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ZMDI introduces industry’s first wireless mesh-network solution with advanced network layer security

1st March 2011

ZMDI

ES Admin

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ZMD AG has announced the ZWIR4512, a uniquely secure and easy-to-integrate low-power wireless data communication module for sensors and other small devices found in industry and building automation, health monitoring, smart metering and keyless entry systems. The ZWIR4512 is more than a radio - it implements full data networking based on the IPv6 Internet protocol.

The ZWIR4512 provides reliable and secure communication for scalable networks by integrating a 32-bit ARM Cortex M3 processor with a complete communications software solution and an integrated radio. The radio operates in the 868/915MHz frequency band, which is compatible with European and North American standards. These frequencies offer wide coverage range, optimized battery life, and minimal signal interference.

“The ZWIR4512 provides a highly secure energy-efficient solution which is extremely easy to integrate,” said Torsten Limberg, ZMDI product manager. “We developed the ZWIR4512 for customers who want simplicity in network management, mesh routing with self-healing capability, data encryption and authentication, and multiple interfaces to support all types of sensors and other peripherals.”

Networks built with the ZWIR4512 can connect directly to existing networks without the requirement for custom programmed gateways. This makes it easy to extend networking to applications previously too difficult or expensive.

Designers can run their application software directly on the modules. This helps to save design time and cost as no external MCU and other circuitry is required. Different low-power modes help to save energy in battery-operated devices.

The complete ZWIR4512 module measures only 28 by 16.5 by 3.5 mm, including the antenna connector. It consumes 3.5 uA in sleep mode, and only 18.5 mA when transmitting data at 0dBm output power.

Communication is based on IPv6, the next-generation Internet protocol. 6LoWPAN is used to optimize IPv6 packets for embedded low-power device networks. Data encryption and authentication is provided by the Internet Protocol Security protocol suite. IPSec keys can be exchanged and renewed automatically based on the Internet Key Exchange version 2 protocol. IPSec and IKEv2 enable secure end-to-end communication, thus providing the same security level as virtual private networks. IPv6, 6LoWPAN, IPSec, and IKEv2 are all open standards developed by the IETF.