Embedded Wi-Fi development boards integrate TCP/IP stack

Microchip Technology Inc. announced the integration of its Wi-Fi modules from the recent Roving Networks acquisition into its flexible, modular Explorer development systems supporting all of its 8-, 16- and 32-bit PIC microcontrollers. 

The RN-131 and RN-171 PICtail/PICtail Plus daughter boards are the first two products developed by Microchip based on Roving Networks modules.  These modules use a simple serial interface to connect with any PIC microcontroller, and expand Microchip’s wireless portfolio with the industry’s lowest power consumption along with an integrated TCP/IP stack in a certified Wi-Fi solution.

The Roving Networks RN-171 and RN-131 fully certified modules from Microchip are comprehensive networking solutions that include a true 802.11 b/g radio, baseband processor, TCP/IP stack and a host of networking application features.  No external processor drivers are required, enabling Wi-Fi connectivity for 4, 8, 16 and 32-bit processors.  This on-board-stack approach significantly reduces customers’ integration time and development effort in a small form factor, while offering ultra-low power consumption (down to 4 µA in sleep, 35 mA in receive and 120 mA in transmit mode). 

Pricing & Availability

The RN-131 PICtail Daughter Board (Part # RN-131-PICtail) is available now for $44.95 each.  Likewise, the RN-171 PICtail Daughter Board (Part # RN-171-PICtail) is available now for $39.95 each.