ZigBee-Ready Modules Now Available from MaxStream

Interchangeable Low-Cost, Long-Range Modules for Simple, Reliable Wireless Integration

(PRWEB) June 13, 2005 -- MaxStream® unveiled its highly anticipated 802.15.4/ZigBee-ready modules at the Sensors Expo in Chicago. The XBee family of 2.4 GHz ZigBee-ready modules makes it possible for OEMs and integrators to design a wireless network that incorporates interchangeable long-range and low-cost wireless modules.

MaxStream makes it easy for companies to equip their products with ZigBee through its flexible and reliable XBee modules," said Brad Walters, President and CEO of MaxStream. The XBee and XBee-PRO modules allow OEMs to quickly adopt this emerging wireless technology and have simple upgrade options as the ZigBee standard evolves. The flexibility of the XBee family helps OEMs cut costs and custom-fit wireless communication according to their needs."

XBee Module
The XBee Module features 1mW of output to conserve power and create a simple, cost-effective solution for ZigBee communications. With a receive sensitivity of -92 dBm, the XBee module yields a range of 300 feet (90m). OEMs inherit the XBee modules rigorous agency approvals that are required for wireless communication, saving money and reducing time-to-market. MaxStreams expertise in RF design and development allows OEMs to cut production costs and focus on their final product.

XBee-PRO Module
The high-powered ZigBee-ready XBee-PRO module allows OEMs to enhance the range of ZigBee and 802.15.4 networks while still being pin compatible with the XBee. Boasting a receive sensitivity of -100 dBm, the 100 mW (EIRP) XBee-PRO features increased receiver sensitivity and power amplifiers to dramatically boost the range of XBee-enabled products, to a range of 0.9 miles (1.4 km). The XBee and XBee-PRO are also network compatible, so OEMs only need to integrate XBee-PRO modules in locations where they would otherwise be out of range.

Both modules operate in the 2.4 GHz ISM band and feature 250 Kbps data rates. The modules are available with three antenna options (chip antenna, wire antenna and small RF connector). Operating in 802.15.4 mode, the XBee modules are capable of point-to-point and point-to-multipoint topologies, with advanced Mesh networking (ZigBee stack) upgrades available later in 2005.

MaxStreams ZigBee-ready development kits include three XBee modules, two XBee-PRO modules, two interface boards (one RS-232 and one USB) and all the necessary accessories and software to begin operating an 802.15.4 network. As the ZigBee standard matures, MaxStream will make updates available to enable the evolving ZigBee standard. Pricing for the XBee Development Kit starts at US$299.

MaxStream offers unlimited free technical support for all of its wireless technology via telephone, email and online chat, making it easy for OEMS to integrate ZigBee technology into each specific design.

About MaxStream, Inc.
MaxStream is the leading worldwide developer of wireless modem networking for electronic devices. MaxStream provides wireless modem modules, stand-alone radio modems, RF design services, and supporting software. Specifications are subject to change at any time. Products and services by MaxStream include designing, manufacturing and supporting wireless communications for embedded systems. For more information regarding MaxStream's products and services, contact MaxStream, Inc. at www.maxstream.net, info@maxstream.net or call (866) 765-9885.

ZigBee: Wireless Control That Simply Works
The ZigBee Alliance is an association of companies working together to enable reliable, cost-effective, low-power, wirelessly networked, monitoring and control products based on an open global standard. The ZigBee Alliance is a rapidly growing, non-profit industry consortium of leading semiconductor manufacturers, technology providers, OEMs, and end-users worldwide. Membership is open to all. Additional information can be found at www.zigbee.org.

MaxStream, XBee and XBee PRO are trademarks of MaxStream, Incorporated. All other products, services, companies and publications are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

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