Society of Robots - Robot Forum

Electronics => Electronics => Topic started by: jonagik on June 15, 2011, 02:20:12 AM

Title: Radio Communication
Post by: jonagik on June 15, 2011, 02:20:12 AM

Hi guys,

What are some option for reasonably long-range (3+ km) radio communication between uCs on a budget? As far as I can tell, from looking at sources here in New Zealand, the only options as far as off-the-shelf modules go are really expensive or offer only 200m-ish range. Is it possible to create a device (with a uC and a DAC or something?), or to modify existing modules somehow (perhaps directional antennae?) to get sufficient range?

Title: Re: Radio Communication
Post by: waltr on June 15, 2011, 07:20:09 AM

A directional antenna on both ends of the link will increase range. However, you MUST check with your county's RF regulations for what is allowed. This includes: frequency, radiated output power, transmission duty cycle and others.

Do you have line of sight (no obstacles) or are there building and/or trees in the path?

For low data rates the Digi International XBee Pro modules would work, are not considered expensive.