Linx is pleased to announce the exciting new LR Series RF modules. The LR Receiver provides a 10 to 20dB improvement in sensitivity, resulting in a 5 to 10 times range improvement over previous discrete and modular solutions, and establishing a new benchmark for range performance and cost-effectiveness within our product line. The receiver is housed in tiny SMD package that is pin and footprint compatible with the popular LC-S receiver, allowing existing customers an instant path to improved range and lower cost. It is capable of receiving transmissions from a variety of popular Linx transmitters, including the LC, KH, and LR Series transmitter modules, as well as Linx pre-certified OEM Handheld and Keyfob transmitters.

The LR Series transmitter’s synthesized architecture delivers outstanding stability and frequency accuracy and minimizes the affects of antenna pulling. Antenna pulling results when a conductive object, such as a hand, is close to the antenna. Severe antenna pulling that would shut down a SAW-based transmitter will not budge the LR Series transmitter. The transmitter’s Level Adjust line offers an easy way to adjust the output power with a single resistor. This makes it very simple to achieve the maximum output power (and therefore range) during FCC testing.

The LR Series modules interface to virtually any data source, making them ideal for the wireless transfer of serial data, control, or command information. No external components are required (except an antenna), allowing for easy design integration, even by engineers without previous RF experience. They are available in three frequencies: 315, 418, and 433.92MHz, and are designed for full regulatory compliance, making them ideal for domestic as well as export wireless applications.

The LR Series modules deliver a significantly higher level of performance and reliability than SAW-based devices, yet remain very small and cost-effective for volume applications. Key features include: low supply voltage (TX: 2.1 to 3.6V, RX: 2.7 to 3.6V), low power consumption (TX: 5.1mA operational, 5nA sleep; RX: 5.5mA operational, 30µA sleep), wide operational temperature range (-40 to +70°C), increased data rate (up to 10kbps), and outstanding sensitivity (> -112dBm).

All LR Series modules and frequencies are available and are currently shipping.

See our web site for more information. >>

MS Series encoders and decoders are ideal for remote control and command, security, keyless entry, status monitoring, and a host of similar applications. They allow the status of up to eight buttons or contacts to be securely transferred via an RF or infrared link. The chips have several unique features that make them superior to competitive solutions. These include the ability to define unique user groups and relationships, latched or momentary outputs, and convenient, secure address assignment without DIP switches. The chips also have the ability to power external circuitry, such as a transmitter and receiver, on a periodic basis, saving current consumption and extending battery life. One feature unique to Linx is the ability for the user to define which outputs each encoder has the authority to activate. This makes setting access control as simple as pushing a button. The decoder also identifies and outputs the originating encoder ID so that the transmitter can be easily identified. Housed in a tiny 20-pin SSOP package, MS Series parts feature low supply voltage and current consumption. The components are complemented by a full evaluation system to demonstrate their powerful features and ease of application.

The MS Series encoders and decoders are available and shipping.

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Linx has redesigned its OEM Keyfob transmitter to make use of the new LR Series RF transmitter and MS Series encoder. The LR Series transmitter is technologically superior to its predecessor (the LC Series) and provides a number of advantages when incorporated in the OEM transmitters. The primary advantage is frequency stability over various antenna loads, such as occurs when a hand is placed around the antenna. Another advantage is greater range thanks to the LR transmitter’s ability to drive the smaller antenna all the way to FCC limits.

The MS Series encoder has several advantages over the older Holtek encoders. The most important being the more than 16,000,000 addresses and the ability to set the address without programming, DIP switches, or cut traces. Additionally, the higher data rate of the MS will result in a faster response time from when the button is pressed to when the decoder’s outputs activate.

All versions have FCC and Industry Canada certifications, and the 433.92MHz version has acquired CE certifications, making it ready for use in the European Union. This greatly speeds the time to market and lowers the cost of product introduction. The transmitter can also be customized to suit a specific product or company. The buttons can be colored or marked and the case can be printed with a custom logo or art. Call Linx for more details.

The new MS Keyfob transmitter will be available Fall 2005. Additional LR and MS based OEM transmitters will be in development Spring 2006.

See our web site for more information. >>