Xbee Arduino Interface Circuits

The Xbee Arduino Interface Circuit is a do it yourself interface circuit working on the zigbee stardard for Arduino Board. Maxstream Xbee is the zigbee module which is used for the purpose which is available in regular version of 10m range.

The pro version is 30m. Not all the features have been implemented yet in the product but it does cost quite low and is quite easy to use which makes it an affordable and convenient wireless solution.

The Arduino Board is a device with 5v while Xbee is 3.3v device. The device converts the power levels to power Xbee modules and the communication likes like DOUT, DIN, RX and TX are also converted to appropriate voltage. The Xbee DOUT can be brought up to the level of 5v to create the necessary connections, even though it is not necessary.  The circuit is actually quite simple, however, the positioning of the main components are the main concern when you want to keep everything portable and small.

The prototypes

There are basically two prototypes which work. The circuits will give access to the features of Xbee module and if you want to access all the features like status pins and sleep pin, you will need to develop few of the addons yourself. An easy method for programming the microcontrollers is to use the Arduino system. What this means is that you will have to use serial cables or a USB cable which is attached to the microcontroller directly. You could upload the code changes wirelessly, even from far away. Both the prototypes can be used for the purpose. However, they both will need different components and will use different ways and methods for connecting it up.

SainSmart Mega2560+LCD Keypad Shield+XBee Shield+Sensor Shield kit 4 AVR Arduino $37.78

SainSmart Mega2560+LCD Keypad Shield+XBee Shield Kit 4 Arduino AVR ATMEL ATMEGA $19.50

The Maxstream Scheme- prototype 1

For using the Maxstream scheme, you will need components like a capacitor of 1x15uF, another capacitor of 1x4.7 and capacitors of 4x0.1. You will also need a resistor of 1x10k and buffers along with a voltage regulator of 1x3.3v. There are also a few additional things that you might need when you are actually connecting all the components.

The Voltage divider- prototype 2

This is the easiest and the simplest method of implementing this interface. Even though it is not really an optimal solution, it does work quite well. For using this method you will need a capacitor of 1x4.7uF, another one of 1x100 and resistors of 3x10k along with a voltage regulator. A few additional things and components would be required when you are actually wiring it all up.

Xbee Arduino is a great way for the do it yourself enthusiasts to actually integrate zigbee technology on their own to their home appliances and office appliances. Even though it does require a little knowledge and experience, it is quite easy to use.

SainSmart Mega2560+LCD Keypad Shield+XBee Shield+Sensor Shield kit 4 AVR Arduino $37.78

SainSmart Mega2560+LCD Keypad Shield+XBee Shield Kit 4 Arduino AVR ATMEL ATMEGA $19.50

SainSmart UNO+LCD Keypad Shield+XBee Shield Kit For Arduino AVR ATMEL MCU ATMEGA $20.50

SainSmart UNO+LCD Keypad Shield+XBee Shield+Sensor Shield V5 Kit AVR For Arduino $18.05

Arduino Shield XBee RF module for Duemilanove,Mega,nano $13.88

Arduino Xbee/Zigbee USB Adapter Module With Mini USB + Free Cable $17.50

SainSmart Mega2560+LCD Keypad Shield+XBee Shield+Sensor Shield kit 4 AVR Arduino $19.05