Radiocrafts Press Release - April 27, 2011

Radiocrafts Intros 169 MHz Wireless M-Bus RF Module

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RC1180-KNX1Radiocrafts AS, a leading provider of compact RF modules, now expands their Wireless M-Bus product line with a new module using the 169 MHz band for long range Automatic Meter Reading (AMR). The module is compliant with the new prEN 13757-4:2011, operating in the new harmonized frequency band for meter reading in Europe.

Based on a proposal from Radiocrafts, a new narrowband communication mode has been defined in the Wireless M-Bus standard. The combination of VHF frequency, true narrowband operation and high output power, gives superior communication range and coverage even in urban environments. The typical range is 1.5 km in urban areas and 20-40 km in open terrain with quarter-wave antennas.

Being the world’s first compact RF module in the market compliant with the new standard, it offers true arrowband performance in a 12.5 kHz channel, and up to 500 mW output power, achieving a link budget of 150 dB. The module support two-way communication at 2.4 and 4.8 kbps in 6 narrowband channels, and 38.4 kbps in a 50 kHz channel.

The module contains the industry leading Wireless M-Bus protocol stack, supporting battery operated meter devices, concentrators and repeaters. The new RC1700HP-MBUS is a surface-mounted module measuring only 12.7 x 25.4 x 3.3 mm, and is pin compatible with the same small form factor as the other Wireless M-Bus modules (868 MHz and other frequencies) from Radiocrafts. It only requires two pins for data, two pins for power supply and one pin to the antenna. A UART interface is used for serial communication and configuration. The antenna is connected directly to the 50 Ohm RF pin. The RC1700HP-MBUS module is certified for operation under the European radio regulations for license-free use and is CE marked.

By launching the new compact 169 MHz Wireless M-Bus module in the market, Radiocrafts has again demonstrated their technological leadership in embedded wireless solutions for AMR. Through active participation in the standardisation work in CEN, Radiocrafts has shown commitment and contributed to the development of international standards for meter reading, meeting the target of the M/441 mandate.

Radiocrafts’ state-of-the art module solutions have time and again helped meter manufacturers and system integrators to quickly launch new products that are compliant to the evolving standards. Using modules does not only ensure interoperability and compliance, but also significantly reduce time-to-market, development and maintenance cost.

Contact Radiocrafts for module and Demo Kit availability. The module is delivered on tape and reel for
volume production.
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About Radiocrafts AS: (www.radiocrafts.com)
Radiocrafts is a leading RF module design and manufacturing company. Radiocrafts’ standard
RF modules provide compact, easy-to-use, low cost, low power and high performance RF
solutions for a large number of wireless applications using license-free ISM bands. Using
modules OEM manufacturers without RF design knowledge can easily add wireless technology
into their design, reducing time-to-market, cost of design, test and compliance approvals.
Radiocrafts also offers custom and application specific product development, supporting
customers from initial project ideas to volume product delivery.




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Peder Martin Evjen, M.Sc.E.E.
Managing Director
Radiocrafts AS
Sandakerveien 64
NO-0484 OSLO
NORWAY
Switchboard: (+47) 4000 5195
Mob: (+47) 970 86 676
Fax: (+47) 22 71 29 15
email: p.m.evjen@radiocrafts.com
web: www.radiocrafts.com
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Posted  4/28/2011