Featuring a built-in star network management protocol, the AS3900 FSK low power transceiver from Austriamicrosystems operates in the 27MHz worldwide ISM band. Operation in this band avoids the interference in the 2.4GHz band and results, according to the company, in a lower amount of energy being absorbed by the human body. The transceiver features a built-in star network management protocol that offers a hardwired protocol for self-management of all network functions. The device requires 2.5µA in polling mode, and 3.8 and 4.9mA in receive and transmit modes, respectively . A wakeup receiver allows a current consumption of 2.5µA while in polling mode and the device operates with a small PCB antenna that resonates at 27MHz. The device transmits data at 212kbit/s and integrates features; this result in a low bill of materials for a project, says the company. Integrated functions include the power amplifier, clock, 24bits of OTP memory, battery level detection, POR and system timers. Digital RSSI, onboard CRC and a bi-directional serial digital interface allows for easy system integration. The device is available in a 5x5mm 28pin QFN package, operates from a 2.2V power supply, and has an ambient operating temperature range of -40 to +85°C.
