Radio-controlled (or R/C) models are self-powered model cars, trucks, planes, boats etc. that can be controlled from a distance using a specialized transmitter. R/C models are commonly grouped into grades as follows:
Hobby grade models
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Have superior performance, better handling, longer life
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Have accessories / upgrades available for several years after initial manufacturing
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Often used in professional events
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Available in easy to assemble kits or as “Ready-To-Run” (RTR) models requiring minimum to no assembly at all
Toys grade models or R/C Toys
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Performance and lifespan varies with price
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Pre-assembled and bought off the shelf
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Cheaper and easier to operate than hobby grade models
Key design considerations for R/C models and high end R/C toys with respect to radios are as follows:
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Higher range (distance between remote and model) for outdoor use
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Minimizing crashes by avoiding interference from other devices
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Prevention of cross talk when multiple models are operated within transmission range of each other
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Avoiding multi-path interference (reflected signal fading) and polarization blind spots (signal loss when antenna is directly pointed at transmitter)
Cypress’ WirelessUSB products are built to suit these needs:
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WirelessUSB-LP has a maximum TX power of +4dBm and an inbuilt Low Noise Amplifier enabling higher range (~100m). Moreover WirelessUSB-LP has a dedicated pin for easy control of external power amplifiers
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Sub-1GHz bands are getting crowded and more susceptible to interference, WirelessUSB devices operate in the 2.4GHz ISM band
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DSSS and channel hopping ensure best-in-class interference immunity and superior co-location capability; leading to lower chances of cross talk between models and fewer crashes
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Use of multiple WirelessUSB transceivers on model or car with different antenna orientations eliminates multi-path interference and polarization blind spots
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WirelessUSB-NL radio provides channel hopping based interference avoidance and ultra low power consumption, enabling low cost R/C toys manufacturers to get good performance at competitive prices.
Together with this portfolio of radios Cypress also provides Programmable System-on-Chip (PSoC) devices which have inbuilt analog blocks like Analog to Digital Convertors (ADCs), Digital to Analog Convertors (DACs), Pulse Width Modulators (PWMs), Comparators etc. These are ideal for use on the R/C model or R/C toy side to handle functionality like motor control, radio control etc. Cypress also provides the low power enCoRe series of MCUs which can be used on R/C toys or remote controller side.
Cypress’ WirelessUSB radios, PSoCs and enCoRe MCUs provide a complete solution to suit the needs of any R/C model or R/C toys manufacturer.