Hey,
Was wondering if I can get some experts giving me some thoughts here.
I need to gather info from some distributed sensors, and the intention is to do it wireless.
So, my question is, what is the best option to do this. Would it be using RF modules? using Xbee? any other?
I guess I am not considering bluetooth since the sensors might be to far from each other...
Thanks a lot in advance!!
Try putting it under hardware, gives you better chances to get seen.
Try putting it under hardware, gives you better chances to get seen.
A mod will probably move it if it's in the wrong place (which it is). Do not multipost though, it will not increase the chances of getting seen, just decrease the chances of anyone replying. 
Right, here's how I see it:
IR ~ 1m (about max for useful data transfer)
Bluetooth class 3 ~1m
Bluetooth class 2 ~10m
Bluetooth class 1 ~100m
Xbee ~ 100m - 13 miles
Other RF devices, I have seen up to 40 miles for data transfer
All those ranges are theoretical and line of sight so if you need 90m then go for an xbee as bluetooth might work but a more powerful xbee will give you more to play with.
What kind of range are you talking about then?
Mowcius
Thanks for your input.
Actually, 50-60 meters is the most far the sensors can be, with some walls in between.
I have seen some RF modules that only the the transmitter is connected to the arduino board, and the receiver, just connects to what you are controlling.
Have you done that before?
I was thinking on having one arduino per sensor (or to group the close one), but if I can save using extra boards, even better.
What do you think?
Would it be the same approach if I use Xbee instead?
Thanks again!
I have seen some RF modules that only the the transmitter is connected to the arduino board, and the receiver, just connects to what you are controlling.
Have you done that before?
I was thinking on having one arduino per sensor (or to group the close one), but if I can save using extra boards, even better.
What do you think?
Would it be the same approach if I use Xbee instead?
This is something you can do with Xbees as they have i/o pins but I have never done it and don't really have any idea how to. It is possible though.
Mowcius