ZULU-DONGLE
ZULU-DONGLE
Features
• Intelligent RF modem module
• Serial data interface with handshake
• Host data rates up to 57,600 baud
• RF Data Rates to 115Kbps
• Range up to 1Km
• Minimal external components
• Direct LED drive shows data flow
• Secure data protocol
• Ultra low power 2.4 - 3.6V operation
• CE compliant for licence free use
• 868MHz multi channel operation
Applications
• 100mW transmit power (+20dBm)
•
Remote networking
• Receiver sensitivity –121dBm
•
USB/RS232 cable replacement
•
Remote data log
•
Meter reading
Description
The ZULU DONGLE is a highly integrated RF modem and intelligent controller with a plug and
play (virtual comm port) USB interface. The ZULU DONGLE can achieve a wireless serial
data link at up to 38K4bps over a 1Km range. Range may be further extended with suitable
antenna.
The user interface is standard USB operating at low voltage. All RF operation is
automatically controlled (with error checking etc) so the ZULU DONGLE can be treated as a
simple serial communications device.
Possible applications include one-to-one and multi-node wireless links in applications
including car and building security, EPOS, inventory tracking, remote industrial monitoring
and computer networking.
Because of the small size and low power requirements these modules are ideal for use in
with handheld terminals also.
Ordering Information
Part Number
Description
ZULU-DONGLE
Radio Modem 868MHz +20dBm
ZULU-DONGLE915
Radio Modem 915MHz +20dBm
DS-ZULU-DONGLE-5
ZULU-DONGLE Modem
Product overview
This product is Plug and Play, connect the antenna to the SMA connector and plug
into a USB port. Two or more ZULU-DONGLEs (or other compatible items) are needed
for operation.
117.50mm
81.00mm
68.00mm
20.00mm
ZULU
14.00mm
11.50mm
With antenna connected
Power supply:
Power is supplied directly from the USB port - external power option is not offered.
Tx/Rx LED:
The LED operates whenever there is RF activity.
Operational overview:
1.
Plug in the ZULU-DONGLE into a PC or host via USB
2.
Configure the USB port and the virtual comm port created as below:
Serial data format:
Baud rate:
19,200kbps as default - can be configured.
Data bits:
8
Parity:
None
Stop bits:
1
Flow control: Hardware CTS / RTS
3.
Data is passed between the two modems
Notes on compatibility with other products
ZULU-DONGLE is fully compatible with:
•
ZULU-M868 (SMT and PDIP versions: Firmware R1.4 and newer when Unit ID
(R7) is set to the correct value D3)
•
KAPPA-M868 (SMT and PDIP)
•
BLIZZARD-868 IP68 radio modem
•
ZULU-M-ARDUNIO SHIELD
•
ZULUEVAL-M
Check the configuration set-up for new features and any changes to defaults.
DS-ZULU-DONGLE-4
ZULU-DONGLE Modem
Operation Overview
The ZULU DONGLE provides a simple interface to the host controller. It handles all RF
data communications automatically and without any requirement from the user (RF
packetising, preamble, encoding, CRC check etc).
With this powerful high-speed radio link, the following networks can be realised:
Networking
One-to-One; For point to point data communication.
One-to-Many/Broadcast; A network consisting a master and many slaves (all receivers
have the same address).
Many-to-One; Where all transmitters with different addresses send to a single
receiver address.
Note: Because each ZULU-DONGLE can be given a unique address, multiple
ZULU-DONGLE networks can co-exist in the same area. This type of operation
requires clear timing between transmissions or corruption of packets can occur.
Addressing Networks
Each ZULU-DONGLE has a generic pre-configured default address (7F7F7F). This can
be modified during configuration. When data received via RF it is examined and the
address header embedded within it is compared with its address. Only data received
with matching address will be processed and output to the host, all other data will be
discarded.
When sending data, the ZULU-DONGLE has a default destination address set to
7F7F7F, this can be user configured.
By setting the two addresses appropriately the above network types can be easily
achieved.
Operating Modes
Configuration Mode: In configuration mode the ZULU-DONGLE can receive commands
to set internal registers to define its eventual operation. In this mode the
ZULU-DONGLE is ‘Offline’ and cannot send or receive RF data.
Normal Operation: The ZULU DONGLE is ’Online’ automatically transmitting and
receiving data from its serial interface across its RF network.
Acknowledge Secure Mode: In this mode each time a ZULU DONGLE transmits an RF
packet, an additional ‘packet ID’ is added. This ID is a rolling verification counter to
receiving ZULU DONGLE modems.
Any correctly addressed receiving ZULU-DONGLE replies with an RF acknowledgment
also containing the ‘packet ID’. If the transmitting ZULU DONGLE fails to receive the
expected acknowledgement it will transmit the packet again (up to 10 times).
Handshaking
The ZULU DONGLE requires the handshaking (RTS/CTS) to communicate with its host
interface.
DS-ZULU-DONGLE-4
ZULU-DONGLE Modem
Configuration Mode (offline)
Commands can be set using a standard terminal program or by sending the relevant
ASCII characters.
Each command must be followed by the Carriage Return or ‘Enter’ except
“+++”
Command
Description
Response from ZULU-DONGLE
Enter Configuration Mode
+++
?
F
H
P
Note: This command must be
sent as a string with no
characters in front or behind. This
is to ensure that the +++ is not
mistakenly received in mid-data.
( is not to be used with
+++).
Retrieve the current register
values
ZULU-DONGLE responds with status
info
ZULU-DONGLE responds with all register values
Pre-configured factory defaults;
R1=7F7F7F
R2=7F7F7F
R3 = Ch2
(869.450MHz)
R4 = 7
(+20dBm)
R5 = 1
(19K2)
‘OK’
Brief description of commands available
Help
Ping ModeThis sends a ping
The originating ZULU-DONGLE will rerequest .On receiving, the
spond with the recipient ZULU morecipient ZULU DONGLEs will
dems’ address. eg.
respond with its address and the
Received from 7F7F7F (D5)
level of RSSI (Received Signal
Strength) The Ping command is
Where
continuously
7F7F7F = the recipient address
repeated every 1 second until any
D5= RSSI
command or character is entered.
RSSI
Please note: R1 and R2 on both
Is a hex value corresponding to the
devices must be set to the same
received signal strength
address for RSSI signal strength
Min = 20hex
to show.
Max =E0hex
S
Save Configuration
‘SAVED’
Q
Exit configuration mode and return to online mode
No response
Note: All commands are entered in upper case
DS-ZULU-DONGLE-4
ZULU-DONGLE Modem
Register Values (Configuration Mode)
Set a register:
To set a register, type ‘R#=x’ where # is the register number (1-6) and x is the value to
set.
For example, to set the RF channel to 3 type : R3=3
(Where is carriage return or enter on the keyboard)
Register
Value Range
Description
Example
R1
0000 - FFFFFF
(24 bit address)
Default: 7F7F7F
Sets the recipient
ZULU-DONGLE address
R1=000100
(Data sent to ZULU
DONGLE with address
R2
0000 - FFFFFF
(24 bit address)
Default: 7F7F7F
Set ZULU-DONGLE
address
R2=F00100
(Data sent is from ZULUDONGLE)
R3
CH0 to CH4
Sets the RF channel
selection page 7.
R3=2
(Transmit on channel 2)
R4
0 = +1dBm
1 = +2dBm
2 = +5dBm
3 = +8dBm
4 = +11dBm
5 = +14dBm
6 = +17dBm
7 = +20dBm
Set the RF transmit power
output*
R4=7
(sets transmit power to
max)*
R5
0
1
2
3
4
Set the RF baud rate*
R5=3
(sets the RF data rate to
56Kbps)
=
9,600
= 19,200
= 28,800
= 56,000
= 115,200
R6
0 = Off
1 = On
(Acknowledge)
Secure mode enable
R6=1
(Secure Mode on)
R7
0-FF (hex)
Default = D4
Unique system identifier
R7=A3
Identifier set to A3.
R8
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
= 4800
= 9600
= 14400
= 19200
= 28800
= 38400
= 56000
= 57600
Host baud rate - software
override.
FF - uses DR1 and DR1
pins.
R8=3
Baud rate set to 19K2
R9
0 or 1
Data whitening enable
R9=1
Enable
R0
00 or 01
OTA Enable
Over the air configuration
R0=1
Enable
DS-ZULU-DONGLE-4
ZULU-DONGLE Modem
Using Configuration Mode
Baud rates:
It is possible to set both host and RF baud rate via configuration mode. The RF Baud rate
should always be twice the host baud rate for best operation.
Secure mode
See “Operating Modes” Page 4.
Unique system identifier
Adds a unique identifier at the RF stage. This allows unmatched data packets to be
ignored without the need to decode - saving processor time and making a more efficient
system when many nodes are present in one location. Systems with the same identifier
will operate together. Use for multiple networks in one location. Do not use addresses:
FF, AA or 55
OTA - Over the air configuration
It is possible to have a remote node enter configuration mode and change that node’s
register settings by sending it the unique code (including the ) Instead of
usual +++ command.
After entering OTA mode - all subsequent communications must be sent as macros and
will need to include the Line Feed (do not send ““ this command must be sent
as ASCII code 10 which can vary depending on the software used).
Examples:
Send:
Response:
7F7F7F
02
00
03
00
D4
01
01
01
01
Send:
Response:
Send:
?
7F7F7F
7F7F7F
02
00
03
00
D4
01
01
01
01
R4=05
OK
R5=02
NONE
Q
Response:
NONE
S
IMPORTANT Notes:
1.
In OTA mode all values are entered in hex and sent as ASCII. Registers must be set
in multiples of two characters - ie to set register 6 you must send 06 - as above
examples show.
1.
2.
Changes made in OTA mode will be lost if not saved.
OTA mode cannot be used in conjunction with acknowledge secure mode.
DS-ZULU-DONGLE-4
ZULU-DONGLE Modem
RF Channel Selection
The EU standard sets maximum power transmission limits dependent on frequency,
bandwidth and application. Please check the relevant standards are being met when
implementing your Application. A rough guidance applicable to the ZULU DONGLE
channel numbers is given below:
Channel
Frequency
EU Power Allowance
Notes
Number
Centre (MHz)
mW / dBm
0
868.400
25 / 14
1
868.900
25 / 14
2
869.450
100 / 20*
Applicable standard - EN300-220
3
869.600
100 / 20*
4
869.800
25 / 14
*Maximum power is only achievable if the USB port can supply the required amount of
current.
DC Characteristics
Parameter
Min
Supply Voltage
Typical
Max
5
Operating Temperature
-40
Units
V
+85
C
o
Pi Tx Supply Current:
When Transmitting
100
When sleeping
mA
disabled
Pi Rx Supply Current:
When Receiving
When sleeping
18.5
mA
AC Characteristics
Parameter
Min
Operating Frequency - 868: see freq channel setting
Operating Temperature
Max
Units
868
870
MHz
-40
+85
Band width per channel
Deviation
Typical
C
o
100
KHz
45
KHz
ZULU DONGLE Tx MAX Output Power
+20
dBm
ZULU DONGLE Tx—Rx FSK Raw RF Data Rate
115
Kbps
ZULU DONGLE Rx Sensitivity
-121
DS-ZULU-DONGLE-4
dBm
ZULU-DONGLE Modem
Range
The antenna choice and position affects controls the system range. Keep the antenna
clear of any large metal components in the system. The best position by far, is protruding
vertically from the top of the product. This is often not desirable for practical reasons and
thus a compromise may be needed. Note that the space around the antenna is as
important as the antenna itself. All radio systems are dependent on a radio signal being
received through airspace.
The range quoted is the optimal in direct line of sight without obstacles and in good
atmospheric conditions.
Range is affected by many things, for example local environmental conditions, atmospheric
conditions, interference from other radio transmitters. For evaluating the local
environment please see our RF meter (DS006).
In the worst case, range quoted may be drastically reduced.
FCC compliance
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this
device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if
not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures: -Reorient or relocate the
receiving antenna -Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver—Connect
the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected - Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
DS-ZULU-DONGLE-4
ZULU-DONGLE Modem
Simplified Declaration of Conformity (RED)
BG - С настоящото RF Solutions Limited декларира, че този тип радиосъоръжение дефинирани в този документ е в съответствие с Директива 2014/53/ЕС.
Цялостният текст на ЕС декларацията за съответствие може да се намери на следния интернет адрес: www.rfsolutions.co.uk
CS - Tímto RF Solutions Limited prohlašuje, že typ rádiového zařízení definované v tomto dokumentu je v souladu se směrnicí 2014/53/EU. Úplné
znění EU prohlášení o shodě je k dispozici na této internetové adrese: www.rfsolutions.co.uk
DA - Hermed erklærer RF Solutions Limited , at radioudstyrstypen defineret i dette dokument er i overensstemmelse med direktiv 2014/53/EU.
EU-overensstemmelseserklæringens fulde tekst kan findes på følgende internetadresse: www.rfsolutions.co.uk
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vollständige Text der EU-Konformitätserklärung ist unter der folgenden Internetadresse verfügbar: www.rfsolutions.co.uk
EL - Με την παρούσα ο/η RF Solutions Limited , δηλώνει ότι ο ραδιοεξοπλισμός ορίζεται σε αυτό το έγγραφο πληροί την οδηγία 2014/53/ΕΕ. Το πλήρες κείμενο
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EN - Hereby, RF Solutions Limited declares that the radio equipment type defined within this document is in compliance with Directive 2014/53/
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FR - Le soussigné, RF Solutions Limited , déclare que l'équipement radioélectrique du type défini dans ce document est conforme à la directive
2014/53/UE. Le texte complet de la déclaration UE de conformité est disponible à l'adresse internet suivante: www.rfsolutions.co.uk
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Az EU-megfelelőségi nyilatkozat teljes szövege elérhető a következő internetes címen: www.rfsolutions.co.uk
IT - Il fabbricante, RF Solutions Limited , dichiara che il tipo di apparecchiatura radio definito all'interno di questo documento è conforme alla direttiva 2014/53/UE. Il testo completo della dichiarazione di conformità UE è disponibile al seguente indirizzo Internet: www.rfs olutions.co.uk
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NL - Hierbij verklaar ik, RF Solutions Limited , dat het type radioapparatuur gedefinieerd in dit document conform is met Richtlijn 2014/53/EU. De
volledige tekst van de EU-conformiteitsverklaring kan worden geraadpleegd op het volgende internetadres: www.rfsolutions.co.uk
PL - RF Solutions Limited niniejszym oświadcza, że typ urządzenia radiowego zdefiniowane w tym dokumencie jest zgodny z dyrektywą 2014/53/UE.
Pełny tekst deklaracji zgodności UE jest dostępny pod następującym adresem internetowym: www.rfsolutions.co.uk
PT - O(a) abaixo assinado(a) RF Solutions Limited declara que o presente tipo de equipamento de rádio definido neste documento est á em conformidade com a Diretiva 2014/53/UE. O texto integral da declaração de conformidade está disponível no seguinte endereço de Internet:
www.rfsolutions.co.uk
RO - Prin prezenta, RF Solutions Limited declară că tipul de echipamente radio definit în acest document este în conformitate cu Directiva
2014/53/UE. Textul integral al declarației UE de conformitate este disponibil la următoarea adresă internet: www.rfsolutions.co.uk
SK - RF Solutions Limited týmto vyhlasuje, že rádiové zariadenie typu definované v tomto dokumente je v súlade so smernicou 2014/53/EÚ. Úplné
EÚ vyhlásenie o zhode je k dispozícii na tejto internetovej adrese: www.rfsolutions.co.uk
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EU o skladnosti je na voljo na naslednjem spletnem naslovu: www.rfsolutions.co.uk
SV - Härmed försäkrar RF Solutions Limited att denna typ av radioutrustning definieras i detta dokument överensstämmer med direkti v 2014/53/
EU. Den fullständiga texten till EU-försäkran om överensstämmelse finns på följande webbadress: www.rfsolutions.co.uk
Waste Batteries and Accumulators Directive 2006/66/EC
RF Solutions Ltd. Recycling Notice
Where batteries are fitted, before recycling the product,
Meets the following EC Directives:
the batteries must be removed and disposed of at a
DO NOT
licensed collection point.
Discard with normal waste, please recycle.
RF Solutions battery producer number: BPRN00060.
ROHS Directive 2011/65/EU and amendment 2015/863/EU
Specifies certain limits for hazardous substances.
WEEE Directive 2012/19/EU
Waste electrical & electronic equipment. This product must be disposed of through a licensed WEEE collection point. RF
Solutions Ltd., fulfills its WEEE obligations by membership of an approved compliance scheme.
Environment Agency producer registration number: WEE/JB0104WV.
Disclaimer:
Whilst the information in this document is believed to be correct at the time of issue, RF Solutions Ltd does not accept any liability whatsoever for its accuracy, adequacy or completeness. No express or implied warranty or representation is given relating to the information contained in this document. RF Solutions Ltd reserves the right to make changes and improvements to the product(s) described her ein without
notice. Buyers and other users should determine for themselves the suitability of any such information or products for their own particular
requirements or specification(s). RF Solutions Ltd shall not be liable for any loss or damage caused as a result of user’s own determination
of how to deploy or use RF Solutions Ltd’s products. Use of RF Solutions Ltd products or components in life support and/or s afety applications is not authorised except with express written approval. No licences are created, implicitly or otherwise, under any of RF Solutions Ltd’s
intellectual property rights. Liability for loss or damage resulting or caused by reliance on the information contained herein or from the use of
the product (including liability resulting from negligence or where RF Solutions Ltd was aware of the possibility of such los s or damage arising)
is excluded. This will not operate to limit or restrict RF Solutions Ltd’s liability for death or personal injury resulting f rom its negligence.