The recent development of the ZigBee Smart Energy public application profile makes the possibility standards-based efficient energy products a reality. Manufacturers can now start offering ZigBee-enabled devices such as thermostats, smart meters, home displays, etc. However, implementation of Smart Energy-compliant embedded software is an extremely complex process that also requires a series of comprehensive tests before successful certification and release to the market. Even when using the ZigBee chips or modules that already have the Smart Energy profile, customisation is still required.
MeshNetics claims that this is where its new development tool can help, with the ZigBee PRO Feature Set implementation using Java language. The patent-pending MeshPoint technology implemented in this tool enables developers to add an unlimited number of virtual nodes to the network quickly and cost-effectively, as well as mix-and-match real and virtual devices in the same network. Furthermore, no coding is required.
For example, a manufacturer is developing a wireless thermostat. The developers plug in the MeshNetics USB dongle into a PC, install the software and the thermostat is located automatically. Now they can add all kinds of virtual meters, home controls, etc and test them, communicating to their thermostat. Using the new tool, the developers can not only quickly develop a ZigBee Smart Energy-compatible device from scratch and get fully prepared for the ZigBee certification process, but also easily learn the ins and outs of the ZigBee Smart Energy profile. MeshNetics plans to unveil the new tool on 28 October 2008 during the ESC Boston and will give a demonstration at our booth.
MeshNetics claims to be the only ZigBee module vendor that offers ZigBee PRO platforms for both 2.4GHz and 868/915MHz ISM frequency bands. This fact was recently recognised by the analytical firm Frost & Sullivan, which awarded MeshNetics the 2008 North American Wireless Sensors Product Line Strategy of the Year Award. A complete range of MeshNetics ZigBee modules will be on display at ESC Boston.
ZigBit 900 is an RF module for sub-1GHz band and uses the ZigBee PRO Feature Set. The new module offers an excellent range and is designed to operate in the ISM bands 915MHz in the USA and 868MHz in Europe. The amplified 2.4GHz RF module, ZigBit Amp, offers a combination of best-in-class range and very low power consumption. The patented dual chip antenna design featured in the ZigBit A2, an ultra-compact 2.4GHz RF module, helps extend operating range without sacrificing power consumption. BitCloud, a robust 802.15.4-2006/ZigBee PRO Feature Set, comes with all MeshNetics' ZigBee modules, along with an easy-to-use AT commands set.