CC2530ZDK-ZNP-MINI
Implementing a ZigBee wireless network has never been simpler thanks to the Texas Instruments CC2530ZNP (Fig. 1). Building a ZigBee product is a challenge because of the complexity of the ZigBee protocol. The CC2530ZNP, though, doesn’t require designers to learn the complexities of a full ZigBee stack. Instead, it runs the network component of the system while the existing host processor runs the application code. Typical applications include home and building automation, industrial monitoring and control, and sensor networks.
In addition to the 2.4-GHz 802.15.4 transceiver, the CC2530ZNP has an integrated 8051 ZigBee processor core. TI’s ZigBee PRO stack is embedded in the device to deliver standardized mesh networking with up to 25% reduced development time. The chip is optimized for low current consumption, sleep nodes, and battery operation. It communicates with the host processor via a serial peripheral interface (SPI) or UART command interface. To kick off your design, get the CC2530ZDK-ZNP-MINI development kit (Fig. 2). It comes with three target bo
ards that let you set up a simple ZigBee network. Two of the boards can be configured as remote ZigBee end devices or routers with AAA cells. The boards include an LED, accelerometer, light sensor, and temperature sensor. The kit also includes an eZ430 USB stick with an MSP430F2274 MCU used as a debug probe and USB serial interface. Its related IAR compiler can be used for developing and debugging the software.
The CC2530ZNP comes in a 6- by 6-mm, quad flat no-lead (QFN), 40-pin package. Pricing is $2.75 in 1000-piece quantities. The development kit is available for $99.
Texas Instruments Inc.
