Wireless UART Chipset Scans Unlicensed Band

Assuming position as a market first, the Dolphin wireless UART chipset operates within the unlicensed 902 MHz to 928 MHz ISM band. A FCC-certified reference design, the set consists of the TRF6903 transceiver and the DBB03 digital baseband ASIC. The DBB03 hosts the firmware in ROM, which includes the PHY, MAC, and data link layer. Not included with the pair, an external MCU performs all end-application functions. Chipset features include FHSS/FSK operation, a host interface with programmable baud rates, support for both point-to-point and point-to-multipoint networks, acquisition time of 70 ms for 50 channels, operating voltage from 2.2V to 3.6V, and an operational temperature range from -40°C to +85°C. Two reference designs are available for long- and short-range applications: 23 dBm of transmit power for a range up to one mile and 7 dBm for distances up to 0.2 mile. Both devices specify a sensitivity of -101 dBm and over-air rates of 38.4 kb/s. Price for the Dolphin chipset is $4.50 each/1,000. TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INC., Dallas, TX. (800) 477-8924.