SerialNet AT Command Set
Layered on top of BitCloud stack, SerialNet is an ideal way to network ZigBit modules without writing a single line of embedded software. By controlling the module through AT commands sent throught the module's serial interface, SerialNet users can radiply prototype and deploy full-featured, reliable wireless applications in a fraction of time that would be required if embedded programming was necessary, all this while utilizing the rock-solid foundation provided by the BitCloud stack.
SerialNet AT commands are ASCII-based and human-readable, which ensures that they are easy to both extend and debug. A host processor can control a ZigBit module loaded with SerialNet over a serial port. However, a host processor is not required on every node in the network – SerialNet AT commands can be sent over network and interpreted remotely on any SerialNet-enabled ZigBit device. Thus, SerialNet AT commands are also well-suited for easy over-the-air network commissioning and deployment.
Key Features
- No embedded programming experience required
- Easy-to-use serial command interface
- Extensive command set with standard diagnostic messages
- Transparent execution of both serial and over-the-air commands
- Ultimate in data reliability with true mesh routing
- One source of support from ZigBee PRO stack experts
Hardware Platforms
SerialNet supports the following hardware platforms:
Technical Specifications
SerialNet AT command set builds upon wireless extensions of the V.250 command set. Currently, SerialNet AT command language contains over 50 commands and some pre-defined 40 S-registers storing various device and network settings. Commands are sent to serial interface by a host microcontroller or a PC host, and the replies to those commands are forwarded back over the serial interface. In addition to synchronous commands replies, SerialNet provides the host with indication of asynchronous events such as network loss or data acknowledgement. Command syntax uses a set of conventions which allow easy interpretation of command's purpose and action.
All SerialNet AT commands fall into the following categories:
- Network, node management and networking parameters
- Data transmission
- Generic control
- Host interface control
- Hardware control
- Remote management
The first two of the above AT command groups are mapped directly onto corresponding BitCloud API functions. Commands in other categories expose a limited subset of corresponding BitCloud functionality. The set of AT commands also features dedicated commands for safe module reboot and factory default parameters restore. Hardware control functions let users configure/read/write GPIO pins, read A/D and manage other peripherals. Remote management facility lets the user execute a command on a remote node, getting a reply transparentely over the air, as if it was executed locally. Most AT commands can be executed remotely, which facilitates commissioning and remote data collection from network nodes even after the network has been deployed.
Availability and Support
SerialNet is available for ZigBit Development Kit, ZigBit Amp Development Kit and ZigBit 900 Development Kit platforms as a part of BitCloud SDK at www.atmel.com/BitCloud.
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