Module Support; Xctu Configuration Tool; Customizing Xbee Zb Firmware; Design Considerations For Digi Drop-In Networking - Digi XBee-PRO User Manual

Module support

This section 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.

XCTU configuration tool

Digi provides a Windows XCTU 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
You can download XCTU here.

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 Wi-Fi 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 operate
with the Network Commissioning Tool software
•
Interface with standard RS-232, USB, Analog and Digital I/O, RS-485, and other industrial devices using XBee
Adapters
XBee/XBee-PRO ZigBee RF Modules User Guide 208