Xbee s2c firmware choice / design for remote relay project.

Using Arduino Networking, Protocols, and Devices
1

Hi all,

New to Xbee. Bought some Pro S2C but now I am wondering how to set them up for best range and battery life.
With the XCTU software I can choose 802.15.4 or other firmware...
Some seem to be peer to peer while the other requires a coordinator, router, etc.

I want to build a small project where I have a hand held remote control that will trigger some relays at a remote base. The handheld will obviously be battery operated, while the remote base can be either plugged-in or battery. If I understand what I have read here and there correctly, in the coordinator / router set-up these units need to be on all the time while allowing the end point to "sleep".
That seems to be the newer firmware while the 802.15.4 seems to be older.... is newer better ?

What would you all recommend for this basic Xbee setup, I would love advice to get me started on the right path.

Thanks

2

UPDATE.

In reading further on various sites & forums, it feels like the S2C was a poor choice compared to a simpler to set-up Series 1. :frowning:

Is point to multi-point possible without setting-up the S2C in API mode ?? This mode seems more complex for a newbie like me.

I currently have 2 radios talking to each other but only when they are connected to XCTU software, can't get them to talk when they are on arduino boards with shields. I am still exploring / trying to solve that on my own before posting on the appropriate forum section for help.

Any guidance with the basic design of this small project would be appreciated.

Thanks.