Manufacturers of remote keyless entry and short-range wireless systems can now develop products faster with less effort and at a lower cost, thanks to a new reference design from Motorola's Semiconductor Products Sector (SPS). The reference design - based on Motorola's Flash microcontrollers - helps software and hardware engineers to develop applications based on RF technology in less time.
Norman Ballard, development manager of Motorola SPS Southern Africa says, "By providing engineers with the building blocks they need for applications incorporating RF capabilities, Motorola is helping them to utilise their resources to develop market-differentiating technology while delivering better products in less time."
Deon Herbst, MD of Data and Systems Technology (DST) confirms that RF technology is used in a multitude of day-to-day items without the knowledge of the end-user. "One of the products we manufacture is a microcontroller that is built into car tyres in order to monitor pressure. Previously, we spent a substantial amount of money on R&D. Motorola has now given us a head-start by providing DST with a platform from which we can develop the rest of the product. Having this reference design in place has certainly saved resources and funds, allowing us to concentrate on further development of additional products."
The reference design is an ideal wireless technology for low cost applications where designers need to transmit only small to medium amounts of data. Uses for RF technology include garage door openers, smoke detectors and remote sensors for a variety of consumer and industrial products. The tiny design requires fewer components and uses less power then traditional RF systems. Engineers can use the design as is, or develop it for a host of further applications. In addition, the high performance embedded Flash memory allows for a simple rolling code algorithm enabling secure wireless transmissions between the remote device and the receiver. It features support for multiple-frequency bands and transmitter technology including built-in encryption codes, and also incorporates software, application notes, hardware schematics as well as development tools and training materials.
"Manufacturers are rushed to bring new devices to the market and face constant pressure to keep costs down. Motorola's reference design gives customers a head-start on adding short range wireless functionality to a host of existing and new applications without expensive re-wiring," concludes Ballard.
For more information contact Norman Ballard, Motorola Southern Africa, 021 440 8297, [email protected]
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