RC232 Modules

Easy-to-use and simple RF modules for high performance cable replacement applications!

RC232 is an easy-to-use and effective cable replacement networking protocol. It was designed to help solve some of the downsides of industrial fieldbuses like RS232 and RS485 while still maintaining its simplicity. But also, to enable a simple and high performance wireless network for data transmissions.

RC232 is the most simple networking protocol for bidirectional wireless transmissions from a transmitter to a receiver. It is fully transparent meaning the data you input at the transmitter side will show up exactly the same on the receiver side.

Tinymesh Module Transparent Protocol

Transparent protocol, you receive exactly the same data as you transmitted

High-Throughput Networking With RIIM Modules

Support RF data rate of up to 100 kbps

Pre-certified RC232 Modules

Pre-certified modules that comply to radio regulations

RC232 Modules support global frequency bands

Global coverage: 169 MHz to 2.4 GHz support

How it works

The RC232 modules were launched more than 23 years ago as Radiocrafts’ first ever product line and are still popular today due to the modules’ ease-of-use and high performance. Our wireless experts continuously work on making sure RC232 provides our end customers with high performance by simplicity.

As a result, the RC232 product range has been used in every corner of the globe with a vast range of radio frequencies from 169 MHz to 2.4 GHz. We have a product version for a vast array of application requirements including high radio reliability, narrowband industrial grade variants, globally supported frequency bands, and more.

The RC232 protocol is embedded in the module and enables point to point, point to multi point, peer to peer networks, and a multi-hop option. The RC232 modules can be controlled with a simple-to-use UART interface, and used to configure the protocol for the actual application.

As previously mentioned, RC232 also offers wireless extensions of RS232 and RS485 industrial fieldbuses. No code or connections adjustments are needed to operate RS232 or RS485 over RC232 as it has native support for that.

RC232 module benefits and features include:

Benefits over Wired solutions:

  • Wireless solutions have a lower cost of ownership because you avoid high costs of buying, installing, and maintaining cables
  • Wireless systems are more mobile and can be mounted anywhere (non-invasive)
  • Going wireless can also offer added features to the system which were previously unavailable, for example, increasing the range of the system
  • Wireless networks can be more easily expanded and updated to support future-proofing over decades

RC232 module benefits and features:

  • Simple, easy-to-use, and high-performance cable replacement and networking protocol embedded in a module
  • Proven technology with over 23 years of experience in the field
  • Point to point, point to multi-point, peer to peer networks, and a multi-hop option
  • Controlled with an easy UART interface
  • Bi-directional, transparent data communication
  • Native support for RS232 and RS485, no additional code or connection adjustments required
  • Data rates ranging from 1.2 kbps to 100 kbps on the RF side
  • Frequency ranges from 169 MHz – 2.4 GHz for global support
  • Compact shielded module 12.7 x 25.4 x 3.3 mm for SMD mounting
  • CE and FCC pre-certified modules for fast to market release

Radiocrafts has an extensive portfolio of RC232 modules for cable replacement and industrial applications that will ensure high performance by simplicity, the flexibility to choose between different frequency bands, save you a lot of R&D investment, will take you fast to market, and are proven in quality with over 23 years of global installations.

RC11xx-RC232 module series

Cost-effective sub-GHz module platform for simple cable replacement and industrial applications

Module
Frequency Band (MHz)
Radio Channels #
Data Rate (kbps)
Rx Sensitivity (mA)
Rx Current (mA)
Power Output (dBm)
Tx Current (mA)
Sleep Current (uA)
Indicative LoS (M)
Region / Compliance
RC1140-RC232
433
17
1.2 - 100
-110
24
10
35
0.3
1,200
EU / CE
RC1170-RC232
865
15
1.2 - 100
-110
24
10
35
0.3
800
India
RC1180-RC232
868
16
1.2 - 100
-110
24
10
37
0.3
800
EU / CE
RC1190-RC232
915
50
1.2 - 100
-110
24
-1
37
0.3
300
USA / FCC
RC1170HP-RC232
865
15
1.2 - 100
-109
24
27
560
3.4
4,000
India
RC1180HP-RC232
868
18
1.2 - 76.8
-109
24
27
560
3.4
4000
EU / CE
RC1190HP-RC232
915
50
1.2 - 76.8
-109
24
27
560
3.4
4000
USA / FCC

RC12xx-RC232 module series

A product family with a lot of different options to meet different regulations in various countries

Module
Frequency Band (MHz)
Radio Channels #
Data Rate (kbps)
Rx Sensitivity (mA)
Rx Current (mA)
Power Output (dBm)
Tx Current (mA)
Sleep Current (uA)
Indicative LoS (M)
Region / Compliance
RC1210
418 / 419
30
4.8
-112
20
8
26
0.003
2,000
China
RC1230
426 / 429
71
2.4
-115
20
8
26
0.003
2,000
Japan
RC1240
433
69
4.8
-115
20
8
26
0.003
2,000
EU / CE
RC1244
429 - 444
85
4.8
-115
20
8
29
0.003
2,000
Nordic
RC1250
424 / 447
80
2.4
-117
20
8
26
0.003
2,000
Korea
RC1280
868
80
4.8
-110
21
7
28
0.003
1,000
EU / CE
RC1290
915
51
1.2 - 19.2
-110
21
4
23
0.003
500
USA / FCC

RC17xxxx-RC232 module series

An upgraded version of the RC11xx-RC232 module series, which includes Ultra-Narrowband radio as an extra feature for the best noise resilience and longer range

Module
Frequency Band (MHz)
Radio Channels #
Data Rate (kbps)
Rx Sensitivity (mA)
Rx Current (mA)
Power Output (dBm)
Tx Current (mA)
Sleep Current (uA)
Indicative LoS (M)
Region / Compliance
RC1701HP-RC232
169
10
1.2 - 100
-118
31
27
407
0.6
20,000
EU / CE
RC1740-RC232
433
93
0.3 - 100
-118
31
15
57
0.6
3,000
Worldwide*
RC1780HP-RC232
868
84
03 - 100
-118
31
27
297 / 72
0.6
5,000
EU / CE

RC25xxxx-RC232 module series

A 2.4 GHz platform for products that need a true global reach

Module
Frequency Band (MHz)
Radio Channels #
Data Rate (kbps)
Rx Sensitivity (mA)
Rx Current (mA)
Power Output (dBm)
Tx Current (mA)
Sleep Current (uA)
Indicative LoS (M)
Region / Compliance
RC2500-RC232
2,400 - 2,483
83
1.2 - 100
-105 / -89
25
1
27
0.4
500
Worldwide*
RC2500HP-RC232
2,400 - 2,483
83
1.2 - 100
-108 / -91
30
18
155
1.5
2,000
Worldwide*

Datasheets

File type:
File name:
File description:
This document covers the relevant information about the RC11XX-RC232 module series such as product features, reference data, circuit and pin description, module configuration, power supply, programming interface, antenna connection, and other product related information. Products: RC1140-RC232, RC1170-RC232, RC1180-RC232, RC1190-RC232
This document covers the relevant information about the RC11XX-RC232 High Power module series such as product features, reference data, circuit and pin description, module configuration, power supply, programming interface, antenna connection, and other product related information. Products: RC1170HP-RC232, RC1180HP-RC232, RC1190HP-RC232
This document covers the relevant information about the RC2500-RC232 module series such as product features, reference data, circuit and pin description, module configuration, power supply, programming interface, antenna connection, and other product related information.
This document covers the relevant information about the RC2500-RC232 High Power module series such as product features, reference data, circuit and pin description, module configuration, power supply, programming interface, antenna connection, and other product related information.
This document covers the relevant information about the RC1240, RC1280, and RC1290 modules such as product features, reference data, circuit and pin description, module configuration, power supply, programming interface, antenna connection, and other product related information.
This document covers the relevant information about the RC17XX-RC232 High Power module series such as product features, reference data, circuit and pin description, module configuration, power supply, programming interface, antenna connection, and other product related information. Products: RC1701HP-RC232, RC1740-RC232, RC1780HP-RC232
The Data Sheet for the RC1210 series that is specially made for the Chinese market.
The Data Sheet for the RC1230 series that is specially made for Japanese market.
The Data Sheet for the RC1244 series that is specially made for the Nordic market.
The Data Sheet for the RC1250 series that is specially made for Korean market.

User Manuals

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File name:
File description:
This User Manual for RC232 modules is a step by step introduction on how to use our module with the RC232 Protocol. This document describes the RC232 feature sets, RC232 embedded protocol, the UART interface and timing, power management, and supply voltage.
This User Manual describes the main characteristics of the RC17XX-RC232 and RC17xxHP-RC232 product family. It includes a detailed description of RC232 features, module configuration, timing information, and memory.

Application Notes

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When designing the PCB layout for the RF modules, there are some measures that need to be taken to get the best performance from the radio module. In this application note, we will suggest some best practices for your product to succeed.
In this document we will go through some of the most common serial connections available between nodes in industrial control networks. Afterwards, we will present how Radiocrafts RC232 and RIIM™ enables the wireless extension of some fieldbuses based on Modbus protocol by supporting the RS232 and the RS485 electrical standard on RF modules.
Different applications and different use-cases will need different wireless connectivity technologies. Therefore, selecting the right wireless technology is a critical design decision. Based on radio performance requirements and other criteria, this selection guide will point out the differences between the technologies to help selecting the right one.
This is a short Application Note on the use of license free RF modules in New Zealand, and in particular which modules from Radiocrafts will meet the local radio regulations.
There are many different wireless standards and technologies available to enable the internet of things (IoT). The different technologies have different pro’s and con’s depending on the use case and the end customer. Trying to keep up with the latest wireless trends can drain a company of all its resources and take attention from its core business. The solution recommended by Radiocrafts is to use a modular approach and a common RF module footprint that enables all the technologies offered by Radiocrafts without modifications to the PCB.
Making a good RF antenna is by some considered a challenging part of a wireless product design. It required RF knowledge which is not common among general electrical design engineer and not widespread know-how among software engineers either. Radiocrafts has developed a process and the tools required to make this tuning process simple and straightforward in a way that a person with no RF experience can tune a 169MHz antenna to the final product.
When selecting the right radio technology, the achievable communication range is an important factor. This document review how to analyse radio range based on parameter provided in the data sheets for the different module families. Some measurement results from practical range testing are also shown
The purpose of this document is to list some of the most common issues that customers report when using Radiocrafts modules, and the solution to these issues.
Radiocrafts offers a wide range of wireless modules targeting different solutions word-wide. This Application Note informs how to select and use Radiocrafts modules for FCC compliance in US.
“The Radiocrafts Demo Boards and USB-sticks include an on-board firmware upgrade connector compatible with different flash programming adapters. It is also recommended that PCB layouts include a connector for firmware upgrade. This Application Note describes how to upgrade the firmware of any Radiocrafts RFmodule using either a CC Debugger or the FlashPro-CC tools.”
The RC1xx0 and RC2x00 series of RF Modules with integrated protocol offers easy adaptation of wireless communication utilizing a simple UART serial interface. In their standard versions without any required configuration the modules offer two pins for controlling PA, LNA and SPDTs for signal switching. Two SPDTs are required since it is only one RF pin on the Radiocrafts modules.

White Papers

File type:
File name:
File description:
In this whitepaper we will outline some parts of the required process needed for a product to be accepted in the market with one of our modules inside. The paper will not cover every license type in every country but will instead give an overview of the certifications needed and how to test against this.
This White Paper aims at drawing the map over the IoT connectivity terrain and to position the Radiocrafts Industrial IP Mesh (RIIM) among the other technologies, e.g. LoRaWAN, Wi-SUN and Wirepas. The purpose is not to find one best solution, but to identify the trade-offs and priorities that the user must do when considering wireless connectivity. We map technical features such as current consumption, range, firmware upgrade over air, reliability etc.
This document describes the importance of LPWAN networks, what separates LPWANs from other technologies in the IoT space, the advantages of using Radiocrafts’ modules in LPWAN network, etc.
The 169 MHz band opens up for new opportunities in long range communication for Industrial Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN), or, what is now called the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). The document describes the radio compliance regulations for 169 MHz band.
The new RED (Radio Equipment Directive, 2014/53/EU) is replacing the R&TTE Directive (1999/5/EC), and comes into full force from 2017-06-13. This document describes the main changes in the new directive, information about assessment and Declaration of Conformity, end user responsibilities, etc.
This document covers the relevant information about the different antenna types, their selection criteria and matching, positioning, and selection guide based on different frequencies.

For all our RC232 modules, easy-to-use Development Kits are available for rapid prototyping and proof of concept. The kits contain:

  • Two Development Boards with the module of choice
  • Onboard USB level shifter and USB connector
  • SMA antenna connector, I/O break-out
  • Quarterwave stub antennas with SMA connector
  • USB cables
  • The HP variants include additional AC/DC Power Supplies

The kit should be used together with the PC software tools.

Development Kit Software Tools

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File name:
File description:
RC Tools RC232 contains the PC tools for design with the RC232 family. It includes the CCT tool and the Demo tool.
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To update the module configuration files used by the CCT tool, please unzip and copy these files to the “Modules” folder inside the RCTools RC232 installation folder.

Development Kit Quick Start

File type:
File name:
File description:
The Demonstration Kit from Radiocrafts is designed to make it easy for the user to evaluate the module, develop an application and build prototypes. Bundled with the Demonstration Kit is the RCTools PC software to be used together with the Demo Boards.
The Demonstration Kit from Radiocrafts is designed to make it easy for the user to evaluate the module, develop an application and build prototypes. Bundled with the Demonstration Kit is the RCTools PC software to be used together with the Demo Boards.

Development Kit User Manual

File type:
File name:
File description:
This User Manual describes how to use the Demonstration Kit for RC11xx-RC232; RC12xx; RC25xx-RC232 module series and provides detailed documentation for the Demonstration Board.
This User Manual describes how to use the Demonstration Kit for RC11xxHP-RC232; RC12xxHP; RC17xxHP-RC232 module series and provides detailed documentation for the Demonstration Board.
RCTools is a powerful and easy to use PC suite that helps you during test, development and deployment of the Radiocrafts modules. The RCTools includes RC_CCT, RC_SA and RC_DT stand-alone applications running under windows .Net Framework. The RCTools is free of charge and easily installed (including .NET and USB Driver) by running the setup file.
The RC232-SA (Spectrum Analyzer) enables you to easily scan all or a subset of channels which the module can operate on. This is a handy tool for checking available free channels and to verify that you actually are transmitting on the right frequency. The SA tool also enables the possibility of optimizing antenna performance and relatively comparing the performance of various antenna solutions.
The RC232-CCT (Configuration & Communication Tool) helps you work with your Radiocrafts modules. The program enables you to easily configure the module and can additionally work as a terminal window, where data can be sent or received to / from any serial port. The RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) informs you about the Link budget and helps you estimate range.
This is a step by step introduction how to properly use RC232 Spectrum Analyzer for RC232 modules.

Development Kit Reference Designs

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File name:
File description:
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Schematic and PCB documentation used for the RC11xx-RC232, RC12xx, and RC25xxxx-RC232 development kits. This board is recommended to use as a reference design.
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Schematic and PCB documentation used for the RC11xxHP-RC232 and RC17xxxx-RC232 development kits. This board is recommended to use as a reference design.

Radiocrafts offers a range of RC232 PC software tools to support the evaluation and development of new applications. The tools provide a fast way to create the data needed to design a fully functional wireless network, configured specifically for your application.

File type:
File name:
File description:
RC Tools RC232 contains the PC tools for design with the RC232 family. It includes the CCT tool and the Demo tool.
 width=
To update the module configuration files used by the CCT tool, please unzip and copy these files to the “Modules” folder inside the RCTools RC232 installation folder.

Explore Radiocrafts’ vast array of webinars, videos, blogs, and wireless guides to learn more about how you can benefit from using Radiocrafts’ easy-to-use and high performance RC232 modules for your next project!

Video Snippets

File type:
File name:
File description:
We walk you through how to install the RC232 RCTools including where to find the RC232 RCTools on our website, and how to follow the download instructions.
We walk you through how to setup and get started with the RC232 RCTools:

• How to configure the RC232 RCTools CCT configuration platform.
• What the different values and settings mean.
• How to send messages between two different RC232 boards.

Blogs

File type:
File name:
File description:
In this blog post we will talk about:

• What truly matters when picking a suitable technology for your application
• A comprehensive checklist of information equipping you with the essential insights needed for evaluating your application’s requirements
• Present a few scenarios with the goal of discussing the different technology options that could be optimal for your system’s performance
• Address the challenges to consider with wireless technologies
• Offer insights into various technologies including BLE, LoRa, Sub-GHz Mesh, ZigBee, Sigfox, Wireless M-Bus and more
• Provide an overview of the technologies available through Radiocrafts

In this blog post we are going to discuss:

• The different features which make the 169 MHz band ideal for sensors and devices in hard-to-reach places
• Provide some examples of recent existing use cases for Radiocrafts’ 169 MHz modules.
• Present the various benefits of designing a device/sensor with a Radiocrafts’ 169 MHz solution, as we are pioneers in the development and standardization of the 169 MHz band.

In this blog post we will discuss:

• The growth of Smart cities and how this is creating a need for better RF technologies with better penetration, using smart metering as an example
• the 169 MHz frequency band which is a great solution to reach indoor objects compared to higher frequencies
• Radiocrafts’ involvement in creating a standardized process for the 169 MHz band
• The Wize Alliance, a nonprofit association founded in 2017 by SUEZ, Sagemcom, and GRDF, who are growing rapidly (over 40 members now) due to their extensive efforts in creating a smart metering solution known as Wize.

Free Wireless Guides

File type:
File name:
File description:
Selecting the right wireless technology is a critical design decision. This technology selection guide will:

• Point out the differences between the technologies to help in selecting the right one
• Offer a technology overview
• Review each technology looking at advantages, features and some potential limitations which should be considered for certain applications
• Find a table showing radio modules supporting different technologies and applications

Declarations of Conformity

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File name:
File description:
RED/CE Declaration of Conformity for the RC1140-RC232 module
RED/CE Declaration of Conformity for the RC1180-RC232 and RC1180HP-RC232 modules
RED/CE Declaration of Conformity for the RC1240 and RC1280 modules
FCC Declaration of Conformity for the RC1290 module
RED/CE Declaration of Conformity for the RC1701HP-RC232 module
RED/CE Declaration of Conformity for the RC1740-RC232 module
RED/CE Declaration of Conformity for the RC1780HP-RC232 module
RED/CE Declaration of Conformity for the RC2500-RC232 and RC2500HP-RC232 modules
Tinymesh Module sales inquiries

Sales and Product Inquiries

Tinymesh Technical Support

Technical Support

Tinymesh Module FAQ

RC232 Module FAQ

Radiocrafts’ easy-to-use and high performance RC232 modules have helped our customers get fast to market in a wide variety of wireless applications!

How To Buy RC232 Modules

Get Tinymesh Modules From A Distribution Partner Near You!

For any module inquiries please contact a Radiocrafts Distribution Partner near you!

Tinymesh Modules - Short Development Time

Or Buy Online From DigiKey!

Product Name
Frequency
Region Compliance
Buy Module Online
Buy Development Kit Online
RC1140-RC232
433 MHz
EU / CE
RC1170-RC232
865 MHz
India
RC1180-RC232
868 MHz
EU / CE
RC1190-RC232
915 MHz
USA / FCC
RC1170HP-RC232
865 MHz
India
RC1180HP-RC232
868 MHz
EU / CE
RC1190HP-RC232
915 MHz
USA / FCC
RC1210
418 / 419 MHz
China
RC1230
426 / 429 MHz
Japan
RC1240
433 MHz
EU / CE
RC1244
429 / 444 MHz
Nordic
RC1250
424 / 447 MHz
Korea
RC1280
868 MHz
EU / CE
RC1290
915 MHz
USA / FCC
RC1701HP-RC232
169 MHz
EU / CE
RC1740-RC232
433 MHz
Worldwide*
Contact Radiocrafts
RC1780HP-RC232
868 MHz
EU / CE
RC2500-RC232
2,400 - 2,483 MHz
Worldwide*
Contact Radiocrafts
RC2500HP-RC232
2,400 - 2,483 MHz
Worldwide*