BiM3A transceiver data sheet

BiM3A

The BiM3A radio transceiver module is similar in size and pinout to the BiM2, offering all the advantages of the latter but with reduced power consumption and antenna size. The BiM3A replaces the obsolte BiM3.

The BiM3A suited to battery-powered portable and handheld equipment requiring a high degree of miniaturisation.
Two frequency variants are available as standad to suit applications in Europe or North America.

Figure 1: BiM3A-914-10

Features

CE certified by independent notified body
EU version to harmonised standards EN 300 220 and EN 301 489
North American version to FCC Part 15.249 and RSS-210
Usable range up to 200 metres external, 50 metres in building
Data rates up to 64kbps
Crystal controlled PLL FM circuitry for both Tx and Rx
SAW front end filter and full screening
Feature-rich interface (RSSI, analogue and digital baseband)
Low profile with small footprint
Low power requirements: 2.7V - 6V @ typically 8mA Tx, 11mA Rx

The BiM3A is a half duplex radio transceiver module for use in bidirectional data transfer applications at ranges up to 200 metres. Two frequency variants are available for licence-exempt operation in either the European 868-870MHz or North American 902-928MHz bands. Internal voltage regulation is incorporated allowing operation from DC supplies of 2.7V to 6V.
The small footprint of 33 x 23mm and low profile of 5mm facilitate convenient integration onto a motherboard. The raw data rate capability of 64kbps supports high data throughput in 'streaming' applications, or alternatively allows efficient airtime utilisation in multi-node scanning networks.

Applications

PDAs, organisers and laptops
Handheld terminals
EPOS equipment, barcode scanners, belt clip printers
Data loggers
Audience response systems
In-building environmental monitoring and control
Security and fire alarms
Restaurant ordering systems
Vehicle data up/download

Evaluation Platform: Universal Evaluation kit or Narrow Band Evaluation Kit

Figure 2: BiM3 block diagram

Functional overview

The transmit section of the BiM3A consists of a frequency modulated crystal locked PLL feeding a buffer amplifier and RF filter. Operation is controlled by a Tx select line, the transmitter achieving full RF output typically within 1ms of this line being pulled low. Modulation is applied at the TXD input and may be either a serial digital stream toggling between 0V and 3V (digital drive) or a high level analogue waveform with the same peak limits (linear drive). Modulation shaping is performed internally by a 2nd order lowpass filter which minimises spectral spreading. The RF output is filtered to ensure compliance with the appropriate regulations and fed via a Tx/Rx changeover switch to the antenna pin.

The receive section is a single conversion FM superhet with an IF of 10.7MHz. A SAW bandpass filter in the receiver front-end provides image rejection and suppression of other unwanted out-of-band signals. Like the transmitter, the receiver is controlled by its own active low select line. A post-detection lowpass filter establishes the signal bandwidth and ensures clean operation of the subsequent adaptive data slicer. The slicer is optimised for balanced data such as bi-phase code. A received signal strength (RSSI) output with 60dB of range is provided.

User Interface

Figure 3: BiM3A pin-out and dimension

Pin description

RF GND pin 1 & 3
RF ground pin, internally connected to the module screen and pin 5, 9, 10 and 18 (0 Volt). This pin should be connected to the RF return path (e.g. coax braid, main PCB ground plane etc.)

Antenna pin 2
50W RF input from the antenna, it is DC isolated internally. (see antenna section for suggested antenna/feeds).

0Volt (GND) pins 5, 9, 10 & 18
Supply ground connection and screen.

RSSI pin 11
Received Signal Strength Indicator with 60dB range, operational when Rx is enabled. Output voltage nominally 0.17-0.33Vdc (no signal), 1.25Vdc (maximum). See applications note for further details.

RXD pin 12
Digital output from internal data slicer. The output is a squared version of the signal on pin 13 (AF) and may be used to drive a decoder directly. The data is true data, i.e. as fed to the transmitter. Output is "open-collector" format with internal 10kW pullup to Vcc (pin 17).

AF pin 13
Buffered & filtered analogue output from FM demodulator. Standing DC bias of 1V approx. Useful for test purposes or for driving external decoders. External load should be >10kW // <100pF

TXD pin 14
This DC-coupled transmitter modulation input will accept either serial digital data or high level linear signals. Drive signal must be limited to 0V min, 3V max. See page 6 for suggested drive methods. Input impedance >50kW..

TX select pin 15
Active low transmit select. 47kW internal pull up to Vcc.

RX select pin 16
Active low receive select. 47kW internal pull up to Vcc.

Pn 15 TX	Pin16 RX	Function
1	1	power down (<10mA)
1	0	receiver enabled
0	1	transmitter enabled
0	0	self test loop back*

* Loop-back allows the receiver to monitor the transmitted signal. Under these conditions the Tx radiated signal level will be reduced to approximately -10dBm).

Vcc pin 17
DC +ve supply pin. +2.7 to +6.0 Volts @ <17mA . The supply should be clean < 20mV_P-Pripple.

Absolute maximum ratings

Exceeding the values given below may cause permanent damage to the module.

Operating temperature	-20C to +70C
Storage temperature	-40C to +100C

Vcc (pin 17)	-0.3V to +6.0V
Tx, Rx select (pions 15, 16)	-9V to +12V
All other pins	-0.3V to +Vcc
RF out (pin 2)	±50V DC, +10dBm RF

Performance specification

Figures apply @ Vcc=3.0V, temperature +20°C, unless stated.

General	pin	min.	typ.	max.	units	notes
Supply voltage	17	2.7	3.0	6.0	V
TX Supply current	17	7.5	8.2	10	mA
RX Supply current	17	10	10.6	17	mA	note 1
RF centre frequency		-	869.85	-	MHz	EU version
RF centre frequency		-	914.5	-	MHz	US version
Antenna port impedance	2	-	50	-	W	TX or RX
TX & RX select: high (deselct)	15, 16	Vcc-0.5	-	Vcc	V
low (select)	15, 16	0	-	0.5	V
Internal select pull-ups	15, 16	-	47	-	kW	to Vcc
Balanced code bit rate	12	-	-	64	kbps	-64 version
Balanced code bit rate	12	-	-	10	kbps	-10 version

Transmitter section	pin	min.	typ.	max.	units	notes
RF power output	2	+1	+2.5	+3.2	dBm	EU version
RF power output	2	-2	-1	+1	dBm	US version
Harmonics /spurious emissions	2	-	-55	-40	dBm
Initial frequency accuracy		-25	0	+25	kHz
FM deviation (peak)		±20	±27	±35	kHz	peak
Modulation bandwidth @ -3dB		0	-	35	kHz
Modulation distortion (THD)		-	5	10	%	note 2
TX spectral bandwidth @ -40dBc	2	-	-	250	kHz	worst case
TXD input level (high)	14	2.8	-	3.0	V	note 3
TXD input level (low)	14	0	-	0.2	V	note 3
Power- up time	15, 2	-	1	1.5	ms	note 4

Receiver section	pin	min.	typ.	max.	units	notes
RF sensitivity @ 10dB S/N	2, 13	-	-106	-	dBm	-64 version
RF sensitivity @ 1ppm BER	2, 12	-	-100	-	dBm	-64 version
RF sensitivity @ 10dB S/N	2, 13	-	-113	-	dBm	-10 version
RF sensitivity @ 1ppm BER	2, 12	-	-107	-	dBm	-10 version
RSSI output - no signal	11	0.15	0.25	0.4	V
RSSI output - maximum indication	11	1	1.12	1.25	V	@ -50dBm
RSSI range	2, 11	-	60	-	dB
IF bandwidth		-	180	-	kHz
Image rejection (fRF - 21.4MHz)	2	40	50	-	dB
IF rejection	2	100	-	-	dB
LO leakage, conducted		-	-117	-110	dBm
Baseband bandwidth @ -3dB	13	0	-	50	kHz	-64 version
Baseband bandwidth @ -3dB	13	0	-	7.8	kHz	-10 version
AF output signal level	13	200	300	400	mVp-p	note 5
DC offset on AF output	13	0.3	1	1.75	V	note 6
Distortion on recovered AF	13	-	1	10	%	note 7
Ultimate (S+N)/N	13	-	>40	-	dB	-70dBm RF
Load capacitance, AF & RXD	12, 13	-	-	100	pF

Time between code transitions	14		0.8		V

Dynamic timing
RX power up with signal present
Power up to valid RSSI, tPU-RSSI	16, 11	-	1	-	ms
Power up to stable data, tPU-RXD	16, 12	-	5	10	ms	-64 version
Power up to stable data, tPU-RXD	16, 12	-	10	30	ms	-10 version

Signal applied with RX on
RSSI response time (rise/fall)	2, 11	-	100	-	ms
Signal to stable data, tPU-RXD	2, 12	-	5	10	ms	-64 version
Signal to stable data, tPU-RXD	2, 12	-	5	30	ms	-10 version

Time between data transitions	14	15.6	-	1500	ms	-64 version
Time between code transitions	14	0.1	-	15	ms	-10 version
Averaged code mark:space	14	20	50	80	%	note 8

Notes:

1. Increases at high RF input level (>-20dBm)
2. See page 6 for further details
3. For specified FM deviation
4. Tx select low > full RF output
5. ±30kHz FM deviation
6. Min/max at ±50kHz offset
7. Max at ±50kHz offset
8. Average, at max. data rate

Application Information

Modulation formats and range extension

The module will produce the specified FM deviation with a 2-level digital input to TXD which toggles between 0V and 3V. Reducing the amplitude of the data input from this value (usually as a result of reducing the supply voltage) reduces the transmitted FM deviation, typically to ±20-22kHz minimum at 2.7V. The receiver will cope with this quite happily and no significant degradation of link performance should be observed.

TXD is normally driven directly by logic levels but will also accept analogue drive, e.g. 2-tone signalling. In this case it is recommended that TXD (pin 14) should be DC-biased to 1.5V with the modulation AC-coupled and limited to a maximum of 3V peak-to-peak. The instantaneous modulation voltage must not swing below 0V or above 3V at any time if waveform distortion and excessive FM deviation is to be avoided - use a resistive potential divider and/or level shifter to accomplish this if necessary. The varactor modulator in the transmitter introduces some 2nd harmonic distortion which may be reduced if necessary by predistortion of the analogue waveform.

At the other end of the link the AF output (pin 13) can be used to drive an external decoder directly.

Although the module baseband response extends down to DC, data formats containing a DC component are unsuitable and should not be used. This is because frequency errors and drifts between the transmitter and receiver occur in normal operation resulting in DC offset errors on the AF output.

The time constant of the adaptive data slicer in the BiM3A is set at a reasonable compromise to allow the use of low code speeds where necessary whilst keeping settling times acceptably fast for battery-economised operation. RXD output on pin 12 is "true" sense, i.e. as originally fed to the transmitter.

In applications such as longer range fixed links where data speed is not of primary importance, a significant increase in range can be obtained by using the slowest possible data rate together with filtering to reduce the receiver bandwidth to the minimum necessary. In these circumstances the AF output can be used to drive an external filter and data slicer. The AF output waveform on pin 13 is in the same sense as that originally fed to the transmitter, i.e. no inversion takes place.

Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI)

The BiM3A receiver incorporates a wide range RSSI which measures the strength of an incoming signal over a range of approximately 60dB. This allows assessment of link quality and available margin and is useful when performing range tests.

Please note that the actual RSSI voltage at any given RF input level varies somewhat between units. The RSSI facility is intended as a relative indicator only - it is not designed to be, or suitable as, an accurate and repeatable measure of absolute signal level or transmitter-receiver distance.

The output on pin 11 of the module has a standing DC bias in the region of 0.25V with no signal, rising to around 1.12V at maximum indication (RF input levels of -50dBm and above). For any given RF input level, absolute RSSI voltage is likely to vary somewhat between individual units - please refer to specifications table above.

The RSSI output source impedance is high (~50kW) and external loading should therefore be kept to a minimum.

Typical RSSI characteristic is shown below (this is for indicative purposes only and is not a guarantee of actual RSSI characteristics):

Figure 4: Typical RSSI response curve

To ensure a reasonably fast response the RSSI has limited internal decoupling of 1nF to ground. This may result in a small amount of audio ripple on the DC output at pin 11 of the module. If this is a problem further decoupling may be added at the expense of response speed, in the form of a capacitor from pin 11 to ground. For example, adding 10nF here will increase RSSI response time from 100µs to around 1ms. The value of this capacitor may be increased without limit.

Expected range

Predicting the range obtainable in any given situation is notoriously difficult since there are many factors involved. The main ones to consider are as follows:

Type and location of antennas in use

Type of terrain and degree of obstruction of the link path

Sources of interference affecting the receiver

"Dead" spots caused by signal reflections from nearby conductive objects

Data rate and degree of filtering employed

Assuming the maximum 64kbps data rate and ¼-wave whip antennas on both transmitter and receiver, the following ranges may be used as a rough guide only:
Cluttered/obstructed environment, e.g. inside a building : 30-50m
Open, relatively unobstructed environment : 120-200m

It must be stressed, however, that range could be much greater or much less than these figures. Range tests should always be performed before assuming that a particular range can be achieved in any given application.

Antenna considerations and options

The choice and positioning of transmitter and receiver antennas is of the utmost importance and is the single most significant factor in determining system range. The following notes are intended to assist the user in choosing the most effective arrangement for a given application.

Nearby conducting objects such as a PCB or battery can cause detuning or screening of the antenna which severely reduces efficiency. Ideally the antenna should stick out from the top of the product and be entirely in the clear, however this is often not desirable for practical or ergonomic reasons and a compromise may need to be reached. If an internal antenna must be used, try to keep it away from other metal components and pay particular attention to the "hot" end (i.e. the far end), as this is generally the most susceptible to detuning. The space around the antenna is as important as the antenna itself.

Microprocessors and microcontrollers tend to radiate significant amounts of radio frequency hash, which can cause desensitisation of the receiver if its antenna is in close proximity. 900MHz is generally less prone to this effect than lower frequencies, but problems can still arise. Things become worse as logic speeds increase, because fast logic edges are capable of generating harmonics across the UHF range which are then radiated effectively by the PCB tracking. In extreme cases system range can be reduced by a factor of 3 or more. To minimise any adverse effects, situate the antenna and module as far as possible from any such circuitry and keep PCB track lengths to the minimum possible. A ground plane can be highly effective in cutting radiated interference and its use is strongly recommended.
A simple test for interference is to monitor the receiver RSSI output voltage, which should be the same regardless of whether the microcontroller or other logic circuitry is running or in reset.

Two types of antenna are recommended for use with the BiMA3:

Quarter-wave whip: This consists simply of a piece of wire or rod connected to the module at one end. The lengths given below are from module pin to antenna tip including any interconnecting wire or tracking (but not including any 50W coax or microstrip connection). This antenna is simple, cheap, easy to set up and performs well. It is especially effective when used with a ground plane, which in practice is often provided by the main PCB or by a metal case.

Optimum antenna lengths are slightly different for 869MHz (82mm) and 914MHz (78mm), however a compromise of 80mm is quite acceptable for equipment designed to accommodate both frequencies.

Base-loaded whip: In applications where space is at a premium a shortened whip may be used, tuned by means of a coil inserted at the base. This coil may be air-wound for maximum efficiency, or a small SMT inductor can be used. The value must be empirically chosen to tune the particular length of whip for best results "in situ", making this antenna more difficult to set up. Radiated power will generally be slightly less than that obtained from a ¼-wave whip.

Figure 4: integral antenna configurations

Other types of antennas are feasible but tend to have drawbacks at these frequencies. Helical and tuned loop antennas are both very compact but tricky to set up, and can be impractical at 900MHz because of their very small size. Microstrip patch antennas are relatively large in area, directional, and have gain. These characteristics can be useful but tend to preclude FCC Part 15.249 applications, as it is easily possible to exceed the limit for radiated field strength.

Note: Where the specified antennas are mounted on the PCB and/or in close proximity to metalwork (module casing, components, PCB tracking etc), the antenna radiation pattern may be seriously affected. Radiated power may be significantly increased in some directions (sometimes by as much as 10dB) and correspondingly reduced in others. This may adversely affect system performance where good all-round coverage is desired.

Care should also be taken to ensure that this effect does not increase the radiated power in any direction beyond that allowed by type approval regulations. Where this occurs the antenna may need to be relocated. In extreme cases a resistive attenuator of appropriate value may be required between the module and antenna.

Type Approval requirements: Europe

The modules comply with the requirements of the R&TTE Directive (including standards EN 300 220-3 and EN 301 489-3) when used in accordance with the information contained herein. The following provisos apply:

1) The modules must not be modified or used outside their specification limits.
2) The modules may only be used to transfer digital or digitised data. Analogue speech and/or music are not permitted.
3) The equipment in which the BiM3 is used must carry all necessary external labelling to meet the requirements of the R&TTE directive.
4) The BiM3 has not been tested with antennas having gains greater than that of a quarter-wave whip. The use of such antennas may require further R&TTE approval.

Breaching any of these conditions will invalidate type approval

Type Approval requirements: USA

The Radiometrix BiM3A module is sold as a component device requiring external components and connections to function. It is designed to comply with FCC Part 15.249 regulations, however it is not approved by the FCC. The purchaser understands that FCC approval will be required prior to the sale or operation of any device containing this module.

1) Antennas must be either permanently attached (i.e. non-removable) or must use a connector which is unique or not commonly available to the public.
2) The user must ensure that the BiM3A/antenna combination does not radiate more than the maximum permitted field strength of 50mV/m at 3m distance (FCC Part 15.249). This is equivalent to an effective radiated power (ERP) of 0.75mW (-1.25dBm) approx.
3) The appropriate FCC identifying mark and/or part 15 compliance statement must be clearly visible on the outside of the equipment containing the module(s).

Module mounting considerations

Good RF layout practice should be observed. In particular, any ground return required by the antenna or feed should be connected directly to the RF GND pins at the antenna end of the module, and not to the OV pins which are intended as DC grounds only. All connecting tracks should be kept as short as possible to avoid any problems with stray RF pickup.

If the connection between module and antenna does not form part of the antenna itself, it should be made using 50W microstrip line or coax or a combination of both. It is desirable (but not essential) to fill all unused PCB area around the module with ground plane.

Variants and ordering information

BiM3 modules are manufactured in the following variants as standard (all with pins fitted):

For European applications in the 868-870MHz band:
Frequency = 869.85MHz

BiM3A-869-64	High speed version	64kbps max. raw data rate
BiM3A-869-10	Low speed version	10kbps max. raw data rate

For North American applications in the 902-928MHz band:
Frequency = 914.5MHz

BiM3A-914-64	High speed version	64kbps max. raw data rate
BiM3A-914-10	Low speed version	10kbps max. raw data rate

Non-standard versions can be supplied to individual customer requirements, optimised for specific data speeds/formats. Minimum order quantities apply. Please consult the Sales department for further information.

Limitation of liability

The information furnished by Radiometrix Ltd is believed to be accurate and reliable. Radiometrix Ltd reserves the right to make changes or improvements in the design, specification or manufacture of its subassembly products without notice. Radiometrix Ltd does not assume any liability arising from the application or use of any product or circuit described herein, nor for any infringements of patents or other rights of third parties which may result from the use of its products. This data sheet neither states nor implies warranty of any kind, including fitness for any particular application. These radio devices may be subject to radio interference and may not function as intended if interference is present. We do NOT recommend their use for life critical applications.
The Intrastat commodity code for all our modules is: 8542 6000.

R&TTE Directive

After 7 April 2001 the manufacturer can only place finished product on the market under the provisions of the R&TTE Directive. Equipment within the scope of the R&TTE Directive may demonstrate compliance to the essential requirements specified in Article 3 of the Directive, as appropriate to the particular equipment.
Further details are available on The Office of Communications (Ofcom) web site:
Licensing policy manual