Device Types - Digi XBee Zigbee Mesh Kit User Manual

Zigbee in a nutshell
For more information about the Zigbee stack layers, read the

Device types

Zigbee defines three different device types: coordinator, router, and end device.
Coordinator
Zigbee networks always have a single coordinator device. This device:
Starts the network, selecting the channel and
n
Distributes addresses, allowing routers and end devices to join the network. Assists in routing
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data.
Buffers wireless data packets for sleeping end device children.
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Manages the other functions that define the network, secure it, and keep it healthy. This
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device cannot sleep and must be powered on at all times.
Router
A router is a full-featured Zigbee node. This device:
Can join existing networks and send, receive, and route information. Routing involves acting as
n
a messenger for communications between other devices that are too far apart to convey
information on their own.
Can buffer wireless data packets for sleeping end device children. Can allow other routers and
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end devices to join the network.
XBee® Zigbee® Mesh Kit
Zigbee communication in depth
PAN ID.
Device types
section.
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