AT86RF230-ZU - Atmel Corporation

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AT86RF230

Features

• High Performance RF-CMOS 2.4 GHz Radio Transceiver Targeted for IEEE

802.15.4™, ZigBee®, 6LoWPAN, RF4CE, SP100, WirelessHART™ and ISM

Applications

• Industry Leading Link Budget (104 dB):

- Programmable Output Power from -17 dBm up to 3 dBm

- Receiver Sensitivity -101 dBm

• Ultra-Low Power Consumption:

- SLEEP: 20 nA

- RX: 15.5 mA

- TX: 16.5 mA (at max Transmit Power of 3 dBm )

• Ultra-Low Supply Voltage (1.8V to 3.6 V ) with Internal Regulator

• Optimized for Low BoM Cost and Ease of Production:

- Few External Components Necess ary (Crystal, Capacitor s and Antenna)

• Excellent ESD Robustness

• Easy to Use Interface:

- Registers and Frame Buffer Accessibl e through Fast SPI

- Only Two Microcontroller GPIO Lines Nece ssary

- One Interrupt Pin from Radio Transceiv er

- Clock Output with Prescaler from Radio Transceiver

• Radio Transceiver Features:

- 128-byte SRAM for Data Buffering

- Programmable Clock Output to Clock the Ho st Microcontroller or as Timer

Reference

- Integrated TX/RX Switch

- Fully Integrated PLL with on-chip Loop Filter

- Fast PLL Settling Time

- Battery Monitor

- Fast Power-Up Time < 1 ms

• Special IEEE 802.15.4-2003 Hardware Support:

- FCS Computation

- Clear Channel Assessment

- Energy Detection / RSSI Computation

- Automatic CSMA-CA

- Automatic Frame Retransmission

- Automatic Frame Acknowledgement

- Automatic Address Filtering

• Industrial Temperature Range:

- -40° C to 85° C

• I/O and Packages:

- 32-pin Low-Profile QFN

- RoHS/Fully Green

• Compliant to EN 300 328/440, FCC-CFR-4 7 Part 1 5, ARIB STD-66, RSS-210

• Compliant to IEEE 802.15.4-2003

Low Power

2.4 GHz

Transceiver

for ZigBee,

IEEE 802.15.4,

6LoWPAN,

RF4CE and ISM

Applications

AT86RF230

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AT86RF230

1 Pin-out Diagram

Figure 1-1. AT86RF230 Pin-Out Diagram

AVSS

RFP

RFN

AVSS

TST

IRQ

MOSI

DVSS

MISO

SCLK

DVSS

CLKM

AVSS

AVDD

EVDD

AVSS

XTAL2

XTAL1

DVSS

SLP_TR

DVSS

DVDD

DEVDD

DVSS

32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25

9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

AT86RF230

RST

SEL

AVSS

Exposed Paddle

Note: The exposed paddle is electrically connected to the die inside the package. It

shall be soldered to the board to ensure electrical and thermal contact and good

mechanical stability.

Disclaimer

Typical values contained in this datasheet are based on simulations and testing. Min

and Max values will be available when the radio transceiver has been fully

characterized.

2 Overview

The AT86RF230 is a low-power 2.4 GHz radio transceiver especially designed for

ZigBee/IEEE 802.15.4 applications. The AT86RF230 is a true SPI-to-antenna solution.

All RF-critical components except the antenna, crystal and de-coupling capacitors are

integrated on-chip. Therefore, the AT86RF230 is particularly suitable for applications

like:

• 2.4 GHz IEEE 802.15.4 and ZigBee systems

• 6LoWPAN and RF4CE systems

• Wireless sensor networks

• Industrial control, sensing and automation (SP100, WirelessHART)

• Home and building automation

• Consumer electronics

• PC peripherals

The AT86RF230 can be operated by using an external microcontroller like ATMEL’s

AVR microcontrollers. A comprehensive software programming description can be

found in the application note AVR2009 “AT86RF230 – Software Programming Model”.

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3 General Circuit Description

This single-chip radio transceiver provides a complete radio transceiver interface

between the antenna and the microcontroller. It comprises the analog radio transceiver

and the digital demodulation including time and frequency synchronization, and data

buffering. The number of external components is minimized such that only an antenna,

a crystal and four decoupling capacitors are required. The bidirectional differential

antenna pins are used for transmission and reception, so that no external antenna

switch is needed.

The AT86RF230 block diagram is shown in Figure 3-1.

Figure 3-1. Block Diagram of the AT86RF230

LNA PPF ADC

AGC

PA Frequency

Synthesis

SPI

Slave

Interface

TX power

control

TX Data

Limiter

RSSI

XOSC

Control Logic/

Configuration

Registers

CLKM

XTAL1

XTAL2

Fame

Buffer

TX BBP

RX BBPSSBF

IRQ

SCLK

MISO

MOSI

SLP_TR

DCLK

RFP

RFN

Digital DomainAnalog Domain

DVREG

BATMON

AVREG

FTN

RST

SEL

The received RF signal at pins RFN and RFP is differentially fed through the low-noise

amplifier (LNA) to the RF filter (PPF) to generate a complex signal. This signal is

converted down by mixers to an intermediate frequency and fed to the integrated

channel filter (SSBF). The limiting amplifier provides sufficient gain to drive the

succeeding analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and generates a digital RSSI signal with

3 dB granularity. The ADC output signal is sampled by the digital base band receiver

(RX BBP).

The transmit modulation scheme is offset-QPSK (O-QPSK) with half-sine pulse shaping

and 32-length block coding (spreading) according to [1]. The modulation signal is

generated in the digital transmitter (TX BBP) and applied to the fractional-N frequency

synthesis (PLL) generating a coherent phase modulation required for demodulation of

O-QPSK signals. The frequency-modulated RF signal is fed to the power amplifier (PA).

An internal 128 byte RAM for RX and TX (Frame Buffer) buffers the data to be

transmitted or the received data. Two on chip low dropout (LDO) voltage regulators

provide the internal analog and digital 1.8V supply.

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4 Pin Description

Table 4-1. AT86RF230 Pin List

Number Name Type Description

1 AVSS Ground Analog ground

2 AVSS Ground Analog ground

3 AVSS Ground Ground for RF signals

4 RFP RF I/O Differential RF signal

5 RFN RF I/O Differential RF signal

6 AVSS Ground Ground for RF signals

7 TST Digital input Enables Continuous Transmission Test Mode; active high

8 RST Digital input Chip reset; active low

9 DVSS Ground Digital ground

10 DVSS Ground Digital ground

11 SLP_TR Digital input Controls sleep, transmit start and receive states; active high

12 DVSS Ground Digital ground

13 DVDD Supply Regulated 1.8V supply voltage; digital domain

14 DVDD Supply Regulated 1.8V supply voltage; digital domain

15 DEVDD Supply External supply voltage; digital domain

16 DVSS Ground Digital ground

17 CLKM Digital output Master clock signal output

18 DVSS Ground Digital ground

19 SCLK Digital input SPI clock

20 MISO Digital output SPI data output (master input slave output)

21 DVSS Ground Digital ground

22 MOSI Digital input SPI data input (master output slave input)

23 SEL Digital input SPI select; active low

24 IRQ Digital output Interrupt request signal; active high

25 XTAL1 Analog input Crystal pin or external clock supply

26 XTAL2 Analog input Crystal pin

27 AVSS Ground Analog ground

28 EVDD Supply External supply voltage; analog domain

29 AVDD Supply Regulated 1.8V supply voltage; analog domain

30 AVSS Ground Analog ground

31 AVSS Ground Analog ground

32 AVSS Ground Analog ground

Paddle AVSS Ground Analog ground; Exposed Paddle of QFN package

4.1 Supply and Ground Pins

EVDD, DEVDD

EVDD and DEVDD are analog and digital supply voltage pins of the AT86RF230 radio

transceiver.

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AT86RF230

AVDD, DVDD

AVDD and DVDD are outputs of the internal 1.8V voltage regulators. The voltage

regulators are controlled independently by the radio transceivers state machine and are

activated depending on the current radio transceiver state. The voltage regulators can

be configured for external supply. For details refer to section 9.4.

AVSS, DVSS

AVSS and DVSS are analog and digital ground pins respectively.

The analog and digital power domains should be separated on the PCB, for further

details see application note AVR2005 "Design Considerations for the AT86RF230".

4.2 Analog and RF Pins

RFP, RFN

A differential RF port (RFP/RFN) provides common-mode rejection to suppress the

switching noise of the internal digital signal processing blocks. At the board-level, the

differential RF layout ensures high receiver sensitivity by rejecting any spurious

interspersions originating from other digital ICs such as a microcontroller.

The RF port is designed for a 100 differential load. A DC path between the RF pins is

allowed. A DC path to ground or supply voltage is not allowed. Therefore, when

connecting a RF-load providing a DC path to the power supply or to ground, capacitive

coupling is required as indicated in Table 4-2.

A simplified schematic of the RF front end is shown in Figure 4-1.

Figure 4-1. Simplified RF Front-End Schematic

LNA

RFP

RFN

RXTX

0.9V

Feedback

AT86RF230PCB

RF port DC values depend on the operating mode. In TRX_OFF state (see section

7.1.2), when the analog front end is disabled, the RF pins are pulled to ground,

preventing a floating voltage.

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In receive mode, the RF input provides a low-impedance path to ground when transistor

M0 (see Figure 4-1) pulls the inductor center tap to ground. A DC voltage drop of 20 mV

across the on-chip inductor can be measured at the RF pins.

In transmit mode, a control loop provides a common-mode voltage of 0.9V. Transistor

M0 is off, allowing the PA to set the common-mode voltage. The common-mode

capacitance at each pin to ground shall be < 30 pF to ensure the stability of this

common-mode feedback loop.

XTAL1, XTAL2

The pin XTAL1 is the input of the reference oscillator amplifier (XOSC), XTAL2 is the

output. A detailed description of the crystal oscillator setup and the related

XTAL1/XTAL2 pin configuration can be found in section 9.6.

When using an external clock reference signal, XTAL1 shall be used as input pin. For

further details refer to section 9.6.3.

Table 4-2. Comments on Analog and RF Pins

Pin Condition Recommendation/Comment

RFP/RFN VDC = 0.9V (TX)

VDC = 20 mV (RX) at both pins

AC-coupling is required if an antenna with a DC path to ground is used.

Serial capacitance must be < 30 pF.

XTAL1/XTAL2 CPAR = 3 pF

VDC = 0.9V at both pins

Parasitic capacitance (CPAR) of the pins must be considered as additional

load capacitance to the crystal.

4.3 Digital Pins

The digital interface of the AT86RF230 compromises pins SEL , SCLK, MOSI and

MISO forming the serial peripheral interface (SPI) and pins CLKM, IRQ, SLP_TR and

RST used as additional control signal between radio transceiver and microcontroller.

The digital radio transceiver interface is described in detail in section 6.

4.3.1 Driver Strength Settings of Digital Output Pins

The driver strength of the digital output pins (MISO, IRQ) and CLKM pin can be

configured by register 0x03 (TRX_CTRL_0) as described in Table 4-3.

The capacitive load should be as small as possible and not larger than 50 pF when

using the 2 mA minimum driver strength setting. Generally, the output driver strength

should be adjusted to the lowest possible value in order to keep the current

consumption and the emission of digital signal harmonics low.

Table 4-3. Digital Output Driver Configuration

Pin Default Driver Strength Comment

MISO, IRQ 2 mA Adjustable to 2 mA, 4 mA, 6 mA and 8 mA

CLKM 4 mA Adjustable to 2 mA, 4 mA, 6 mA and 8 mA

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AT86RF230

4.3.2 Pull-up and Pull-down Configuration of Digital Input Pins

Pulling resistors are internally connected to all digital input pins in radio transceiver

state P_ON (see section 7.1.2). Table 4-4 summarizes the pull-up and pull-down

configuration.

Table 4-4 Pull-Up/Pull-Down Configuration of Digital Input Pins in P_ON State

Pin H ≙ pull-up, L ≙ pull-down

RST H

SEL H

SCLK L

MOSI L

SLP_TR L

In all other radio transceiver states, no pull-up or pull-down resistors are connected to

any of the digital input pins.

4.3.3 Register Description

The TRX_CTRL_0 register controls the drive current of the digital output pads and the

CLKM clock rate.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x03 PAD_IO PAD_IO_CLKM TRX_CTRL_0

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 1

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x03 CLKM_SHA_SEL CLKM_CTRL TRX_CTRL_0

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 1 0 0 1

• Bit [7:6] – PAD_IO

The register bits PAD_IO set the output driver current of digital output pads MISO and

IRQ.

Table 4-5. Digital Output Driver Strength

0(1) 2 mA

1 4 mA

2 6 mA

PAD_IO

3 8 mA

Notes: 1. Reset values of register bits are underlined characterized in the document.

• Bit [5:6] – PAD_IO_CLKM

The register bits PAD_IO_CLKM set the output driver current of pin CLKM.

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Table 4-6. CLKM Driver Strength

0 2 mA

1 4 mA

2 6 mA

PAD_IO_CLKM

3 8 mA

• Bit 3 – CLKM_SHA_SEL

Refer to section 9.6.5.

• Bit [2:0] – CLKM_ CTRL

Refer to section 9.6.5.

5 Application Circuit

An application circuit of the AT86RF230 radio transceiver with a single-ended RF

connector is shown in Figure 5-1. The balun B1 transforms the 100 differential RF port

(RFP/RFN) to a 50 single-ended RF port. The capacitors C1 and C2 provide AC

coupling of the RF signals to the RF pins.

Figure 5-1. Application Circuit Schematic

RST

SEL

The power supply decoupling capacitors (CB2, CB4) are connected to the external

analog supply pin (EVDD, pin 28) and the external digital supply pin (DEVDD, pin 15).

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AT86RF230

Capacitors CB1 and CB3 are bypass capacitors for the integrated analog and digital

voltage regulators to ensure stable operation (1 µF recommended value). All decoupling

and bypass capacitors should be placed as close as possible to the AT86RF230 pins

and should have a low-resistance and low-inductance connection to ground to achieve

the best performance.

The crystal (XTAL), the two load capacitors (CX1, CX2), and the internal circuitry

connected to pins XTAL1 and XTAL2 form the crystal oscillator. To achieve the best

accuracy and stability of the reference frequency, large parasitic capacitances should

be avoided. Crystal lines should be routed as short as possible and not in proximity of

digital I/O signals.

Crosstalk from digital signals on the crystal pins or the RF pins can degrade the system

performance. Therefore, a low-pass filter (C3, R2) is placed close to the CLKM output

pin to reduce the radiation of signal harmonics. This is not needed if the CLKM pin is

not used. Then the output should be turned off during device initialization.

The application board ground plane should be separated into four independent

fragments, the analog, the digital, the antenna and the XTAL ground plane. The

exposed paddle shall act as reference of the individual grounds.

For further details see application note AVR2005 "Design Considerations for the

AT86RF230".

Table 5-1. Example Bill of Materials

Designator Description Value Manufacturer Part Number Comment

B1 SMD balun 2.45 GHz Wuerth 748421245 2.45 GHz Balun

(alternatively)

SMD balun / filter 2.45 GHz Johanson

Technology

2450FB15L0001 2.45 GHz Balun / Filter

CB1 LDO VREG

bypass capacitor

1 µF

CB2 Power supply

decoupling

1 µF

CB3 LDO VREG

bypass capacitor

1 µF

CB4 Power supply

decoupling

1 µF

AVX

Murata

0603YD105KAT2A

GRM188R61C105KA12D

X5R 10% 16V

(0603)

CX1 Crystal load capacitor 12 pF

CX2 Crystal load capacitor 12 pF

AVX

Murata

06035A120JA

GRP1886C1H120JA01

COG 5% 50V

(0603)

C1 RF coupling capacitor 22 pF

C2 RF coupling capacitor 22 pF

Epcos

AVX

B37930

B37920

06035A220JAT2A

C0G 5% 50V

(0402 or 0603)

C3 CLKM low-pass

filter capacitor

2.2 pF AVX

Murata

06035A229DA

GRP1886C1H2R0DA01

COG ±0.5 pF 50V

(0603)

Designed for fCLKM = 1 MHz

R1 Pull-down resistor 10 k Recommended 0, if

continuous transmission is

not required

R2 CLKM low-pass

filter resistor

680 Designed for fCLKM = 1 MHz

XTAL Crystal CX-4025 16 MHz

SX-4025 16 MHz

ACAL Taitjen

Siward

XWBBPL-F-1

A207-011

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6 Microcontroller Interface

This section describes the AT86RF230 to microcontroller interface. The interface

comprises a slave SPI and additional control signals, see Figure 6-1. The SPI timing

and protocol are described.

Figure 6-1. Microcontroller to AT86RF230 Interface

Microcontroller AT86RF230

MOSI

MISO

SCLK

CLKM

IRQ

SLP_TR

MOSI

MISO

SCLK

GPIO1/CLK

GPIO2/IRQ

GPIO3

MOSI

MISO

SCLK

CLKM

IRQ

SLP_TR

GPIO4

SPI

SEL SEL

SEL

RST

Master Slave

Microcontrollers with a master SPI, such as Atmel’s AVR family, interface directly to the

AT86RF230. The SPI is used for Frame Buffer and register access. The additional

control signals are connected to the GPIO/IRQ interface of the microcontroller. Table

6-1 introduces the radio transceiver I/O signals and their functionality.

Table 6-1. Signal Description of Microcontroller Interface

Signal Description

SEL SPI select signal, active low

MOSI SPI data (master output slave input) signal

MISO SPI data (master input slave output) signal

SCLK SPI clock signal

CLKM AT86RF230 clock output, usable as:

- Microcontroller clock source

- High precision timing reference

IRQ AT86RF230 interrupt request signal

SLP_TR AT86RF230 multi purpose control signal (functionality is state-depended):

- Sleep/Wakeup

- TX start

- Controls CLKM output

RST AT86RF230 reset signal, active low

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6.1 SPI Timing Description

The SPI is designed to work in synchronous or asynchronous mode.

In synchronous mode, the CLKM output of the radio transceiver is used as the master

clock of the microcontroller. In this case the maximum SPI clock frequency is 8 MHz.

In asynchronous mode, the SPI master clock (SCLK) is generated by the

microcontroller itself. The maximum SPI clock rate is limited to 7.5 MHz using this

operating mode. If the clock signal from the radio transceiver pin CLKM is not required,

it may be disabled.

Figure 6-2 and Figure 6-3 illustrate the SPI timing and introduce its parameters. The

corresponding timing parameter definition is given in Table 11-4.

Figure 6-2. SPI Timing, Global Map and Definition of Timing Parameters t5, t6, t8 and t9

Figure 6-3. SPI Timing, Detailed View and Definition of Timing Parameters t0 to t4

Bit 7 Bit 6

Bit 5

Bit 7 Bit 6 Bit 5

SCLK

SEL

MOSI

MISO

The SPI is based on a byte-oriented protocol and is always a bidirectional

communication between master and slave. The SPI master starts the transfer by

asserting SEL = L. Then the master generates eight SPI clock cycles to transfer a byte

to the radio transceiver (via MOSI). At the same time the slave transmits one byte to the

master (via MISO). When the master wants to receive one byte of data from the slave it

must also transmit one byte to the slave. All bytes are transferred MSB first. An SPI

transaction is finished by releasing SEL = H.

A SPI register access consists of two bytes, a Frame Buffer or SRAM access of two or

more bytes, as described in section 6.2.

SEL = L enables the MISO output driver of the radio transceiver. The MSB of MISO is

valid after t1 (see section 11.4 parameter 11.4.3) and is updated at each falling edge of

SCLK. If the MISO output driver is disabled, there is no internal pull-up resistor

connected to the output. Driving the appropriate signal level must be ensured by the

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master device or an external pull-up resistor. Note, when both SEL and RST are

active, the MISO output driver is also enabled.

The MOSI line is sampled by the radio transceiver at the rising edge of SCLK. The

signal must be stable before and after the rising edge of SCLK as specified by t3 and t4,

refer to section 11.4 parameters 11.4.5 and 11.4.6.

This mode of SPI operation is commonly called “SPI Mode 0”.

6.2 SPI Protocol

Each transfer sequence starts with transferring a command byte from SPI master via

MOSI (see Table 6-2) with MSB first. This command byte defines the access mode and

additional mode-dependent information.

Table 6-2. SPI Command Byte Definition

Bit 7 Bit 6 Bit 5 Bit 4 Bit 3 Bit 2 Bit 1 Bit 0 Mode

1 0 Register address [5:0] Register Access Mode – Read Access

1 1 Register address [5:0] Register Access Mode – Write Access

0 0 1 Reserved Frame Buffer Access Mode – Read Access

0 1 1 Reserved Frame Buffer Access Mode – Write Access

0 0 0 Reserved SRAM Access Mode – Read Access

0 1 0 Reserved SRAM Access Mode – Write Access

The different access modes are described within the following sections.

In Figure 6-4 to Figure 6-14 logic values stated with X on MOSI are ignored by the radio

transceiver, but need to have a valid level. Return values on MISO stated as X shall be

ignored by the microcontroller.

6.2.1 Register Access Mode

The Register access mode is a two-byte read/write operation and is initiated by setting

SEL = L. The first transferred byte on MOSI is the command byte and must indicate a

On write access the second byte transferred on MOSI contains the write data to the

selected address (see Figure 6-4).

Figure 6-4. Packet Structure – Register Write Access

1address[5:0]1write data[7:0]MOSI

XX XXMISO

byte 1 (command byte) byte 2 (data byte)

On read access the content of the selected register address is returned in the second

byte on MISO (see Figure 6-5).

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Figure 6-5. Packet Structure – Register Read Access

1address[5:0]0XXMOSI

XX read data[7:0]MISO

byte 1 (command byte) byte 2 (data byte)

Each register access must be terminated by setting SEL = H.

Figure 6-6 illustrates a typical SPI sequence for a register access sequence for write

and read respectively.

Figure 6-6. Example SPI Sequence - Register Access Mode

XX XX XX READ DATA

WRITE COMMAND WRITE DATA READ COMMAND XX

SCLK

SEL

MOSI

MISO

6.2.2 Frame Buffer Access Mo des

The Frame Buffer read access and the Frame Buffer write access are used to upload or

download frames to the microcontroller.

Each access starts by setting SEL = L. The first byte transferred on MOSI is the

command byte and must indicate a Frame Buffer access mode according to the

definition in Table 6-2.

On Frame Buffer write access the second byte transferred on MOSI contains the frame

length (PHR field) followed by the payload data (PSDU) as shown by Figure 6-7.

Figure 6-7. Packet Structure - Frame Buffer Write Access

On Frame Buffer read access PHR and PSDU are transferred via MISO starting with

the second byte. After the PSDU data bytes one more byte can be transferred

containing the link quality indication (LQI) value of the received frame, for details refer

to section 8.5. Figure 6-8 illustrates the packet structure of a Frame Buffer read access.

Note, the Frame Buffer read access can be terminated at any time without any

consequences by setting SEL = H, e.g. after reading the frame length byte only.

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Figure 6-8. Packet Structure - Frame Buffer Read Access

The number of bytes n for one Frame Buffer access is calculated as follow:

Receive: n = 3 + frame_length

[command byte, frame length byte, PSDU data, LQI byte]

Transmit: n = 2 + frame_length

[command byte, frame length byte, PSDU data]

The maximum value of frame_length is 127 bytes. That means that n  130 for Frame

Buffer read access and n  129 for Frame Buffer write access. Each read or write of a

data byte increments automatically the address counter of the Frame Buffer until the

access is terminated by setting SEL = H.

Figure 6-9 and Figure 6-10 illustrate an example SPI sequence of a Frame Buffer

access to write and read a frame with 4-byte PSDU respectively.

Figure 6-9. Example SPI Sequence - Frame Buffer Write Sequence of a Frame with 4-byte PSDU

COMMAND PHR PSDU 1 PSDU 2 PSDU 3 PSDU 4

XX XX XXXX XXXX

SCLK

SEL

MOSI

MISO

Figure 6-10. Example SPI Sequence - Frame Buffer Read Sequence of a Frame with 4-byte PSDU

COMMAND XX XX XX XX XX

XX PHR PSDU 2PSDU 1 PSDU 4PSDU 3

LQI

SCLK

SEL

MOSI

MISO

Access violations during a Frame Buffer write or read access are indicated by a

TRX_UR interrupt. For further details refer to section 9.3.3.

6.2.3 SRAM Access Mode

The SRAM access mode allows access to certain bytes within the Frame Buffer. This

may reduce SPI traffic.

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The SRAM access mode is useful, for instance, if a transmit frame is already stored in

the Frame Buffer and certain bytes (e.g. sequence number or address field) need to be

replaced before retransmitting the frame. Furthermore, it can be used to access only

the LQI value after frame reception. A detailed description of the user accessible frame

content can be found in section 9.3.2.

Each access starts by setting SEL = L. The first transferred byte on MOSI shall be the

command byte and must indicate a SRAM access mode according to the definition in

Table 6-2. The following byte indicates the start address of the write or read access.

The address space is 0x00 to 0x7F. The microcontroller software has to ensure to

access only to the valid address space.

On SRAM write access, one or more bytes of write data are transferred on MOSI

starting with the third byte of the access sequence (see Figure 6-11).

Figure 6-11. Packet Structure - SRAM Write Access

On SRAM read access, one or more bytes of read data are transferred on MISO

starting with the third byte of the access sequence (see Figure 6-12).

Figure 6-12. Packet Structure - SRAM Read Access

As long as SEL is logic low, every subsequent byte read or write increments the

address counter of the Frame Buffer until the SRAM access is terminated by setting

SEL = H.

Figure 6-13 and Figure 6-14 illustrate an example SPI sequence of a SRAM access to

write and read a data package of 5 byte length respectively.

Figure 6-13. Example SPI Sequence – SRAM Write Access Sequence of a 5 byte Data Package

COMMAND ADDRESS DATA 1 DATA 2 DATA 3 DATA 4

XX XX XXXX XXXX

DATA 5

SCLK

SEL

MOSI

MISO

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Figure 6-14. Example SPI Sequence – SRAM Read Access Sequence of a 5 byte Data Package

COMMAND ADDRESS XX XX XX XX

XX XX DATA 2DATA 1 DATA 4DATA 3

DATA 5

SCLK

SEL

MOSI

MISO

Notes:

• Because the Frame Buffer is shared between TX and RX, the frame data are

overwritten by new incoming frames. If the TX frame data is to be retransmitted, it

must be ensured that no frame was received meanwhile.

• If the SRAM access mode is used to upload received frames, the Frame Buffer

contains all frame data except the frame length byte. The frame length information

can be accessed only using the Frame Buffer read access.

• It is not possible to transmit received frames without a Frame Buffer read and write

operation by the microcontroller.

• Frame Buffer access violations are not indicated by a TXR_UR interrupt when using

the SRAM access mode (see section 9.3.3)

6.3 Radio Transceiver Identification

The AT86RF230 can be identified by four registers. One register contains an unique

part number and one register the corresponding version number. Additional two

registers contain the JEDEC manufacturer ID.

6.3.1 Register Description

Bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0x1C PART_NUM PART_NUM

Read/Write R R R R R R R R

Reset value 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

• Bit [7:0] – PART_N UM

This register bits PART_NUM contain the radio transceiver part number.

Table 6-3. Radio Transceiver Part Number

PART_NUM 2 AT86RF230 part number

Bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0x1D VERSION_NUM VERSION_NUM

Read/Write R R R R R R R R

Reset value 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

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• Bit [7:0] – VERSION_NU M

This register bits VERSION_NUM contain the radio transceiver version number.

Table 6-4. Radio Transceiver Version Number

1 AT86RF230 Revision A VERSION_NUM

2 AT86RF230 Revision B

Bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0x1E MAN_ID_0 MAN_ID_0

Read/Write R R R R R R R R

Reset value 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 1

• Bit [7:0] – MAN _ID_0

Bits [7:0] of the 32 bit JEDEC manufacturer ID are stored in register bits MAN_ID_0.

Bits [15:8] are stored in register 0x1F (MAN_ID_1). The highest 16 bits of the ID are not

stored in registers.

Table 6-5. JEDEC Manufacturer ID – Bits [7:0]

MAN_ID_0 0x1F Atmel JEDEC manufacturer ID

Bits [7:0] of 32 bit manufacturer ID: 00 00 00 1F

Bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0x1F MAN_ID_1 MAN_ID_1

Read/Write R R R R R R R R

Reset value 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

• Bit [7:0] – MAN _ID_1

Bits [15:8] of the 32 bit JEDEC manufacturer ID are stored in register bits MAN_ID_1.

Bits [7:0] are stored in register 0x1E (MAN_ID_0). The upper 16 bits of the ID are not

stored in registers.

Table 6-6. JEDEC Manufacturer ID – Bits [15:8]

MAN_ID_1 0x00 Atmel JEDEC manufacturer ID

Bits [15:8] of 32 bit manufacturer ID: 00 00 00 1F

6.4 Sleep/Wake-up and Transmit Signal (SLP_TR)

The SLP_TR signal is a multi-functional pin. Its function relates to the current state of

the AT86RF230 and is summarized in Table 6-7. The radio transceiver states are

explained in detail in section 7.

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Table 6-7. SLP_TR Multi-Functional Pin

Radio Transceiver Status Function Transition Description

TRX_OFF Sleep L Æ H Takes the radio transceiver into SLEEP state

SLEEP Wakeup H Æ L Takes the radio transceiver into TRX_OFF state

RX_ON Disable CLKM L Æ H Takes the radio transceiver into RX_ON_NOCLK state and disables

CLKM

RX_ON_NOCLK Enables CLKM H Æ L Takes the radio transceiver into RX_ON state and enables CLKM

RX_AACK_ON Disable CLKM L Æ H Takes the radio transceiver into RX_AACK_ON_NOCLK state and

disables CLKM

RX_AACK_ON_NOCLK Enables CLKM H Æ L Takes the radio transceiver into RX_AACK_ON state and enables

CLKM

PLL_ON TX start L Æ H Starts frame transmission

TX_ARET_ON TX start L Æ H Starts TX_ARET transaction

In states PLL_ON and TX_ARET_ON, the SLP_TR pin is used as trigger input to

initiate a TX transaction. Here pin SLP_TR is sensitive on rising edge only.

After initiating a state change by a rising edge at pin SLP_TR in radio transceiver states

TRX_OFF, RX_ON or RX_AACK_ON the radio transceiver remains in the new state as

long as the pin is logical high and returns to the preceding state with the falling edge.

The SLEEP state is used when radio transceiver functionality is not required, and thus

the AT86RF230 can be powered down to reduce the overall power consumption.

A power-down scenario is shown in Figure 6-15. When the radio transceiver is in

TRX_OFF state the microcontroller force the AT86RF230 to SLEEP by setting

SLP_TR = H. If the CLKM output provides a clock to the microcontroller this clock is

switched off after 35 clock cycles. This enables a microcontroller in a synchronous

system to complete its power-down routine and prevent dead-lock situations. The

AT86RF230 awakes when the microcontroller releases pin SLP_TR. This concept

provides the lowest possible power consumption.

Figure 6-15. Sleep and Wake-up Initiated by Asynchronous Microcontroller Timer Output (for Timing Information see

Table 7-1)

CLKM

SLP_TR

async timer (microcontroller) elapsed

35 main clock cycles

tTR2

For synchronous systems, where CLKM is used as a microcontroller clock source and

the SPI master clock (SCLK) is directly derived from CLKM, the AT86RF230 supports

an additional power-down mode for receive operating states RX_ON and

RX_AACK_ON.

If an incoming frame is expected and no other applications are running on the

microcontroller, it can be powered down without missing incoming frames.

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This can be achieved by a rising edge on pin SLP_TR which turns off the CLKM output

35 clock cycles afterwards. The radio transceiver state changes from RX_ON or

RX_AACK_ON to RX_ON_NOCLK or RX_AACK_ON_NOCLK respectively.

In case that a frame is received the radio transceiver enters the state

BUSY_RX/BUSY_RX_AACK and the clock output CLKM is automatically switched on

again. This scenario is shown in Figure 6-16.

The power consumption of the radio transceiver is similar in state

RX_ON_NOCLK/RX_AACK_ON_NOCLK and state RX_ON, because only the CLKM

output is switched off.

Figure 6-16. Wake-Up Initiated by Radio Transceiver Interrupt

CLKM

SLP_TR

IRQ

transce ive r IRQ issued

35 main clock cycles typ. 5µs

6.5 Interrupt Logic

6.5.1 Overview

The AT86RF230 differentiates between six interrupt events. Each interrupt is enabled

or disabled by writing the corresponding bit to the interrupt mask register 0x0E

(IRQ_MASK). Internally, each interrupt is stored as a separate bit of the interrupt status

(IRQ). If the IRQ pin issues, the microcontroller shall read the interrupt status register

0x0F (IRQ_STATUS) to determine the reason for the interrupt. A read access to this

cleared automatically when the event that caused them is not valid anymore. Exception:

the PLL_LOCK IRQ clears the PLL_UNLOCK IRQ and vice versa. The supported

interrupts for the Basic Operating Mode (see section 7.1) are summarized in Table 6-8.

Table 6-8. Interrupt Description in Basic Operating Mode

IRQ Name Comments Details

IRQ_7: BAT_LOW Indicates a supply voltage below the programmed threshold. Section 9.5.3

IRQ_6: TRX_UR Indicates a Frame Buffer access violation (under run). Section 9.3.3

IRQ_3: TRX_END RX: Indicates the completion of a frame reception.

TX: Indicates the completion of a frame transmission.

Section 7.1.3

IRQ_2: RX_START Indicates a SFD detection. The TRX_STATE changes to BUSY_RX. Section 7.1.3

IRQ_1: PLL_UNLOCK Indicates PLL unlock. The PA is turned off immediately, if the radio transceiver is in

BUSY_TX/BUSY_TX_ARET state.

Section 9.7.4

IRQ_0: PLL_LOCK Indicates PLL lock Section 9.7.4

Using the Extended Operating Mode, the interrupts are handled in a slightly different

way. A detailed description can be found in section 7.2.4.

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6.5.2 Register Description

The IRQ_MASK register is used to enable (set register bit to 1) or disable (set register

bit to 0) interrupt events by writing the corresponding bit to the interrupt mask register.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x0E MASK_BAT_LOW MASK_TRX_UR Reserved IRQ_MASK

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 1 1 1 1

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x0E MASK_TRX_END MASK_RX_START

MASK_PLL_UNLOCK

MASK_PLL_LOCK IRQ_MASK

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 1 1 1 1

If an interrupt will be enabled or disabled, it is recommended to read the interrupt status

The IRQ_STATUS register contains the status of the individual interrupts. A read

access to this register resets all interrupt bits.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x0F BAT_LOW TRX_UR Reserved IRQ_STATUS

Read/Write R R R R

Reset value 0 0 0 0

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x0F TRX_END RX_START PLL_UNLOCK PLL_LOCK IRQ_STATUS

Read/Write R R R R

Reset value 0 0 0 0

By reading the register after an interrupt is signaled at IRQ pin, the reason for the

interrupt can be identified.

A detailed description of the individual interrupts can be found in Table 6-8.

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7 Operating Modes

7.1 Basic Operating Mode

This section summarizes all states to provide the basic functionality of the AT86RF230,

such as receiving and transmitting frames, and powering up and down. The Basic

Operating Mode is designed for IEEE 802.15.4 applications; the corresponding radio

transceiver states are shown in Figure 7-1.

Figure 7-1. Basic Operating Mode State Diagram (for State Transition Timing Data Refer to Table 7-1)

TRX_OFF

SLP_TR=H

SLP_TR=L

PLL_ON

RX_ON

TRX_OFF

SLP_TR=H

SLP_TR=L

SFD

Detected

7.1.1 State Control

The radio transceiver state is controlled by two signal pins (SLP_TR, RST ) and the

the radio transceiver status from register 0x01 (TRX_STATUS).

If TRX_STATUS = 0x1F (STATE_TRANSITION_IN_PROGRESS) the AT86RF230 is

on a state transition. Do not try to initiate a further state change while the radio

transceiver is in STATE_TRANSITION_IN_PROGRESS.

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The pin SLP_TR is a multifunctional pin. Depending on radio transceiver state the rising

edge of SLP_TR causes the following state transitions:

• TRX_OFF Æ SLEEP

• RX_ON Æ RX_ON_NOCLK

• PLL_ON Æ BUSY_TX

For further details to the functionality of pin SLP_TR refer to section 6.4.

The pin RST causes a reset of all registers (register bits CLKM_SHA_SEL and

CLKM_CTRL are shadowed, for details refer to section 9.6.4) and forces the radio

transceiver into TRX_OFF state. However, if the device is in the P_ON state it remains

in the P_ON state.

For all states, the state change commands FORCE_TRX_OFF or TRX_OFF lead to a

transition into TRX_OFF state. If the radio transceiver is in the BUSY_RX or BUSY_TX

state, the command FORCE_TRX_OFF interrupts the active receiving or transmitting

process, and forces an immediate transition. In contrast to that the TRX_OFF command

is stored until a currently ongoing frame reception or transmission has finished. After

the end of the frame, the transition to TRX_OFF is performed.

The completion of each requested state change shall always be confirmed by reading

the register 0x01 (TRX_STATUS).

7.1.2 Basic Operating Mode Description

7.1.2.1 P_ON - Power-on after VDD

When the external supply voltage (VDD) is firstly applied to the radio transceiver, the

system goes into the P_ON state. An on-chip reset is performed. The crystal oscillator

gets activated and the master clock is provided to the CLKM pin after the crystal

oscillator has stabilized. CLKM can be used as a clock source to the microcontroller.

The on-chip power-on-reset sets all registers to their default values. A dedicated reset

signal from the microcontroller at the pin RST is not necessary, but recommended for

hardware/software synchronization reasons. The reset impulse should have a minimum

length as specified in section 11.4, see parameter 11.4.12.

All digital inputs have pull-up or pull-down resistors (see Table 4-4). This is necessary

to support microcontrollers where GPIO signals are floating after reset. The input pull-

up and pull-down resistors are disabled when the radio transceiver leaves the P_ON

state.

Prior to leaving P_ON, the microcontroller must set all digital input pins (MOSI, RST ,

SCLK, SEL , SLP_TR) to their default operating values.

Once the supply voltage has stabilized and the crystal oscillator has settled (see section

11.5, parameter 11.5.5), a SPI write access to the register 0x02 (TRX_STATE) with the

command TRX_OFF or FORCE_TRX_OFF initiates a state change from P_ON to

TRX_OFF.

7.1.2.2 SLEEP – Sleep State

In SLEEP state, the entire radio transceiver is disabled. No circuitry is operating. The

AT86RF230 current consumption is reduced to leakage current only.

This state can only be entered from state TRX_OFF by setting the pin SLP_TR = H. If

CLKM is enabled, the SLEEP state is entered 35 CLKM cycles after the rising edge. At

that time CLKM is turned off. If the CLKM output is turned off (bits CLKM_CTRL = 0 in

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Setting SLP_TR = L returns the radio transceiver to the TRX_OFF state. It is

recommended that pin SLP_TR should be active for a minimum of 40 CLKM cycles to

completely power down the radio transceiver.

During SLEEP state, the register contents remain valid while the content of the Frame

Buffer is cleared.

7.1.2.3 TRX_OFF – Clock State

In TRX_OFF state the SPI interface and the crystal oscillator are enabled. The digital

voltage regulator (DVREG) is enabled and provides 1.8V to the digital core to make the

Frame Buffer available (see section 9.1). The microcontroller can access all digital

functions and if enabled, the CLKM output supplies a clock. The pin SLP_TR is enabled

for state control.

7.1.2.4 PLL_ON – PLL State

Entering the PLL_ON state from TRX_OFF state enables the analog voltage regulator

(AVREG) first. After the voltage regulator has been settled, the PLL frequency

synthesizer is enabled. When the PLL has been settled at the receive frequency, a

successful PLL lock is indicated by issuing a PLL_LOCK interrupt.

If an RX_ON command is issued in PLL_ON state, the receiver is immediately enabled.

If the PLL has not been settled before, actual frame reception can only happen once the

PLL has locked.

The PLL_ON state corresponds to the TX_ON state in IEEE 802.15.4.

7.1.2.5 RX_ON and BUSY_RX – RX Listen and Receive State

In RX_ON state the receiver blocks and the PLL frequency synthesizer are enabled.

The AT86RF230 receive mode is internally divided into RX_ON state and BUSY_RX

state. There is no difference between these states with respect to the analog radio

transceiver circuitry, which is always turned on. During RX_ON state, only the preamble

detection of the digital signal processing is running. When a preamble and a valid SFD

are detected, also the digital receiver is turned on. The radio transceiver enters the

BUSY_RX state and a RX_START interrupt is generated.

During the frame reception frame data are stored continuously in the Frame Buffer until

the last byte was received. The completion of the frame reception is indicated by a

TRX_END interrupt and the radio transceiver reenters the state RX_ON. At the same

time the register bit RX_CRC_VALID (register 0x06) is updated with the result of the

FCS check (see section 8.2).

Note, settings of address registers 0x20 to 0x2B do not affect the frame reception in

Basic Operating Mode. Frame address filtering is only applied when using the Extended

Operating Mode (see section 7.2).

7.1.2.6 RX_ON_NOCLK – RX Listen State without CLKM

If the radio transceiver is listening for an incoming frame and the microcontroller is not

running an application, the microcontroller can be powered down to decrease the total

system power consumption. This special power-down scenario for systems running in

clock synchronous mode (see section 6.4) is supported by the AT86RF230 using the

state RX_ON_NOCLK.

This state can only be entered by setting SLP_TR = H while the AT86RF230 is in the

RX_ON state. The CLKM pin is disabled 35 clock cycles after the rising edge at the

SLP_TR pin. This allows the microcontroller to complete its power-down sequence. The

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reception of a frame is indicated to the microcontroller by a RX_START interrupt. CLKM

is turned on again, and the radio transceiver enters the BUSY_RX state (see section

6.4, Figure 6-16).

The end of the transaction is indicated to the microcontroller by a TRX_END interrupt.

After the transaction has been completed, the radio transceiver enters the RX_ON

state. The radio transceiver only reenters the RX_ON_NOCLK state, when the next

rising edge at pin SLP_TR occurs.

If the radio transceiver is in the RX_ON_NOCLK state, and the SLP_TR pin is reset to

logic low, it enters the RX_ON state, and it starts to supply clock on the CLKM pin

again.

In states RX_ON_NOCLK and RX_ON, the current consumption is about the same,

because only the CLKM output is switched off in state RX_ON_NOCLK.

7.1.2.7 BUSY_TX – Transmit State

A transmission can only be started in state PLL_ON. There are two ways to start a

transmission:

• Rising edge of SLP_TR

• TX_START command to register 0x02 (TRX_STATE).

Either of these causes the AT86RF230 to enter the BUSY_TX state.

During the transition to BUSY_TX state, the PLL frequency shifts to the transmit

frequency. Transmission of the first data chip of the preamble starts after 16 µs to allow

PLL settling and PA ramping, see Figure 7-2. After transmission of the preamble and

the SFD, the Frame Buffer content is transmitted.

The last two bytes to be transmitted are the FCS (see Figure 8-2). The radio transceiver

can be configured to autonomously compute the FCS bytes and append it to the

transmit data. The register bit TX_AUTO_CRC_ON in register 0x05 (PHY_TX_PWR)

needs to be set to 1 to enable this feature. For further details refer to section 8.2.When

the frame transmission is completed, the radio transceiver automatically turns off the

power amplifier, generates a TRX_END interrupt and returns to PLL_ON state.

Note that in case the PHR indicates a frame length of zero, the transmission is aborted.

7.1.3 Interrupt Handling in Basic Operating Mode

All interrupts of the AT86RF230 (see Table 6-8) are supported during operation in Basic

Operating Mode.

Two interrupts are used to support RX and TX operation of the radio transceiver. On

receive the RX_START interrupt indicates the detection of a valid SFD. The TRX_END

interrupt indicates the completion of the frame reception or frame transmission.

Figure 7-2 shows a receive/transmit transaction and the related interrupt events in

Basic Operating Mode. One device is assumed to operate as transmitter (device 1), the

second one as receiver (device 2). Processing delays are typical values.

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Figure 7-2. Timing of RX_START and TRX_END Interrupts in Basic Operating Mode (see register 0x0F)

128 160 1920 352-16 time [µs]

(Device 2)

Frame

on Air

TRX_END

(Device1)

PLL_ON BUSY_TX PLL_ON

IRQ

SLP_TR

TRX_STATE

Typ. Processing Delay 16 µs

TRX_ENDRX_START

8 µs 16 µs

RX_LISTEN BUSY_RX RX_LISTEN

IRQ

TRX_STATE

Typ. Processing Delay

Preamble SFD PHR PSDU

411 5Number of Octets

Frame Content

7.1.4 Basic Mode Timing

The following paragraphs depict the transitions between states and their timing.

7.1.4.1 Power-on and Wake-up Procedure

The power-on sequence and the wake-up procedure is shown in Figure 7-3.

Figure 7-3. Wake-Up Procedure from SLEEP and P_ON to RX_ON (PLL Locked)

0600500 700

Active Blocks

800 900 1000 1100

FTN BG DVREG AVREG 16

s PLLTimer 256 sTimer 128 s

TRX_OFFState PLL_ON

Command PLL_ON,

RX_ON

SLP_TR=0

XOSC

Typical block settling time, stays on

Block active

waiting for SPI commands

XOSC delivers

clock CLKM delivers

clock Clock

stable IRQ

PLL locked

Signals/Events

RX_ON

SLEEP

~400

Time [μs]

μμ

Timer 128 s

EVDD on

XOSC

TRX_OFF

P_ON

CLKM_CTRL

Active Blocks

State

Command

Signals/Events

Setting pin SLP_TR = L in SLEEP state enables the crystal oscillator. After 0.4 ms

(typ.), the internal clock signal is available. After another 128 µs the clock signal is

provided at the CLKM pin if enabled. An additional 256 µs timer ensures that frequency

stability is sufficient to drive filter tuning (FTN) and the PLL. After the digital voltage

regulator has been settled, the radio transceiver enters the TRX_OFF state and waits

for further commands.

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In TRX_OFF state, entering the commands PLL_ON or RX_ON initiates a ramp-up

sequence of the analog voltage regulator. RX_ON state can be entered any time during

PLL_ON state regardless whether the PLL has already locked.

When the wake-up sequence is started from P_ON state (VDD first applied to the radio

transceiver) the state machine stops after the 128 µs timer expires to wait for a valid

TRX_OFF command from the microcontroller. The default CLKM frequency in P_ON

state is 1 MHz.

7.1.4.2 Reset Procedure

RST = L sets all registers to their default values (see Table 12-2). Exception, register

bits CLKM_CTRL of register 0x03 (TRX_CTRL_0) are shadowed at reset. For details

refer to section 9.6.4.

After releasing the reset pin (RST = H) a calibration cycle of the FTN is started and the

digital voltage regulator is turned on. The state TRX_OFF is entered and the status of

the main state machine changes from STATE_TRANSITION_IN_PROGRESS to

TRX_OFF.

This sequence is identical for all radio transceiver states except in state P_ON. The

state machine does not leave the state P_ON after a reset in this state. Instead, the

procedure described in section 7.1.2.1 must be followed to enter the TRX_OFF state for

the very first time. Figure 7-4 describes the reset procedure once the P_ON state was

left.

Note that the access to the device should not occur earlier than 625 ns after releasing

the reset pin. During the reset procedure the SPI interface shall be inactive (SEL = H;

SCLK = L).

Figure 7-4. Reset Procedure

x+100

Active Blocks FTN BG DVREG

TRX_OFF

State

Command

XOSC

Typical block settling time, stays on

Block acti ve

waiting for SPI commands

Signals/Events RESET

RST=1

Time [μs]

RST=0

020

7.1.4.3 State Transition Timing

The transition numbers (first column) in Table 7-1 correspond to Figure 7-1 and do not

include SPI access time if not otherwise stated. See measurement setup in Figure 5-1.

Table 7-1. State Transition Timing

No Symbol Transition Time [µs]

(tppical)

Comments

1 tTR1 P_ON  TRX_OFF 880 Depends on external bypass capacitor at DVDD (1 µF nom)

and crystal oscillator setup (CL = 10 pF)

2 tTR2 SLEEP  TRX_OFF 880 Depends on external bypass capacitor at DVDD (1 µF nom)

and crystal oscillator setup (CL = 10 pF)

3 tTR3 TRX_OFF  SLEEP 35 fCLKM = 1 MHz

4 tTR4 TRX_OFF  PLL_ON 180 Depends on external bypass capacitor at AVDD (1 µF nom).

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No Symbol Transition Time [µs]

(tppical)

Comments

5 tTR5 PLL_ON  TRX_OFF 1

6 tTR6 TRX_OFF  RX_ON 180 Depends on external bypass capacitor at AVDD (1 µF nom).

7 tTR7 RX_ON  TRX_OFF 1

8 tTR8 PLL_ON  RX_ON 1

9 tTR9 RX_ON  PLL_ON 1

10 tTR10 PLL_ON  BUSY_TX 16 When asserting SLP_TR pin first symbol transmission is

delayed by 16 µs (PLL settling and PA ramp up).

11 tTR11 BUSY_TX  PLL_ON 32 32 µs PLL settling time

12 tTR12 All states  TRX_OFF 1 Using TRX_CMD FORCE_TRX_OFF (see register 0x02), not

valid for SLEEP mode

13 tTR13 RST = L  TRX_OFF 120 Depends on external bypass capacitor at DVDD (1 µF nom),

not valid for P_ON mode

The state transition timing is calculated based on the timing of the individual blocks as

shown in Figure 7-3. The worst case values include maximum operating temperature,

minimum supply voltage, and device parameter variations.

Table 7-2. Block Settling Time

Block Time [µs]

(typical) Time [µs]

(worst case) Comments

XOSC 500 1000 Until clock signal is provided at CLKM pin.

Depends on crystal Q factor and load capacitor

DVREG 60 1000

Depends on external bypass capacitor at DVDD (CB3 = 1 µF nom.,

10 µF worst case)

AVREG 60 1000

Depends on external bypass capacitor at AVDD (CB1 = 1 µF nom.,

10 µF worst case)

PLL, initial 100 150

PLL, RX  TX 16 PLL settling time

PLL, TX  RX 32 PLL settling time

7.1.5 Register Description

The TRX_STATUS register signals the current state of the radio transceiver as well as

the status of the CCA measurement. Note, a read access to the register clears bits

CCA_DONE and CCA_STATUS.

This register is used for Extended and Basic Operating Mode. The Extended Operating

Mode functionality is described in section 7.2.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x01 CCA_DONE CCA_STATUS Reserved TRX_STATUS TRX_STATUS

Read/Write R R R R

Reset value 0 0 0 0

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Bit 3 2 1 0

0x01 TRX_STATUS TRX_STATUS

Read/Write R R R R

Reset value 0 0 0 0

• Bit 7 – CCA_DONE

Refer to section 8.6.

• Bit 6 – CCA_STATUS

Refer to section 8.6.

• Bit 5 – Reserved

• Bit [4:0] – TRX_STATUS

The register bits TRX_STATUS signal the current radio transceiver status. If the

requested state transition is not completed yet, the TRX_STATUS returns

STATE_TRANSITION_IN_PROGRESS. State transition timings are defined in Table

7-1.

Table 7-3. Radio Transceiver Status, Register Bits TRX_STATUS

0x00 P_ON

0x01 BUSY_RX

0x02 BUSY_TX

0x06 RX_ON

0x08 TRX_OFF (Clock State)

0x09 PLL_ON (TX_ON)

0x0F SLEEP

0x11(1) BUSY_RX_AACK

0x12(1) BUSY_TX_ARET

0x16(1) RX_AACK_ON

0x19(1) TX_ARET_ON

0x1C RX_ON_NOCLK

0x1D(1) RX_AACK_ON_NOCLK

0x1E(1) BUSY_RX_AACK_NOCLK

0x1F STATE_TRANSITION_IN_PROGRESS

TRX_STATUS

All other values are reserved

Notes: 1. Extended Operating Mode only, refer to section 7.2.

The register TRX_STATE controls the radio transceiver states via register bits

TRX_CMD. The status and the result of a TX_ARET/RX_AACK transaction is indicated

by register bits TRAC_STATUS.

A successful state transition shall be confirmed by reading register bits TRX_STATUS

in register 0x01 (TRX_STATUS).

This register is used for Basic and Extended Operating Mode. The Extended Operating

Mode functionality is described in section 7.2.

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Bit 7 6 5 4

0x02 TRAC_STATUS TRX_CMD TRX_STATE

Read/Write R R R R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x02 TRX_CMD TRX_STATE

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0

• Bit [7:5] – TRAC_STATUS

Refer to section 7.2.6.

• Bit [4:0] – TRX_C MD

A write access to register bits TRX_CMD initiates a radio transceiver state transition

towards the new state.

Table 7-4. State Control Commands, Register Bits TRX_CMD

0x00(1) NOP

0x02(2) TX_START

0x03 FORCE_TRX_OFF

0x06 RX_ON

0x08 TRX_OFF (Clock State)

0x09 PLL_ON (TX_ON)

0x16(3) RX_AACK_ON

0x19(3) TX_ARET_ON

TRX_CMD

All other values are reserved

Notes: 1. TRX_CMD = 0 after power-on reset (POR) only

2. Frame transmission starts 16 µs (1 symbol) after TX_START

3. Extended Operating Mode only, refer to section 7.2

7.2 Extended Operating Mode

The Extended Operating Mode goes beyond the basic radio transceiver functionality

provided by the Basic Operating Mode. Specific functionality requested by the

IEEE 802.15.4-2003 standard is supported such as automatic acknowledgement and

automatic frame retransmission. This results in a more efficient IEEE 802.15.4-2003

software MAC implementation including reduced code size, the possible use of a

smaller microcontroller or the ability to simplify the handling of time-critical tasks.

The Extended Operating Mode is designed to support IEEE 802.15.4-2003 standard

compliant frames. While using the Extended Operating Mode, the AT86RF230 radio

transceiver supports:

• Automatic address filtering

• Automatic acknowledgement (RX_AACK) and

• Automatic CSMA-CA with optional frame retransmission (TX_ARET)

Note, the Extended Operating Mode does not support slotted CSMA-CA.

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The RX_AACK transaction consists of:

• Frame reception

• Address filtering and automatic FCS check

• Interrupt indicating frame reception, if it passes address filtering and FCS check

• Automatic ACK frame transmission, if necessary

For details on RX_AACK transaction see section 7.2.3.1.

The TX_ARET transaction consists of:

• CSMA-CA including automatic retry

• Frame transmission and automatic FCS field generation

• Reception of ACK frame, if requested

• Automatic retry of transmissions if ACK was expected but not received

• Interrupt and transaction return code generation

For details on TX_ARET transaction see section 7.2.3.2.

The AT86RF230 state diagram including the Extended Operating Mode states is shown

in Figure 7-5. Yellow marked states represent the Basic Operating Mode, blue marked

states represent the Extended Operating Mode.

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Figure 7-5. Extended Operating Mode State Diagram

TRX_OFF

SLP_TR=H

SLP_TR=L

PLL_ON

RX_ON

PLL_ON

TRX_OFF

(Clock St a t e)

XOSC=ON

Pull=OFF

RX_ON

P_ON

(Power-on after VDD)

XOSC=ON

Pull=ON

SLEEP

(Sleep State)

XOSC=OFF

Pull=OFF

(all states except P_ON)

FORCE_TRX_OFF

(all states except SLEEP)

Frame

End

Frame

End BUSY_TX

(Transmit State)

PLL_ON

(PLL State)

RX_ON

(Rx Listen State)

BUSY_RX

(Receive State)

TRX_OFF

RX_ON_NOCLK

(Rx Listen State)

CLKM=OFF

SLP_TR=H

SLP_TR=L

TX_ARET_ONRX_AACK_ON

BUSY_RX_AACK BUSY_TX_ARET

Trans-

action

Finished

Frame

End

PLL_ON

RX_AACK_ON

RX_AACK_

ON_NOCLK

BUSY_RX_

AACK_NOCLK Frame

Rejected

TX_ARET_ON

RX_AACK_ON

From

TRX_OFF From

TRX_OFF

12 13

TX_START

SLP_TR=H

TX_START

SLP_TR=H

CLKM=OFFCLKM=OFF

SFD

Detected

SFD

Detected

SFD

Detected

RESET

RST=H

(from all states)

RST=L

Legend:

Blue: SPI Write to Register TRX_STATE (0x02)

Red: Control signals via IC Pin

Green: Event

Basic Operating Mode States

Extended Operating Mode States

State transition number, timing data in Table 7-1

7.2.1 State Control

The Extended Operating Mode states can be entered from states TRX_OFF or

PLL_ON as described by the state diagram in Figure 7-5. The completion of each

requested state change shall always be confirmed by reading the register 0x01

(TRX_STATUS).

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RX_AACK:

The state RX_AACK_ON is entered by writing the command RX_AACK_ON to the

confirmed by reading register 0x01 (TRX_STATUS) that changes to RX_AACK_ON or

BUSY_RX_AACK on success.

TX_ARET:

Similarly, TX_ARET_ON state is activated by setting register bits TRX_CMD (register

0x02) to TX_ARET_ON. The radio transceiver is in the TX_ARET_ON state after

TRX_STATUS (register 0x01) has changed to TX_ARET_ON.

Notes:

1. It is not recommended to use the FORCE_TRX_OFF command while being in state

BUSY_TX_ARET without appending a SLEEP cycle by activating SLP_TR for at

least 2 µs.

2. After state transition from state RX_AACK_ON to state PLL_ON, start of frame

transmission shall be confirmed by reading register 0x01 (TRX_STATUS). If register

bits TRX_STATUS do not return BUSY_TX during frame transmission, the frame

transmission needs to be initiated again. If the frame has been downloaded before

initiating the frame transmission, it has to be downloaded again.

7.2.2 Configuration

The use of the Extended Operating Mode is based on Basic Operating Mode

functionality. Only features beyond the basic radio transceiver functionality are

described in the following sections. For details to the Basic Operating Mode refer to

section 7.1.

When using the RX_AACK or TX_ARET modes, the following registers needs to be

configured.

RX_AACK:

• Setup registers 0x20 – 0x2B for PAN-ID and IEEE addresses

• Set register bit AACK_SET_PD (register 0x2E)

• Configure register bit I_AM_COORD (register 0x2E)

TX_ARET:

• Configure CSMA-CA

- MAX_FRAME_RETRIES (register 0x2C)

- MAX_CSMA_RETRIES (register 0x2C)

- CSMA_SEED (registers 0x2D, 0x2E)

- MIN_BE (register 0x2E)

• Configure CCA (see section 8.7)

The MIN_BE register bits (register 0x2E) sets the minimum back-off exponent (refer to

IEEE 802.15.4-2003 section 7.5.1.3), and the CSMA_SEED_0 and CSMA_SEED_1

number generator in the AT86RF230. The register bits MAX_CSMA_RETRIES (register

0x2C) configures how often the radio transceiver retries the CSMA-CA algorithm after a

busy channel is detected. MAX_FRAME_RETRIES (register 0x2C) defines the

maximum number of frame retransmissions.

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7.2.3 Extended Operating Mo de Description

7.2.3.1 RX_AACK_ON – Receive with Automatic ACK

In the RX_AACK_ON state, the radio transceiver listens for incoming frames. After

detecting a frame start (SFD), the radio transceiver state changes to BUSY_RX_AACK

(register 0x01) and the TRAC_STATUS bits (register 0x02) are set to INVALID. The

AT86RF230 starts to parse the MAC header (MHR) and a filtering procedure as

described in IEEE 802.15.4-2003 section 7.5.6.2. (third level filter rules) is applied

accordingly. It accepts only frames that satisfy all of the following requirements (quote

from IEEE 802.15.4 2003):

• The frame type subfield of the frame control field shall not contain an illegal frame

type.

• If the frame type indicates that the frame is a beacon frame, the source PAN

identifier shall match macPANId unless macPANId is equal to 0xFFFF, in which

case the beacon frame shall be accepted regardless of the source PAN identifier.

• If a destination PAN identifier is included in the frame, it shall match macPANId or

shall be the broadcast PAN identifier (0xFFFF).

• If a short destination address is included in the frame, it shall match either

macShortAddress or the broadcast address (0xFFFF). Otherwise, if an extended

destination address is included in the frame, it shall match an ExtendedAddress.

• If only source addressing fields are included in a data or MAC command frame, the

frame shall be accepted only if the device is a PAN coordinator and the source PAN

identifier matches macPANId. Any frames rejected by these rules are discarded.

The AT86RF230 requires to satisfy two additional rules:

• The frame type indicates that the frame is not an ACK frame (refer to Table 8-1)

• At least one address field must be present (refer to Table 8-2)

A frame is also discarded if the FCS is invalid. Otherwise, the TRX_END interrupt is

issued and the register bits TRAC_STATUS are set to SUCCESS after the reception of

the frame was completed. The microcontroller can then upload the frame.

The AT86RF230 detects whether an ACK frame needs to be sent. In that case, the

radio transceiver automatically generates an ACK frame which is transmitted 12 symbol

periods after the end of the received frame. If the frame that needs to be acknowledged

is a valid MAC command data request frame, the content of register bit AACK_SET_PD

in register 0x2E (CSMA_SEED_1) is copied to the frame pending subfield of the ACK

and the frame sequence number is copied likewise. During these operations the radio

transceiver remains in BUSY_RX_AACK state.

After the completion of the RX_AACK transaction the radio transceiver reenters the

state RX_AACK_ON.

The flow diagram of the RX_AACK algorithm is shown in Figure 7-6.

The timing of an RX_AACK transaction is shown in Figure 7-7. It shows a reception of a

data frame of length 10 with the ACK request bit set to one. A state change to

BUSY_RX_AACK is performed after SFD detection. The completion of the frame

reception is indicated by a TRX_END interrupt. The ACK frame is transmitted after a

wait period of 12 symbols (192 µs).

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Figure 7-6. Flow Diagram of RX_AACK

Figure 7-7. Example Timing of an RX_AACK Transaction

RX/TX Frame

on Air

RX_AACK_ON BUSY_RX_AACK

TRX_STATE

Frame Type

RX_AACK_ON

RX/TX RX TX

TRX_END

IRQ

Typ. Processing Delay 16 s

192 s

(12 symbols)

512

0704 time [ s]

64 1088

Data Frame (Length = 10, ACK=1) ACK Frame

SFD

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7.2.3.2 TX_ARET_ON – Transmit with Automatic CSMA-CA Retry

The implemented TX_ARET algorithm is shown in Figure 7-8.

The TX_ARET transaction is started by either a rising edge on SLP_TR pin or by writing

a TX_START command to register 0x02 (TRX_STATE). The radio transceiver sets the

TRAC_STATUS bits to INVALID and executes the CSMA-CA algorithm as defined by

IEEE 802.15.4-2003 section 7.5.1.4. If a clear channel is detected during CSMA-CA

execution, the radio transceiver proceeds to transmit the frame.

During frame transmission the AT86RF230 parses the frame control field of the

downloaded frame to check if an ACK reply is expected. If an ACK is expected, the

radio transceiver switches into receive mode to wait for valid ACK reply. An ACK is

considered as valid if its FCS is correct, and if the sequence number of the ACK

matches the sequence number of the previously transmitted frame.

If no valid ACK is received or a timeout (after 864 s) occurred, the radio transceiver

retries the entire transaction, including CSMA-CA execution. This repeats until the

frame has been acknowledged or the maximum number of retransmissions (as set by

the register bits MAX_FRAME_RETRIES in register 0x2C) has been reached. In this

case, the TRX_END interrupt is issued and the value of TRAC_STATUS is set to

NO_ACK.

If a valid ACK is found, the TRX_END interrupt is issued. The Frame Pending subfield

of the ACK frame is parsed and the register bits TRAC_STATUS are updated. If the

frame pending subfield of the ACK frame is set, TRAC_STATUS is updated with

SUCCESS_DATA_PENDING, otherwise TRAC_STATUS is updated with SUCCESS.

While in receive mode for ACK reception, incoming data do not overwrite the Frame

Buffer content. Transmit data in the Frame Buffer are not changed during the TX_ARET

transaction.

If no ACK is expected, the radio transceiver issues a TRX_END interrupt after the frame

transmission has been completed. The value of register bits TRAC_STATUS (register

0x02) is set to SUCCESS.

If the CSMA-CA did not detect a clear channel, the channel access is retried as often as

specified by the register bits MAX_CSMA_RETRIES (register 0x2C). In case that

CSMA-CA does not detect a clear channel after MAX_CSMA_RETRIES, the

transaction is aborted and the TRX_END interrupt is issued. The TRAC_STATUS

Note that it is recommended to download the transmit data before starting a TX_ARET

transaction.

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Figure 7-8 Flow Diagram of TX_ARET

Figure 7-9 shows a TX_ARET transaction with the related timing. In this example a data

frame of length 10 with ACK request is transmitted. Furthermore the following

constrains are assumed:

• Register bits MIN_BE (register 0x2E) are set to 0 to not delay the execution of the

CCA algorithm after the rising edge at pin SLP_TR

• A clear channel is assumed (no CSMA-CA retry, no frame retransmission).

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Figure 7-9 Timing Example of a TX_ARET Transaction

RX/TX Frame

on Air

TX_ARET_ON BUSY_TX_ARET

TRX_STATE

FrameType

TX_ARET_ON

RX/TX

CSMA-CA

TRX_END

IRQ

Typ. Processing Delay 16 s

672

0xtime [ s]

128 x+352

SLP_TR

128 sμ32 sμ16 s

Data Frame (Length = 10, ACK=1) ACK Frame

0x2C: MAX_FRAME_RETRIES=0

0x2C: MAX_CSMA_RRTRIES=0

0x2E: MIN_BE=0

7.2.3.3 RX_AACK_ON_NOCLK – RX_AACK_ON without CL KM

If the AT86RF230 is listening for an incoming frame and the microcontroller is not

running an application, the microcontroller can be powered down to decrease the total

system power consumption. This special power-down scenario for systems running in

clock synchronous mode (see section 6.4) is supported by the AT86RF230 using the

state RX_AACK_ON_NOCLK. The radio transceiver functionality in this state is based

on that in state RX_AACK_ON (see section 7.2.3.1), only the clock on pin CLKM is

disabled.

The RX_AACK_ON_NOCLK state is entered from RX_AACK_ON by a rising edge at

SLP_TR pin. The return to RX_AACK_ON state results either from a successful frame

reception or a falling edge on pin SLP_TR.

The CLKM pin is disabled 35 clock cycles after the rising edge at SLP_TR pin. This

allows the microcontroller to complete its power-down sequence.

In case of frame reception, the radio transceiver enters the BUSY_RX_AACK_ON state

and parses the address field and the FCS of the incoming frame. If it passes address

filtering and has a correct FCS the frame is accepted and the radio transceiver state

changes to BUSY_RX_AACK, the TRX_END interrupt is issued and CLKM is turned

on. If an ACK was requested the radio transceiver follows the procedure described in

section 7.2.3.1.

After the transaction has been completed, the radio transceiver enters the

RX_AACK_ON state. Note, the radio transceiver reenters the RX_AACK_ON_NOCLK

state only, when the next rising edge at SLP_TR pin occurs.

7.2.4 Interrupt Handling in Extended Operating Mode

The interrupts in the Extended Operating Mode are handled slightly different compared

to the Basic Operating Mode (see section 7.1.3). The number of possible interrupts is

reduced to a necessary minimum of events. This minimizes the interaction between

microcontroller and AT86RF230 to reduce the overall power consumption. The

differences in the interrupt handling are described in Table 7-5.

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Table 7-5. Interrupt Description for Extended Operating Mode

IRQ Handling in Extended Operating Mode

IRQ_7: BAT_LOW No special handling (see section 6.5)

IRQ_6: TRX_UR No special handling (see section 6.5)

IRQ_3: TRX_END TX_ARET: Indicates the completion of TX_ARET algorithm.

RX_AACK: Indicates the successful frame reception. Frame data

can be uploaded to the microcontroller.

IRQ_2: RX_START Not used

IRQ_1: PLL_UNLOCK Disabled for regular operation. In case of occurrence, the device

status needs to be examined (refer to AVR2009 “AT86RF230 –

Software Programming Model”).

IRQ_0: PLL_LOCK Disabled for regular operation. In case of occurrence, the device

status needs to be examined (refer to AVR2009 “AT86RF230 –

Software Programming Model”).

7.2.5 Register Summary

Table 7-6. Register Summary

Reg.-Address Register Name Description

0x01 TRX_STATUS Radio transceiver status, CCA result

0x02 TRX_STATE State control

0x20 - 0x2B Address filter configuration

0x2C XAH_CTRL Retries value control

0x2D CSMA_SEED_0 CSMA-CA seed value

0x2E CSMA_SEED_1 CSMA-CA seed value, MIN_BE, AACK_SET_PD, I_AM_COORD

7.2.6 Register Description – Control Registe rs

The TRX_STATUS register signals the current state of the radio transceiver as well as

the status of the CCA measurement. Note, a read access to the register clears bits

CCA_DONE and CCA_STATUS. This register is also used for Basic Operating Mode,

refer to section 7.1.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x01 CCA_DONE CCA_STATUS Reserved TRX_STATUS TRX_STATUS

Read/Write R R R R

Reset value 0 0 0 0

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x01 TRX_STATUS TRX_STATUS

Read/Write R R R R

Reset value 0 0 0 0

• Bit 7 – CCA_DONE

Refer to section 8.6.

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• Bit 6 – CCA_STATUS

Refer to section 8.6.

• Bit 5 – Reserved

• Bit [4:0] – TRX_STATUS

The register bits TRX_STATUS signal the current radio transceiver status. If the

requested state transition is not completed yet, the TRX_STATUS returns

STATE_TRANSITION_IN_PROGRESS. State transition timings are defined in Table

7-1.

Table 7-7. Radio Transceiver Status, Register Bits TRX_STATUS

0x00 P_ON

0x01 BUSY_RX

0x02 BUSY_TX

0x06 RX_ON

0x08 TRX_OFF (Clock State)

0x09 PLL_ON (TX_ON)

0x0F SLEEP

0x11 BUSY_RX_AACK

0x12 BUSY_TX_ARET

0x16 RX_AACK_ON

0x19 TX_ARET_ON

0x1C RX_ON_NOCLK

0x1D RX_AACK_ON_NOCLK

0x1E BUSY_RX_AACK_NOCLK

0x1F STATE_TRANSITION_IN_PROGRESS

TRX_STATUS

All other values are reserved

The register TRX_STATE controls the radio transceiver states via register bits

TRX_CMD. The status and the result of a TX_ARET/RX_AACK transaction is indicated

by register bits TRAC_STATUS.

A successful state transition shall be confirmed by reading register bits TRX_STATUS

in register 0x01 (TRX_STATUS).

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x02 TRAC_STATUS TRX_CMD TRX_STATE

Read/Write R R R R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x02 TRX_CMD TRX_STATE

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0

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AT86RF230

• Bit [7:5] – TRAC_STATUS

The status of the TX_ARET algorithm is indicated by register bits TRAC_STATUS.

Details of the algorithm and a description of the status information are given in section

7.2.3.2.

Table 7-8. State Control Register, Register Bits TRAC_STATUS TX_ARET

0 SUCCESS

1 SUCCESS_DATA_PENDING

3 CHANNEL_ACCESS_FAILURE

5 NO_ACK

7 INVALID

TRAC_STATUS

All other values are reserved

• Bit [4:0] – TRX_C MD

A write access to register bits TRX_CMD initiates a radio transceiver state transition

towards the new state.

Table 7-9. State Control Register, Register Bits TRX_CMD

0x00(1) NOP

0x02(2) TX_START

0x03 FORCE_TRX_OFF

0x06 RX_ON

0x08 TRX_OFF (Clock State)

0x09 PLL_ON (TX_ON)

0x16 RX_AACK_ON

0x19 TX_ARET_ON

TRX_CMD

All other values are reserved

Notes: 1. TRX_CMD = 0 after power-on reset (POR)

2. Frame transmission starts 16 µs (1 symbol) after TX_START

The XAH_CTRL register controls the TX_ARET transaction in the Extended Operating

Mode of the radio transceiver.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x2C MAX_FRAME_RETRIES XAH_CTRL

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 1 1

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x2C MAX_CSMA_RETRIES Reserved XAH_CTRL

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 1 0 0 0

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• Bit [7:4] – MAX_FRAME_RETRIES

MAX_FRAME_RETRIES specifies the maximum number of frame retransmission in

TX_ARET transaction.

• Bit [3:1] – MAX_CSMA_RETRIES

MAX_CSMA_RETRIES specifies the maximum number of retries in TX_ARET

transaction to repeat the random back-off/CCA procedure before the transaction gets

cancelled. Even though the valid range of MAX_CSMA_RETRIES is [0, 1 … 5]

according to IEEE 802.15.4-2003, the AT86RF230 can be configured up to a maximum

value of 7 retries.

• Bit 0 – Reserved

The CSMA_SEED_0 register contains a fraction of the CSMA_SEED value for the

CSMA-CA algorithm.

Bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0x2D CSMA_SEED_0 CSMA_SEED_0

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 1 1 1 0 1 0 1 0

• Bit [7:0] – CSMA_SEED_0

The register bits CSMA_SEED_0 contain the lower 8 bits of the CSMA_SEED. The

upper 3 bits are stored in register bits CSMA_SEED_1 of register 0x2E

(CSMA_SEED_1). CSMA_SEED is the seed of the random number generator for the

CSMA-CA algorithm.

The CSMA_SEED_1 register contains a fraction of the CSMA_SEED value, the back-

off exponent for the CSMA-CA algorithm and configuration bits for address filtering in

RX_AACK operation.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x2C MIN_BE AACK_SET_PD Reserved CSMA_SEED_1

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R

Reset value 1 1 0 0

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x2C I_AM_COORD CSMA_SEED_1 CSMA_SEED_1

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 1 0

• Bit [7:6] – MIN_BE

The register bit MIN_BE defines the minimal back-off exponent used in the CSMA-CA

algorithm to generate a pseudo random number for back-off the CCA. For details refer

to IEEE 802.15.4-2003 section 7.5.1.3. If set to zero, the start of the CCA algorithm is

not delayed.

• Bit 5 – AACK_SET_PD

This register bit defines the content of the frame pending subfield for acknowledgement

frames in RX_AACK mode. If this bit is enabled the frame pending subfield of the

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acknowledgment frame is set in response to a MAC command data request frame,

otherwise not. The register bit has to be set before finishing the SHR transmission of

the acknowledgment frame. This is 352 µs (192 µs ACK wait time + 160 µs SHR

transmission) after the TRX_END interrupt issued by the frame to be acknowledged.

• Bit 4 – Reserved

• Bit 3 – I_AM_COORD

This register bit has to be set if the node is a PAN coordinator. This register bit is used

for address filtering in RX_AACK. If I_AM_COORD = 1 and if only source addressing

fields are included in a data or MAC command frame, the frame shall be accepted only

if the device is the PAN coordinator and the source PAN identifier matches macPANId,

for details refer to IEEE 802.15.4-2003, section 7.5.6.2 (third-level filter rules).

• Bit [2:0] – CSMA_SEED_1

The register bits CSMA_SEED_1 contain the upper 3 bits of the CSMA_SEED. The

lower part is defined in register 0x2D (CSMA_SEED_0).

7.2.7 Register Description – Address Regis ters

This register contains bits [7:0] of the 16 bit short address for address filtering.

Bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0x20 SHORT_ADDRESS_0 SHORT_ADDR_0

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

This register contains bits [15:8] of the 16 bit short address for address filtering.

Bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0x21 SHORT_ADDRESS_1 SHORT_ADDR_1

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

This register contains bits [7:0] of the 16 bit PAN ID for address filtering.

Bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0x22 PAN_ID_0 PAN_ID_0

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

This register contains bits [15:8] of the 16 bit PAN ID for address filtering.

Bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0x23 PAN_ID_1 PAN_ID_1

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

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This register contains bits [7:0] of the 64 bit IEEE address for address filtering.

Bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0x24 IEEE_ADDR_0 IEEE_ADDR_0

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

This register contains bits [15:8] of the 64 bit IEEE address for address filtering.

Bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0x25 IEEE_ADDR_1 IEEE_ADDR_1

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

This register contains bits [23:16] of the 64 bit IEEE address for address filtering.

Bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0x26 IEEE_ADDR_2 IEEE_ADDR_2

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

This register contains bits [31:24] of the 64 bit IEEE address for address filtering.

Bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0x27 IEEE_ADDR_3 IEEE_ADDR_3

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

This register contains bits [39:32] of the 64 bit IEEE address for address filtering.

Bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0x28 IEEE_ADDR_4 IEEE_ADDR_4

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

This register contains bits [47:40] of the 64 bit IEEE address for address filtering.

Bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0x29 IEEE_ADDR_5 IEEE_ADDR_5

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

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This register contains bits [55:48] of the 64 bit IEEE address for address filtering.

Bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0x2A IEEE_ADDR_6 IEEE_ADDR_6

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

This register contains bits [63:56] of the 64 bit IEEE address for address filtering.

Bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0x2B IEEE_ADDR_7 IEEE_ADDR_7

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

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8 Functional Description

8.1 Introduction - Frame Format

Figure 8-1 provides an overview of the physical layer frame structure as defined by the

IEEE 802.15.4-2003 standard. Figure 8-2 shows details of the defined MAC layer frame

structure.

Figure 8-1 IEEE 802.15.4-2003 Frame Format – PHY Layer Frame Structure

Figure 8-2 IEEE 802.15.4-2003 Frame Format – MAC Layer Frame Structure

8.1.1 PHY Protocol Layer Data Unit (PPDU)

8.1.1.1 Synchronization Heade r (SHR)

The SHR consists of a four-octet preamble field (all zero), followed by a single SFD

octet which has the predefined value 0xA7. When transmitting, the SHR is automatically

generated by the AT86RF230, and prefixed to the frame that has been read from the

Frame Buffer. The transmission of the SHR requires 160 µs (10 symbols). This allows

the microcontroller to initiate a transmission and to start downloading the frame

contents subsequently. Note, that in this case the SPI transfer rate must be equal or

faster than the PHY data rate.

During frame reception, the SHR is used for PHY synchronization purposes. In Basic

Operating Mode an RX_START interrupt is issued 8 µs after detection of the SFD field.

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8.1.1.2 PHY Header (PHR)

The PHY header consists of a single octet following the SHR. The least significant

7 bits of that octet denote the frame length of the following PSDU, while the most

significant bit of that octet is reserved.

During transmission, the PHR field has to be supplied by the microcontroller during

Frame Buffer write access.

On receive, the radio transceiver does not write the PHR field into the Frame Buffer.

Instead it is prefixed to the PSDU during Frame Buffer read access. Note, that the

reserved MSB of the PHR octet is always set to 0.

8.1.1.3 PHY Payload (PHY Service Data Unit, PSDU)

The PSDU has a variable length between one and 127 octets.

8.1.2 MAC Protocol Layer Data Unit (MPDU)

8.1.2.1 MAC Header (MHR) Fields

The MAC header consists of the Frame Control Field (FCF), a sequence number, and

the variable length addressing fields.

8.1.2.2 Frame Control Field (FCF)

The FCF consists of 16 bits, and occupies the first two octets of the MPDU.

Bit [2:0] describe the frame type. Table 8-1 summarizes frame types defined by

IEEE 802.15.4-2003, section 7.2.1.1.1.

Table 8-1. IEEE 802.15.4-2003 Frame Types

Frame Control field bit assig nments

Bit [2:0] value

Description

000 0 Beacon

001 1 Data

010 2 Acknowledge

011 3 MAC command

100 – 111 4 – 7 Reserved

These bits are used for address filtering by applying the IEEE 802.15.4-2003 third level

filter rules. Only frame types 0 – 3 pass the third level filter rules. Automatic address

filtering by the AT86RF230 is enabled when using the RX_AACK operation (see section

7.2.3.1).

Bit 3: indicates whether security processing applies to this frame. This field is not

evaluated by the AT86RF230.

Bit 4 is the “frame pending” subfield. This field can be set in an acknowledgement

frame. It indicates that the transmitter of the acknowledgement frame has more data to

send for the recipient of the acknowledgement frame. For acknowledgment frames

automatically generated by the AT86RF230, this bit is set according to the content of

Bit 5 forms the “acknowledgment request” subfield. If this bit is set within a data or MAC

command frame that is not broadcast, the recipient shall acknowledge the reception of

the frame within the time specified by IEEE 802.15.4-2003 (i.e. within 192 µs for

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nonbeacon-enabled networks). The AT86RF230 parses this bit during RX_AACK

operation and transmits an acknowledgment frame if necessary.

Bit 6 the “Intra-PAN” subfield indicates that in a frame, where both, the destination and

source addresses are present, the PAN ID is omitted from the source address field.

This bit is evaluated by the AT86RF230 address filter logic when using RX_AACK

operation.

Bit [11:10] the “Destination address mode” subfield describes the format of the

destination address of the frame. The values of the address modes are summarized in

Table 8-2, according to IEEE 802.15.4-2003:

Table 8-2. IEEE 802.15.4-2003 Address Modes

Addressing Mode Value

Bit [11:10]

Bit [15:14] value

Description

00 0 Address not present

01 1 Reserved, must not be used

10 2 Address is 16-bit short

11 3 Address is 64-bit extended address

If the destination address mode is either 2 or 3 (i.e. if the destination address is present

at all), it always consists of a 16-bit PAN ID first, followed by either the 16-bit or 64-bit

address as described by the mode.

Bit [15:14] form the “Source address mode” subfield, with a similar meaning as

“Destination address mode”.

The address field description bits of the FCF (Bits 6, 10, 11, 14, 15) affect the address

filter logic of the AT86RF230 while operating in RX_AACK states (see section 7.2.3.1).

8.1.2.3 Sequence number

The one-octet sequence number following the FCF identifies a particular frame, so that

duplicated frame transmissions can be detected. While operating in RX_AACK states,

the content of this field is copied from the frame to be acknowledged into the

acknowledgment frame.

8.1.2.4 Addressing fields

The addressing fields terminate the MHR. The destination address (if present) is always

transmitted first, followed by the source address (if present). Each address consists of

the PAN ID and a device address. If both addresses are present, and the “Intra PAN”

subfield in the FCF is set to 1, the source PAN ID is omitted.

Note that in addition to these general rules, IEEE 802.15.4-2003 further restricts the

valid address combinations for the individual possible MAC frame types. For example,

the situation where both addresses are omitted (source addressing mode = 0 and

destination addressing mode = 0) is only allowed for acknowledgment frames. The

address filter in the AT86RF230 has been designed to apply to IEEE 802.15.4-2003

compliant frames only.

8.1.2.5 MAC Service Data Unit (MSDU)

This is the actual MAC payload. It is usually structured according to the individual frame

type descriptions in IEEE 802.15.4-2003.

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8.1.2.6 MAC Footer (MFR) Fields

The MAC footer consists of a two-octet frame checksum (FCS). The AT86RF230 can

generate and evaluate this FCS automatically, for details refer to section 8.2.

8.2 Frame Check Sequence (FCS)

The frame check sequence main features are:

• Indicates bit errors, based on a cyclic redundancy check (CRC) of length 16 bit

• Uses International Telecommunication Union (ITU) CRC polynomial

• Automatically evaluated during reception

• Can be automatically generated during transmission

8.2.1.1 Overview

The FCS is intended for use at the MAC level to detect corrupted frames. It is computed

by applying an ITU CRC polynomial to all transferred bytes following the length field

(MHR and MSDU fields). The frame check sequence has a length of 16 bit and is

located in the last two bytes of a frame (MAC footer, see Figure 8-2).

The AT86RF230 applies an FCS check on each received frame. The FCS check result

is stored to register bit RX_CRC_VALID in register 0x06 (PHY_RSSI). On transmit the

radio transceiver can be configured to autonomously compute and append the FCS

bytes.

8.2.2 CRC calculation

The CRC polynomial used in IEEE 802.15.4-2003 networks is defined by

1)( 51216

16 +++= xxxxG .

The FCS shall be calculated for transmission using the following algorithm:

Let

)( −−

−− ++++= kk

kk bxbxbxbxM K

be the polynomial representing the sequence of bits for which the checksum is to be

computed. Multiply M(x) by x16, giving the polynomial

)()( xxMxN ⋅= .

Divide N(x) modulo 2 by the generator polynomial, G16(x), to obtain the remainder

polynomial,

1514

0...)( rxrxrxrxR ++++=

The FCS field is given by the coefficients of the remainder polynomial, R(x).

Example:

Considering a 5 octet ACK frame. The MHR field consists of

0100 0000 0000 0000 0101 0110.

The leftmost bit (b0) is transmitted first in time. The FCS would be following

0010 0111 1001 1110.

The leftmost bit (r0) is transmitted first in time.

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8.2.3 Automatic FCS generation

The AT86RF230 automatic FCS generation and insertion is enabled by setting register

bit TX_AUTO_CRC_ON to 1.

For a frame with a frame length field (PHR) specified as N (3  N  127), the FCS is

calculated on the first N-2 PSDU octets in the Frame Buffer, and the resulting 16 bit

FCS field is appended during transmission. Note, if the AT86RF230 automatic FCS

generation is enabled, the frame download to the Frame Buffer can be stopped right

after MAC payload. There is no need to download FCS dummy bytes.

In RX_AACK states, when a received frame needs to be acknowledged, the FCS of the

ACK frame is always automatically generated by the AT86RF230.

Example:

A frame transmission of length five with the register bit TX_AUTO_CRC_ON set, is

started with a frame download of five bytes (the last two bytes can be omitted). The first

three bytes are used for FCS generation, the last two bytes are replaced by the

internally calculated FCS.

8.2.4 Automatic FCS check

An FCS check is applied on each incoming frame with a frame length N  2. The result

of the FCS check is stored to register bit RX_CRC_VALID in register 0x06

(PHY_RSSI). The register bit is updated at the event of the TRX_END interrupt and

remains valid until the next TRX_END interrupt caused by a new frame reception.

In RX_AACK states, if FCS of the received frame is not valid, the radio transceiver

rejects the frame and the TRX_END interrupt will not be generated.

In TX_ARET states, the FCS of an ACK is automatically checked. If it is not correct, the

ACK is not accepted.

8.2.5 Register Description

The PHY_TX_PWR register sets the transmit power and controls the FCS algorithm for

TX operation.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x05 TX_AUTO_CRC_ON Reserved PHY_TX_PWR

Read/Write R/W R R R

Reset value 0 0 0 0

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x05 TX_PWR PHY_TX_PWR

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0

• Bit 7 – TX_AUTO_CRC_ON

operation. The automatic FCS algorithm is performed autonomously by the radio

transceiver if register bit TX_AUTO_CRC_ON = 1.

• Bit [6:4] – Reserved

• Bit [3:0] – TX_PWR

Refer to section 9.2.3.

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The PHY_RSSI register is a multi purpose register to indicate the current received

signal strength (RSSI) and the FCS validity of a received frame.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x06 RX_CRC_VALID Reserved RSSI PHY_RSSI

Read/Write R R R R

Reset value 0 0 0 0

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x06 RSSI PHY_RSSI

Read/Write R R R R

Reset value 0 0 0 0

• Bit 7 – RX_CRC_VALID

This register bit indicates whether a received frame has a valid FCS. The register bit is

updated when issuing the TRX_END interrupt remains valid until the next TRX_END

interrupt caused by a new frame reception.

Table 8-3. RX FCS Result

0 FCS is not valid. RX_CRC_VALID

1 FCS is valid.

• Bit [6:5] – Reserved

• Bit [4:0] – RSSI

Refer to section 8.4.4.

8.3 Energy Detection (ED)

The main features for the Energy Detection module are:

• 85 unique energy levels defined

• 1 dB resolution

8.3.1 Overview

The receiver Energy Detection measurement is used by a network layer as part of a

channel selection algorithm. It is an estimation of the received signal power within the

bandwidth of an IEEE 802.15.4-2003 channel. No attempt is made to identify or decode

signals on the channel. The ED value is calculated by averaging RSSI values over eight

symbols (128 µs).

8.3.2 Request an ED Measure ment

There are two ways implemented in the AT86RF230 to initiate an ED measurement:

• Manually, by a write access to register 0x07 (PHY_ED_LEVEL), or

• Automatically, by detecting a valid SFD of an incoming frame.

For manually initiated ED measurement the radio transceiver needs to be in one of the

states RX_ON or BUSY_RX. An automated ED measurement is started, if a SFD field

is detected. A valid SFD detection is signalized by an RX_START interrupt in Basic

Operating Mode.

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The measurement result is stored to register 0x07 (PHY_ED_LEVEL) 140 µs after its

initialization. The value is always 0 if the AT86RF230 is not in any of the RX states.

Thus by using Basic Operating Mode, a valid ED value from the currently received

frame is accessible 140 µs after the RX_START interrupt and remains valid until a new

RX_START interrupt is generated by the next incoming frame or until another ED

measurement is initiated manually.

By using the Extended Operating Mode, the RX_START interrupt is always masked

and cannot be used as timing reference. Here successful frame reception is only

signalized by the TRX_END interrupt. The minimum time between a TRX_END

interrupt and a following SFD detection is 96 µs. Including the ED measurement time,

the ED value needs to be read within 224 µs after the TRX_END interrupt; otherwise, it

could be overwritten by the result of the next measurement cycle.

Note, it is not recommended to initiate manually an ED measurement when using the

Extended Operating Mode.

8.3.3 Data Interpreta tion

The PHY_ED_LEVEL is an 8 bit register. The ED value of the AT86RF230 radio

transceiver has a valid range from 0 to 84 with a resolution of 1 dB. All other values do

not occur. If zero is read from the PHY_ED_LEVEL register, this indicates that the

measured energy is less than -91 dBm (see parameter 11.7.16). Due to environmental

conditions (temperature, voltage, semiconductor parameters, etc.) the computed energy

value has an accuracy of ±5 dBm, this is to be considered as constant offset over the

measurement range.

8.3.4 Register Description

The ED_LEVEL register contains the result after an ED measurement.

Bit 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0x07 ED_LEVEL[7:0] ED_LEVEL

Read/Write R R R R R R R R

Reset value 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

• Bit [7:0] – ED_LEVEL

The minimum ED value (ED_LEVEL = 0) indicates receiver power less than

RSSI_BASE_VAL. The range is 84 dB with a resolution of 1 dB and an absolute

accuracy of ±5 dB. The measurement period is 8 symbol periods.

A manual ED measurement can be initiated by a write access to the register.

8.4 Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI)

The Received Signal Strength Indicator main features are:

• Minimum RSSI sensitivity is -91 dBm (RSSI_BASE_VAL, see parameter 11.7.16)

• Dynamic range is 81 dB

• Minimum RSSI value is 0

• Maximum RSSI value is 28

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8.4.1 Overview

The RSSI is a 5-bit value indicating the receive power in the selected channel, in steps

of 3 dB. No attempt is made to distinguish between IEEE 802.15.4 signal and other

signal source, only the received signal power is evaluated. The RSSI provides the basis

for ED measurement.

8.4.2 Reading RSSI

Using the Basic Operating Mode, the RSSI value is valid at any RX state, and is

updated every 2 s. The current RSSI value is stored to the PHY_RSSI register.

Note, it is not recommended to read the RSSI value when using the Extended

Operating Mode. The automatically generated ED value should be used alternatively

(see section 8.3).

8.4.3 Data Interpreta tion

The PHY_RSSI is an 8-bit register, however, the value is represented in the lowest five

bits [4:0] and the range is 0 – 28.

An RSSI value of 0 indicates an RF input power of < -91 dBm. For an RSSI value in the

range of 1 to 28, the RF input power can be calculated as follows:

RF = RSSI_BASE_VAL + 3•(RSSI - 1)

8.4.4 Register Description

The PHY_RSSI register is a multi purpose register to indicate the current received

signal strength (RSSI) and the FCS validity of a received frame.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x06 RX_CRC_VALID Reserved RSSI PHY_RSSI

Read/Write R R R R

Reset value 0 0 0 0

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x06 RSSI PHY_RSSI

Read/Write R R R R

Reset value 0 0 0 0

• Bit 7 – RX_CRC_VALID

Refer to section 8.2.5.

• Bit [6:5] – Reserved

• Bit [4:0] – RSSI

The register bits RSSI contain the result of the automated RSSI measurement. The

value is updated every 2 s in receive states.

The read value is a number between 0 and 28 indicating the received signal strength as

a linear curve on a logarithmic input power scale (dBm) with a resolution of 3 dB. An

RSSI value of 0 indicates an RF input power of < -91 dBm (see parameter 11.7.17), a

value of 28 a power of  -10 dBm (see parameter 11.7.18).

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8.5 Link Quality Indication (LQI)

The IEEE 802.15.4 standard defines the LQI measurement as a characterization of the

strength and/or quality of a received packet. The use of the LQI result by the network or

application layer is not specified in this standard. LQI values shall be an integer ranging

from 0 to 255. The minimum and maximum LQI values (0 and 255) should be

associated with the lowest and highest quality compliant signals, respectively, and LQI

values in between should be uniformly distributed between these two limits.

8.5.1 Overview

The AT86RF230 determines the link quality of a radio link. The radio transceiver uses

correlation results of multiple symbols within a frame to determine the LQI value. This is

done for each received frame. The minimum frame length for a valid LQI value is two

octets PSDU. LQI values are integers ranging from 0 to 255.

The LQI values can be associated with an expected packet error rate (PER). The PER

is the ratio of erroneous received frames to the total number of received frames. A PER

of zero indicates no frame error, whereas at a PER of one no frame was received

correctly.

As an example, Figure 8-3 shows the conditional packet error rate with associated LQI

values. The values are taken from received frames of length 20 octets PSDU on

transmission channels with low multipath delay spreads. Even if the transmission

channel characteristic has higher multipath delay spread than assumed for this

example, the dependency of PER to LQI values is not affected.

Since the packet error rate is a statistical value, the PER shown in Figure 8-3 is based

on a huge number of receptions.

Figure 8-3. Conditional Packet Error Rate versus LQI

0.1

0.2

0.3

0.4

0.5

0.6

0.7

0.8

0.9

0 50 100 150 200 250

PER

LQI

8.5.2 Request an LQI Measure ment

The LQI byte can be obtained after a frame has been received by the radio transceiver.

One additional byte is attached to the received frame containing the LQI value. This

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information can be read as an extra byte from the Frame Buffer (see section 9.1). The

LQI byte can be uploaded after the TRX_END interrupt.

8.5.3 Data Interpreta tion

A low LQI value is associated with low signal strength and/or high signal distortions.

Signal distortions are mainly caused by interference signals and/or multipath

propagation. High LQI values indicate a sufficient high signal power and low signal

distortions.

Note, the received signal power as indicated by received signal strength indication

(RSSI) value or energy detection (ED) value do not characterize the signal quality and

the ability to decode a signal. As an example, a received signal with an input power of

about 6 dB above the receiver sensitivity likely results in a LQI value close to 255 for

radio channels with very low signal distortions. For higher signal power levels the LQI

value becomes independent of the actual signal strength. This is because the packet

error rate for these scenarios tends towards zero and further increase of the signal

strength, i.e. by increasing the transmission power, does not decrease the error rate

any further. In this case RSSI or ED can be used to evaluate the signal strength and the

link margin.

ZigBee networks require to determine the “best” route between two nodes. Both, the

LQI and the RSSI/ED can be used for this, depending on the optimization criteria. As a

rule of thumb RSSI/ED is useful to differentiate between links with high LQI values.

Transmission links with low LQI values should be discarded for routing decisions even if

the RSSI/ED values are high.

8.6 Clear Channel Assessment (CCA)

The main features of the Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) module are:

• All 3 modes available as defined by IEEE 802.15.4-2003 in section 6.7.9

• Adjustable threshold of the energy detection algorithm

8.6.1 Overview

The CCA is used to detect a clear channel. There are three modes available as defined

in Table 8-4.

Table 8-4. Available CCA Modes

CCA Mode Description

1 Energy above threshold.

CCA shall report a busy medium upon detecting any energy above the ED

threshold.

2 Carrier sense only.

CCA shall report a busy medium only upon the detection of a signal with the

modulation and spreading characteristics of IEEE 802.15.4. This signal may be

above or below the ED threshold.

3 Carrier sense with energy above threshold.

CCA shall report a busy medium only upon the detection of a signal with the

modulation and spreading characteristics of IEEE 802.15.4 with energy above

the ED threshold.

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8.6.2 CCA Configuration and Request

The CCA modes are configurable via register 0x08 (PHY_CC_CCA).

The 4 bit value CCA_ED_THRES of register 0x09 (CCA_THRES) defines the received

power threshold of the “energy above threshold” algorithm. The threshold is calculated

by RSSI_BASE_VAL+2•CCA_ED_THRES [dBm].

Using the Basic Operating Mode, a CCA request can be initiated manually by setting

CCA_REQUEST = 1 in register 0x08 (PHY_CC_CCA), if the AT86RF230 is in any RX

state. The CCA computation is done over eight symbol periodes and the result is

accessible 140 µs after the request.

Note, it is not recommended to initiate manually a CCA measurement when using the

Extended Operating Mode.

8.6.3 Data Interpreta tion

The current channel status (CCA_STATUS) and the CCA completion status

(CCA_DONE) are accessible in register 0x01 (TRX_STATUS). Note, a read access to

this register clears register bits CCA_DONE and CCA_STATUS.

The completion of a measurement cycle is indicated by CCA_DONE = 1. If the radio

transceiver detected no signal (idle channel) during the measurement cycle, the

CCA_STATUS bit is set to 1.

When using the “energy above threshold” algorithm (mode 1 and mode 3) any received

power above CCA_ED_THRES level is interpreted as a busy channel. The “carrier

sense” algorithm (mode 2 and mode 3) reports a busy channel when detecting a

IEEE 802.15.4 signal above the RSSI_BASE_VAL (see parameter 11.7.16). The radio

transceiver is also able to detect signals below this value, but the detection probability

decreases with the signal power. It is almost zero at the radio transceivers sensitivity

level (see parameter 11.7.1).

8.6.4 Register Description

The TRX_STATUS register signals the current state of the radio transceiver as well as

the status of the CCA measurement. Note, a read access to the register clears bits

CCA_DONE and CCA_STATUS.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x01 CCA_DONE CCA_STATUS Reserved TRX_STATUS TRX_STATUS

Read/Write R R R R

Reset value 0 0 0 0

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x01 TRX_STATUS TRX_STATUS

Read/Write R R R R

Reset value 0 0 0 0

• Bit 7 – CCA_DONE

This register indicates if a CCA request is completed. Each read access to register

0x01 resets the CCA_DONE bit.

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Table 8-5. Status CCA Algorithm

0 CCA calculation in progress CCA_DONE

1 CCA calculation finished

• Bit 6 – CCA_STATUS

CCA_STATUS register bit indicates the result of a CCA request. Each read access to

Table 8-6. Status CCA Result

0 Channel is busy CCA_STATUS

1 Channel is idle

• Bit 5 – Reserved

• Bit [4:0] – TRX_STATUS

Refer to section 7.1.5.

The PHY_CC_CCA register contains register bits to initiate and control the CCA

measurement as well as to set the channel center frequency.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x08 CCA_REQUEST CCA_MODE CHANNEL PHY_CC_CCA

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 1 0

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x08 CHANNEL PHY_CC_CCA

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 1 0 1 1

• Bit 7 – CCA_REQUEST

A manual CCA measurement is initiated with setting CCA_REQUEST = 1.

• Bit [6:5] – CCA_MODE

The CCA mode can be selected using register bits CCA_MODE.

Table 8-7. CCA Modes

0 Reserved

1 Mode 1, Energy above threshold

2 Mode 2, Carrier sense only

CCA_MODE

3 Mode 3, Carrier sense with energy above threshold

• Bit [4:0] – CHANNEL

Refer to section 9.7.5.

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This register contains the threshold level for CCA-ED measurement.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x09 Reserved CCA_THRES

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 1 1 0 0

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x09 CCA_ED_THRES CCA_THRES

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 1 1 1

• Bit [7:4] – Reserved

• Bit [3:0] – CCA_ED_T H RES

The register bits CCA_ED_THRES define the threshold value of the CCA-ED

measurement. A cannel is indicated as busy when the received signal power is above

RSSI_BASE_VAL + 2 • CCA_ED_THRES [dBm].

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9 Module Description

9.1 Receiver (RX)

9.1.1 Overview

The AT86RF230 receiver is spitted into an analog radio front end and a digital base

band processor (RX BBP), see Figure 3-1.

The RF signal is amplified by a low noise amplifier (LNA) and converted down to an

intermediate frequency by a mixer. Channel selectivity is performed using an integrated

band pass filter. A limiting amplifier (Limiter) provides sufficient gain to overcome the

DC offset of the succeeding analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and generates a digital

RSSI signal with 3 dB granularity. The IF signal is sampled and processed further by

the digital base band receiver.

The RX BBP performs additional signal filtering and signal synchronization. The

frequency offset of each frame is calculated by the synchronization unit and is used

during the remaining receive process to correct the offset. The receiver is designed to

handle frequency and symbol rate deviations up to ±120 ppm, caused by combined

receiver and transmitter deviations. For details refer to section 11.5 parameter 11.5.6.

Finally the signal is demodulated and the data are stored to the Frame Buffer.

In Basic Operating Mode the start of an IEEE 802.15.4 compliant frame is indicated by

a RX_START interrupt. Accordingly it’s end is signalized by an TRX_END interrupt.

Based on the quality of the received signal a link quality indicator (LQI) is calculated

and appended to the frame, refer to section 8.5. Additional signal processing is applied

to the frame data to provide further status information like ED value (register 0x07) and

FCS correctness (register 0x06).

Beyond these features the Extended Operating Mode of the AT86RF230 supports

address filtering and pending data indication. For details refer to section 7.2.

9.1.2 Configuration

The receiver is enabled by writing the command RX_ON for the Basic Operating Mode

or RX_AACK_ON for the Extended Operating Mode to register bits TRX_CMD in

The receiver does not need any additional configuration to receive IEEE 802.15.4

compliant frames on the current selected channel when using the Basic Operating

Mode. However the frame reception in the Extended Operating Mode requires further

9.2 Transmitter (TX)

9.2.1 Overview

The AT86RF230 transmitter consists of a digital base band processor (TX BBP) and an

analog radio front end, see Figure 3-1.

The TX BBP reads the frame data from the Frame Buffer and performs the bit-to-

symbol and symbol-to-chip mapping as specified by IEEE 802.15.4 in section 6.5.2.

The O-QPSK modulation signal is generated and fed into the analog radio front end.

The fractional-N frequency synthesizer (PLL) converts the baseband transmit signal to

the RF signal, which is amplified by the power amplifier (PA). The PA output is internally

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connected to bidirectional differential antenna pins (RFP, RFN), so that no external

antenna switch is needed.

9.2.2 Configuration

In Basic Operating Mode a transmission is started from PLL_ON state by either writing

TX_START to register bits TRX_CMD (register 0x02, TRX_STATE) or by raising edge

of SLP_TR.

In Extended Operating Modes a transmission is started automatically dependent on the

transaction phase of either RX_AACK or TX_ARET, refer to section 7.2.

The RF output power can be set via register bits TX_PWR in register 0x05

(PHY_TX_PWR). The maximum output power of the transmitter is typical +3 dBm. The

selectable output power range of the transmitter is 20 dB.

9.2.3 Register Description

The PHY_TX_PWR register sets the transmit power and controls the FCS algorithm for

TX operation.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x05 TX_AUTO_CRC_ON Reserved PHY_TX_PWR

Read/Write R/W R R R

Reset value 0 0 0 0

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x05 TX_PWR PHY_TX_PWR

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0

• Bit 7 – TX_AUTO_CRC_ON

Refer to sections 7.2.6 and 8.2.

• Bit [6:4] – Reserved

• Bit [3:0] – TX_PWR

The register bits TX_PWR sets the TX output power of the AT86RF230. The available

power settings are summarized in Table 9-1.

Table 9-1. PA Output Power Setting

0x0 +3.0

0x1 +2.6

0x2 +2.1

0x3 +1.6

0x4 +1.1

0x5 +0.5

0x6 -0.2

0x7 -1.2

0x8 -2.2

0x9 -3.2

TX_PWR

0xA -4.2

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0xB -5.2

0xC -7.2

0xD -9.2

0xE -12.2

0xF -17.2

9.3 Frame Buffer

The AT86RF230 contains a 128 byte dual port SRAM. One port is connected to the SPI

interface, the other to the internal TX/RX BBP port. For data communication both ports

are independent and simultaneously accessible. Access conflicts are indicated by a

TRX under run (TRX_UR) interrupt.

The Frame Buffer is used for the TX and RX operation of the device and can keep one

IEEE 802.15.4-2003 TX or one RX frame of maximum length at a time.

Note, a Frame Buffer access is only possible if the digital voltage regulator is turned on.

This is the case in all device states except in SLEEP and P_ON.

9.3.1 Frame Buffer Data Management

Data stored in Frame Buffer (received data or data to be transmitted) remains valid as

long as

• No new frame is written into the buffer via SPI

• No new frame is received (in any BUSY_RX state)

• No state change into SLEEP state is made

If the radio transceiver is in any RX state an incoming frame with valid SFD field

overwrites the Frame Buffer content 32 µs after the RX_START interrupt occurs, even if

the RX_START interrupt is disabled. Thus the Frame Buffer content should be

uploaded to the microcontroller before the next SFD is received. To avoid an

unintended Frame Buffer overwrite a state change to PLL_ON immediately after the

frame reception (TRX_END interrupt) is recommended.

Using the Extended Operating Mode states TX_ARET_ON or TX_ARET_ON_NOCLK,

the radio transceiver switches to RX (after successful frame transmission), if an

acknowledgement was requested in FCF. Received frames are evaluated but not

stored in the Frame Buffer in these states. This allows the radio transceiver to wait for

an acknowledgement frame and retry the data frame transmission without downloading

them again.

A radio transceiver state change, except a transition to SLEEP, does not affect the

Frame Buffer contents. If the radio transceiver is forced into SLEEP, the Frame Buffer is

powered off and the stored data gets lost.

9.3.2 User accessible Frame Content

The AT86RF230 supports an IEEE 802.15.4-2003 compliant frame format as shown in

Figure 9-1.

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Figure 9-1. Frame Structure

A frame comprises two sections, the fixed internally generated SHR field and the user

accessible part stored in the Frame Buffer. The first fixed part of the frame consists of

the preamble and the SFD field. The variable frame section contains the frame length

field and the frame payload followed by the FCS field. The Frame Buffer content differs

depending on the direction of the communication (RX or TX). To access the data follow

the procedures described in sections 6.2.2 and 6.2.3.

In any of the receive states, the payload and the link quality indicator (LQI) value of a

successfully received frame are stored to the Frame Buffer. The radio transceiver

appends the LQI value to the PSDU data. The frame length information is not stored to

the Frame Buffer. When using the Frame Buffer access mode to read the Frame Buffer

content, the PHR octet is automatically prefixed to the payload during the upload

process. If the SRAM access mode is used, the frame length information cannot be

accessed. The preamble or the SFD value cannot be read.

For frame transmission, the PHR octet and the PSDU data shall be stored to the Frame

Buffer. If the TX_AUTO_CRC_ON bit is set in register 0x05 (PHY_TX_PWR), the FCS

field is replaced by the automatically calculated FCS during frame transmission. There

is no need to download the FCS field when using the automatic FCS generation.

For non IEEE 802.15.4-2003 frames, the minimum PSDU length supported by the

AT86RF230 is one byte.

9.3.3 Frame Buffer Interrupt Handling

Access conflicts may occur when reading or writing data simultaneously at the two

independent ports of the Frame Buffer, BBP and SPI. Both of these ports have its own

address counter that points to the Frame Buffer’s current address.

During Frame Buffer read access, if the SPI port’s address counter value is more than

or equal to that of TX/RX BBP port then an access violation occurs. This indicates that

the SPI transfer rate is higher than the PHY data rate.

Similar on Frame Buffer write access, an access violation occurs if the SPI port’s

address counter value is less than or equal to that of TX/RX BBP port. This access

violation can occur if the SPI transfer rate during a frame download is slower than the

PHY data rate, while having started the frame transmission already.

Both these access violations may cause data corruption and are indicated by TRX_UR

interrupt when using the Frame Buffer access mode. Access violations are not indicated

when using the SRAM access mode.

While receiving a frame, primarily the data needs to be stored to the Frame Buffer

before reading it. This can be ensured by starting the Frame Buffer read access 32 µs

after the RX_START interrupt at the earliest. When reading the frame data continuously

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the SPI transfer rate shall be lower than 250 Kbit/s to ensure no TRX_UR interrupt

occurs.

Note, during the Frame Buffer read access the TRX_UR interrupt is first valid 64 µs

after the RX_START interrupt. The occurrence of the interrupt can be disregarded when

reading the first byte of the Frame Buffer between 32 µs and 64 µs after the

RX_START interrupt.

If a received frame upload is delayed and during the upload process a new frame is

received, a TRX_UR and an RX_START interrupt occurs. Even so, the old frame data

can be read, if the SPI data rate is higher than the effective over air data rate. A

minimum SPI clock rate of 1 MHz is recommended in this special case. Finally it is

required to check the uploaded frame data integrity by a FCS using the microcontroller.

When writing data to the Frame Buffer during frame transmission, the SPI transfer rate

shall be higher than 250 Kbit/s to ensure no TRX_UR interrupt occurs. The first byte of

the PSDU data must be available in the Frame Buffer before SFD transmission has

been completed, which takes 176 µs (16 µs PA ramp up + 128 µs preamble

transmission + 32 µs SFD transmission) from the rising edge of SLP_TR pin (see

Figure 7-2).

9.4 Voltage Regulators (AVREG, DVREG)

The main features of the Voltage Regulator modules are:

• Bandgap stabilized 1.8V supply for analog and digital domain.

• Low dropout (LDO) voltage regulator

• Configurable for usage of external voltage regulator

9.4.1 Overview

The internal voltage regulators supply the low voltage domains of the AT86RF230. The

AVREG provides the regulated 1.8V supply voltage for the analog section and the

DVREG supplies the 1.8V supply voltage for the digital section. A simplified schematic

of the internal voltage regulator is shown in Figure 9-2.

Figure 9-2. Simplified Schematic of AVREG/DVREG

Bandgap

voltage

reference

1.25V

DVDD / AVDD

DEVDD / EVDD

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9.4.2 Configure the Voltage Regulators

The voltage regulators can be configured by the register 0x10 (VREG_CTRL).

It is recommended to use the internal regulators, but it is also possible to supply the low

voltage domains by an external voltage source. For this configuration, the internal

regulators need to be switched off by setting the register bits to the values

AVREG_EXT = 1 and DVREG_EXT = 1. A regulated external supply voltage of 1.8V

needs to be connected to the pins DVDD and AVDD. When turning on the external

supply, ensure a sufficiently long stabilization time before interacting with the

AT86RF230.

9.4.3 Data Interpreta tion

The status bit values AVDD_OK = 1 and DVDD_OK = 1 indicate an enabled and stable

internal supply voltage. Reading 0 indicates a disabled or unstable internal supply

voltage.

9.4.4 Register Description

This register VREG_CTRL controls the use of the voltage regulators and indicates the

status of these.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x10 AVREG_EXT AVDD_OK Reserved VREG_CTRL

Read/Write R/W R R/W R/W

Initial value 0 0 0 0

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x10 DVREG_EXT DVDD_OK Reserved VREG_CTRL

Read/Write R/W R R/W R/W

Initial value 0 0 0 0

• Bit 7 – AVREG_EXT

The register bit AVREG_EXT defines whether the internal analog voltage regulator or

an external regulator is used to supply the analog low voltage building blocks of the

radio transceiver.

Table 9-2. Regulated Voltage Supply Control for Analog Building Blocks

0 Use internal voltage regulator AVREG_EXT

1 Use external voltage regulator, internal voltage

regulator is disabled

• Bit 6 – AVDD_OK

This register bit AVDD_OK indicates if the internal 1.8V regulated supply voltage AVDD

has settled. The bit is set to logic high, if AVREG_EXT = 1.

Table 9-3 Regulated Voltage Supply Control for Analog Building Blocks

0 Analog voltage regulator disabled or supply voltage not

stable

AVDD_OK

1 Analog supply voltage has settled

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• Bit [5:4] – Reserved

• Bit 7 – DVREG_EXT

The register bit DVREG_EXT defines whether the internal digital voltage regulator or an

external regulator is used to supply the digital low voltage building blocks of the radio

transceiver.

Table 9-4. Regulated Voltage Supply Control for Digital Building Blocks

0 Use internal voltage regulator DVREG_EXT

1 Use external voltage regulator, internal voltage

regulator is disabled

• Bit 6 – DVDD_OK

This register bit DVDD_OK indicates if the internal 1.8V regulated supply voltage DVDD

has settled. The bit is set to logic high, if DVREG_EXT = 1.

Table 9-5 Regulated Voltage Supply Control for Digital Building Blocks

0 Digital voltage regulator disabled or supply voltage not

stable

DVDD_OK

1 Digital supply voltage has settled

• Bit [1:0] – Reserved

9.5 Battery Monitor (BATMON)

The main features of the battery monitor are:

• Programmable voltage threshold range: 1.7V to 3.675V

• Battery low voltage interrupt

9.5.1 Overview

The battery monitor (BATMON) detects and indicates a low supply voltage. This is done

by comparing the voltage on the external supply pin (EVDD) with a programmable

internal threshold voltage. A simplified schematic of the BATMON with the most

important input and output signals is shown in Figure 9-3.

Figure 9-3. Simplified Schematic of BATMON

BATMON_HR

BATMON_VTH

EVDD

Threshold

Voltage

BATMON_OK

„1“

BATMON_IRQ

For input-to-output mapping

see control register

0x11 (BATMON)

DAC

clear

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9.5.2 Data Interpreta tion

The signal bit BATMON_OK of register 0x11 (BATMON) indicates the current value of

the battery voltage:

• If BATMON_OK = 0, the battery voltage is lower than the threshold voltage

• If BATMON_OK = 1, the battery voltage is higher than the threshold voltage

After setting a new threshold, the value BATMON_OK should be read out to verify the

current supply voltage value.

Note, the battery monitor is inactive during P_ON and SLEEP states, see control

9.5.3 BATMON Interrupt Handling

A supply voltage drop below the programmed threshold value is indicated by the

BAT_LOW interrupt, see control register 0x0E and 0x0F. The interrupt is issued only if

BATMON_OK changes from 1 to 0.

No interrupt is generated when:

• The battery voltage is under the default 1.8V threshold at power up (BATMON_OK

was never 1), or

• A new threshold is set, which is still above the current supply voltage (BATMON_OK

remains 0).

Noise or temporary voltage drops may generate unwanted interrupts when the battery

voltage is close to the programmed threshold voltage. To avoid this:

• Disable the IRQ_7 (BAT_LOW) in register 0x0E (IRQ_MASK) and treat the battery

as empty, or

• Set a lower threshold value.

9.5.4 Register Description

The register BATMON configures the battery monitor. Additionally the supply voltage

status at pin 28 (EVDD) is accessible by reading register bit BATMON_OK according to

the actual BATMON settings.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x11 Reserved BATMON_OK BATMON_HR BATMON

Read/Write R R R R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x11 BATMON_VTH BATMON

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 1 0

• Bit [7:6] – Reserved

• Bit 5 – BATMON_OK

The register bit BATMON_OK indicates the level of the external supply voltage with

respect to the programmed threshold BATMON_VTH.

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Table 9-6. Battery Monitor Status

0 V

DD < BATMON_VTH BATMON_OK

1 VDD > BATMON_VTH

• Bit 4 – BATMON_HR

The register bit BATMON_HR selects the range and resolution of the battery monitor.

Table 9-7. Battery Monitor Voltage Range Settings

0 Enables the low range, see BATMON_VTH BATMON_HR

1 Enables the high range, see BATMON_VTH

• Bit [3:0] – BATMON_VTH

The threshold value for the battery monitor is set with register bits BATMON_VTH.

Table 9-8. Battery Monitor Threshold Voltages

Value

BATMON_VTH [3:0] Threshold Voltage [V]

BATMON_HR = 1 Threshold Voltage [V]

BATMON_HR = 0

0x0 2.550 1.70

0x1 2.625 1.75

0x2 2.700 1.80

0x3 2.775 1.85

0x4 2.850 1.90

0x5 2.925 1.95

0x6 3.000 2.00

0x7 3.075 2.05

0x8 3.150 2.10

0x9 3.225 2.15

0xA 3.300 2.20

0xB 3.375 2.25

0xC 3.450 2.30

0xD 3.525 2.35

0xE 3.600 2.40

0xF 3.675 2.45

9.6 Crystal Oscillator (XOSC)

The main crystal oscillator features are:

• 16 MHz amplitude controlled crystal oscillator

• 500 µs typical settling time

• Integrated trimming capacitance array

• Programmable clock output (CLKM)

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9.6.1 Overview

The crystal oscillator generates the reference frequency for the AT86RF230. All other

internally generated frequencies of the radio transceiver are derived from this unique

frequency. Therefore, the overall system performance is mainly based on the accuracy

of this reference frequency. The external components of the crystal oscillator should be

selected carefully and the related board layout should be done meticulously (refer to

section 5).

The register 0x12 (XOSC_CTRL) provides access to the control signals of the

oscillator. Two operating modes are supported. It is recommended to use the integrated

oscillator setup as described in Figure 9-4, nevertheless a reference frequency can be

fed to the internal circuitry by using an external clock reference as shown in Figure 9-5.

9.6.2 Integrated Oscillator Setup

Using the internal oscillator, the oscillation frequency strongly depends on the load

capacitance between the crystal pins XTAL1 and XTAL2. The total load capacitance CL

must be equal to the specified load capacitance of the crystal itself. It consists of the

external capacitors CX and parasitic capacitances connected to the XTAL nodes. In

Figure 9-4, all parasitic capacitances, such as PCB stray capacitances and the pin input

capacitance, are summarized to CPAR. Additional internal trimming capacitors CTRIM are

available. Any value in the range from 0 pF to 4.5 pF with a 0.3 pF resolution is

selectable using XTAL_TRIM of register 0x12 (XOSC_CTRL). To calculate the total

load capacitance, the following formula can be used

CL = 0.5•(CX+CTRIM+CPAR).

The trimming capacitors provide the possibility of reducing frequency deviations caused

by production process variations or by external components tolerances. Note that the

oscillation frequency can be reduced only by increasing the trimming capacitance. The

frequency deviation caused by one step of CTRIM decreases with increasing crystal load

capacitor values.

A magnitude control circuit is included to ensure stable operation under different

operating conditions and for different crystal types. A high current during the amplitude

build-up phase guarantees a low start-up time. At stable operation, the current is

reduced to the amount necessary for a robust operation. This also keeps the drive level

of the crystal low.

Generally, crystals with a higher load capacitance are less sensitive to parasitic pulling

effects caused by external component variations or by variations of board and circuit

parasitics. On the other hand, a larger crystal load capacitance results in a longer start-

up time and a higher steady state current consumption.

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Figure 9-4. Simplified XOSC Schematic with External Components

CX CX

16MHz XTAL1XTAL2

EVDD

CTRIM

CPAR

AT86RF230

PCB

XTAL_TRIM[3:0]XTAL_TRIM[3:0]

9.6.3 External Reference Frequency Setup

When using an external reference frequency, the signal needs to be connected to pin

XTAL1 as indicated in Figure 9-5 and the register XTAL_MODE of register 0x12

(XOSC_CTRL) need to be set to the external oscillator mode. The oscillation peak-to-

peak amplitude shall be 400 mV, but not larger than 500 mV.

Figure 9-5. Setup for Using an External Frequency Reference

XTAL1

XTAL2

AT86RF230

PCB

16 MHz

9.6.4 Master Clock Signal Output (CLKM)

The generated reference clock signal can be fed to a microcontroller using pin 17

(CLKM). The internal 16 MHz raw clock can be divided by an internal prescaler. Thus,

clock frequencies of 16 MHz, 8 MHz, 4 MHz, 2 MHz or 1 MHz can be supplied by

pin CLKM.

The CLKM frequency and pin driver strength is configurable using register

0x03 (TRX_CTRL_0). There are two possibilities to change the CLKM frequency. If

CLKM_SHA_SEL = 0, changing the register bits CLKM_CTRL (register 0x03,

TRX_CTRL_0) immediately affects the CLKM clock rate. Otherwise

(CLKM_SHA_SEL = 1) the new clock rate is supplied when leaving the SLEEP state

the next time.

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To reduce power consumption and spurious emissions, it is recommended to turn off

the CLKM clock when not in use or to reduce its driver strength to a minimum, refer to

section 4.3.

Note:

During reset procedure, see section 7.1.4.2, register bits CLKM_CTRL are shadowed.

Although the clock setting of CLKM remains after reset, a read access to register bits

CLKM_CTRL delivers the reset value 1. For that reason it is recommended to write the

previous configuration (before reset) to the CLKM_CTRL to align the radio transceiver

behavior and register configuration. Otherwise the CLKM clock rate is set back to the

reset value (1 MHz) after the next SLEEP cycle.

For example if the CLKM clock rate is configured to 16 MHz the CLKM rate remains at

16 MHz after a reset, however the register bits CLKM_CTRL are set back to 1. Since

CLKM_SHA_SEL reset value is 1, the CLKM clock rate would change to 1 MHz after

the next SLEEP cycle if the CLKM_CTRL setting is not updated.

9.6.5 Register Description

The TRX_CTRL_0 register controls the drive current of the digital output pads and the

CLKM clock rate.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x03 PAD_IO PAD_IO_CLKM TRX_CTRL_0

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 1

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x03 CLKM_SHA_SEL CLKM_CTRL TRX_CTRL_0

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 1 0 0 1

• Bit [7:6] – PAD_IO

Refer to in section 4.3.3.

• Bit [5:6] – PAD_IO_CLKM

The register bits PAD_IO_CLKM set the output driver current of pin CLKM.

Table 9-9. CLKM Driver Strength

0 2 mA

1 4 mA

2 6 mA

PAD_IO_CLKM

3 8 mA

• Bit 3 – CLKM_SHA_SEL

The register bit CLKM_SHA_SEL defines the commencement of the CLKM clock rate

modifications when changing register bits CLKM_CTRL.

Table 9-10. Commencement of CLKM Clock Rate Modification

CLKM_SHA_SEL 0 CLKM clock rate changes immediately

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1 CLKM clock rate changes after SLEEP cycle

• Bit [2:0] – CLKM_ CTRL

The register bits CLKM_CTRL set clock rate of pin CLKM.

Table 9-11. Clock Rate at Pin CLKM

0 No clock, pin set to logic low

1 1 MHz

2 2 MHz

3 4 MHz

4 8 MHz

5 16 MHz

6 Reserved

CLKM_CTRL

7 Reserved

The register XOSC_CTRL controls the operation of the crystal oscillator.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x12 XTAL_MODE XOSC_CTRL

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Initial value 1 1 1 1

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x12 XTAL_TRIM XOSC_CTRL

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Initial value 0 0 0 0

• Bit [7:4] – XTAL_MODE

The register bit XTAL_MODE sets the operating mode of the crystal oscillator.

Table 9-12. Crystal Oscillator Operating Mode

0x0 Crystal oscillator disabled, no clock signal is fed to the

internal circuitry.

0x4 Internal crystal oscillator disabled, use external

reference frequency

XTAL_MODE

0xF Internal crystal oscillator enabled

• Bit [3:0] – XTAL_TRIM

The register bits XTAL_TRIM control two internal capacitance arrays connected to pins

XTAL1 and XTAL2. A capacitance value in the range from 0 pF to 4.5 pF is selectable

with a resolution of 0.3 pF.

Table 9-13. Crystal Oscillator Trimming Capacitors

XTAL_TRIM 0x0 0.0 pF, trimming capacitors disconnected

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0x1 0.3 pF, trimming capacitor switched on

…

0xF 4.5 pF, trimming capacitor switched on

9.7 Frequency Synthesizer (PLL)

The main PLL features are:

• Generate RX/TX frequencies for all IEEE 802.15.4 - 2.4 GHz channels

• Fully integrated fractional-N synthesizer

• Autonomous calibration loops for stable operation within the operating range

• Two PLL-interrupts for status indication

9.7.1 Overview

The synthesizer of the AT86RF230 is implemented as a fractional-N PLL. The PLL is

fully integrated and configurable by registers 0x08 (PHY_CC_CCA), 0x1A (PLL_CF)

and 0x1B (PLL_DCU).

The PLL is turned on when entering the state PLL_ON and stays on in all receive and

transmit states. The PLL settles to the correct frequency needed for RX or TX operation

according to the adjusted channel center frequency in register 0x08 (PHY_CC_CCA).

Two calibration loops ensure correct PLL functionality within the specified operating

limits.

9.7.2 RF Channel Selection

The PLL is designed to support 16 channels in the IEEE 802.15.4 – 2.4 GHz band with

a channel spacing of 5 MHz. The center frequency FCH of these channels is defined as

follows:

FCH = 2405 + 5 (k – 11) [MHz], for k = 11, 12, ..., 26

where k is the channel number.

The channel k is selected by register bits CHANNEL (register 0x08, PHY_CC_CA).

9.7.3 Calibration Loops

The center frequency control loop ensures a correct center frequency of the VCO for

the currently programmed channel.

The delay calibration unit compensates the phase errors inherent in fractional-N PLLs.

Using this technique, unwanted spurious frequency components beside the RF carrier

are suppressed, and the PLL behaves similar to an integer-N PLL.

Both calibration routines are initiated automatically when the PLL is turned on.

Additionally, the center frequency calibration is running when the PLL is programmed to

a different channel (register bits CHANNEL in register 0x08).

If the PLL operates for a long time on the same channel or the operating temperature

changes significantly, the control loops should be initiated manually. The recommended

calibration interval is 5 min.

Both calibration loops can be initiated manually by setting PLL_CF_START = 1 of

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(PLL_DCU). To start the calibrations routines the device should be in state PLL_ON.

The center frequency tuning takes a maximum of 80 µs. The completion is indicated by

a PLL_LOCK interrupt. The delay cell calibration loop is completed after 6 µs. This is

typically not indicated by a PLL_LOCK interrupt.

9.7.4 PLL Interrupt Handling

There are two different interrupts indicating the PLL status (see register 0x0F). The

PLL_LOCK interrupt indicates that the PLL has locked. The PLL_UNLOCK interrupt

indicates an unexpected unlock condition. A PLL_LOCK interrupt clears any preceding

PLL_UNLOCK interrupt automatically and vice versa.

A PLL_LOCK interrupt occurs in the following situations:

• State change from TRX_OFF to PLL_ON/RX_ON

• Channel change in states PLL_ON/RX_ON

• Initiating a center frequency tuning manually

The state transition from BUSY_TX to PLL_ON can also initiate a PLL_LOCK interrupt,

due to the PLL settling back to the RX frequency.

Any other occurrences of PLL interrupts indicate erroneous behavior and require

checking of the actual device status.

9.7.5 Register Description

The PHY_CC_CCA register contains register bits to initiate and control the CCA

measurement as well as to set the channel center frequency.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x08 CCA_REQUEST CCA_MODE CHANNEL PHY_CC_CCA

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 1 0

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x08 CHANNEL PHY_CC_CCA

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 1 0 1 1

• Bit 7 – CCA_REQUEST

Refer to section 8.6.4.

• Bit [6:5] – CCA_MODE

Refer to section 8.6.4.

• Bit [4:0] – CHANNEL

The register bits CHANNEL define the RX/TX channel. The channel assignment is

according to IEEE 802.15.4.

Table 9-14. Channel Assignment for IEEE 802.15.4 – 2.4 GHz Band

0x0B 11 2405

0x0C 12 2410

0x0D 13 2415

CHANNEL

0x0E 14 2420

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0x0F 15 2425

0x10 16 2430

0x11 17 2435

0x12 18 2440

0x13 19 2445

0x14 20 2450

0x15 21 2455

0x16 22 2460

0x17 23 2465

0x18 24 2470

0x19 25 2475

0x1A 26 2480

The register PLL_CF controls the operation of the center frequency calibration loop.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x1A PLL_CF_START Reserved PLL_CF

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 1 0 1

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x1A Reserved PLL_CF

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 1 1 1

• Bit 7 – PLL_CF_START

PLL_CF_START = 1 initiates the center frequency calibration. The calibration cycle has

finished after a maximum of 80 µs. The register bit is cleared immediately after the

• Bit [6:0] – Reserved

The register PLL_DCU controls the operation of the delay cell calibration loop.

Bit 7 6 5 4

0x1B PLL_DCU_START Reserved PLL_DCU

Read/Write R/W R R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 1 0

Bit 3 2 1 0

0x1B Reserved PLL_DCU

Read/Write R/W R/W R/W R/W

Reset value 0 0 0 0

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• Bit 7 – PLL_DCU_START

PLL_DCU_START = 1 initiates the delay cell calibration. The calibration cycle has

finished after maximum of 6 µs. The register bit is cleared immediately after the register

write operation.

• Bit [6:0] – Reserved

9.8 Automatic Filter Tuning (FTN)

The filter-tuning unit is a separate block within the AT86RF230. The filter-tuning result is

used to provide a correct SSBF transfer function and PLL loop-filter time constant

independent of temperature effects and part-to-part variations.

A calibration cycle is initiated automatically when entering the TRX_OFF state from the

SLEEP, RESET or P_ON states.

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10 Radio Transceiver Usage

This section describes basic procedures to receive and transmit frames using the

AT86RF230. For a detailed programming description refer to application note AVR2009

“AT86RF230 – Software Programming Model”.

10.1 Frame Receive Procedure

While in state RX_ON the radio transceiver searches for incoming frames on the

selected channel. A detection of a valid IEEE 802.15.4 frame is indicated by an IRQ_2

(RX_START) interrupt. The frame reception is completed when issuing the IRQ_3

(TRX_END) interrupt. Waiting for IRQ_3 (TRX_END) interrupt before uploading the

frame to the microcontroller is recommended for operations considered to be non time

critical. Figure 9-6 illustrates the frame receive procedure.

Figure 9-6. Frame Receive Procedure - Transactions between AT86RF230 and

Microcontroller

AT86RF230

Microcontroller

Critical protocol timing could require starting the frame upload as soon as possible. The

first byte of the frame data can be read 32 µs after the IRQ_2 (RX_START) interrupt.

The microcontroller must ensure to read slower than the frame is received. Otherwise,

the Frame Buffer wills under run, IRQ_6 (TRX_UR) interrupt is issued. The frame data

are not valid anymore and need to read again. The LQI byte can be uploaded to the

microcontroller after the IRQ_3 (TRX_END) interrupt was issued.

10.2 Frame Transmit Procedure

A frame transmission comprises two actions, a frame download to the Frame Buffer and

the transmission of the Frame Buffer content. Both actions can be run in parallel if

required by critical protocol timing.

Figure 9-7 illustrates the frame transmit procedure, when downloading and transmitting

the frame consecutively. After a frame download by a Frame Buffer write access, the

frame transmission is initiated by asserting pin SLP_TR or writing the TRX command

TX_START to register 0x02 (TRX_STATE), while the radio transceiver is in state

PLL_ON. The completion of the transmission is indicated by an IRQ_3 (TRX_END)

interrupt.

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AT86RF230

Figure 9-7. Frame Transmit Procedure - Transactions between AT86RF230 and

Microcontroller

Alternatively, the frame transmission can be started before the frame data download as

described in Figure 9-8. This is useful for time critical applications. At the rising edge of

SPL_TR, the radio transceiver starts transmitting the preamble and the SFD field, which

takes about 176 µs (see Figure 7-2). The first byte of the PSDU must be available in the

Frame Buffer before this time. The SPI data rate must be higher than 250 kBit/s to

ensure that no Frame Buffer under run occurs (IRQ_6, TRX_UR).

Figure 9-8. Time Optimized Frame Transmit Procedure - Transactions between

AT86RF230 and Microcontroller

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11 Technical Parameters

11.1 Absolute Maximum Ratings

Note: Stresses beyond those listed under “Absolute Maximum Ratings” may cause

permanent damage to the device. This is a stress rating only and functional operation of

the device at these or any other conditions beyond those indicated in the operational

sections of this specification are not implied. Exposure to absolute maximum rating

conditions for extended periods may affect device reliability.

Table 11-1. Absolute Maximum Ratings

No Parameter Symbol Min Typ Max Unit Conditions/Notes

11.1.1 Storage temperature Tstor -50 150 °C

11.1.2 Lead temperature Tlead 260 °C

11.1.3 ESD robustness VESD 4

750

Compl. to [2]

Compl. to [3]

11.1.4 Input RF level PRF +14 dBm

11.1.5 Voltage on all pins (except pins

4, 5, 13, 14, 29)

-0.3 VDD+0.3

11.1.6 Voltage on pins 4, 5, 13, 14, 29 -0.3 2.0

11.2 Recommended Operating Range

Table 11-2. Operating Range

No Parameter Symbol Min Typ Max Unit Conditions/Notes

11.2.1 Operating temperature range Top -40 +85 °C

11.2.2 Supply voltage VDD 1.8 3.0 3.6 V

11.2.3 Supply voltage

(on pins 13, 14, 29)

VDD1.8 1.65 1.8 1.95 V

When using external voltage

regulators (see section 9.4).

11.3 Digital Pin Specifications

Test Conditions (unless otherwise stated):

Top = 25°C

Table 11-3. Digital Pin Specifications

No Parameter Symbol Min Typ Max Unit Conditions/Notes

11.3.1 High level input voltage VIH V

DD – 0.4 V

11.3.2 Low level input voltage VIL 0.4 V

11.3.3 High level output voltage VOH V

DD – 0.4 V For all output driver strengths

defined in TRX_CTRL_0

11.3.4 Low level output voltage VOL 0.4 V

For all output driver strengths

defined in TRX_CTRL_0

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11.4 Digital Interface Timing Specifications

Test Conditions (unless otherwise stated):

VDD = 3V, Top = 25°C

Table 11-4. Digital Interface Timing Parameters

No Parameter Symbol Min Typ Max Unit Conditions/Notes

11.4.1 SCLK frequency

(synchronous mode)

8 MHz

11.4.2 SCLK frequency (asynchronous

mode)

7.5 MHz

11.4.3 SEL low to MISO active t1 180 ns

11.4.4 SCLK to MISO out t2 10 ns data hold time

11.4.5 MOSI setup time t3 10 ns

11.4.6 MOSI hold time t4 10 ns

11.4.7 LSB last byte to MSB next byte t5 250 ns

11.4.8 SEL high to MISO tristate t6 10 ns

11.4.9 SLP_TR pulse width t7 65 ns TX start trigger

11.4.10 SPI idle time t8 250 ns

Idle time between consecutive SPI

accesses

11.4.11 Last SCLK to SEL high t9 250 ns

11.4.12 Reset pulse width 625 ns  10 clock cycles at 16 MHz

11.4.13 Output clock frequency (CLKM) 0

MHz

Programmable in register

TRX_CTRL_0

11.5 General RF Specifications

Test Conditions (unless otherwise stated):

VDD = 3V, f = 2.45 GHz, Top = 25°C, Measurement setup see Figure 5-1

Table 11-5. General RF Parameters

No Parameter Symbol Min Typ Max Unit Conditions/Notes

11.5.1 Frequency range f 2405 2480 MHz As specified in [1]

11.5.2 Bit rate fbit 250 kbit/s As specified in [1]

11.5.3 Chip rate fchip 2000 kchip/s As specified in [1]

11.5.4 Reference oscillator frequency fclk 16 MHz

11.5.5 Reference oscillator settling time 0.5 1 ms Leaving SLEEP state to clock

available at pin CLKM

11.5.6 Reference frequency accuracy

for proper functionality

-60 +60 ppm ±40 ppm is required by [1]

11.5.7 TX signal 20 dB bandwidth B20dB 2.8 MHz RBW 100 kHz

VBW 300 kHz

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11.6 Transmitter Specifications

Test Conditions (unless otherwise stated):

VDD = 3V, f = 2.45 GHz, Top = 25°C, Measurement setup see Figure 5-1

Table 11-6. TX Parameters

No Parameter Symbol Min Typ Max Unit Conditions/Notes

11.6.1 Output power PTX 0 3 6 dBm Maximum configurable value

11.6.2 Output power range 20 dB Configurable in register

PHY_TX_PWR

11.6.3 Output power tolerance ±3 dB

11.6.4 TX Return loss 10 dB

11.6.5 EVM 8 %rms

11.6.6 Harmonics

2nd harmonic

3rd harmonic

-38

-45

dBm

11.6.7 Spurious emissions

30 –  1000 MHz

>1 – 12.75 GHz

1.8 – 1.9 GHz

5.15 – 5.3 GHz

-36

-30

-47

dBm

Complies with

EN 300 328/440,

FCC-CFR-47 part 15,

ARIB STD-66,

RSS-210

11.7 Receiver Specifications

Test Conditions (unless otherwise stated):

VDD = 3V, f = 2.45 GHz, Top = 25°C, Measurement setup see Figure 5-1

Table 11-7. RX Parameters

No Parameter Symbol Min Typ Max Unit Conditions/Notes

11.7.1 Receiver sensitivity -101 dBm

AWGN channel, PER  1%,

PSDU length of 20 octets

11.7.2 RX Return loss 10 dB 100 differential impedance

11.7.3 Noise figure NF 6 dB

11.7.4 Maximum RX input level 10 dBm PER  1%, PSDU length of

20 octets

11.7.5 Adjacent channel rejection

-5 MHz

34 dBm

PER  1%, PSDU length of

20 octets, PRF = -82 dBm

11.7.6 Adjacent channel rejection

+5 MHz

36 dBm

PER  1%, PSDU length of

20 octets, PRF = -82 dBm

11.7.7 Alternate adjacent channel

rejection -10 MHz

52 dBm

PER  1%, PSDU length of

20 octets, PRF = -82 dBm

11.7.8 Alternate adjacent channel

rejection +10 MHz

53 dBm

PER  1%, PSDU length of

20 octets, PRF = -82 dBm

11.7.9 Spurious emissions

LO leakage

30 –  1000 MHz

>1 – 12.75 GHz

-75

-57

-47

dBm

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AT86RF230

No Parameter Symbol Min Typ Max Unit Conditions/Notes

11.7.10 TX/RX carrier frequency offset

tolerance

-300 300 kHz

Sensitivity loss < 2 dB; equals

120 ppm ([1] requires 80 ppm)

11.7.11 3rd-order intercept point IIP3 -9 dB At maximum gain

Offset freq. interf. 1 = 5 MHz

Offset freq. interf. 2 = 10 MHz

11.7.12 2nd-order intercept point IIP2 24 dB At maximum gain

Offset freq. interf. 1 = 60 MHz

Offset freq. interf. 2 = 62 MHz

11.7.13 RSSI tolerance ±5 dB

11.7.14 RSSI dynamic range 81 dB

11.7.15 RSSI resolution 3 dB

11.7.16 RSSI sensitivity -91 dBm Defined as RSSI_BASE_VAL

11.7.17 Minimum RSSI value 0 PRF < RSSI_BASE_VAL

11.7.18 Maximum RSSI value 28 PRF  RSSI_BASE_VAL + 81 dB

11.8 Current Consumption Specifications

Test Conditions (unless otherwise stated):

VDD = 3V, f = 2.45 GHz, Top = 25°C, Measurement setup see Figure 5-1

Table 11-8. Current Consumption

No Parameter Symbol Min Typ Max Unit Conditions/Notes

11.8.1 Supply current transmit state IBUSY_TX 16.5

14.5

12.5

9.5

PTX = 3 dBm

PTX = 1 dBm

PTX = -3 dBm

PTX = -17 dBm

(At each output power level, the

supply current consumption can be

decreased by approx. 2 mA if

reducing VDD to 1.8V.)

11.8.2 Supply current receive state IRX_ON 15.5 mA State: RX_ON

11.8.3 Supply current TRX_OFF state ITRX_OFF 1.5 mA State: TRX_OFF

11.8.4 Supply current SLEEP state ISLEEP 0.02 µA State: SLEEP

11.8.5 Supply current PLL_ON state IPLL_ON 7.8 mA State: PLL_ON

11.9 Crystal Parameter Requirements

Table 11-9. Crystal Parameter Requirements

No Parameter Symbol Min Typ Max Unit Conditions/Notes

11.9.1 Crystal frequency f0 16 MHz

11.9.2 Load capacitance CL 8 14 pF

11.9.3 Static capacitance C0 7 pF

11.9.4 Series resistance R1 100 

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12 Register Reference

The AT86RF230 provides a register space of 64 8-bit registers, which is used to

configure, control and monitor the radio transceiver. The registers can be accessed in

any order.

Note: All registers not mentioned within the following table are reserved for internal use

and must not be overwritten. When writing to a register, any reserved bits shall be

overwritten only with their reset value (see Table 12-2).

Table 12-1. Register Summary – Non Reserved Registers

Addr. Name Bit 7 Bit 6 Bit 5 Bit 4 Bit 3 Bit 2 Bit 1 Bit 0 Page

0x01 TRX_STATUS CCA_DONE CCA_STATUS Reserved TRX_STATUS pg. 27, 38, 55

0x02 TRX_STATE TRAC_STATUS TRX_CMD pg. 28, 39

0x03 TRX_CTRL_0 PAD_IO PAD_IO_CLKM CLKM_SHA_SEL CLKM_CTRL pg. 7, 69

0x05 PHY_TX_PWR

TX_AUTO_CRC_ON

Reserved TX_PWR pg. 49, 59

0x06 PHY_RSSI

RX_CRC_VALID Reserved RSSI pg. 50, 52

0x07 PHY_ED_LEVEL ED_LEVEL pg. 51

0x08 PHY_CC_CCA CCA_REQUEST CCA_MODE CHANNEL pg. 56, 72

0x09 CCA_THRES Reserved CCA_ED_THRES pg. 57

0x0E IRQ_MASK MASK_BAT_LOW MASK_TRX_UR Reserved MASK_TRX_END

MASK_RX_START MASK_PLL_UNLOCK MASK_PLL_LOCK

pg. 20

0x0F IRQ_STATUS BAT_LOW TRX_UR Reserved TRX_END RX_START PLL_UNLOCK PLL_LOCK pg. 20

0x10 VREG_CTRL AVREG_EXT AVDD_OK Reserved DVREG_EXT DVDD_OK Reserved pg. 63

0x11 BATMON Reserved BATMON_OK BATMON_HR BATMON_VTH pg. 65

0x12 XOSC_CTRL XTAL_MODE XTAL_TRIM pg. 70

0x1A PLL_CF PLL_CF_START Reserved pg. 73

0x1B PLL_DCU PLL_DCU_START Reserved pg. 73

0x1C PART_NUM PART_NUM pg. 16

0x1D VERSION_NUM VERSION_NUM pg. 16

0x1E MAN_ID_0 MAN_ID_0 pg. 17

0x1F MAN_ID_1 MAN_ID_1 pg. 17

0x20 SHORT_ADDR_0 SHORT_ADDR_0 pg. 42

0x21 SHORT_ADDR_1 SHORT_ADDR_1 pg. 42

0x22 PAN_ID_0 PAN_ID_0 pg. 42

0x23 PAN_ID_1 PAN_ID_1 pg. 42

0x24 IEEE_ADDR_0 IEEE_ADDR_0 pg. 43

0x25 IEEE_ADDR_1 IEEE_ADDR_1 pg. 43

0x26 IEEE_ADDR_2 IEEE_ADDR_2 pg. 43

0x27 IEEE_ADDR_3 IEEE_ADDR_3 pg. 43

0x28 IEEE_ADDR_4 IEEE_ADDR_4 pg. 43

0x29 IEEE_ADDR_5 IEEE_ADDR_5 pg. 43

0x2A IEEE_ADDR_6 IEEE_ADDR_6 pg. 44

0x2B IEEE_ADDR_7 IEEE_ADDR_7 pg. 44

0x2C XAH_CTRL MAX_FRAME_RETRIES MAX_CSMA_RETRIES Reserved pg. 40

0x2D CSMA_SEED_0 CSMA_SEED_0 pg. 41

0x2E CSMA_SEED_1 MIN_BE AACK_SET_PD Reserved I_AM_COORD CSMA_SEED_1 pg. 41

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Notes:

• Reset values in Table 12-2 are only valid after a power on reset. After a reset

procedure (RST = L) as described in section 7.1.4.2 the reset values of selected

registers (e.g. registers 0x01, 0x10, 0x11) can differ from that in Table 12-2.

• Read value of register 0x30 after a reset in state:

P_ON 0x11

Any other state 0x07

Table 12-2. Register Summary – Reset values

Address Reset Value Address Reset Value Address Reset Value Address Reset Value

0x00 0x00 0x10 0x00 0x20 0x00

0x30 0x00

0x01 0x00 0x11 0x02 0x21 0x00

0x31 0x00

0x02 0x00 0x12 0xF0 0x22 0x00

032 0x00

0x03 0x19 0x13 0x00 0x23 0x00

0x33 0x00

0x04 0x00 0x14 0x00 0x24 0x00

0x34 0x00

0x05 0x00 0x15 0x00 0x25 0x00

0x35 0x00

0x06 0x00 0x16 0x00 0x26 0x00

0x36 0x00

0x07 0x00 0x17 0x00 0x27 0x00

0x37 0x00

0x08 0x2B 0x18 0x58 0x28 0x00

0x38 0x00

0x09 0xC7 0x19 0x55 0x29 0x00

0x39 0x40

0x0A 0xBC 0x1A 0x5F 0x2A 0x00

0x3A 0x00

0x0B 0xA7 0x1B 0x20 0x2B 0x00

0x3B 0x00

0x0C 0x04 0x1C 0x02 0x2C 0x38

0x3C 0x00

0x0D 0x00 0x1D 0x02 0x2D 0xEA

0x3D 0x00

0x0E 0xFF 0x1E 0x1F 0x2E 0xC2

0x3E 0x00

0x0F 0x00 0x1F 0x00 0x2F 0x00

0x3F 0x00

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Abbreviations

AACK — Auto acknowledge

ACK — Acknowledge

ADC — Analog-to-digital converter

AGC — Automatic gain control

ARET — Auto retry

AVREG — Analog voltage regulator

AWGN — Additive White Gaussian Noise

BATMON — Battery monitor

BBP — Base-band processor

BG — Band gap reference

BoM — Bill of material

CCA — Clear channel assessment

CRC — Cyclic redundancy check

CSMA — Carrier sense multiple access

CW — Continuous wave

DCLK — Digital clock

DCU — Delay calibration unit

DVREG — Digital voltage regulator

ED — Energy detection

ESD — Electro static discharge

EVM — Error vector magnitude

FCS — Frame Check Sequence

FCF — Frame Control Field

FIFO — First in first out

FTN — Automatic filter tuning

GPIO — General purpose input output

ISM — Industrial, scientific, and medical

LDO — Low-drop output

LNA — Low-noise amplifier

LO — Local oscillator

LQI — Link-quality indication

LSB — Least significant bit

MAC — Medium access control

MFR — MAC Footer

MHR — MAC header

MSB — Most significant bit

MSDU — MAC service data unit

MSK — Minimum shift keying

NOP — No operation

O-QPSK — Offset-quadrature phase shift keying

PA — Power amplifier

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PAN — Personal area network

PCB — Printed circuit board

PER — Packet error rate

PHY — Physical layer

PHR — PHY Header

PLL — Phase-locked loop

POR — Power-on reset

PPF — Poly-phase filter

PRBS — Pseudo random binary sequence

PSDU — PHY service data unit

QFN — Quad flat no-lead package

RAM — Random access memory

RBW — Resolution band width

RSSI — Received signal strength indicator

RX — Receiver

SFD — Start-of-frame delimiter

SHR — Synchronization Header

SPI — Serial peripheral interface

SRAM — Static random access memory

SSBF — Single side band filter

TX — Transmitter

VBW — Video band width

VCO — Voltage controlled oscillator

VREG — Voltage regulator

XOSC — Crystal stabilized oscillator

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13 Ordering Information

Ordering Code Package Voltage Range Temperatur e Range

AT86RF230-ZU QN 1.8V – 3.6V Industrial (-40° C to +85° C) Lead-free/Halogen-free

Package Type Description

QN 32QN1, 32-lead 5.0x5.0 mm Body, 0.50 mm Pitch, Quad Flat No-lead Package (QFN) Sawn

Note: T&R quantity 5,000.

Please contact your local Atmel sales office for more detailed ordering information and

minimum quantities.

14 Soldering Information

Recommended soldering profile is specified in IPC/JEDEC J-STD-.020C.

15 Package Thermal Properties

Thermal Resistance

Velocity [m/s] Theta ja [K/W]

0 40.9

1 35.7

2.5 32.0

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16 Package Drawing – 32QN1

TITLE DRAWING NO.GPC REV.

Package Drawing Contact:

packagedrawings@atmel.com 32QN2ZJZ A

32QN2, 32-lead 5.0 x 5.0 mm Body, 0.50 mm Pitch,

Quad Flat No Lead Package (QFN) Sawn

11/26/07

Notes: 1. This drawing is for general information only. Refer to JEDEC Drawing MO-220, Variation VHHD-6, for proper dimensions,

tolerances, datums, etc.

2. Dimension b applies to metallized terminal and is measured between 0.15 mm and 0.30 mm from the terminal tip. If the

terminal has the optional radius on the other end of the terminal, the dimension should not be measured in that radius area.

COMMON DIMENSIONS

(Unit of Measure = mm)

SYMBOL MIN NOM MAX NOTE

D 5.00 BSC

E 5.00 BSC

D2 3.20 3.30 3.40

E2 3.20 3.30 3.40

A 0.80 0.90 1.00

A1 0.0 0.02 0.05

A2 0.0 0.65 1.00

A3 0.20 REF

L 0.30 0.40 0.50

e 0.50 BSC

b 0.18 0.23 0.30 2

Pin 1 Corner

Side View

Bottom View

Top View

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AT86RF230

Appendix A - Continuous Transmission Test Mode

The Continuous Transmission Test Mode offers the following features:

• Continuous frame transmission

• Continuous wave signal transmission

A.1 - Overview

The AT86RF230 offers a Continuous Transmission Test Mode to support final

application/production tests as well as certification tests. Using this test mode the radio

transceiver transmits continuously a previously downloaded frame data (PRBS mode)

or a continuous wave signal (CW mode).

In CW mode three different signal frequencies can be transmitted:

f1 = fCH – 2 MHz

f2 = fCH + 0.5 MHz

f3 = fCH - 0.5 MHz

where fCH is the center frequency of the current programmed cannel in register 0x08

(PHY_CC_CCA). Note that it is not possible to transmit a CW signal on the channel

center frequency. Before starting a CW signal transmission valid data needs to be

downloaded to the Frame Buffer (refer to section 6.2.2), e.g a PHR field denotes a

frame length of 1 and one octet PSDU data.

In PRBS mode the transmission center frequency is fCH. Data downloaded to the Frame

Buffer must contain at least a valid Frame Length Field (see sections 8.1 and 9.1). It is

recommended to use a frame of maximum length (127 bytes) and arbitrary PSDU data.

In contrast to normal frame transmission here the SHR and the PHR are not

transmitted. The transmission starts with the PSDU data and is repeated continuously.

A.2 - Configuration

Before enabling the Continuous Transmission Test Mode (TST = 1) all register

configurations shall be done as follows:

• Radio transceiver initialization (TRX_STATUS = TRX_OFF)

• TX channel selection (optional)

• TX output power setting (optional)

• Frame data download (random sequence of max. length)

• Mode selection (PRBS/CW)

Setting TST = 1 enables the Continuous Transmission Test Mode. The test system or a

microcontroller has to overwrite the pull down resistor R1 connected to the TST pin (see

Figure 5-1). The pull down resistor ensures a disabled test functionality during normal

operation (TST = 0).

The transmission is started after enabling the PLL (TRX_CMD = PLL_ON) and writing

the TX_START command to register 0x02.

The detailed programming sequence is shown in Figure A-1.

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Figure A-1. Programming Sequence - Continuous Transmission

Configure continuous TX (2)

RESET

Write 0x10 to register 0x03

Write 0x33 to register 0x08

Write 0x00 to register 0x05

Write f_word to register 0x3D

Write 0x01 to register 0x0E

Write 0x0F to register 0x36

Set pin TST = H

Write 0x03 to register 0x02

Write 0x09 to register 0x02

Write 0x02 to register 0x02

Set pin TST = L

Signal Measurement

(use RFP|RFN)

Read register 0x01

RESET

0x08

Frame download

Set IRQ_MASK register

(enable PLL_LOCK)

Set TRX_STATE register

(state = FORCE_TRX_OFF)

Set CLKM

Set channel (fCH)

Set TX output power

(maximum TX output power)

Modulated (fCH): f_word = 0x00

CW (fCH - 2.0MHz): f_word = 0x10

CW (fCH - 0.5MHz): f_word = 0x80

CW (fCH + 0.5MHz): f_word = 0xC0

Configure continuous TX (1)

Enable continuous TX Test Mode

(TST = H)

Set TRX_STATE register

(state = PLL_ON)

Interrupt: PLL_LOCK

(IRQ1)

Set TRX_STATE register

(state = TX_START)

Reset TST for Normal Operation

(TST = L)

Load TX Frame to Frame Buffer

7Verify TRX_OFF state

Read register 0x0F 0x01

Required setting

Optional setting

Legend:

TST pin setting

Special settings for Continuous TX

A.3 - Disclaimer

The functionality of the Continuous Transmit Mode is not characterized by Atmel and

therefore not guaranteed.

The normal operation of the AT86RF230 is only guaranteed if pin TST is always logic

low.

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Appendix B - Errata

AT86RF230 Rev. B

No known errata.

AT86RF230 Rev. A

1. Data frames with destination address=0xF FFF is acknowledged in RX_AACK

According to IEEE 802.15.4-2003 data frames with destination address=0xFFFF

(broadcast) should not have the acknowledgment request subfield set in the frame

control field. If such a non-standard compliant data frame arrives, a device in

RX_AACK state acknowledges that frame.

Fix/Workaround

Use only standard compliant frames, i.e. do not initiate frames with destination

address=0xFFFF (broadcast) and the acknowledgment request subfield set.

2. Frame upload in RX_AACK

The following frames are not uploaded:

(1) Data frames and command frames with destination PAN ID=0xFFFF and

extended destination addressing mode

(2) Beacon frames, when the PAN ID of the receiving node is set to 0xFFFF.

Fix/Workaround

(1) Use Basic Operating Mode for orphan scanning

(2) Use Basic Operating Mode for network scanning

3. TX_ARET returns TRAC_STATUS=SUCCESS even though transaction failed

It might happen that under very special conditions (e.g. noisy network environment)

the status bit TRAC_STATUS (register 0x02) after transmission of a frame is

SUCCESS even though the transaction failed.

Example

A node transmits a frame with the acknowledgment request subfield set to logic high

and waits for an incoming ACK. If no frame is received at the end of the ACK wait

period (54 symbols), but a valid preamble is detected (e.g. jammer/interferer signal),

the TX_ARET procedure is finished immediately. A TRX_END interrupt is generated.

The TRAC_STATUS is not updated and thus shows the default value SUCCESS.

Fix/Workaround

The workaround comprises two changes:

1. Set register bits MAX_FRAME_RETRIES to 0. This prevents any

retransmissions in the TX_ARET procedure. The frame retransmission has to

be implemented in S/W. A retransmission does not require a frame download

again, only TX_START command is necessary.

2. Control of the TX_ARET procedure should follow these steps:

o TRX_STATUS == TX_ARET_ON

o set TRX_CMD = TX_START and download frame

o poll for TRX_STATUS == BUSY_TX_ARET

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o set TRX_CMD = RX_ON

o wait for TRX_END IRQ

o read TRAC_STATUS

o set TRX_CMD = TX_ARET_ON

o poll for TRX_STATUS == TX_ARET_ON

Switching to RX_ON is not executed during BUSY_TX_ARET but immediately after

BUSY_TX_ARET has completed. This enables the receiver to receive a frame which

arrives shortly before the end of the ACK wait period. In this case TRAC_STATUS is

not accidentally set to SUCCESS and is still correct (NO_ACK), as long as the frame

is received. That means the software has additional time to read the

TRAC_STATUS.

Using the workaround mentioned above, the failure occurrence is considerably

reduced. A wrong TRAC_STATUS can still be observed, but very seldom (one of

million transmissions).

4. Sensitivity to continuous wave interferers

Due to the high receiver sensitivity continuous wave interferers may cause

RX_START interrupts. This may result in missed frames since the receiver is kept

busy detecting preambles and SFD. One cause of continuous wave interferers may

be due to crosstalk from clock.

Fix/Workaround

For further details see application note AVR2005 "Design Considerations for the

AT86RF230".

5. TRX_END_IRQ occurs sometimes too late in TX_ARET_O N state

This behavior can be observed, if the procedure TX_ARET performs frame

retransmissions.

Fix/Workaround

Set register bit MAX_FRAME_RETRIES = 0 (register 0x2C) and implement frame

retries by software. A frame retransmission does not require downloading the frame

again, only TX_START command is necessary.

6. TX_ARET ACK wait time too short

The maximum number of symbols waiting for an acknowledgment frame should be

54 symbols as defined in IEEE 802.15.4-2003. The implemented waiting time is

46 symbols.

Fix/Workaround

None

7. CCA Request is not executed

A requested CCA may be rejected without execution. In this case the CCA_DONE bit

indicates “CCA calculation in progress” even though the calculation must be finished

already.

Fix/Workaround

The TRX_STATUS is RX_ON. To initiate a CCA request, switch to PLL_ON state

and back to RX_ON state. Immediately after the state change initiate a CCA request.

It is not necessary to confirm the state changes.

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References

[1] IEEE Std 802.15.4-2003: Wireless Medium Access Control (MAC) and Physical

Layer (PHY) Specifications for Low-Rate Wireless Personal Area Networks

(LR-WPANs)

[2] ANSI / ESD-STM5.1-2001: ESD Association Standard Test Method for

electrostatic discharge sensitivity testing – Human Body Model (HBM)

[3] ESD-STM5.3.1-1999: ESD Association Standard Test Method for electrostatic

discharge sensitivity testing – Charged Device Model (CDM)

5131E-MCU Wireless-02/09

AT86RF230

Data Sheet Revision History

Rev. 5131E-ZIGB-02/04/09

1. Removed PRELIMINARY statement

2. Updated parameter 11.4.4

3. Minor editorial changes

Rev. 5131D-ZIGB-12/03/07

The AT86RF230 data sheet was fully revised and modifications of silicon revision

AT86RF230 Rev. B were incorporated. A migration note of silicon revision A to revision

B is available on www.atmel.com.

The most important modifications are:

4. Device version number in register 0x1D (VERSION_NUM) changed to 2 (section 6.3)

5. SPI Interface: MISO pin is updated on falling edge at pin SCLK (section 6.1)

6. Extended Operating Mode state diagram: State changes towards RX_AACK_ON

and TX_ARET_ON (Figure 7-5)

7. Enhanced return code of TX_ARET transaction in register bits TRAC_STATUS of

8. FCS check of received frames in Basic Operating Mode (section 8.2)

9. Support of pending data indication in Extended Operating Mode (sections 7.2.3.1,

7.2.3.2)

10. Update package drawing (section 16)

Rev. 5131C-ZIGB-05/22/07

1. Major revise of sections 1 to 10

2. Added “Appendix A - Continuous Transmission Test Mode”

3. Added “Appendix B - Errata”

Rev. 5131A-ZIGB-06/14/06

1. Initial release

5131E-MCU Wireless-02/09

AT86RF230

Table of Contents 1 Pin-out Diagram ..................................................................................2

Disclaimer...............................................................................................2

2 Overview..............................................................................................2

3 General Circuit Description................................................................3

4 Pin Description....................................................................................4

4.1 Supply and Ground Pins ........................................................................................ 4

4.2 Analog and RF Pins ............................................................................................... 5

4.3 Digital Pins.............................................................................................................. 6

4.3.1 Driver Strength Settings of Digital Output Pins.............................................................. 6

4.3.2 Pull-up and Pull-down Configuration of Digital Input Pins.............................................. 7

4.3.3 Register Description ...................................................................................................... 7

5 Application Circuit..............................................................................8

6 Microcontroller Interface..................................................................10

6.1 SPI Timing Description......................................................................................... 11

6.2 SPI Protocol.......................................................................................................... 12

6.2.1 Register Access Mode................................................................................................. 12

6.2.2 Frame Buffer Access Modes ....................................................................................... 13

6.2.3 SRAM Access Mode.................................................................................................... 14

6.3 Radio Transceiver Identification ........................................................................... 16

6.3.1 Register Description .................................................................................................... 16

6.4 Sleep/Wake-up and Transmit Signal (SLP_TR)................................................... 17

6.5 Interrupt Logic....................................................................................................... 19

6.5.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................... 19

6.5.2 Register Description .................................................................................................... 20

7 Operating Modes...............................................................................21

7.1 Basic Operating Mode.......................................................................................... 21

7.1.1 State Control ............................................................................................................... 21

7.1.2 Basic Operating Mode Description .............................................................................. 22

7.1.3 Interrupt Handling in Basic Operating Mode................................................................24

7.1.4 Basic Mode Timing...................................................................................................... 25

7.1.5 Register Description .................................................................................................... 27

7.2 Extended Operating Mode ................................................................................... 29

7.2.1 State Control ............................................................................................................... 31

7.2.2 Configuration ............................................................................................................... 32

7.2.3 Extended Operating Mode Description........................................................................33

7.2.4 Interrupt Handling in Extended Operating Mode ......................................................... 37

7.2.5 Register Summary....................................................................................................... 38

7.2.6 Register Description – Control Registers..................................................................... 38

7.2.7 Register Description – Address Registers ................................................................... 42

8 Functional Description.....................................................................45

8.1 Introduction - Frame Format................................................................................. 45

8.1.1 PHY Protocol Layer Data Unit (PPDU)........................................................................ 45

5131E-MCU Wireless-02/09

AT86RF230

8.1.2 MAC Protocol Layer Data Unit (MPDU)....................................................................... 46

8.2 Frame Check Sequence (FCS) ............................................................................ 48

8.2.2 CRC calculation...........................................................................................................48

8.2.3 Automatic FCS generation .......................................................................................... 49

8.2.4 Automatic FCS check.................................................................................................. 49

8.2.5 Register Description .................................................................................................... 49

8.3 Energy Detection (ED) ......................................................................................... 50

8.3.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................... 50

8.3.2 Request an ED Measurement ..................................................................................... 50

8.3.3 Data Interpretation.......................................................................................................51

8.3.4 Register Description .................................................................................................... 51

8.4 Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) .......................................................... 51

8.4.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................... 52

8.4.2 Reading RSSI..............................................................................................................52

8.4.3 Data Interpretation.......................................................................................................52

8.4.4 Register Description .................................................................................................... 52

8.5 Link Quality Indication (LQI) ................................................................................. 53

8.5.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................... 53

8.5.2 Request an LQI Measurement .................................................................................... 53

8.5.3 Data Interpretation.......................................................................................................54

8.6 Clear Channel Assessment (CCA)....................................................................... 54

8.6.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................... 54

8.6.2 CCA Configuration and Request ................................................................................. 55

8.6.3 Data Interpretation.......................................................................................................55

8.6.4 Register Description .................................................................................................... 55

9 Module Description...........................................................................58

9.1 Receiver (RX)....................................................................................................... 58

9.1.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................... 58

9.1.2 Configuration ............................................................................................................... 58

9.2 Transmitter (TX) ................................................................................................... 58

9.2.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................... 58

9.2.2 Configuration ............................................................................................................... 59

9.2.3 Register Description .................................................................................................... 59

9.3 Frame Buffer......................................................................................................... 60

9.3.1 Frame Buffer Data Management ................................................................................. 60

9.3.2 User accessible Frame Content .................................................................................. 60

9.3.3 Frame Buffer Interrupt Handling .................................................................................. 61

9.4 Voltage Regulators (AVREG, DVREG)................................................................ 62

9.4.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................... 62

9.4.2 Configure the Voltage Regulators ...............................................................................63

9.4.3 Data Interpretation.......................................................................................................63

9.4.4 Register Description .................................................................................................... 63

9.5 Battery Monitor (BATMON) .................................................................................. 64

9.5.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................... 64

9.5.2 Data Interpretation.......................................................................................................65

9.5.3 BATMON Interrupt Handling........................................................................................ 65

9.5.4 Register Description .................................................................................................... 65

9.6 Crystal Oscillator (XOSC)..................................................................................... 66

5131E-MCU Wireless-02/09

AT86RF230

9.6.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................... 67

9.6.2 Integrated Oscillator Setup .......................................................................................... 67

9.6.3 External Reference Frequency Setup.......................................................................... 68

9.6.4 Master Clock Signal Output (CLKM)............................................................................ 68

9.6.5 Register Description .................................................................................................... 69

9.7 Frequency Synthesizer (PLL)............................................................................... 71

9.7.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................... 71

9.7.2 RF Channel Selection.................................................................................................. 71

9.7.3 Calibration Loops ........................................................................................................ 71

9.7.4 PLL Interrupt Handling.................................................................................................72

9.7.5 Register Description .................................................................................................... 72

9.8 Automatic Filter Tuning (FTN) .............................................................................. 74

10 Radio Transceiver Usage...............................................................75

10.1 Frame Receive Procedure ................................................................................. 75

10.2 Frame Transmit Procedure ................................................................................ 75

11 Technical Parameters.....................................................................77

11.1 Absolute Maximum Ratings................................................................................ 77

11.2 Recommended Operating Range ...................................................................... 77

11.3 Digital Pin Specifications .................................................................................... 77

11.4 Digital Interface Timing Specifications ............................................................... 78

11.5 General RF Specifications.................................................................................. 78

11.6 Transmitter Specifications .................................................................................. 79

11.7 Receiver Specifications ...................................................................................... 79

11.8 Current Consumption Specifications.................................................................. 80

11.9 Crystal Parameter Requirements....................................................................... 80

12 Register Reference .........................................................................81

Abbreviations.......................................................................................83

13 Ordering Information......................................................................85

14 Soldering Information.....................................................................85

15 Package Thermal Properties..........................................................85

16 Package Drawing – 32QN1.............................................................86

Appendix A - Continuous Transmission Test Mode.........................87

A.1 - Overview ............................................................................................................ 87

A.2 - Configuration...................................................................................................... 87

A.3 - Disclaimer .......................................................................................................... 88

Appendix B - Errata .............................................................................89

AT86RF230 Rev. B .................................................................................................... 89

AT86RF230 Rev. A .................................................................................................... 89

References............................................................................................91

5131E-MCU Wireless-02/09

AT86RF230

Data Sheet Revision History...............................................................92

Rev. 5131D-ZIGB-12/03/07........................................................................................ 92

Rev. 5131C-ZIGB-05/22/07........................................................................................ 92

Rev. 5131A-ZIGB-06/14/06........................................................................................ 92

Table of Contents.................................................................................93

5131E-MCU Wireless-02/09

AT86RF230

5131E-MCU Wireless-02/09

AT86RF230

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