WSN (Wireless Sensor Networks)
- ZigBee Modules
- Wireless Devices
- Wearable Computers
A standard ZigBee or 802.15.4 is an excellent choice for many low power, low data rate wireless communication applications. However, is it really for everything?
There are situations where 802.11 WLAN works very well for high data rate traffic. Similary, there are applications that require long range and more battery life. ZigBee protocols are relatively light with respect to demands on code space (32 - 70KB) and have a moderate range (10 - 100m). This makes ZigBee a good choice for Industrial and Home Networking.
One of the big advantages of ZigBee is the "mesh" capability. Mesh networks allow messages to be passed from node to node such that if any of the nodes fail or drop out, the message can still reach its destination. Enter the proprietary networks that operate in the ISM (Industrial, Scientific and Medical) bands.
Applications such as remote temperature monitoring, pressure and actuation are many times best handled via ISM band. The range or reach of solutions using ISM band is much greater than what can be realised with ZigBee, Bluetooth or WLAN.
