11. Module Support
This chapter provides customization information for the XBee. In addition to providing an extremely flexible and powerful
API, XBee 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 EM357 chip.
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 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 4), DTR / SLEEP_RQ (pin 10), and RTS (pin 29). To invoke the bootloader,
do the following:
1. Set DTR / SLEEP_RQ low (TTL 0V) and RTS high.
2. Send a serial break to the DIN pin and power cycle or reset the module.
3. When the module powers up, DTR / SLEEP_RQ and DIN should be low (TTL 0V) and RTS should be high.
4. Terminate the serial break and send a carriage return at 115200bps to the module.
5. If successful, the module will send the Ember bootloader menu out the DOUT pin at 115200bps.
6. Commands can be sent to the bootloader at 115200bps.
Note: Hardware flow control should be disabled when entering and communicating with the EM250 boot-
loader.
© 2010 Digi International, Inc.
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