How to / Can I limit the range of XBee series 1?

Using Arduino Networking, Protocols, and Devices
1

Hi,

I'm looking to limit the range of XBee Series 1 down to somthing like 2 - 3 meters. Is this at all possible? Reason being is that I need to create a simple P2P network based on proximity for an interactive art installation. So basically the different objects ( there are 9) will each have an arduino with code that will only run when receiving a certain letter. The letters are then transmitted via the XBees of the other objects. So each one will be sending a letter as well as have a piece of code to run. By limiting the range I can ensure that the code will only run when other objects are within close range and each will have it's unique ID.
Is this at all possible? Or is there a better way to do it? All other systems I have read about, like using Beacon and active RFID, or different sensors systems seem rather complicated.

My skill level is basic to intermediate: I've worked on quite a few arduino based art projects but nothing to complex.

I really appreciate any input.

2

Perhaps you could use a cheap low power transceiver module with nothing connected to the antenna pads ?

Some forum members have complained of only getting a few meters range when testing without an antenna.

3

hi Boffin1, sorry for taking so long to respond - you mean something like this RF Link Receiver - 4800bps (434MHz) - WRL-10532 - SparkFun Electronics?

4

you did say interactive, do you need duplex ( 2 way )

if not a simple Tx and Rx module should work fine. Hope make some cheap ones.

5

yes i do need two way - each object in the installation runs a piece of code activated by the proximity of any other object, which in turn also runs a piece of code, etc.

6

to clarify: the code is only activated by the proximity of any of the 8 other objects, not any other object..

7

So you will need a transceiver then, I dont know offhand which would be suitable, but I have seen some adverts for micropower modules.

Good luck

John

8

ok thanks john i'll see whats available here - im in germany - actually used to live in CT for quite a few years!