ZEBRA

Radio your data, MCU-controlled!

The ZEBRA module is based on Freescale's ZRP-1 chip set. It works in the 2.4GHz ISM frequency band and allows wireless communication over a distance from 10m up to 2000m (line of sight). Application areas for this new technology include wireless data transfer, sensor networks, (home-) automation, measurement and medical devices.

The shielded ZEBRA radio module has a small size of only 16mm x 33mm (ca. 0.6" x 1,3"). It contains a microcontroller, the HF circuitry and a chip antenna with LNA and PA stages. No extra external components are needed to operate the device. The module is equipped with a 50-pin connector, which allows easy integration into user applications.

An integrated Freescale HCS08 MCU serves as the base band controller. This MCU is in-system programmable via bootloader or BDM during the development process, if needed. The MCU provides free program space for application specific software additions.

Communications Stack

It is, of course, possible to use the ZEBRA module with a fully loaded ZigBee Stack in order to use all of the advantages of this new technology, including compatibility to ZigBee devices from other vendors. However, all ZigBee stacks currently available are commercial software, i.e. bound to certain license fees.

An alternative protocol is SMAC (Simple Media Acess Control), a license-free communication software available in source code. The memory requirements are low (ca. 4KB), therefore enough space remains for user software. Every ZEBRA is shipped with SMAC software preloaded on the module.

Software Tools

Freescale provides a free version of the Metrowerks CodeWarrior development environment. It has some restrictions, such as a 16BK code size limit, but would be a suitable starting point for the development of SMAC-based applications.

Additionally, the ZEBRA modules are equipped with a bootloader, which can be used to load SMAC-based applications over a simple RS232 connection. This provides an easy way to start without any additional software tools!

ZEBRA module: top view

ZEBRA module: bottom view

Starterkit

For a quick start with ZEBRA, we are offering a complete starterkit. It contains two modules and two carrier boards. Documentation and software examples come on CD-ROM.

The carrier boards provide a socket for the ZEBRA module, a battery holder for 2 pieces AA-type batteries, some LEDs and push button switches and also connectors for RS232 and BDM.

ZEBRA module with carrier board
(contained 2x in starter kit)