Zigbee is a wireless communication technology designed for low-power, low-data-rate applications in wireless sensor networks and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. It operates on the IEEE 802.15.4 standard and uses the 2.4 GHz frequency band (in most regions) for communication. Zigbee enables devices to communicate wirelessly over short distances, typically up to 10-100 meters, and is known for its low power consumption, making it suitable for battery-operated devices that require long battery life.
ZigBee refers to the Zigbee Alliance, which is a global standards organization that develops and promotes Zigbee technology. The alliance focuses on creating open, global standards for wireless communication in IoT devices, ensuring interoperability between different manufacturers’ products. Zigbee Alliance-certified devices adhere to these standards, facilitating seamless communication and integration across various IoT applications.
A ZigBee module is a hardware component that integrates Zigbee wireless communication capabilities into electronic devices. It consists of a Zigbee radio transceiver, microcontroller, and antenna, all packaged into a compact module. Zigbee modules simplify the integration of Zigbee technology into IoT devices, providing a ready-to-use solution for manufacturers to incorporate wireless connectivity features into their products.
Zigbee is used in IoT primarily due to its low-power consumption, reliability, and ability to support a large number of devices in a network. It enables devices to communicate efficiently without draining battery power quickly, making it ideal for IoT applications where devices may be deployed in remote locations or operate on limited battery capacity. Zigbee’s mesh networking capability also enhances reliability by allowing devices to relay data through multiple paths, ensuring robust connectivity and extending the range of IoT networks.