Telit Wireless Solutions and Silicon Labs support smart metering initiatives with energy-efficient wireless M-Bus module

Telit Wireless Solutions has introduced a wireless M-Bus module, based on Silicon Labs Si443x EZRadioPRO® RF transceivers. The ME50-868 module supports uni- and bi-directional RF connections at 868 MHz between meters for gas, water, heating or electricity and concentrators. This data exchange enables the use of smart meters, which can increase the accuracy and transparency of bills, offer better customer service and help improve energy efficiency.

The wireless M-Bus standard specifies communications between water, gas, heat and electric meters. The frequency range used, from 868 MHz to 870 MHz, offers the widest range inside buildings. The data from the individual meters is transferred to a concentrator on site, which collates and transfers it via the Internet or a telephone network to the utility companies. 

Silicon Labs' Si443x EZRadio ISM Band Transceivers

Silicon Labs’ Si443x ISM band transceivers provide exceptional sub-GHz RF performance, high sensitivity and very low power consumption. EZRadioPRO devices offer an array of enhanced parameters and features including continuous frequency coverage from 240 MHz to 960 MHz and output power up to +20 dBm. They also include useful built-in features such as antenna diversity, wake-up timer, low battery detector, transmit and receive data FIFOs, power-on reset circuit and general-purpose digital I/Os.

Telit Wireless Solutions' ME50-868 Modules

Telit’s ME50-868 modules are the latest generation of wireless M-bus products compliant with EN 13757 part 4 and part 5. The modules provide an outstanding link budget, (122 dB) as well as an exceptional range of up to 2,000 meters. The modules with land grid array (LGA) mounting technology operate with ultra-low power (< 1 µA in standby), resulting in long battery life and low maintenance requirements. Equipped with an RS-232 interface and digital as well as analogue inputs and outputs, the modules can be easily integrated into various systems, reducing the time and money spent on development. The ME50-868 is pin-to-pin compatible with the Telit modules in the ZE (ZigBee 2007 and PRO stack), NE (Mesh low power) and LE (basic point to point, broadcast stack) families.