Using nRF24L01 with the maximum power mode.

Projects Networking, Protocols, and Devices
1

Hi all :smiley:

Two preliminary considerations:

  1. I read that the 3.3V pin of Arduino UNO does not have enough current capability for using the nRF24L01 module at the maximum power (i.e., RF24_PA_MAX).

Source: https://arduino-info.wikispaces.com/Nrf24L01-2.4GHz-HowTo (Search: "Power Problems").

  1. I read that the base module for the nRF24L01 "Works with low or medium power (with Power Amplifier) nRF24L01 transceivers". Therefore, even using the base module I cannot use the nRF24L01 with the maximum power mode.

Sorce: http://www.yourduino.com/sunshop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=467

My question is:
Which is the most simple solution for using the the nRF24L01 with the maximum power mode? If it is an external 3.3V source, which minimum current capability it must have?

Thank you in advance! :smiley:

Michele

2

Are you talking about the low-power nRF24 with the PCB antenna or the high-power module with the external antenna.

AFAIK the default setting in the TMRh20 RF24 library is max power and I never change that on my low-power modules. They seem to work fine powered directly from the genuine Uno 3.3v pin but mine won't work from the 3.3v pin on a Mega clone. I have had no problem powering them via an LD1117 3.3v regulator. However I don't know what regulator is on the power board that you mention. They also work fine from a pair of AA alkaline cells.

I have no experience with the high-power modules but I believe they do need more current.

...R
Simple nRF24L01+ Tutorial

3

Hi Robin2,
sorry I have been not precise.

I'd like:
a) to make a communication with a range of 1Km without obstacles (or about this, like a lot of guides say),
b) to remotely control in my flat some device from beeing outside the building (even if very very close to the building).

In order to do this I supposed that I need just to configure the modules at the maximum power mode and to have a suitable power supply. But maybe this is not enought.

Therefore, my actual question is:
Is it possible to do things (a) and (b) above with Arduino?

Thank you very much for the previous reply, I hope you could help me again.

Michele

4

kavsnzre1993:
In order to do this I supposed that I need just to configure the modules at the maximum power mode and to have a suitable power supply.

That still does not answer my question about what modules you are thinking of using.

I'd like:
a) to make a communication with a range of 1Km without obstacles (or about this, like a lot of guides say),
b) to remotely control in my flat some device from beeing outside the building (even if very very close to the building).

The nRF24 is probably not the best choice for these requirements. You might consider a HC12 module or LoRa

...R