC Statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Caution: Any changes or modifications to this device not explicitly approved by manufacturer could void your authority to operate this equipment.

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and
2. this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Important Note:

Radiation Exposure Statement
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment . This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator and your body. This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. Country Code selection feature to be disabled for products marketed to the US.

This device is intended only for OEM integrators under the following conditions:

• The antenna must be installed such that 20 cm is maintained between the antenna and users,and
• The transmitter module may not be co-located with any other transmitter or antenna,

As long as the three conditions above are met, further transmitter testing will not be required. However, the OEM integrator is still responsible for testing their end-product for any additional compliance requirements required with this module installed.

Important Note:
In the event that these conditions cannot be met (for example certain laptop configurations or co-location with another transmitter), then the FCC authorization is no longer considered valid and the FCC ID cannot be used on the final product. In these circumstances, the OEM integrator will be responsible for re-evaluating the end product (including the transmitter) and obtaining a separate FCC authorization.

End Product Labeling
The final end product must be labeled in a visible area with the following” Contains FCC ID: 2ANH5RC-SPIRIT2-915″

Manual Information to the End User
The OEM integrator has to be aware not to provide information to the end user regarding how to install or remove this RF module in the user’s manual of the end product which integrates this module.
The end user manual shall include all required regulatory information/warning as show in this manual.

Integration instructions for host product manufacturers according to KDB 996369 D03 OEM Manual v01

List of applicable FCC rules
CFR 47 FCC PART 15 SUBPART C has been investigated. It is applicable to the modular transmitter 2.3 Specific operational use conditions This module is stand-alone modular. If the end product will involve the Multiple simultaneously transmitting condition or different operational conditions for a stand-alone modular transmitter in a host, host manufacturer have to consult with module manufacturer for the installation method in end system.

Limited module procedures
Not applicable

Trace antenna designs
Not applicable

RF exposure considerations
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator & your body.

Antennas
This radio transmitter FCC ID: 2ANH5RC-SPIRIT2-915 has been approved by Federal Communications Commission to operate with the antenna types listed below, with the maximum permissible gain indicated. Antenna types not included in this list that have a gain greater than the maximum gain indicated for any type listed are strictly prohibited for use with this device.

Label and compliance information
The final end product must be labeled in a visible area with the following” Contains FCC ID: 2ANH5RC-SPIRIT2-915″.

Information on test modes and additional testing requirements
Host manufacturer is strongly recommended to confirm compliance with FCC requirements for the transmitter when the module is installed in the host.

Additional testing, Part 15 Subpart B disclaimer
Host manufacturer is responsible for compliance of the host system with module installed with all other applicable requirements for the system such as Part 15 B. You will must update the NUCLEO with another software version (provided by us) and transfer it to the Node_L152RE.

Contact sales@radiocontrolli.com to achieve this NUCLEO L1 version.

Radiocontrolli s.r.l refuses any responsibility for irregular uses of the devices and for any possible lack or inaccuracy of the data and reserves the right to change in whole or in part this information without notice.
www.radiocontrolli.com

References

• Radiofrequency Modules and IoT Modules - RF Modules 433/868/915MH and IoT modules
• Radiofrequency Modules and IoT Modules - Wireless and LoRa modules

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