Design of a didactic prototype for the implementation of wireless sensor networks based on the Zigbee protocol

Abstract

This paper describes the design and implementation of a didactic remote data acquisition station (node) with networking capability.

These nodes are based on the Digi Xbee wireless communication module, which operating in low-power mode are capable of providing autonomy of up to 30 months using a simple 9v battery, under specific data transfer conditions via RF.

These developed nodes have the capacity to work in a distributed manner and in various network topologies and implement the IEEE 802.15.4 and Zigbee wireless communication protocols. The first of them to implement star topologies and point-to-point communication; Zigbee, on the other hand, supports the implementation of tree and mesh topologies, thus achieving extremely extensive work coverage, because these particular nodes can indistinctly act as a repeater node and/or data acquisition node.

We believe that this work makes an important contribution and has a significant impact on the automation of monitoring processes in natural environments such as ecological reserves, monitoring of variables in various crops using greenhouse or open-air techniques, early detection of forest fires, monitoring of variables in aquaculture ponds and automation of the production and cultivation process of various species such as shrimp and tilapia in the region, as well as energy savings through the implementation of smart spaces and home automation.