Low pwer wireless microcontroller features 32-bit processor core
Now shipping, the KW01 wireless microcontroller (MCU) expands the Kinetis W series MCU line with a device for wirelessly networked smart object applications. Freescale believes the MCU features the first ARM Cortex M0+ based universal sub-GHz radio to reach mass production.
Several protocols are emerging globally for outdoor and indoor smart object networks that require robust communication and low power consumption. The KW01 platform meets these requirements with a high-performance radio, capable of up to 600 kbps using complex modulation schemes (GFSK, MSK, GMSK and OOK) while operating at multiple frequencies in the range of 290 to 1020 MHz; supporting ISM bands in Japan, USA, Europe, China, India, Brazil, Mexico and others. Additionally, the low-power onboard CPU system is used to handle numerous network protocols.
For outdoor applications, such as neighbourhood area networks that connect many smart meters to a common data collection point, and metropolitan area networks that connect numerous street lamps or sensors, the KW0x wireless MCU can support proprietary protocols and the industry-standard IEEE 802.15.4e/g protocol. Possible applications also include smart city networks (street lighting, parking meters, water meters, infrastructure integrity sensors) and building control. For indoor applications connecting wireless sensors, controls, displays, appliances and machinery, the KW01 wireless MCU can support proprietary protocols or standard protocols such as 6LoWPAN, WMBUS (EN13757-4), KNX and ECHONET.
On the ARM Cortex-M0+, the KW01 runs up to 48 MHz with 128 kB flash memory and 16 kB SRAM running as low as 40 µA/MHz in typical conditions. The system and peripherals are designed to achieve 1.7 µA device standby current with a fast wake up time of 4.3 µsec, and a device stop current less than 100 nA, which includes radio configuration data retention.
The KW01 may be used as a comprehensive modem running low-level wireless protocol layers while delegating the upper network protocol layers to run in an external host application processor. The can also operate without a host for simpler network protocols; taking advantage of its on-chip peripherals, such as the 16-bit analogue-to-digital converter to implement a single-chip solution for wireless sensor networking applications.
Features include;
- +137 dB budget link for very long range capabilities;
- Variable +17dBm native power output;
- Supports 290-340 MHz, 424-510 MHz, and 862-1020 MHz frequency bands;
- Bi-directional over-the-air data rates from 1 kbps to 600 kbps;
- Multiple, flexible low-power modes including new compute mode that reduces dynamic power by placing peripherals in an asynchronous stop mode;
- 16-bit analogue-to-digital converter;
- Touch sense interface;
- 12-bit DAC;
- Analogue comparator.
A package that helps simplify development includes:
- PC test tool for a comprehensive evaluation of radio performances and a fast configuration of the radio block;
- Out-of-the-box kit experience with development hardware and software;
- Modular reference boards for rapid prototyping;
- Simple MAC radio utility configuration tool;
- IAR IDE development support is also available from the ARM ecosystem;
- MAC/PHY for IEEE 802.15.4g/e.
Freescale; www.freescale.com/KW0x
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