KH3 Series

Transmitter Module
Data Guide
 ! Warning: Linx radio frequency ("RF") products may be
used to control machinery or devices remotely, including machinery
Table of Contents
or devices that can cause death, bodily injuries, and/or property
1^ Description
damage if improperly or inadvertently triggered, particularly in industrial
settings or other applications implicating life-safety concerns. No Linx 1^ Features
Technologies product is intended for use in any application without 1^ Applications
redundancies where the safety of life or property is at risk.
2^ Ordering Information
The customers and users of devices and machinery controlled with 2^ Absolute Maximum Ratings
RF products must understand and must use all appropriate safety 3^ Electrical Specifications
procedures in connection with the devices, including without limitation, 4^ Typical Performance Graphs
using appropriate safety procedures to prevent inadvertent triggering by
the user of the device and using appropriate security codes to prevent 8^ Pin Assignments
triggering of the remote controlled machine or device by users of other 8^ Pin Descriptions
remote controllers. 9^ Module Description
Do not use this or any Linx product to trigger an action directly 10^ Theory of Operation
from the data line or RSSI lines without a protocol or encoder/ 10^ Compatibility with the KH2 Series
decoder to validate the data. Without validation, any signal from 11^ Encoder Operation
another unrelated transmitter in the environment received by the
module could inadvertently trigger the action. 12^ Setting the Transmitter Address
12^ Data Inputs
All RF products are susceptible to RF interference that can prevent 12^ Enabling Transmission
communication. RF products without frequency agility or hopping
12^ Input Type Selection
implemented are more subject to interference. This module does not
have a frequency hopping protocol built in. 14^ Using LADJ
14^ Power Supply Requirements
Do not use any Linx product over the limits in this data guide.
15^ Typical Applications
Excessive voltage or extended operation at the maximum voltage could
cause product failure. Exceeding the reflow temperature profile could 16^ Antenna Considerations
cause product failure which is not immediately evident. 17^ Helpful Application Notes from Linx
18^ Interference Considerations
Do not make any physical or electrical modifications to any Linx
product. This will void the warranty and regulatory and UL certifications 19^ Pad Layout
and may cause product failure which is not immediately evident. 19^ Board Layout Guidelines
21^ Microstrip Details
22^ Production Guidelines
22^ Hand Assembly
22^ Automated Assembly
24^ General Antenna Rules
26^ Common Antenna Styles
KH3 Series Transmitter Module
28^ Regulatory Considerations
30^ Notes Data Guide
Description 1.21 in
The KH3 Series is ideally suited for (30.73 mm)
volume use in OEM applications such
as remote control and command, and
0.63 in
keyless entry. Housed in a compact SMD (16.00 mm) TXM-XXX-KH3
package, it combines a highly optimized LOT KTxxxx

RF transmitter with an on-board encoder.

0.18 in
When paired with a matching KH3 (4.60 mm)
Series receiver / decoder module, a
reliable wireless link is formed, capable Figure 1: Package Dimensions
of transferring the status of 8 parallel inputs over distances of up to 3,000
feet.

Ten address lines provide transmitter uniqueness. No external RF

components are required except an antenna, making integration
straightforward.

Features
• Low cost • Ultra-low power consumption
• On-board encoder • Compact SMD package
• 8 parallel binary inputs • Stable SAW-based architecture
• 10 addresses for security and • Adjustable output power
uniqueness • Transmit enable line
• No external RF components • No production tuning
required

Applications
• Remote control / command • Remote status monitoring
• Gate openers • Home / industrial automation
• Lighting control • Remote status / position sensing
• Call systems • Wire elimination

– 1 – Revised 1/27/14
Ordering Information Electrical Specifications

Ordering Information KH3 Series Transmitter Specifications

Part Number Description Parameter Symbol Min. Typ. Max. Units Notes
TXM-315-KH3 315MHz Transmitter / Encoder Power Supply
TXM-418-KH3 418MHz Transmitter / Encoder Operating Voltage VCC 2.7 5.2 VDC
TXM-433-KH3 433MHz Transmitter / Encoder Average TX Supply Current ITX
RXD-315-KH3 315MHz Receiver / Decoder At 3.3dBm 2.7 mA 1,2,4
RXD-418-KH3 418MHz Receiver / Decoder At 0dBm 1.5 mA 1,2,3,4
RXD-433-KH3 433MHz Receiver / Decoder Power-Down Current IPDN 1.0 µA
EVAL-***-KH3 KH3 Series Basic Evaluation Kit Transmitter Section
*** = 315, 418 (Standard), 433MHz Transmit Frequency FC
Transmitters are supplied in tubes of 20 pcs.
TXM-315-KH3 315 MHz
TXM-418-KH3 418 MHz
Figure 2: Ordering Information
TXM-433-KH3 433.92 MHz
Center Frequency Accuracy –75 +75 kHz 2,4
Absolute Maximum Ratings
Output Power PO –4 –1 +4 dBm 2,3
Absolute Maximum Ratings Harmonic Emissions PH –36 dBc 2
Supply Voltage Vcc −0.3 to +6.0 VDC Antenna Port
Any Input or Output Pin −0.3 to VCC VDC RF Impedance RI N 50 Ω
Operating Temperature −40 to +85 ºC Encoder
Storage Temperature −55 to +125 ºC Data Length 26 bits 3x
Soldering Temperature +225ºC for 10 seconds Average Data Duty cycle 50% 5
Exceeding any of the limits of this section may lead to permanent damage to the device. Data Input
Furthermore, extended operation at these maximum ratings may reduce the life of this
device. Logic Low 0.0 0.2xVCC VDC 5
Logic High VCCx0.8 VCC VDC 5
Figure 3: Absolute Maximum Ratings Input Sink Current 0.6 0.1 5 µA 5
Environmental
Operating Temp. Range –30 +70 ºC 5

1. Curent draw with 50% mark/space 3. With a 430Ω resistor on LADJ

Warning: This product incorporates numerous static-sensitive ratio 4. At 3V and 25ºC
2. Into a 50Ω load 5. Characterized, but not tested
components. Always wear an ESD wrist strap and observe proper ESD
handling procedures when working with this device. Failure to observe Figure 4: Electrical Specifications
this precaution may result in module damage or failure.

–2 – – 3 –
 Typical Performance Graphs 8.00

8.00 7.00

Supply Currnent (mA)

+85°C
+85°C
7.00 6.00
Supply Currnent (mA)

+25°C
+25°C
6.00 5.00
-40°C LADJ = 0Ω -40°C
5.00 4.00
+25°C +85°C
+25°C
4.00 3.00
LADJ = 0Ω +85°C -40°C
3.00 2.00
-40°C LADJ = 430Ω
2.00 1.00
LADJ = 430Ω
2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5 5.5 6
1.00
Supply Voltage (V)
2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5 5.5 6
Supply Voltage (V) Figure 7: TXM-433-KH3 Transmitter Supply Current vs. Supply Voltage

Figure 5: TXM-315-KH3 Transmitter Supply Current vs. Supply Voltage

8.00 11.00

Transmitter Output Power (dBm)

-40°C
7.00 9.00
LADJ = 0Ω +25°C
Supply Currnent (mA)

+85°C +85°C
7.00
6.00
+25°C -40°C
5.00
5.00 +25°C
-40°C 3.00
4.00
+25°C +85°C 1.00
LADJ = 0Ω +85°C
3.00
-40°C -1.00
LADJ = 430Ω
2.00 -3.00
LADJ = 430Ω
1.00 -5.00
2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5 5.5 6 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5 5.5 6
Supply Voltage (V) Supply Voltage (V)

Figure 6: TXM-418-KH3 Transmitter Supply Current vs. Supply Voltage Figure 8: TXM-315-KH3 Transmitter Output Power vs. Supply Voltage

–4 – – 5 –
Transmitter Output Power (dBm) 11.00 3.00
+25°C
9.00

Transmitter Current (mA)

LADJ = 0Ω -40°C 2.50
7.00
+85°C
5.00 2.00
-40°C
3.00
+25°C
1.00 1.50
+85°C
-1.00
1.00
LADJ = 430Ω
-3.00

-5.00 0.50
2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5 5.5 6 -7.00 -6.00 -5.00 -4.00 -3.00 -2.00 -1.00 0.00 1.00 2.00 3.00 4.00
Supply Voltage (V) Output Power (dBm)

Figure 9: TXM-418-KH3 Transmitter Output Power vs. Supply Voltage Figure 11: KH3 Series Transmitter Output Power vs. Supply Current at 3.0V

13.00 10.00
Transmitter Output Power (dBm)

-40°C
11.00 9.00
LADJ = 0Ω +25°C 8.00
9.00

Attenuation (dB)
+85°C 7.00
7.00
-40°C
6.00
5.00
+25°C 5.00
3.00
4.00
1.00 +85°C 3.00
-1.00 2.00
LADJ = 430Ω
-3.00 1.00
-5.00 0.00
2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5 5.5 6 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200
Supply Voltage (V) LADJ Resistance (Ohms)

Figure 10: TXM-433-KH3 Transmitter Output Power vs. Supply Voltage Figure 12: KH3 Series Transmitter Output Power Attenuation vs. LADJ Resistor

–6 – – 7 –
Pin Assignments Module Description
1 LADJ/GND ANT 24 The KH3 Series transmitter / encoder module combines a
2 D0 GND 23 high-performance Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) based transmitter with an
3 D1 A9 22 on-board remote control encoder. When combined with a Linx KH3 Series
4 GND A8 21 receiver / decoder, a highly reliable RF link capable of transferring control or
5 VCC A7 20 command data over line-of-sight distances of up to 3,000 feet is formed.
6 TE A6 19
The module accepts up to 8 parallel inputs, such as switches or contact
7 D2 A5 18
closures, and provides ten address lines for creating unique transmitter
8 D3 A4 17
/ receiver relationships. The KH3’s compact surface-mount package
9 D4 A3 16
integrates easily into existing designs and is friendly to hand production or
10 D5 A2 15
automated assembly.

A_CFG0

A_CFG1
D_CFG
11 D6 A1 14

12 D7 A0 13 Address Inputs
SAW TX Enable A0-A9
25 26 27 Oscillator
50Ω RF OUT
Figure 13: KH3 Series Transmitter Pin Assignments (Top View) (ANT) D_CFG
D_CFG0
Pin Descriptions Keyed Output D_CFG1

Pin Descriptions Parallel

Data Out
Inputs
Pin Number Name I/O Description RF Amplifier D0-D7
Output Isolation
Level Adjust. This line adjusts the output power level & Filter
GND / of the transmitter. Connecting to GND gives the
1 —
LADJ highest output, while placing a resistor to GND lowers RF STAGE ENCODER STAGE
the output level.
Data Input Lines. When TE goes high, the module Figure 15: KH3 Series Transmitter Block Diagram
encodes the state of these lines for transmission.
2, 3, 7, 8, 9, D0 to D1 I Upon receipt of a valid transmission, the receiver /
10, 11,12 decoder replicates these lines on its output lines.
These lines are pulled to GND internally.
4, 23 GND — Analog Ground
5 VCC — Supply Voltage
Transmit Enable Line. When this line goes high, the
module encodes the states of the address and data
6 TE I/O lines into a packet and transmits the packet three
times.
Address Lines. The state of these lines must match
13, 14, 15, the state of the receiver’s address lines in order for a
16, 17, 18, A0 to A9 I transmission to be accepted. These lines are pulled
19, 20, 21, 22 to VCC internally.
24 ANT — 50-ohm RF Output
Data Line Configuration. Determines whether a low
on a data line is interpreted as a zero bit or an open
25 D_CFG I/O bit. See the Input Type Selection section. This line is
pulled to GND internally.
Address Configuration. These lines determine the
A_CFG0 / address bit type interpretation. See the Input Type
26, 27 A_CFG1 Selection section. A_CFG0 is pulled to GND and
A_CFG1 is pulled to VCC internally.

Figure 14: KH3 Series Transmitter Pin Descriptions

–8 – – 9 –
Theory of Operation Encoder Operation
The KH3 Series transmitter operation is straightforward. When the Transmit The KH3 Series transmitter internally utilizes Power On
Enable (TE) line is taken high, the on-board encoder IC is activated. The the DS Series encoder. The encoder begins
encoder detects the logic states of the data and address lines. These a three-word transmission cycle when the
Standby Mode
states are formatted into a 3-word transmission, which continues until the Transmission Enable line (TE) is pulled high.
TE line is taken low. The encoder creates a serial data packet that is used This cycle repeats itself for as long as the TE
to modulate the transmitter. line is held high. Once TE falls low, the encoder No Transmission
Enabled?
completes its final cycle and then stops as
The transmitter section is based on a simple, but highly-optimized, shown in the Encoder / Decoder Timing diagram Yes

architecture that achieves a high fundamental output power with low (Figure 16). When a transmission enable signal 3 Data Words
Transmitted
harmonic content. This ensures that most approval standards can be is applied, the encoder scans and transmits the
met without external filter components. The KH3 Series transmitter is status of the 10 bits of the address code and the
exceptionally stable over variations in time, temperature, and physical 8 bits of the data serially in the order A0 to A9, No Transmission
shock as a result of the precision SAW device that is incorporated as the D0 to D7. Still Enabled?

frequency reference. Yes

The state of address / data pins can be 3 Data Words

Transmitted
The transmitted signal may be received by a Linx KH3 Series receiver interpreted as ONE, ZERO or OPEN bits, Continuously
/ decoder module or a Linx LR Series receiver combined with the following the logic of the D_CFG, A_CFG0 and
appropriate decoder IC. Once data is received, it is decoded using a A_CFG1 inputs. See the Input Type Selection Figure 16: Encoder Flowchart
decoder IC or custom microcontroller. The transmitted address bits are section for more details. The open bit on the data
checked against the address settings of the receiving device. If a match input is interpreted as logic low by the decoders since the decoder output
is confirmed, the decoder’s outputs are set to replicate the transmitter’s only has two states. The address pins are usually set to transmit particular
inputs. security codes by DIP switches or PCB wiring, while the data is selected
using push buttons or electronic switches.
Compatibility with the KH2 Series
The Legacy KH2 Series used encoders and decoders for Holtek® and the Encoder
Transmit
KH3 migrates to the Linx DS Series encoder and decoder. The protocol Enable < 1 Word
and functionality are compatible. There is some difference in the hardware
Encoder
set-up for the address lines and the data lines. The legacy Holtek® Data Out
Transmitted Continuously 3 Words
products used tri-state lines, so high, low and floating were each valid 3 Words

states. The DS Series has bi-state lines; high and low only. Three lines 2 Words
have been added to the KH3 module to allow for the selection of how the Decoder VT
address and data line states are interpreted. Please see the Input Type Check Check

Selection section for more details. Decoder

Data Out

The KH3 transmitter has been designed to be compatible with legacy Figure 17: Encoder / Decoder Timing Diagram
systems. The module has been configured for the most common use of the
KH2 so that it can be placed on existing boards without modification. This
makes the KH3 a drop-in replacement for most applications.

–10 – – 11 –
Setting the Transmitter Address lines. Tri-state inputs are connected to ground for zero bits, VCC for one
The module has ten address lines. This allows the formation of up to 1,022 bits, or left unconnected for open bits. Since the DS cannot match this
(210 – 2) unique transmitter-receiver relationships. operation the D_CFG, A_CFG0 and A_CFG1 lines are provided to select
the desired interpretation. The settings must match on both ends.
Note: All address lines high or all low is not allowed, so at least one line
must be different from the others.
Pulling the D_CFG line high configures the data inputs as one and zero.
Because the address inputs have internal pull-up resistors these pins can A high on a data line is interpreted as a one bit and a low on the line is
be left floating or tied to GND. These pins may be hardwired or configured interpreted as a zero bit. Pulling D_CFG low configures the data inputs as
via a microprocessor, DIP switch or jumpers. The receiver’s address one and open. A high on a data line is interpreted as a one bit and a low on
line states must match the transmitter’s exactly for a transmission to be the line is interpreted as an open bit. The decoder outputs open data bits
recognized. If the transmitted address does not match the receiver’s local as logic low. This is shown in Figure 18.
address, then the receiver will take no action.
D_CFG Configuration
Configuration Bit Interpretation
Data Inputs
When the Transmit Enable (TE) line goes high, the states of the eight data D_CFG High Low

input lines are recorded and encoded for transmission. Because the data 0 One Open
inputs have internal pull-down resistors, these pins can be left floating or 1 One Zero
tied to VCC. The states of the data lines can be set by switches, jumpers,
microcontrollers or hardwired on the PCB. Figure 18: D_CFG Configuration

The encoder sends the states of the address and data lines three times. If A_CFG0 and A_CFG1 are used to select the bit type for the address lines.
the TE line is still high, it begins the cycle again. This means that the states These are shown in Figure 19.
of the data lines are refreshed with each cycle, so the data lines can be
A_CFGO and A_CFG1 Configuration
changed without having to pull TE low. There can be up to a 150ms lag
in response as the transmitter finishes one cycle then refreshes and starts Configuration Bit Interpretation

over. A_CFG1 A_CFG0 High Low

0 0 One Zero
Enabling Transmission 0 1 One Open
The module’s Transmit Enable (TE) line controls transmission status. 1 0 Open Zero
When taken high, the module initiates transmission, which continues until 1 1 One Zero
the line is pulled low or power to the module is removed. In some cases
this line will be wired permanently to VCC and transmission controlled by Figure 19: A_CFG0 and A_CFG1 Configuration
switching VCC to the module. This is particularly useful in applications where
the module powers up and sends a transmission only when a button is D_CFG is pulled low internally so that a high on a data line is transmitted
pressed on the remote. as a one bit and a low on the line is transmitted as an open bit. A_CFG0
is pulled low and A_CFG1 is pulled high internally so that a high on an
address line is interpreted as an open bit and a low as a zero bit.
Input Type Selection
The KH3 Series transmitter incorporates the DS Series remote control
This configuration matches the Linx OEM products and the most common
encoder, which is designed to be operable with previous generation
implementation of the legacy KH2 Series. This enables customers using
products based on Holtek® encoders and decoders. The Holtek®
the KH2 Series to populate the KH3 Series without any PCB modifications
encoders and decoders have tri-state input lines but the DS has bi-state
since pins 25, 26 and 27 can be left unconnected.
–12 – – 13 –
Using LADJ Typical Applications
The LADJ line allows the transmitter’s output power to be easily adjusted Figure 21 shows an example of a basic remote control transmitter utilizing
for range control, lower power consumption, or to meet legal requirements. the KH3 Series transmitter.
This is done by placing a resistor between GND and LADJ. When LADJ is VCC
0 ohm
connected directly to GND, the output power is at its maximum. Placing a GND TXE-XXX-KH3
resistor lowers the output power by up to 7dB, as shown in Figure 12. 1
LADJ/GND ANT
24

2 23
D0 GND GND

This is very useful during FCC testing to compensate for antenna gain 3
D1 A9
22

or other product-specific issues that may cause the output power to GND
4
GND A8
21
1 20
5 20 2 19
exceed legal limits. A variable resistor can be used so that the test lab can VCC
+
VCC A7
3 18
6 19 4 17
precisely adjust the output power to the maximum level allowed by law. GND
TE A6
5 16
7 18 6 15
The resistor’s value can be noted and a fixed resistor substituted for final D2 A5
7 14
8 17 8 13
testing. Even in designs where attenuation is not anticipated, it is a good D3 A4
9 12
9 16 10 11
idea to place a resistor pad connected to LADJ and GND so that it can be D4 A3
10 15
used if needed. D5 A2
GND
11 14

A_CFG0

A_CFG1
D_CFG
D6 A1
12 13
Power Supply Requirements D7 A0

The module does not have an internal voltage regulator; therefore it requires

25

26

27
a clean, well-regulated power source. Vcc TO 100k

While it is preferable to power the unit from MODULE

a battery, it can also be operated from a GND

10Ω
power supply as long as noise is less than
Vcc IN
20mV. Power supply noise can affect the +
Figure 21: KH3 Series Transmitter Typical Application Circuit
transmitter modulation; therefore, providing 10µF
a clean power supply for the module should The data lines are connected to buttons. When a button is pressed it takes
be a high priority during design. the corresponding data line high and the TE line to begin the transmission
Figure 20: Power Supply Filter process. Since the data pins are internally pulled down to GND, no
A 10-ohm resistor in series with the supply pull-down resistors are needed.
followed by a 10µF tantalum capacitor from VCC to ground will help in cases
where the quality of supply power is poor. These values may need to be Diodes are used to pull the TE line high when any data line goes high, while
adjusted depending on the noise present on the supply line. isolating the data lines from each other. This makes the transmitter send
data when any button is pressed without affecting any of the other data
lines.

A ten-position DIP switch is used to set the address to either ground or

VCC. Since the address lines are internally pulled up to VCC, no pull-up
resistors are needed.

A resistor is placed on the LADJ line going to GND. This allows the
transmitter output power to be adjusted if needed.

–14 – – 15 –
Antenna Considerations Helpful Application Notes from Linx
The choice of antennas is a It is not the intention of this manual to address in depth many of the issues
critical and often overlooked that should be considered to ensure that the modules function correctly
design consideration. The range, and deliver the maximum possible performance. We recommend reading
performance and legality of an RF the application notes listed in Figure 23 which address in depth key areas
link are critically dependent upon the of RF design and application of Linx products. These applications notes are
antenna. While adequate antenna available online at [Link] or by contacting Linx.
performance can often be obtained
by trial and error methods, antenna Helpful Application Note Titles
design and matching is a complex Figure 22: Linx Antennas Note Number Note Title
task. Professionally designed antennas such as those from Linx (Figure AN-00100 RF 101: Information for the RF Challenged
22) help ensure maximum performance and FCC and other regulatory AN-00126 Considerations for Operation Within the 902–928MHz Band
compliance. AN-00130 Modulation Techniques for Low-Cost RF Data Links
AN-00140 The FCC Road: Part 15 from Concept to Approval
Linx transmitter modules typically have an output power that is higher
AN-00150 Use and Design of T-Attenuation Pads
than the legal limits. This allows the designer to use an inefficient antenna
such as a loop trace or helical to meet size, cost or cosmetic requirements AN-00300 Addressing Linx OEM Products

and still achieve full legal output power for maximum range. If an efficient AN-00500 Antennas: Design, Application, Performance
antenna is used, then some attenuation of the output power will likely be AN-00501 Understanding Antenna Specifications and Operation
needed. This can easily be accomplished by using the LADJ line.
Figure 23: Helpful Application Note Titles
It is usually best to utilize a basic quarter-wave whip until your prototype
product is operating satisfactorily. Other antennas can then be evaluated
based on the cost, size and cosmetic requirements of the product.
Additional details are in Application Note AN-00500.

–16 – – 17 –
Interference Considerations Pad Layout
The RF spectrum is crowded and the potential for conflict with unwanted The pad layout diagram in Figure 24 is designed to facilitate both hand and
sources of RF is very real. While all RF products are at risk from automated assembly.
interference, its effects can be minimized by better understanding its
characteristics. 0.046 in
(1.17 mm)
Interference may come from internal or external sources. The first step 0.065 in 0.096 in
is to eliminate interference from noise sources on the board. This means (1.65 mm) (2.44 mm)
paying careful attention to layout, grounding, filtering and bypassing in 0.07 in
order to eliminate all radiated and conducted interference paths. For (1.78 mm)
many products, this is straightforward; however, products containing 0.274 in
(6.96 mm) 0.61 in
components such as switching power supplies, motors, crystals and other 0.10 in (15.49 mm)
potential sources of noise must be approached with care. Comparing your (2.54 mm)
own design with a Linx evaluation board can help to determine if and at
what level design-specific interference is present.
0.14 in
0.10 in (3.56 mm)
External interference can manifest itself in a variety of ways. Low-level
(2.54 mm)
interference produces noise and hashing on the output and reduces the
link’s overall range. Figure 24: Recommended PCB Layout

High-level interference is caused by nearby products sharing the same Board Layout Guidelines
frequency or from near-band high-power devices. It can even come from The module’s design makes integration straightforward; however, it
your own products if more than one transmitter is active in the same area. is still critical to exercise care in PCB layout. Failure to observe good
It is important to remember that only one transmitter at a time can occupy layout techniques can result in a significant degradation of the module’s
a frequency, regardless of the coding of the transmitted signal. This type of performance. A primary layout goal is to maintain a characteristic
interference is less common than those mentioned previously, but in severe 50-ohm impedance throughout the path from the antenna to the module.
cases it can prevent all useful function of the affected device. Grounding, filtering, decoupling, routing and PCB stack-up are also
important considerations for any RF design. The following section provides
Although technically not interference, multipath is also a factor to be some basic design guidelines.
understood. Multipath is a term used to refer to the signal cancellation
effects that occur when RF waves arrive at the receiver in different phase During prototyping, the module should be soldered to a properly laid-out
relationships. This effect is a particularly significant factor in interior circuit board. The use of prototyping or “perf” boards results in poor
environments where objects provide many different signal reflection paths. performance and is strongly discouraged. Likewise, the use of sockets
Multipath cancellation results in lowered signal levels at the receiver and can have a negative impact on the performance of the module and is
shorter useful distances for the link. discouraged.

The module should, as much as reasonably possible, be isolated from

other components on your PCB, especially high-frequency circuitry such as
crystal oscillators, switching power supplies, and high-speed bus lines.

When possible, separate RF and digital circuits into different PCB regions.

–18 – – 19 –
Make sure internal wiring is routed away from the module and antenna and Microstrip Details
is secured to prevent displacement. A transmission line is a medium whereby RF energy is transferred from
one place to another with minimal loss. This is a critical factor, especially
Do not route PCB traces directly under the module. There should not be in high-frequency products like Linx RF modules, because the trace
any copper or traces under the module on the same layer as the module, leading to the module’s antenna can effectively contribute to the length
just bare PCB. The underside of the module has traces and vias that could of the antenna, changing its resonant bandwidth. In order to minimize
short or couple to traces on the product’s circuit board. loss and detuning, some form of transmission line between the antenna
and the module should be used unless the antenna can be placed very
The Pad Layout section shows a typical PCB footprint for the module. A close (<1/8in) to the module. One common form of transmission line is a
ground plane (as large and uninterrupted as possible) should be placed on coax cable and another is the microstrip. This term refers to a PCB trace
a lower layer of your PC board opposite the module. This plane is essential running over a ground plane that is designed to serve as a transmission line
for creating a low impedance return for ground and consistent stripline between the module and the antenna. The width is based on the desired
performance. characteristic impedance of the line, the thickness of the PCB and the
dielectric constant of the board material. For standard 0.062in thick FR-4
Use care in routing the RF trace between the module and the antenna board material, the trace width would be 111 mils. The correct trace width
or connector. Keep the trace as short as possible. Do not pass it under can be calculated for other widths and materials using the information in
the module or any other component. Do not route the antenna trace on Figure 25 and examples are provided in Figure 26. Software for calculating
multiple PCB layers as vias add inductance. Vias are acceptable for tying microstrip lines is also available on the Linx website.
together ground layers and component grounds and should be used in Trace

multiples.
Board

Each of the module’s ground pins should have short traces tying Ground plane
immediately to the ground plane through a via.

Bypass caps should be low ESR ceramic types and located directly
adjacent to the pin they are serving.

A 50-ohm coax should be used for connection to an external antenna.

A 50-ohm transmission line, such as a microstrip, stripline or coplanar
waveguide should be used for routing RF on the PCB. The Microstrip
Details section provides additional information.

In some instances, a designer may wish to encapsulate or “pot” the Figure 25: Microstrip Formulas
product. There are a wide variety of potting compounds with varying
dielectric properties. Since such compounds can considerably impact Example Microstrip Calculations

RF performance and the ability to rework or service the product, it is Width / Height Effective Dielectric Characteristic
Dielectric Constant Ratio (W / d) Constant Impedance (Ω)
the responsibility of the designer to evaluate and qualify the impact and
4.80 1.8 3.59 50.0
suitability of such materials.
4.00 2.0 3.07 51.0
2.55 3.0 2.12 48.8

Figure 26: Example Microstrip Calculations

–20 – – 21 –
Production Guidelines Reflow Temperature Profile
The module is housed in a hybrid SMD package that supports hand and The single most critical stage in the automated assembly process is the
automated assembly techniques. Since the modules contain discrete reflow stage. The reflow profile in Figure 29 should not be exceeded
components internally, the assembly procedures are critical to ensuring because excessive temperatures or transport times during reflow will
the reliable function of the modules. The following procedures should be irreparably damage the modules. Assembly personnel need to pay careful
reviewed with and practiced by all assembly personnel. attention to the oven’s profile to ensure that it meets the requirements
necessary to successfully reflow all components while still remaining
Hand Assembly within the limits mandated by the modules. The figure below shows the
Pads located on the bottom recommended reflow oven profile for the modules.
of the module are the primary Soldering Iron 300
Recommended RoHS Profile Recommended Non-RoHS Profile

mounting surface (Figure 27). Tip 255°C

Max RoHS Profile

Since these pads are inaccessible 250

235°C

during mounting, castellations 217°C

that run up the side of the module Solder 200

Temperature (oC)
185°C

have been provided to facilitate PCB Pads 180°C

Castellations
solder wicking to the module’s 150

underside. This allows for very Figure 27: Soldering Technique 125°C

quick hand soldering for prototyping and small volume production. If the 100

recommended pad guidelines have been followed, the pads will protrude
slightly past the edge of the module. Use a fine soldering tip to heat the 50
board pad and the castellation, then introduce solder to the pad at the
module’s edge. The solder will wick underneath the module, providing 0 30 60 90 120 150 180 210 240 270 300 330 360
Time (Seconds)
reliable attachment. Tack one module corner first and then work around the
device, taking care not to exceed the times in Figure 28. Figure 29: Maximum Reflow Temperature Profile

Shock During Reflow Transport

Warning: Pay attention to the absolute maximum solder times.
Since some internal module components may reflow along with the
Absolute Maximum Solder Times components placed on the board being assembled, it is imperative that
Hand Solder Temperature: +225ºC for 10 seconds the modules not be subjected to shock or vibration during the time solder
Reflow Oven: +225ºC max (see Figure 29) is liquid. Should a shock be applied, some internal components could be
lifted from their pads, causing the module to not function properly.

Figure 28: Absolute Maximum Solder Times Washability

Automated Assembly The modules are wash-resistant, but are not hermetically sealed. Linx
For high-volume assembly, the modules are generally auto-placed. recommends wash-free manufacturing; however, the modules can be
The modules have been designed to maintain compatibility with reflow subjected to a wash cycle provided that a drying time is allowed prior
processing techniques; however, due to their hybrid nature, certain aspects to applying electrical power to the modules. The drying time should be
of the assembly process are far more critical than for other component sufficient to allow any moisture that may have migrated into the module
types. Following are brief discussions of the three primary areas where to evaporate, thus eliminating the potential for shorting damage during
caution must be observed. power-up or testing. If the wash contains contaminants, the performance
may be adversely affected, even after drying.

–22 – – 23 –
General Antenna Rules plane as possible in proximity to the base of the antenna. In cases
The following general rules should help in maximizing antenna performance. where the antenna is remotely located or the antenna is not in close
proximity to a circuit board, ground plane or grounded metal case, a
1. Proximity to objects such as a user’s hand, body or metal objects will metal plate may be used to maximize the antenna’s performance.
cause an antenna to detune. For this reason, the antenna shaft and tip
should be positioned as far away from such objects as possible. 5. Remove the antenna as far as possible from potential interference
sources. Any frequency of sufficient amplitude to enter the receiver’s
2. Optimum performance is obtained from a ¼- or ½-wave straight whip front end will reduce system range and can even prevent reception
mounted at a right angle to the ground plane (Figure 30). In many entirely. Switching power supplies, oscillators or even relays can also
cases, this isn’t desirable for practical or ergonomic reasons, thus, be significant sources of potential interference. The single best weapon
an alternative antenna style such as a helical, loop or patch may be against such problems is attention to placement and layout. Filter the
utilized and the corresponding sacrifice in performance accepted. module’s power supply with a high-frequency bypass capacitor. Place
adequate ground plane under potential sources of noise to shunt noise
to ground and prevent it from coupling to the RF stage. Shield noisy
board areas whenever practical.

6. In some applications, it is advantageous to place the module and

OPTIMUM
NOT RECOMMENDED antenna away from the main equipment (Figure 32). This can avoid
USABLE
interference problems and allows the antenna to be oriented for
Figure 30: Ground Plane Orientation optimum performance. Always use 50Ω coax, like RG-174, for the
OPTIMUM
remote feed. NOT RECOMMENDED
CASE USABLE
3. If an internal antenna is to be used, keep it away from other metal
components, particularly large items like transformers,
GROUND PLANE
batteries,
PCB tracks and ground planes. In many
NUT (MAYcases, the space around the
BE NEEDED)
antenna is as important as the antenna itself. Objects in close proximity
CASE
to the antenna can cause direct detuning, while those farther away will
alter the antenna’s symmetry. GROUND PLANE
NUT (MAY BE NEEDED)
4. In many antenna designs, particularly ¼-wave whips, the ground plane
acts as a counterpoise, forming, in essence, Figure 32: Remote Ground Plane
VERTICAL λ/4 GROUNDED
a ½-wave dipole (Figure 31). For this reason, ANTENNA (MARCONI)
adequate ground plane area is essential. E
DIPOLE
The ground plane can be a metal case or ELEMENT
λ/4
ground-fill areas on a circuit board. Ideally, it
should have a surface area less than or equal
I
to the overall length of the ¼-wave radiating
element. This is often not practical due to
GROUND
size and configuration constraints. In these PLANE
VIRTUAL λ/4 λ/4
instances, a designer must make the best use DIPOLE
of the area available to create as much ground

Figure 31: Dipole Antenna

–24 – – 25 –
Common Antenna Styles Loop Style
There are hundreds of antenna styles and variations that can be employed A loop or trace style antenna is normally printed
with Linx RF modules. Following is a brief discussion of the styles most directly on a product’s PCB (Figure 36). This
commonly utilized. Additional antenna information can be found in Linx makes it the most cost-effective of antenna
Application Notes AN-00100, AN-00140, AN-00500 and AN-00501. Linx styles. The element can be made self-resonant or
antennas and connectors offer outstanding performance at a low price. externally resonated with discrete components,
but its actual layout is usually product specific.
Whip Style Despite the cost advantages, loop style antennas
Figure 36: Loop or Trace Antenna
A whip style antenna (Figure 33) provides are generally inefficient and useful only for short
outstanding overall performance and stability. range applications. They are also very sensitive to changes in layout and
A low-cost whip can be easily fabricated from PCB dielectric, which can cause consistency issues during production.
a wire or rod, but most designers opt for the In addition, printed styles are difficult to engineer, requiring the use of
consistent performance and cosmetic appeal of expensive equipment including a network analyzer. An improperly designed
a professionally-made model. To meet this need, loop will have a high VSWR at the desired frequency which can cause
Linx offers a wide variety of straight and reduced instability in the RF stage.
height whip style antennas in permanent and
connectorized mounting styles. Linx offers low-cost planar (Figure 37) and chip
Figure 33: Whip Style Antennas
antennas that mount directly to a product’s PCB.
The wavelength of the operational frequency determines These tiny antennas do not require testing and
an antenna’s overall length. Since a full wavelength 234 provide excellent performance despite their small
L=
is often quite long, a partial ½- or ¼-wave antenna F MHz size. They offer a preferable alternative to the often
is normally employed. Its size and natural radiation Figure 34: problematic “printed” antenna. Figure 37: SP Series
L = length in feet of
resistance make it well matched to Linx modules. “Splatch” and uSP
quarter-wave length “MicroSplatch” Antennas
The proper length for a straight ¼-wave can be easily F = operating frequency
determined using the formula in Figure 34. It is also in megahertz
possible to reduce the overall height of the antenna by
using a helical winding. This reduces the antenna’s bandwidth but is a great
way to minimize the antenna’s physical size for compact applications. This
also means that the physical appearance is not always an indicator of the
antenna’s frequency.

Specialty Styles
Linx offers a wide variety of specialized antenna
styles (Figure 35). Many of these styles utilize helical
elements to reduce the overall antenna size while
maintaining reasonable performance. A helical
antenna’s bandwidth is often quite narrow and the
antenna can detune in proximity to other objects, so Figure 35: Specialty Style
Antennas
care must be exercised in layout and placement.

–26 – – 27 –
Regulatory Considerations Questions regarding interpretations of the Part 2 and Part 15 rules or the
measurement procedures used to test intentional radiators such as Linx RF
Note: Linx RF modules are designed as component devices that require
modules for compliance with the technical standards of Part 15 should be
external components to function. The purchaser understands that
addressed to:
additional approvals may be required prior to the sale or operation of
the device, and agrees to utilize the component in keeping with all laws
Federal Communications Commission
governing its use in the country of operation.
Equipment Authorization Division
When working with RF, a clear distinction must be made between what Customer Service Branch, MS 1300F2
is technically possible and what is legally acceptable in the country where 7435 Oakland Mills Road
operation is intended. Many manufacturers have avoided incorporating RF Columbia, MD, US 21046
into their products as a result of uncertainty and even fear of the approval Phone: + 1 301 725 585 | Fax: + 1 301 344 2050
and certification process. Here at Linx, our desire is not only to expedite the Email: labinfo@[Link]
design process, but also to assist you in achieving a clear idea of what is
involved in obtaining the necessary approvals to legally market a completed ETSI Secretaria
product. 650, Route des Lucioles
06921 Sophia-Antipolis Cedex
For information about regulatory approval, read AN-00142 on the Linx FRANCE
website or call Linx. Linx designs products with worldwide regulatory Phone: +33 (0)4 92 94 42 00
approval in mind. Fax: +33 (0)4 93 65 47 16

In the United States, the approval process is actually quite straightforward. International approvals are slightly more complex, although Linx modules
The regulations governing RF devices and the enforcement of them are are designed to allow all international standards to be met. If the end
the responsibility of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The product is to be exported to other countries, contact Linx to determine the
regulations are contained in Title 47 of the United States Code of Federal specific suitability of the module to the application.
Regulations (CFR). Title 47 is made up of numerous volumes; however,
all regulations applicable to this module are contained in Volume 0-19. All Linx modules are designed with the approval process in mind and thus
It is strongly recommended that a copy be obtained from the FCC’s much of the frustration that is typically experienced with a discrete design is
website, the Government Printing Office in Washington or from your local eliminated. Approval is still dependent on many factors, such as the choice
government bookstore. Excerpts of applicable sections are included of antennas, correct use of the frequency selected and physical packaging.
with Linx evaluation kits or may be obtained from the Linx Technologies While some extra cost and design effort are required to address these
website, [Link]. In brief, these rules require that any issues, the additional usefulness and profitability added to a product by RF
device that intentionally radiates RF energy be approved, that is, tested for makes the effort more than worthwhile.
compliance and issued a unique identification number. This is a relatively
painless process. Final compliance testing is performed by one of the many
independent testing laboratories across the country. Many labs can also
provide other certifications that the product may require at the same time,
such as UL, CLASS A / B, etc. Once the completed product has passed,
an ID number is issued that is to be clearly placed on each product
manufactured.

–28 – – 29 –
Notes

–30 – – 31 –
Linx Technologies
159 Ort Lane
Merlin, OR, US 97532

3090 Sterling Circle, Suite 200

Boulder, CO 80301

Phone: +1 541 471 6256

Fax: +1 541 471 6251
[Link]

Disclaimer
Linx Technologies is continually striving to improve the quality and function of its products. For this reason, we
reserve the right to make changes to our products without notice. The information contained in this Data Guide
is believed to be accurate as of the time of publication. Specifications are based on representative lot samples.
Values may vary from lot-to-lot and are not guaranteed. “Typical” parameters can and do vary over lots and
application. Linx Technologies makes no guarantee, warranty, or representation regarding the suitability of any
product for use in any specific application. It is Customer’s responsibility to verify the suitability of the part for the
intended application. At Customer’s request, Linx Technologies may provide advice and assistance in designing
systems and remote control devices that employ Linx Technologies RF products, but responsibility for the ultimate
design and use of any such systems and devices remains entirely with Customer and/or user of the RF products.

LINX TECHNOLOGIES DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL LINX TECHNOLOGIES BE LIABLE FOR ANY CUSTOMER’S OR
USER’S INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO THE DESIGN OR USE
OF A REMOTE CONTROL SYSTEM OR DEVICE EMPLOYING LINX TECHNOLOGIES RF PRODUCTS OR FOR ANY
OTHER BREACH OF CONTRACT BY LINX TECHNOLOGIES. CUSTOMER AND/OR USER ASSUME ALL RISKS
OF DEATH, BODILY INJURIES, OR PROPERTY DAMAGE ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO THE USE OF LINX
TECHNOLOGIES RF PRODUCTS, INCLUDING WITH RESPECT TO ANY SERVICES PROVIDED BY LINX RELATED
TO THE USE OF LINX TECHNOLOGIES RF PRODUCTS. LINX TECHNOLOGIES SHALL NOT BE LIABLE UNDER ANY
CIRCUMSTANCES FOR A CUSTOMER’S, USER’S, OR OTHER PERSON’S DEATH, BODILY INJURY, OR PROPERTY
DAMAGE ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO THE DESIGN OR USE OF A REMOTE CONTROL SYSTEM OR DEVICE
EMPLOYING LINX TECHNOLOGIES RF PRODUCTS.

The limitations on Linx Technologies’ liability are applicable to any and all claims or theories of recovery asserted
by Customer, including, without limitation, breach of contract, breach of warranty, strict liability, or negligence.
Customer assumes all liability (including, without limitation, liability for injury to person or property, economic loss,
or business interruption) for all claims, including claims from third parties, arising from the use of the Products.
Under no conditions will Linx Technologies be responsible for losses arising from the use or failure of the device
in any application, other than the repair, replacement, or refund limited to the original product purchase price.
Devices described in this publication may contain proprietary, patented, or copyrighted techniques, components,
or materials.

© 2014 Linx Technologies. All rights reserved.

The stylized Linx logo, Wireless Made Simple, CipherLinx, WiSE and the stylized CL logo are trademarks of Linx Technologies.