Hi,
I discoverd that Sparkfun sell RFM12B Tranceiver modules. I have a project going on where I’m going to set ut several modules wireless in my house and garage.
Until now, I have used xbee, but I think they are a little expensive. Will RFM12B tranceiver (or transmitter/receiver) be a good replacement for xbee modules ?
I’m unsing it both connected to a Arduino and standalone…
Thanks!
/Bonus
XBee costs more because it has built-in the entire communications protocols for 802.15.4 to include CSMA/CA (CCA), MAC addressing for each node, error correction, etc.
And Digi includes firmware meeting many applications such as virtual-wire (digital I/O across wireless), remote A/D, and wireless serial port extension.
So we have apples to oranges here.
Depends on your needs.
The RFM12B modules are fairly simple transmitters/receivers. They would be one step above the dumb cheap RF modules that are fairly common, and a step below the XBee’s.
Still these are awesome for simple networking and basic RF. If you are planning to use these with an Arduino check out Jee Labs for code and idea’s.
I use these modules and they are very easy to work with if you don’t want to spend $$$ on an XBee and don’t want to work with the more complicated 802.15.4 compliant modules like the MRF24J40MA.
Hi and thanks for input. Maybe JeeNode is a good replasement for what I’m going to use it to at the moment. Ready, easy to use and low-cost…thats what I’m looking for 
/Bonus
Bonus:
Hi and thanks for input. Maybe JeeNode is a good replasement for what I’m going to use it to at the moment. Ready, easy to use and low-cost…thats what I’m looking for/Bonus
If you’re concerned with saving $15 or so, then perhaps you plan to build a lot of these. If so, beware using a proprietary or cottage-industry product. It will cease to exist and you have to redesign.
Hi,
good point. I’ve got my xbees to work pretty fine and there are more howtos and info out there about xbee than RFM12B modules…but, in the other hand, I’m going to have more than 13 wireless modules…
/Bonus
Bonus:
Hi,good point. I’ve got my xbees to work pretty fine and there are more howtos and info out there about xbee than RFM12B modules…but, in the other hand, I’m going to have more than 13 wireless modules…
/Bonus
Well, if this is a hobby thing, then maybe you’ll learn a lot using the cheaper modules and implementing a robust wireless p;rotocol. And sustaining it (bugs seem to pop up for new cases). Otherwise, DIY is simply how you want to spend your time on this!