User Manual

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11.ModuleSupport
This chapter provides customization information for the XBee/XBee-PRO ZB modules. In addition to providing an
extremely flexible and powerful API, the XBee and XBee-PRO ZB modules are a robust development platform that have
passed FCC and ETSI testing. Developers can customize default parameters, or even write or load custom firmware for
Ember's EM250 chip.
Power up Module at 9600 Baud
If BREAK is asserted (DIN held low) at reset, the module will power on at a 9600 baud rate regardless of the
baud rate set in the firmware. This can be used to recover from an unsupported baud rate. If this is done with
AT firmware installed, the module will power on in AT command mode at 9600 baud and will remain at that baud
rate until command mode is exited. If API firmware is installed, the module will power on and send applicable
modem status API frames (reset notification, joined/started network, etc) out the UART at 9600 baud. It will
then be able to respond to API frames at 9600 baud until an API frame applies changes.
X-CTU Configuration Tool
Digi provides a Windows X-CTU configuration tool for configuring module parameters and updating firmware. The
XCTU has the capability to do the following:
•Discover all XBee devices in the network
•Update firmware on a local module (requires USB or serial connection)
•Read or write module configuration parameters on a local or remote device
•Save and load configuration profiles containing customized settings.
Contact Digi support for more information about the X-CTU.
Customizing XBee ZB Firmware
Once module parameters are tested in an application and finalized, Digi can manufacture modules with specific,
customer-defined configurations for a nominal fee. These custom configurations can lock in a firmware version or set
command values when the modules are manufactured, eliminating the need for customers to adjust module
parameters on arrival. Alternatively, Digi can program custom firmware, including Ember's EZSP UART image, into
the modules during manufacturing. Contact Digi to create a custom configuration.
Design Considerations for Digi Drop-In Networking
XBee/XBee-PRO embedded RF modules contain a variety of features that allow for interoperability with Digi's full line
of Drop-in Networking products. Interoperability with other "DIN" products can offer these advantages:
•Add IP-connectivity to your network via Cellular, Ethernet or WiFi with a ConnectPort X Gateway.
•Extend the range of your network with the XBee Wall Router.
•Make deployment easy by enabling the Commissioning Pushbutton (pin 20) and AssociateLED (pin 15) to oper-
ate with the Network Commissioning Tool software.
•Interface with standard RS-232, USB, Analog & Digital I/O, RS-485, and other industrial devices using XBee
Adapters.
•Monitor and manage your network securely from remote locations with iDigi Platform.
•We encourage you to contact our technical representatives for consideration, implementation, or design review
of your product for interoperability with Digi's Drop-in Networking solutions.
XBee Bootloader
XBee modules use a modified version of Ember’s bootloader. This bootloader version supports a custom entry
mechanism that uses module pins DIN (pin 3), DTR
/ SLEEP_RQ (pin 9), and RTS (pin 16). To invoke the bootloader,
do the following: