Antenna Factor's popular RCT Series is now available in a straight form factor version known as the CT Series. This stylish 1/2-wave omni-directional antenna features an internal counterpoise which eliminates external ground plane dependence and maximizes performance. A wide bandwidth and low VSWR make the CT antenna an excellent choice for any application requiring an affordable, cosmetically attractive dipole antenna. The antenna attaches via a standard SMA or Part 15 compliant RP-SMA connector.

Designed for permanent attachment, the PML Series 1/2-wave antenna tilts 180 degrees and delivers outstanding performance in a cost-effective package. An internal counterpoise eliminates external ground plane dependence and maximizes performance. The antenna is available in 868MHz and 916MHz versions. Its threaded base attaches with a supplied nut or by threading it into a PEM-style insert. This method of attachment is highly secure and saves the cost of an antenna connector. The PML Series attaches to a PCB or connector via an 8.5" coax cable. Custom colors, cable lengths, and terminations are available by special order.

Antenna Factor is pleased to announce the addition of two new frequencies to its RAH Series antenna line. The previously available frequencies of 315, 418, 433MHz and 2.45GHz are now joined by 868MHz and 916MHz versions. These compact right-angle antennas are ideal for products requiring a compact, aesthetically-pleasing antenna in a right-angle form factor. The quarter-wave antennas utilize a precision helical element to dramatically reduce the overall antenna size (<1.9"). Despite their diminutive size, the antenna's durable housing resists impact and abuse. The antennas attach via an FCC-compliant right-angle gold-plated RP-SMA connector, though other connection styles are available by special order for volume OEMs. This style is also available in a straight version known as the RH series. All frequencies are immediately available in volume quantities.

The revolutionary MT Series Transcoder IC provides unprecedented features for bi-directional remote control and command applications. In the past, encoder and decoder ICs were commonly used to allow the status of inputs, such as switch or button closures, to be sent in one direction across a wireless link. While the MT can perform these basic uni-directional functions with ease, it also allows the bi-directional exchange of information and reception confirmation. When combined with external feedback, the Transcoder can also verify that specified actions have actually taken place. For example, a remote valve might confirm it has fully closed, a nurse call system could indicate “help is on the way”, or an automobile security system would confirm it had armed and in the event of a break-in alert the owner via their system’s keyfob. The MT is even capable of sending variable data such as time, temperature, pressure, or text along with control information.

The transcoder provides eight lines which can be configured as inputs or outputs and individually set for latched or momentary operation. Recognition of the individual outputs can be easily defined for each device by the manufacturer or end user. This allows the creation of user groups, relationships, and permissions. A large twenty-four bit address size makes transmissions highly unique, minimizing the possibility of conflict between multiple devices. An automatic confirmation indicates that the transmission was successfully received. The MT also outputs the ID of the originating transcoder for logging or identification.

In addition to these powerful features, a Serial Interface Engine (SIE) allows the transcoder to be configured and controlled from an external microcontroller or PC. Permissions and users can be configured, modes and functions set and external data added to the transmission stream. A targeting feature allows commands to be directed to specific devices.

The MT is housed in a tiny 20-pin SSOP package, and features low supply voltage, current consumption, and selectable baud rates. Its basic feature set is also compatible with Linx MS Series encoder and decoder ICs. MT Transcoder ICs will be available Q1 2008.

Linx Technologies is pleased to announce one of the most significant products in our history. The tiny LT Series transceivers offer the longest range and lowest power consumption of any transceiver ever offered by Linx. Remarkably, they are also the lowest in cost. This makes them ideally suited for a diverse range of consumer and industrial applications that require reliable, cost-effective, bi-directional communication. Remote control / command with confirmation, paging and call systems with acknowledgment, industrial process and control, access and security, HVAC, periodic data exchange, low-rate networks, repeaters - the markets and applications are limitless. As with all Linx RF modules, no external RF components are required (except an antenna), allowing for rapid integration, even by engineers without previous RF design experience.

LT Series transceivers operate in the favorable 260 to 470MHz band and are designed for full regulatory compliance and interference immunity, ideally suiting them to domestic as well as export wireless applications. The modules operate over a 2.1 to 3.6VDC range and feature very low power consumption (7.6mA TX, 6.1mA RX, 11.5μA sleep), a wide operational temperature range (-40° to +85°C), adjustable transmitter power with up to +10dBm output, and a typical receiver sensitivity in excess of -112dBm.

This makes the modules capable of transparent serial data transfer at rates of up to 10kbps over outdoor line-of-sight distances in excess of one mile. However, when the transmit power is set to the maximum allowed under FCC limits, that range will typically be reduced to 3,000 feet or less. Even applications not requiring long ranges will benefit from increased link reliability.

Data can originate from virtually any serial data source, including microcontrollers, RS-232, a Linx transcoder IC, or a Linx USB module. The modules are RoHS compliant and housed in a compact SMD package that is well suited to both prototyping and high-volume production. Amazingly, the transceiver is smaller than Linx LR Series receiver modules. The transceiver can also be utilized with existing Linx LC and LR Series transmitters and receivers, allowing for mixed mode and legacy configurations, as well as repeater capability for range extension.