SkyePlus™ MXH and MXU Multiplexer Reference Guide Version 080715 SkyeTek, Inc. 11030 Circle Point Rd., ste. 300 Westminster, CO 80020 U.S.A.
Copyright 2008 SkyeTek, Inc., 11030 Circle Point Road, Westminster, Colorado 80020, U.S.A. All rights reserved. July 15, 2008 This product or document is protected by copyright and distributed under licenses restricting its use, copying, distribution, and decompilation. No part of this product or document may be reproduced in any form by any means without prior written authorization of SkyeTek and its licensors, if any.
Table of Contents Overview and Quick Start ......................................................................................9 Features ............................................................................................................. 9 Firmware and Compatibility ....................................................................... 10 Quick Start Procedure ....................................................................................11 SkyePlus Specifications .........................
Overview ........................................................................................................ GPIO Control Lines....................................................................................... Signal Loss...................................................................................................... Delay ............................................................................................................... Using Two Multiplexers......................................
List of Figures Overview and Quick Start 9 Figure 1-1 SkyePlus Multiplexer .........................................................9 SkyePlus Specifications 13 Figure 2-1 SkyePlus MXH or MXU four-port multiplexer, top view 13 Figure 2-2 SkyePlus MXH or MXU eight-port multiplexer ..........14 Figure 2-3 SkyePlus Multiplexer: Side View ...................................14 Hardware Configuration 21 Figure 3-1 Physical Pin and Antenna Connections HIB to SkyePlus Multiplexer ...................................
vi SkyePlus™ MXH and MXU Multiplexer Reference Guide Copyright 2008 SkyeTek, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
List of Tables Overview and Quick Start .....................................................................................9 SkyePlus Specifications .......................................................................................13 Table 2-1 JP1 Pin Descriptions ....................................................................15 Table 2-2 SkyePlus MXH/MXU Truth Table ...........................................16 Table 2-3 SkyePlus MXH RF Characteristics ..........................................
viii SkyePlus™ MXH and MXU Multiplexer Reference Guide Copyright 2008 SkyeTek, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Chapter 1 Overview and Quick Start The SkyePlus™ MXH and MXU multiplexer boards feature either four or eight antenna ports, which lets you use one SkyeModule reader to operate multiple antennas. Figure 1-1 shows the SkyePlus eight-port multiplexer. The reader uses a digital signal to control the SkyePlus multiplexer outputs. Figure 1-1 SkyePlus Multiplexer Features ● The SkyePlus MXH operates at the HF (13.56) frequency band and works with the SkyeModule M2 reader.
Firmware and Compatibility ● Both types of multiplexer connect to the SkyeModule reader via the SkyeTek host interface board for power, control, and RF connections (see “Hardware Configuration” on page 21). ● You can also create a custom interface for the SkyePlus multiplexer without using the host interface board by running the multiplexer connections through either the CF-style or MH-style connectors.
Quick Start Procedure Quick Start Procedure The following instructions provide an example of how to set up your new SkyePlus multiplexer and switch between two antennas. 1. Connect your SkyePlus MXH or MXU to a host interface board with an attached SkyeModule reader (see ‘‘Hardware Configuration’’ on page 21), using the included control and RF cables. 2. Connect one antenna to port 0 (P0) and another antenna to port 7 (P7) of the MXH or MXU.
Quick Start Procedure 10. Hold a tag in front of the antenna connected to port 7. 11. Select a tag: Command: Tag Type: Select Tag Auto Detect The tag should be detected successfully via port 7. 12 SkyePlus™ MXH and MXU Multiplexer Reference Guide Copyright 2008 SkyeTek, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Chapter 2 SkyePlus Specifications This chapter details the general mechanical and electrical specifications of the SkyePlus multiplexer and then provides specifications specific to the SkyePlus MXH or MXU. Mechanical Specifications The SkyePlus MXH or MXU share the same mechanical specifications. Figure 2-1 shows the top view of the SkyePlus four-port multiplexer board. 95.5 mm 76.6 mm 49.6 mm P2 P5 J5 J4 J3 J9 J6 70.4 mm J2 50.
Mechanical Specifications Figure 2-2 shows a top view of the SkyePlus eight-port multiplexer board. 95.5 mm 76.6 mm P2 P3 J5 P4 J4 P5 J3 J9 70.4 mm P6 P1 J6 16.4 mm 50.8 mm J2 P7 P0 J8 J7 JP1 3 mm J1 Vcc GND Vcc A2 A1 A0 GND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Figure 2-2 I/O SkyePlus MXH or MXU eight-port multiplexer Figure 2-3 shows a side view of a SkyePlus multiplexer board, facing the I/O port. 95.5 mm 76.6 mm Vcc GND Vcc A2 A1 A0 GND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 11.
Electrostatic Precautions Electrostatic Precautions CAUTION – Failure to take proper electrostatic precautions may result in damage to or failure of your SkyePlus multiplexer. SkyePlus multiplexers contain static-sensitive parts. Observe the following precautions to prevent damage to these parts. ● Wear a static grounding strap when handling the multiplexer or other electronic control components. ● Keep all plastic, vinyl, and styrofoam (except antistatic versions) away from printed circuit boards.
Signal to Path State (Port Selection) Signal to Path State (Port Selection) Table 2-2 lists the signal-to-path state for each combination of inputs on the control line.
SkyePlus MXH Specifications Table 2-4 SkyePlus MXH Electrical Characteristics Specification Min Typ Max Units/Notes General: Power supply 4.5 Power consumption Digital I/O (3 inputs) 5.5 V A 200.0 0/3.3 0/5.0 V (low/high) Control voltage bias conditions: Low state 0 +0.2 Vdc High state +4.5 +5.5 Vdc Table 2-5 SkyePlus MXH Absolute Maximum Ratings Specification: Rating: Maximum input power at 0V to 5V 24 dBm (0.25 W) Maximum operating frequency 13.
SkyePlus MXU Specifications SkyePlus MXU Specifications This section lists specifications specific to the SkyePlus MXH including radio frequency (RF) specifications, electrical specifications, and absolute maximum ratings. Table 2-6 SkyePlus MXU RF Characteristics Specification Operating frequency Min Typ Max Units/Notes 860.0 900.0 960.0 MHz, +/- 7 kHz 1 1.
SkyePlus MXU Specifications Table 2-8 SkyePlus MXU Absolute Maximum Ratings Specification: Rating: Maximum input power at 0-5 V 33 dBm (2 W) Maximum operating frequency 960 MHz Control voltage range (A and B) -0.2 to +5.5 Vdc Hot switching power level at 0-5 V 33 dBm (2 W) Channel Temperature 150° C Continuous Pdiss at T = +85° C (derates at 6 mW/degree when above 85° C) 0.
SkyePlus MXU Specifications 20 SkyePlus™ MXH and MXU Multiplexer Reference Guide Copyright 2008 SkyeTek, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Chapter 3 Hardware Configuration Overview Both the SkyePlus MXH and the SkyePlus MXU are designed to connect to the SkyeModule reader via the SkyeTek host interface board for all power, control, and RF connections (see “Connecting to the Host Interface Board” below). ● You can also create a custom interface for the SkyePlus multiplexer without using the host interface board by running the multiplexer connections through either the CF-style or MH-style connectors.
Connecting to the Host Interface Board Spacer text. Spacer text. Spacer text. Spacer text. Spacer text. Spacer text. Spacer text. Spacer text. Spacer text. Spacer text. Spacer text. Spacer text.
Connecting Through the MH Module Connector Connecting Through the MH Module Connector ● Figure 3-2 illustrates the pin and antenna connections. ● Table 3-2 lists the pin connections for the MH connector.
Connecting Through the CF Module Connector Connecting Through the CF Module Connector ● Figure 3-3 illustrates the pin and antenna connections. ● Table 3-3 lists the pin connections for the CF connector.
Chapter 4 Software Configuration Overview The SkyeModule firmware gives the multiplexer full compatibility with the latest host interface board for either the CF or MH versions of the SkyeModule readers.
Communications Timing Communications Timing With SkyeTek firmware, the host controls all port switching. The host determines which port is activated and when. The MUX Control system parameter lets you control this functionality. Switching speeds for hardware components on the multiplexer are on the order of a few hundred nanoseconds.
Enabling the Multiplexer Table 4-1 describes the timing components shown in Figure 4-1. Table 4-1 Timing Components Designator Time (ms) Description A 6 B 1.5 Firmware delay to change port C 2 Receive Change Port response D 3.
Enabling the Multiplexer Example: Enabling a Multiplexer The following example shows how to use the Store Default System Parameter command with the data value of 0x02 to enable the multiplexer. (The example shows both ASCII and binary forms of the command.
Controlling Multiplexer Operation Controlling Multiplexer Operation The MUX Control system parameter (0x0A) operates the multiplexer. Reading the value of the parameter returns the type of multiplexer connected, based on the device type code (Table 5-1).
Controlling Multiplexer Operation Request (Binary Mode) Start <02> Message Length 0x000A Flags 0x20 Command 0x1201 Address 0x000A Number of Blocks 0x0001 CRC 0xA4EF Response (ASCII Mode) Start Response Code Data Length Data CRC End 0x1201 0x0001 0x01 0xB622 Response (Binary Mode) Start Message Length Response Code Data Length Data CRC <02> 0x0007 0x1201 0x0001 0x01 0xAAF3 Example: Enabling a Port The following example shows the request data (0x02) to enable mult
Controlling Multiplexer Operation Example: No Multiplexer Detected The following ASCII example shows the response when a read request is sent but no multiplexer is detected. (The data returned is zero, indicating the error.
Controlling Multiplexer Operation 32 SkyePlus™ MXH and MXU Multiplexer Reference Guide Copyright 2008 SkyeTek, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Appendix A Using the SkyePlus Multiplexer with Other Devices Code for Third-Party Readers The following code examples show how a typical microcontroller can control the SkyePlus multiplexer through general purpose I/O ports. The examples are in the C programming language. These code examples show a general implementation but are therefore not optimized for any single platform.
Code for Third-Party Readers Main.c The following code in main.c shows the use of the mux_detect() and mux_open_port() functions as defined in the mux.h and mux.c files. Contact technical support to download source code. #include “mux.h” void main(){ unsigned char skyetek_mux, response; skyetek_mux = mux_detect(); //to open port 0 response = mux_open_port(skyetek_mux, 0); } 34 SkyePlus™ MXH and MXU Multiplexer Reference Guide Copyright 2008 SkyeTek, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Code for Third-Party Readers Mux.h /****************************************************************************** * Copyright (c) 2006, Skyetek, Inc.
Code for Third-Party Readers /************************************************************ * Intermediate bit calculations ************************************************************/ //set dir registers for writing and write a 1 to control lines #define MUX_A0_WRITE_HI {MUX_A0_DIR &= MUX_A0_DIR_MASK; MUX_A0_IO |= MUX_A0_IO_MASK;} #define MUX_A1_WRITE_HI {MUX_A1_DIR &= MUX_A1_DIR_MASK; MUX_A1_IO |= MUX_A1_IO_MASK;} #define MUX_A2_WRITE_HI {MUX_A2_DIR &= MUX_A2_DIR_MASK; MUX_A2_IO |= MUX_A2_IO_MASK;} //set
Code for Third-Party Readers Mux.c /****************************************************************************** * Copyright (c) 2006, Skyetek, Inc.
Code for Third-Party Readers /****************************************************************************** * Purpose: mux_open_port writes the control line values to activate mux ports. * @param unsigned char device: The mux device type as defined by the mux_detect() function * @param unsigned char port: The mux port number to be opened (0 through 7 for 8-port) * or (0, 2, 5, 7 for 4-port) * @return unsigned char: 0x42 is returned if no errors are found.
Appendix B Using Multiple SkyePlus Multiplexers Overview With SkyeTek Protocol v3, you can operate more than one SkyePlus multiplexer, although there are limitations due to: ● GPIO control lines ● Performance issues related to signal loss and delay GPIO Control Lines Each eight-port multiplexer requires three general purpose I/O (GPIO) lines to address all eight ports. The Mounting Hole (MH) style readers have four GPIO lines available, and the Compact Flash (CF) style readers have six GPIO lines.
Delay Delay Delays caused by the high port count and time division of using additional multiplexers may interfere with performance of time-critical applications. Using more multiplexer ports requires more time to cycle through and perform operations on all ports. For example, an application could take several seconds to complete a single cycle using eight or more ports, depending on the tag type and operations required.
Appendix C Using SkyePlus Multiplexers with a CBIB Overview This appendix provides information for customers using older firmware releases and using the Common Blade Interface Board (CBIB) to connect the SkyeModule reader to the SkyePlus multiplexer.
Using the MUX Connector (J19) Table C-1 Pin Connections of SkyePlus to CBIB MUX Connector SkyePlus Multiplexer (JP1) CBIB MUX Connector (J19)a 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 6 1 6 4 3 2 1 Vcc GND Vcc A2 A1 A0 GND Vcc GND Vcc MUX Control 2 MUX Control 1 MUX Control 0 GND a. Pin 5 on CBIB MUX connector is not used.
Using the GPIO Connector (J17) Using the GPIO Connector (J17) Note – This option applies to all SkyeModule readers (i.e., with either the CF or L o r e m ip s u m d o lo r s tai m e ,ct o n s e c te u t e r l b o r tis p u v o l n i a r m a g n a .Mo r b iq u si fe r m e n tu m n .I s o d a le s ef u g ai st e m . S e d u tp e d e .N a m te m p u s .Ma e c e n a s r u tr u m C u r a b itu r n u n c .A e n e a n s c e le r si q u e S u s p e n d is s e e r a t.Ma u r is u ct u v e s tib u u l m s e m .
Using the GPIO Connector (J17) P2 J5 Common Blade Interface Board (CBIB) ISP J14 1 2 RS-232 J7 J10 P7 J18 1 2 GND GPIO J17 6 5 4 3 2 1 MUX 6 5 4 3 2 1 J1 2 I C 1 2 3 USB J2 1234 56 7 J13 1 2 3 J19 J16 7-pin cable 1 2 J3 1 Power 2 1 CBIB Adapter Board J11 J9 SkyeModule M2 or M9 MH Antenna cable MMCX Figure C-2 44 P6 J8 JP1 SIM 2 J2 SkyePlus Multiplexer J15 J7 J9 P0 VCC 1 J3 J6 J4 J12 J4 P5 P1 J6 3 2 1 P4 P3 Connecting Multiplexer to CBIB Via GPIO Connec
Appendix D Using a SkyePlus MXH with a SkyeModule M1 Overview This appendix provides information about how to use a SkyePlus MXH with a SkyeModule M1. This includes: ● Pin connections ● Cable connections ● Communications setup Pin Connections to the SkyeModule M1 The pins on the SkyePlus MHX (JP1) connect to the pins on the SkyeModule M1 (J3). Table D-1 lists the pin connections of the SkyePlus MXH to the SkyeModule M1.
Pin Connections to the SkyeModule M1 Figure D-1 shows the pin connections of the SkyePlus MXH (JP1) to the SkyeModule M1 (J3).
Communications with SkyeTek Protocol v2 Communications with SkyeTek Protocol v2 This section describes how to use the Multiplexer Memory and the Multiplexer system parameters to operate an external multiplexer. This information applies to the SkyeModule M1 reader, which uses the SkyeTek Protocol v2 (STPv2). Multiplexer Memory Parameter The M1 supports reads and writes to the non-volatile (EEPROM) memory parameter (0x09) to enable or disable multiplexer functionality.
Communications with SkyeTek Protocol v2 The Write System Parameter command (0x42) changes the multiplexer port address. Use the data values in the Data field, as shown in Table 4-3, to change the port address.
Communications with SkyeTek Protocol v2 Example: Enabling a Port In the next example, the request data field (0x02) indicates that port 2 of the multiplexer will be enabled.
Communications with SkyeTek Protocol v2 The following examples show ASCII-mode request and response errors. In the next example, the response data (0x00) indicates the reader does not detect a multiplexer.
Index A Antenna 9, 11, 40, 41, 43 CBIB connections 41, 43 CF connector 24 connections via CF connector 24 connections via MH connector 23 M1 46 on-board 46 Antistatic precautions 15 ASCII mode 28, 29, 30, 31, 48, 49, 50 Auto detect 11 B Binary mode 28, 30, 48, 49 C C code examples 33 Cable connections 40, 46 CBIB 42 host interface board 22 M1 46 M2 22 M9 22 CBIB 41, 42, 43 Code device 29 error 50 response 28, 30, 31 return 29, 47 third-party 33 Command quick start 11 Read System Parameter 29, 48 Read Sy
Custom boards 23 Custom solutions 40 Cycle time 40 H D I Data 11 Delay 40 Development Kit User Guide 11 Device type 29 Device Type value 47 Diagram, timing 26, 27 Inaccessible port 31 HF 9, 29 Host interface board 11, 21, 22, 23 E EEPROM 47 Eight-port multiplexer 14 Electrostatic safety precautions 15 Enabling multiplexer 27, 28 port 30 Error code 50 ESD precautions 15 Examples code for third-party readers 33 Default MUX Control system parameter 28, 30 detecting multiplexer 29 enabling multiplexer 27
overview 9 port address 48 using multiple 39 MUX connector 41, 42 MUX Control system parameter 25 MXH 9 specifications 16 MXU 9 specifications 18 O On-board antenna 46 Overview hardware configuration 9 multiplexer communications 25 SkyePlus 9 P Parameter Multiplexer 47, 48, 50 Multiplexer Memory 47 MUX Control 25, 29 Pin/antenna connections 21, 22, 23 Pins ANT/INT(J2) 46 CBIB 41, 43 CF connector 24 descriptions 15 GPIO/CBIB 43 host interface board 21, 22, 23 J2 45, 46 J3 45 JP1 45 M1 45, 46 mapping 39 MH
Development Kit User Guide 11 protocol, v2 47 protocol, v3 27 technical support and contact information ii SkyeWare software 11, 27, 40 SMA connection 40, 41, 43, 45, 46 Software configuration 25 Specifications mechanical 13 MXH 16 MXU 18 SkyePlus multiplexer 13 Store Default System Parameter command 11, 27, 28 System parameter Multiplexer 47, 48, 50 Multiplexer Memory 47 MUX Control 25, 29 Store Default System Parameter command 11 T Tag type 12 Technical support ii Third-party readers 33 Timing 26, 27, 40
