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Which RF Protocal should I choose?
Several pieces of information are required to determine an appropriate radio (RF) protocol. First, what data throughput is required? 10kbps, 100kbps, 1Mbps, 10Mbps, 100+Mbps? Second, what range is necessary? 10 meters, 100 meters, 1km, 10+km?
Finally, what interface will be most convenient? logic-level serial? RS-232/422/485? 10/100/1000 Ethernet? Low-speed digital I/O?
In the low speed realm, (<100kbps) several options are available, including proprietary RF modules (long range, low throughput). If interoperability with other systems is desired (802.15.4, for example) the selection is further narrowed. These options include MaxStream's XBee, XBee-PRO, 9XStream, 9XTend, 9XCite families, as well as other similar products.
In the moderate speed area (1-10 Mbps) several Ethernet bridging devices are available (9XPress, Motorola Canopy, and so on). In the 10-100 Mbps area, the Motorola backhaul products provide extremely robust links over difficult terrain.
At 100 Mbps and beyond, we have specialized ethernet bridges available, but a further discussion of the product requirements with an Ad Hoc Electronics engineer is advisable to ensure a match between our system needs and our products.
Should I purchase the XBee or the XBee-PRO?
The XBee and XBee-PRO are drop-in compatible equivalent products, with a few exceptions. The XBee-PRO module includes RF signal amplifiers to provide a higher transmit power and better receive sensitivity than the XBee module, providing longer range, but requiring more electrical current. For battery-powered devices, the XBee is often a better choice due to the lower power requirements, when reduced range is acceptable.
Both the XBee and XBee-PRO provide a 250 kbps over-the-air data rate, but for practical purposes, any one module can sustain 50 - 100 kbps in an application. In addition to the serial interface, the modules include the ability to perform I/O line passing, meaning that basic control signals (on/off) can be passed between modules, enabling very easy systems integration in basic control systems.
The higher transmit power of the XBee-PRO supports fewer RF channels due to FCC restrictions, so for best interoperability, it is recommended to use RF channels supported by both the XBee and the XBee-PRO. The X-CTU configuration program is an excellent tool for evaluating compatibility of settings between the two modules.