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Mon, 12 Mar 2007
WiFi decision made - we're going with the Lantronix WiPort for the SRV-1
After evaluating a variety of alternatives and getting some good technical input from support engineers at Lantronix, we have decided to move ahead with the layout of a WiFi expansion card for the SRV-1 based on the Lantronix WiPort 802.11b/g WLAN module.
The card will measure 2.5" x 1.5" and will mount to standoffs that extend from the mounting holes on the current SRV-1 controller, in the same manner we used for the prototype installation of the WiPort as shown here - http://www.surveyor.com/cgi-bin/robot_journal.cgi/2006/09/02#047.
It will include 2 LEDS (power and WLAN activity), a high-efficiency Recom 3.3V switching regulator, a mounting hole for the WiFi antenna, and a high density connector for attaching the WiPort. Interface to the SRV-1 will be quite simple - +V lead to the battery power, and RX / TX signal leads that will plug into the existing Zigbee radio connector. The board will be grounded through the chassis.
By designing the card with a switching regulator, the power consumption of the WiPort will be reasonable - though the module uses 200-450mA at 3.3V, it will only be drawing 90-200mA from the battery. That is approximately double the current draw of the Zigbee radios.
We should have prototype WiFi expansion cards in 2-3 weeks, with production boards following shortly thereafter. We plan to continue support for the Zigbee radios, but will offer WiFi as an alternative. We haven't worked out pricing yet for the WiFi option on future SRV-1 orders, but there will be a special offer to existing SRV-1 customers. Those who are interested should contact us at support@surveyor.com
Posted Mon, 12 Mar 2007 15:46 | HTML Link | see additional stories ...