Optimizing Zigbee long range communications systems

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This feasibility study project (followed by implementation) is dealing with optimization of ZigBee wireless networks and underlying infrastructure, aiming on minimizing the cost while maximizing the reliability and communication ranges for the end user. This project focuses on the design and validation of more effective Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) platform, which will allow incorporation of less nodes in the network, while maintaining, good coverage, Quality of Service (QOS) and satisfying the maximum latency demands. The methodology includes use of mesh topology, application of different diversity techniques in Physical Layer (PHY) (such as spatial multiplexing, beamforming, forming multiuser Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) system and space-time coding), smart antennas technique implementation of Media Access Control (MAC) layer. The developed product (access point or the base station) will be named ZigBee Long Range (ZLR) and it represents a next generation self-organized wireless network technology built on top of 802.15.4 physical chipsets, while the client devices can be both ZLR or conventional ZigBee devices. The product is build around an FPGA while PHY layer is implemented as peripherals, IP cores within an FPGA and the higher layers protocols as an embedded software. Hence, mutual design of hardware and software is necessary in order to fulfil all desired functionality of the proposed product.