Motorola’s sensors use ZigBee protocol for wireless networking

The semiconductor division of Motorola Inc . announced that it’s offering acceleration and pressure sensor integrated circuits (ICs) that are compatible with IEEE’s 802.15.4 wireless standard. This protocol, also known as ZigBee , can increase sensor network convenience and reduce installation costs. The company adds that ZigBee also provides interoperability among multiple sensors for automation, control, monitoring and maintenance.

Similarly, ZigBee-compatible sensors ease reconfiguration and eliminate the need for rewiring once installed. Wireless sensor networks can obtain real-time data without physical contact, which enables remote monitoring and further reduced labor costs, according to Motorola. These sensors use micro-electromechanical systems (MEMs), which is a micron-sized mechanical technology, to sense, process and/or control surrounding environments.

ZigBee is a wireless networking technology based on the recently defined Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers’ (IEEE) 802.15.4 standard. Sensor network designers can use Motorola’s flexible ZigBee technology to develop wireless sensor networks. Likewise, adopting ZigBee as one wireless standard helps original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) reduce costs and speed time to market compared to proprietary wireless or wired sensor networks.

Motorola reports that its wireless sensor can enable many applications, including building automation, logistics management, industrial energy management, HVAC, proactive maintenance, vibration measurement, bearing wear monitoring, seismic detectors, inclinometers, robotics, security systems, and security enhancement.

”Sensors compatible with the ZigBee standard are a natural fit within Motorola’s semiconductor portfolio,” said Behrooz Abdi, VP and GM of Motorola’s Radio Products division.

—Jim Montague, news editor, Control Engineering, jmontague@reedbusiness.com

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