Radiocrafts announces world’s first long range AMR metering module at 169 MHz

Based on a proposal from Radiocrafts, a new narrowband communication mode has been defined in the Wireless M-Bus standard. The combination of VHF frequency, true narrowband operation and high output power, gives superior communication range and coverage even in urban environments. The typical range is 1.5 km in urban areas and 20-40 km in open terrain with quarter-wave antennas.

Being the world’s first compact RF module in the market compliant with the new standard, it offers true narrowband performance in a 12.5 kHz channel, and up to 500 mW output power, achieving a link budget of 150 dB. The module support two-way communication at 2.4 and 4.8 kbps in 6 narrowband channels, and 38.4 kbps in a 50 kHz channel.

The module contains the industry leading Wireless M-Bus protocol stack, supporting battery operated meter devices, concentrators and repeaters.

The new RC1700HP-MBUS is a surface-mounted module measuring only 12.7 x 25.4 x 3.3 mm, and is pin compatible with the same small form factor as the other Wireless M-Bus modules (868 MHz and other frequencies) from Radiocrafts. It only requires two pins for data, two pins for power supply and one pin to the antenna. A UART interface is used for serial communication and configuration. The antenna is connected directly to the 50 Ohm RF pin. The RC1700HP-MBUS module is certified for operation under the European radio regulations for license-free use and is CE marked.

“By launching the new compact 169 MHz Wireless M-Bus module in the market, we have again demonstrated our technological leadership in embedded wireless solutions for AMR. Through our active participation in the standardisation work in CEN we have shown our commitment and contribution to the development of international standards for meter reading, meeting the target of the M/441 mandate”, says Peder Martin Evjen, Managing Director.

“Our state-of-the art module solutions have time and again helped meter manufacturers and system integrators to quickly launch new products that are compliant to the evolving standards. Using modules does not only ensure interoperability and compliance, but also significantly reduce time-to-market, development and maintenance cost”, says Tom Sjølie, Sales and Marketing Director.