TI Delivers Network Protocol for Simple, Low-Power RF Networks

“A well engineered low-power RF protocol is critical in achieving low power consumption in end applications. The new SimpliciTI network protocol will enable customers to develop ultra low power systems with lower system cost and faster time-to-market,” said Kobus Marneweck, general manager, low-power RF software development at TI.



Small, low-power RF networks typically contain battery-operated devices, which require long battery life, low data rate and low duty cycle, and have a limited number of nodes talking directly to each other. With SimpliciTI network protocol, MCU resource requirements are minimal, resulting in lower system cost for low-power RF networks. More complex mesh networks that need routing typically require 10x the program memory and RAM to implement.



Despite the modest resources required, SimpliciTI network protocol supports peer-to-peer communication, the option to use an access point to store and forward messages and range extenders to extend the range of the network to four hops. Future releases will add more sophisticated features such as frequency agility.



SimpliciTI network protocol supports a wide range of low-power applications including alarm and security (smoke detectors, glass breakage detectors, carbon monoxide sensors, light sensors), automated meter reading (gas meters, water meters), home automation (appliances, garage door openers, environmental devices) and active RFID.



Since SimpliciTI network protocol is designed for simple RF networks, it offers a perfect complement to ZigBee®, which is designed for larger networks with mesh routing and standardised profiles.



SimpliciTI network protocol is provided as source code under a free license, without royalties. Developers are encouraged to adapt the protocol to their own specific application needs.



TI’s Low-Power RF Developer Network enables customers to find a suitable partner to assist with hardware design, modules, embedded software, gateways, commissioning tools, etc. The Low-Power RF Developer Network consists of recommended companies, RF consultants, and independent design houses that provide a series of hardware module products and design services.