Intermediate
20 min

Adapt to varying communication needs with ease using RN2483 and PIC32MZ2048EFH100

433/868MHz: The frequency of choice for reliable, long-distance connectivity

LR Click with Flip&Click PIC32MZ

Published Nov 09, 2023

Click board™

LR Click

Dev.Board

Flip&Click PIC32MZ

Compiler

NECTO Studio

MCU

PIC32MZ2048EFH100

Maximize your network's capabilities with our 433/868MHz long-range transceiver, ensuring your data transmission remains dependable and efficient, even in remote or harsh conditions.

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Hardware Overview

How does it work?

LR Click is based on the RN2483, a low-power, long-range RF technology-based transceiver module from Microchip. It features the Class A LoRaWAN compliant stack, optimized for robust LoRaWAN networking, immune to interferences, and suitable for long-range wireless operation. It offers a long-range spread spectrum communication with high interference immunity. A receiver with a sensitivity of -148dBm combined with the 14dBm integrated amplifier allows for extended range links that can achieve up to 15km in an open area (by the module manufacturer specification). This Click board™ offers data rates of 300kbps with FSK modulation and 5468bps with LoRa Technology modulation. To join a LoRaWAN network, the RN2483 requires a LoRaWAN concentrator/gateway. The endpoint device has to use a unique endpoint address, an application session key, and a network session key. The first method is called over-the-air activation

(OTAA), where these keys are issued after a specific join procedure. The second method is to assign these keys manually, using UART commands. This method is called activation by personalization (ABP) and can be prone to some security issues. In any case, before an end device can communicate on the LoRaWAN network, it must be activated. LR Click communicates with MCU using the UART interface with commonly used UART RX and TX pins, including the hardware flow control pins CTS and RTS (Clear to Send, Ready to Send) at data rates up to 57600bps for the data transfer. There are three groups of commands used to configure and operate the separate layers of the RN2483 (SYSTEM, MAC, and RADIO). Each layer controls a specific area of the module, and every UART command starts with one of the three keywords, which represent an abbreviation of the layer name they are controlling. The module also has a non-volatile memory (EEPROM) for storing the

configuration settings and some additional data. Also, this Click board™ can be reset through the Hardware Reset pin, labeled as RST on the mikroBUS™ socket, by setting this pin to a low logic state. This LR module integrates a very flexible transceiver, offering a choice of two communication frequencies that can be used, 868MHz and 433MHz. Also, it possesses two SMA antenna connectors with an impedance of 50Ω for connecting the appropriate antenna that MIKROE offers. This Click board™ can operate with either 3.3V or 5V logic voltage levels selected via the VCC SEL jumper. This way, both 3.3V and 5V capable MCUs can use the communication lines properly. Also, this Click board™ comes equipped with a library containing easy-to-use functions and an example code that can be used as a reference for further development.

LR Click hardware overview image

Features overview

Development board

Flip&Click PIC32MZ is a compact development board designed as a complete solution that brings the flexibility of add-on Click boards™ to your favorite microcontroller, making it a perfect starter kit for implementing your ideas. It comes with an onboard 32-bit PIC32MZ microcontroller, the PIC32MZ2048EFH100 from Microchip, four mikroBUS™ sockets for Click board™ connectivity, two USB connectors, LED indicators, buttons, debugger/programmer connectors, and two headers compatible with Arduino-UNO pinout. Thanks to innovative manufacturing technology,

it allows you to build gadgets with unique functionalities and features quickly. Each part of the Flip&Click PIC32MZ development kit contains the components necessary for the most efficient operation of the same board. In addition, there is the possibility of choosing the Flip&Click PIC32MZ programming method, using the chipKIT bootloader (Arduino-style development environment) or our USB HID bootloader using mikroC, mikroBasic, and mikroPascal for PIC32. This kit includes a clean and regulated power supply block through the USB Type-C (USB-C) connector. All communication

methods that mikroBUS™ itself supports are on this board, including the well-established mikroBUS™ socket, user-configurable buttons, and LED indicators. Flip&Click PIC32MZ development kit allows you to create a new application in minutes. Natively supported by Mikroe software tools, it covers many aspects of prototyping thanks to a considerable number of different Click boards™ (over a thousand boards), the number of which is growing every day.

Flip&Click PIC32MZ double image

Microcontroller Overview

MCU Card / MCU

default

Architecture

PIC32

MCU Memory (KB)

2048

Silicon Vendor

Microchip

Pin count

100

RAM (Bytes)

524288

You complete me!

Accessories

Right angle 433MHz rubber antenna boasts a frequency range of 433MHz, ensuring optimal performance within this spectrum. With a 50Ohm impedance, it facilitates efficient signal transmission. The antenna's vertical polarization enhances signal reception in a specific orientation. Featuring a 1.5dB gain, it can improve signal strength to some extent. The antenna can handle a maximum input power of 50W, making it suitable for various applications. Its compact 50mm length minimizes spatial requirements. Equipped with an SMA male connector, it easily interfaces with compatible devices. This antenna is an adaptable solution for wireless communication needs, particularly when vertical polarization is crucial.

LR Click accessories 1 image

868MHz right-angle rubber antenna is a compact and versatile solution for wireless communication. Operating within the frequency range of 868-915MHz, it ensures optimal signal reception and transmission. With a 50-ohm impedance, it's compatible with various devices and systems. This antenna boasts a 2dB gain, enhancing signal strength and extending communication range. Its vertical polarization further contributes to signal clarity. Designed to handle up to 50W of input power, it's a robust choice for various applications. Measuring just 48mm in length, this antenna is both discreet and practical. Its SMA male connector ensures a secure and reliable connection to your equipment. Whether you're working with IoT devices, remote sensors, or other wireless technologies, the 868MHz right-angle antenna offers the performance and flexibility you need for seamless communication.

LR Click accessories 2 image

Used MCU Pins

mikroBUS™ mapper

NC
NC
AN
Reset
RE2
RST
UART RTS
RA0
CS
NC
NC
SCK
NC
NC
MISO
NC
NC
MOSI
Power Supply
3.3V
3.3V
Ground
GND
GND
NC
NC
PWM
UART CTS
RD9
INT
UART TX
RE3
TX
UART RX
RG9
RX
NC
NC
SCL
NC
NC
SDA
Power Supply
5V
5V
Ground
GND
GND
1

Take a closer look

Schematic

LR Click Schematic schematic

Step by step

Project assembly

Flip&Click PIC32MZ front image hardware assembly

Start by selecting your development board and Click board™. Begin with the Flip&Click PIC32MZ as your development board.

Flip&Click PIC32MZ front image hardware assembly
GNSS2 Click front image hardware assembly
Prog-cut hardware assembly
GNSS2 Click complete accessories setup image hardware assembly
Flip&Click PIC32MZ MB1 Access - upright/background hardware assembly
Necto image step 2 hardware assembly
Necto image step 3 hardware assembly
Necto image step 4 hardware assembly
Necto image step 5 hardware assembly
Necto image step 6 hardware assembly
Flip&Click PIC32MZ MCU step hardware assembly
Necto No Display image step 8 hardware assembly
Necto image step 9 hardware assembly
Necto image step 10 hardware assembly
Debug Image Necto Step hardware assembly

Track your results in real time

Application Output

After loading the code example, pressing the "DEBUG" button builds and programs it on the selected setup.

Application Output Step 1

After programming is completed, a header with buttons for various actions available in the IDE appears. By clicking the green "PLAY "button, we start reading the results achieved with Click board™.

Application Output Step 3

Upon completion of programming, the Application Output tab is automatically opened, where the achieved result can be read. In case of an inability to perform the Debug function, check if a proper connection between the MCU used by the setup and the CODEGRIP programmer has been established. A detailed explanation of the CODEGRIP-board connection can be found in the CODEGRIP User Manual. Please find it in the RESOURCES section.

Application Output Step 4

Software Support

Library Description

This library contains API for LR Click driver.

Key functions:

  • lr_mac_tx - Function for writing mac parameters

  • lr_join - Function for setting join mode

  • lr_tick_conf - Timer Configuration

Open Source

Code example

This example can be found in NECTO Studio. Feel free to download the code, or you can copy the code below.

/*!
 * @file main.c
 * @brief LR Click Example.
 *
 * # Description
 * This example reads and processes data from LR clicks.
 *
 * The demo application is composed of two sections :
 * 
 * ## Application Init 
 * Initializes driver init and LR init.
 * 
 * ## Application Task  
 * Transmitter mode - sends one by one byte sequence of the desired message each second and 
 * checks if it is sent successfully.
 * Receiver mode - displays all the received characters on USB UART.
 * 
 * ## Additional Functions
 * - lr_process ( ) - The general process of collecting data the module sends.
 * - bool is_digit ( char c ) - Checks if input is a digit 
 * - hex_to_int ( char* origin, uint8_t* result ) - Converts hexadecimal to int value.
 *
 * @author Stefan Ilic
 *
 */


#include "board.h"
#include "log.h"
#include "lr.h"
#include "string.h"
#include "conversions.h"

#define PROCESS_COUNTER 5
#define PROCESS_RX_BUFFER_SIZE 300

// ------------------------------------------------------------------ VARIABLES

#define DEMO_APP_RECEIVER
//#define DEMO_APP_TRANSMITTER

static lr_t lr;
static log_t logger;

uint8_t cnt;
uint8_t send_data;
int8_t  int_data;
uint8_t rx_state;
uint8_t tx_state;

char send_hex[ 50 ];
char tmp_txt[ 50 ];
uint8_t send_message[ 9 ] = { 'M', 'i', 'k', 'r', 'o', 'E', 13, 10, 0 };

// ------------------------------------------------------- ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS

static void lr_process ( void ) {
    int32_t rsp_size;
    
    char uart_rx_buffer[ PROCESS_RX_BUFFER_SIZE ] = { 0 };
    uint8_t check_buf_cnt;
    uint8_t process_cnt = PROCESS_COUNTER;
    
    while ( process_cnt != 0 ) {
        rsp_size = lr_generic_read( &lr, &uart_rx_buffer, PROCESS_RX_BUFFER_SIZE );

        if ( rsp_size > 0 ) {  
            // Validation of the received data
            for ( check_buf_cnt = 0; check_buf_cnt < rsp_size; check_buf_cnt++ ) {
                lr_put_char( &lr, uart_rx_buffer[ check_buf_cnt ] );
                lr_isr_process( &lr );
            }
            
            // Clear RX buffer
            memset( uart_rx_buffer, 0, PROCESS_RX_BUFFER_SIZE );
        } else {
            process_cnt--;
            
            // Process delay 
            Delay_ms( 100 );
        }
    }
}

bool is_digit ( char c ) {
    if ( c >= '0' && c <= '9' ) {
        return true;
    }

    return false;
}

void hex_to_int ( char* origin, uint8_t* result ) {
    uint8_t len = strlen( origin );
    uint8_t idx, ptr, factor;

    if ( len > 0 ) {
        *result = 0;
        factor = 1;

        for ( idx = len - 1; idx >= 0; idx-- ) {
            if ( is_digit( *( origin + idx ) ) ) {
                *result += ( *( origin + idx ) - '0' ) * factor;
               } else {
                    if ( *( origin + idx ) >= 'A' && *( origin + idx ) <= 'Z' ) {
                        
                        ptr = ( *( origin + idx ) - 'A' ) + 10;
                        
                    } else {
                        return;
                    }
                    *result += ( ptr * factor );
                }
                factor *= 16;
          }
     }
}

void lr_cbk( char* response ) {
}

// ------------------------------------------------------ APPLICATION FUNCTIONS

void application_init ( void ) {
    log_cfg_t log_cfg;
    lr_cfg_t cfg;

    /** 
     * Logger initialization.
     * Default baud rate: 115200
     * Default log level: LOG_LEVEL_DEBUG
     * @note If USB_UART_RX and USB_UART_TX 
     * are defined as HAL_PIN_NC, you will 
     * need to define them manually for log to work. 
     * See @b LOG_MAP_USB_UART macro definition for detailed explanation.
     */
    LOG_MAP_USB_UART( log_cfg );
    log_init( &logger, &log_cfg );
    log_info( &logger, "---- Application Init ----" );

    //  Click initialization.

    lr_cfg_setup( &cfg );
    LR_MAP_MIKROBUS( cfg, MIKROBUS_1 );
    lr_init( &lr, &cfg );

    lr_default_cfg( &lr, 0, &lr_cbk );

    lr_cmd( &lr, LR_CMD_SYS_GET_VER, &tmp_txt[ 0 ] );

    lr_cmd( &lr, LR_CMD_MAC_PAUSE,  &tmp_txt[ 0 ] );
    log_printf( &logger, "mac pause\r\n" );
    for ( cnt = 0; cnt < 10; cnt++ ) {
        log_printf( &logger, "%c", tmp_txt[ cnt ] );
    }

    log_printf( &logger, "\r\n" );

    lr_cmd( &lr, LR_CMD_RADIO_SET_WDT, &tmp_txt[ 0 ] );

    log_printf( &logger, "radio set wdt 0\r\n" );
    log_printf( &logger, "%s\r\n", &tmp_txt[ 0 ] );
}

void application_task ( void ) {
    char *ptr;
    lr_process( );
    
#ifdef DEMO_APP_RECEIVER
    rx_state = lr_rx( &lr, LR_ARG_0, &tmp_txt[ 0 ] );
    if ( rx_state == 0 ) {
        tmp_txt[ 12 ] = 0;
        ptr = ( char* )&int_data;
        hex_to_int( &tmp_txt[ 10 ], ptr );

        log_printf( &logger, "%c", int_data  );
    }
#endif

#ifdef DEMO_APP_TRANSMITTER
    for ( cnt = 0; cnt < 9; cnt++ ) {
        send_data = send_message[ cnt ] ;
        int8_to_hex( send_data, send_hex );
        tx_state = lr_tx( &lr, &send_hex[ 0 ] );
        if ( tx_state == 0 ) {
            log_printf( &logger, "  Response : %s\r\n", &tmp_txt[ 0 ] );
        }
        Delay_ms( 1000 );
    }
#endif
}

void main ( void ) {
    application_init( );

    for ( ; ; ) {
        application_task( );
    }
}

// ------------------------------------------------------------------------ END

Additional Support

Resources