Connect maxbotix MB7062 sonar via serial to xbee pro s2b

Wireless & IoT
1

MB7062 sonar device works fine hard wired to Rabbit BL4S200. Reads serial fine.

Want to lose the wire and use xbee.

All products are brand new from Sparkfun so newest versions on boards.

Coordinator is using the sparkfun xbee serial

End point is using the sparkfun xbee regulated. sonar wired only +,-, and RX out (DIN on xbee).

Set to transparent mode.

Using the x-ctu software ‘terminal’ tab to watch the MB7062 serial output. Junk comes across. This is usual if serial paramaters have a mis-match.

Have checked and Serial parameters are set correctly.

Am running the MB7062 at 3.3. volts. I have read ‘comments’ on the xbee explorer regulated and I dont think I have a logic level problem…but not sure.

I am at a loss as to what to check next. No point in ordering a logice level converter just guessing. All feedback is appreciated.

2

First what are the Firmware version number of your XBees? This ensures we are using the correct XBee document.

To check the serial logic levels measure the high and low values at the XBee pins with an O’scope. Then compare this to the XBee document.

If the device connected to the XBee serial is powered at 3.3V then you do not need the XBee serial input protection diode on the explorer regulated board. Just solder a wire across the diode (see the explorer regulated board schematic). The diode is there to protect the XBee’s input when driven from a device the outputs 5V logic levels.

3

Coordinator - 2070

End point - 2870

I will have to borrow a scope. First of next week before I can confirm.

The device connected to the serial port on the xbee can operate at either 3.3 volts or 5 volts. I have tried both with same results. So I am not inclined to jumper the diode at this point.

Recognizing that this is not a true indicator I have measured the following

With device connected and powered 3.3 volts AND serial values (junk) are transmitting and showing on the terminal screen I measure .25 volts on DIN.

I will followup with more info later. - Thanks