Jan/Feb 2006

Remote monitoring devices relying on the new ZigBee local-area wireless networking standard (see News Update, page 12) are now appearing on the market, and one of the latest is a local hub for the automotive and petrochemical sectors from PMVision.

The device is based on the Jennic JN5121 microcontroller, and is said to be the first on the telematics market to use this product.

The idea is that the device can be used in applications such as remote monitoring and control of temperature, fluid levels and noxious gases. Assets and stock can also be monitored - for example in container bases and carports.

Each device monitored is equipped with a ZigBee-compatible tag no bigger than a £2 pound coin, which runs on four AA-type batteries that can last for up to three years. They can be up to 100 metres away from the hub in open air, and all communicate with it individually in order to feed data for uploading to a central point by long-range wireless or fixed link.

 

PMVision says the hub could be mounted anywhere from trailers and ships to office buildings and industrial complexes.

ZigBee is defined by IEEE802.15.4, and is similar to Bluetooth. Transmission rates are slower, but it has a longer range and lower power requirements.