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  1. Home
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  3. nRF24L01+PA+LNA

nRF24L01+PA+LNA

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  • D dzairo

    Hi. Right now I tested with this setting:

    #ifndef MyConfig_h
    #define MyConfig_h
    
    /***
     * Configure Sensor Network
     */
    #define RF24_CHANNEL	   76             //RF channel for the sensor net, 0-127
    #define RF24_DATARATE 	   RF24_250KBPS   //RF24_250KBPS for 250kbs, RF24_1MBPS for 1Mbps, or RF24_2MBPS for 2Mbps
    #define RF24_PA_LEVEL 	   RF24_PA_MAX    //Sensor PA Level == RF24_PA_MIN=-18dBm, RF24_PA_LOW=-12dBm, RF24_PA_HIGH=-6dBM, and RF24_PA_MAX=0dBm
    #define RF24_PA_LEVEL_GW   RF24_PA_MAX  //Gateway PA Level, defaults to Sensor net PA Level.  Tune here if using an amplified nRF2401+ in your gateway.
    #define BASE_RADIO_ID 	   ((uint64_t)0xA8A8E1FC00LL) // This is also act as base value for sensor nodeId addresses. Change this (or channel) if you have more than one sensor network.
    
    // MySensors online examples defaults
    #define DEFAULT_CE_PIN 9
    #define DEFAULT_CS_PIN 10
    
    
    /***
     * Enable/Disable debug logging
     */
    #define DEBUG
    
    #endif 
    

    what do you mean .. I must set lower power output ??? write more .. if set lower power in standard module (no PA or LNA) .. then maximum is +0db and distance is around 30m , but I use in gateway and in sensor madule what contacin external power amplifer .. +20db (MCP01 IC) .. and standard antenna.. .. write more .. what module you use ..??? send photo is you have..

    best regards..

    AWIA Offline
    AWIA Offline
    AWI
    Hero Member
    wrote on last edited by
    #6

    @dzairo I feel we are repeating your discussion which took place a 4 months ago... . I am using kind of standard modules from ebay upload-f5d61a9c-4376-4c87-8222-947ebe901bdd
    upload-1f36b4bc-a3c1-4e90-87c5-7fc59283e5ce
    It just happens that they don't perform very well under high power settings. When set to Medium or Low. performance is much better. The best performance I have is when attach them to a separate power supply with > 100 uF & 100nF ceramic capacitors added in parallel to the power lines (directly on the connector). These boards (store) happen to work pretty well as a power supply..
    upload-6a78cf4e-c496-4369-80cb-bfc11260ed0d

    Mostly trial and error. I need to cross several brick walls.....

    1 Reply Last reply
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    • D Offline
      D Offline
      dzairo
      wrote on last edited by dzairo
      #7

      I try it .. right now .. thanks ..

      15:36 - I tested .. yes working for longer distance.. suppper... now I try it in free area..

      17:20 - I tested it with battery operated module.
      Receiver : 3xAA convert to 3.3V ,
      MCU : ATmega328p , internal 8Mhz RC oscilator as gateway ,
      RF module : nRF24L01+ , -12dB output powre , 256kbps ,
      This RF module
      no external PA+LNA , antenna is standard antenna from WiFi router , I not use antenna what comming with RF module.

      Transmiter : 2xAA
      MCU : ATmega328p , internal 8Mhz RC oscilator as sensor , send every 1 sec data .. and waiting for ACK , if receive ACK then generate buzzer short beep , if no ACK then generate 2x long beep sound .
      RF module : nRF24L01+ , -12dB , 250kbps with external PA+LNA ( MCP01)

      I test it .. and got up to 600m range . .in free area ..

      exist similar chip .. and is possible replace with nRF24L01 : look at this : RF2400

      best regards.

      1 Reply Last reply
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      • D Offline
        D Offline
        doblanch
        wrote on last edited by
        #8

        Hello,

        I use 2" nRF24L01+ with PA + LNA " bought on ebay.
        I connected the arduino directly to the nRF including 3.3V.
        I feel the distance very very short. Maybe 4 meters with a Wall... Should I define RF24_PA_LEVEL_GW to max" ?:
        #define RF24_PA_LEVEL_GW RF24_PA_MAX ???
        Can I expect something better ?
        Or should I use a specific 3.3V power supply which is not very convenient ?
        rgds

        thanks

        korttomaK 1 Reply Last reply
        0
        • D Offline
          D Offline
          dzairo
          wrote on last edited by
          #9

          @dzairo said:

          RF24_PA_LOW

          this setting use for PA .
          and big capacitor .. I tested with 3V (2xAA) and work very well ..
          nRF24L01+ chip is very good , but will be better to possible set speed less then 250kb , 33kb will be good.. my opinion ..

          1 Reply Last reply
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          • D doblanch

            Hello,

            I use 2" nRF24L01+ with PA + LNA " bought on ebay.
            I connected the arduino directly to the nRF including 3.3V.
            I feel the distance very very short. Maybe 4 meters with a Wall... Should I define RF24_PA_LEVEL_GW to max" ?:
            #define RF24_PA_LEVEL_GW RF24_PA_MAX ???
            Can I expect something better ?
            Or should I use a specific 3.3V power supply which is not very convenient ?
            rgds

            thanks

            korttomaK Offline
            korttomaK Offline
            korttoma
            Hero Member
            wrote on last edited by
            #10

            @doblanch the 3.3V output from an arduino can not provide the current needed for the PA-LNA module.
            Add a seperate power source and/or use a lower setting for your sensor PA level (RF24_PA_LEVEL)" in the MyConfig.h

            • Tomas
            D 2 Replies Last reply
            0
            • korttomaK korttoma

              @doblanch the 3.3V output from an arduino can not provide the current needed for the PA-LNA module.
              Add a seperate power source and/or use a lower setting for your sensor PA level (RF24_PA_LEVEL)" in the MyConfig.h

              D Offline
              D Offline
              doblanch
              wrote on last edited by
              #11

              @korttoma OK. Thank you. Should I use an external power source for both GW + node ? If ext power use, I can keep the level set to max ? In fact, what is the best way to get a maximum range ? Also, should I connect a capacitor ? thank you by advance. rgds

              1 Reply Last reply
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              • korttomaK korttoma

                @doblanch the 3.3V output from an arduino can not provide the current needed for the PA-LNA module.
                Add a seperate power source and/or use a lower setting for your sensor PA level (RF24_PA_LEVEL)" in the MyConfig.h

                D Offline
                D Offline
                doblanch
                wrote on last edited by
                #12

                @korttoma In the arduino doc, it's 40ma for 3.3V pin
                http://arduino.cc/en/main/arduinoBoardUno
                I read in the nrf24L01 doc 11.3ma;
                Transmitter
                x00 Programmable output power: 0, -6, -12 or -18dBm x00 11.3mA at 0dBm output power
                • Receiver
                x00 Fast AGC for improved dynamic range x00 Integrated channel filters
                x00 13.5mA at 2Mbps

                So it should be enough no ? Did I miss something ?

                1 Reply Last reply
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                • korttomaK Offline
                  korttomaK Offline
                  korttoma
                  Hero Member
                  wrote on last edited by
                  #13

                  Thos figures are for the module without the PA LNA. The PA LNA version draws over 100mA

                  • Tomas
                  D 1 Reply Last reply
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                  • korttomaK korttoma

                    Thos figures are for the module without the PA LNA. The PA LNA version draws over 100mA

                    D Offline
                    D Offline
                    doblanch
                    wrote on last edited by doblanch
                    #14

                    @korttoma mmm... that's pretty much clear from now. we are then close to the limit then...which kind of power module is recommended ?
                    This one sounds good ? :: http://www.ebay.com/itm/1Pcs-New-3-3V-5V-MB102-Breadboard-Power-Supply-Module-For-Arduino-Breadboard/281372556250?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D29266%26meid%3D1f59438fd24b4f9eb809f216f307ad1a%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D5%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D181718046489&rt=nc&autorefresh=true

                    it allows to use with one 5V input, and Two output, one is 3.3V and the second one 5V.... do you have a better idea ? thanks in advance rgds.

                    AWIA 1 Reply Last reply
                    0
                    • D doblanch

                      @korttoma mmm... that's pretty much clear from now. we are then close to the limit then...which kind of power module is recommended ?
                      This one sounds good ? :: http://www.ebay.com/itm/1Pcs-New-3-3V-5V-MB102-Breadboard-Power-Supply-Module-For-Arduino-Breadboard/281372556250?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D29266%26meid%3D1f59438fd24b4f9eb809f216f307ad1a%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D5%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D181718046489&rt=nc&autorefresh=true

                      it allows to use with one 5V input, and Two output, one is 3.3V and the second one 5V.... do you have a better idea ? thanks in advance rgds.

                      AWIA Offline
                      AWIA Offline
                      AWI
                      Hero Member
                      wrote on last edited by
                      #15

                      @doblanch Take a look at MySensors store. The adapter board works good with the amplified radio.
                      upload-9050360c-eaf2-403f-bb52-2b104e42622d

                      D 1 Reply Last reply
                      0
                      • AWIA AWI

                        @doblanch Take a look at MySensors store. The adapter board works good with the amplified radio.
                        upload-9050360c-eaf2-403f-bb52-2b104e42622d

                        D Offline
                        D Offline
                        doblanch
                        wrote on last edited by
                        #16

                        @AWI I confused from now. This adapter allow to convert 5V to 3.3V. HOwever my problem right now is a problem of consumption. It seems that NRF+PA consummes 100+Ma... each I/O pin on arduino is max 50Ma... I wil not solve my problem to put a 5V to 3.3V ? I need to add a new power source able to provide more than 100ma or more ? correct ?

                        AWIA D 2 Replies Last reply
                        0
                        • D doblanch

                          @AWI I confused from now. This adapter allow to convert 5V to 3.3V. HOwever my problem right now is a problem of consumption. It seems that NRF+PA consummes 100+Ma... each I/O pin on arduino is max 50Ma... I wil not solve my problem to put a 5V to 3.3V ? I need to add a new power source able to provide more than 100ma or more ? correct ?

                          AWIA Offline
                          AWIA Offline
                          AWI
                          Hero Member
                          wrote on last edited by
                          #17

                          @doblanch Sorry for confusing you. If you are using the Uno the 5V pin can deliver about 450mA if powered from USB and 650mA if powered from power jack. This is more than enough to supply the "Socket Adapter Board" which has a powerfull regulator. The 3.3V pin on the Uno can only supply 40mA.

                          There is nothing wrong with the supply you mentioned either. The converter board is more convenient to connect and includes the capacitors (ceramic & tantalum) needed for a stable supply . Schematic below:

                          upload-484c79ac-6b0d-4723-9674-ccff475064ae

                          D 1 Reply Last reply
                          0
                          • D doblanch

                            @AWI I confused from now. This adapter allow to convert 5V to 3.3V. HOwever my problem right now is a problem of consumption. It seems that NRF+PA consummes 100+Ma... each I/O pin on arduino is max 50Ma... I wil not solve my problem to put a 5V to 3.3V ? I need to add a new power source able to provide more than 100ma or more ? correct ?

                            D Offline
                            D Offline
                            dzairo
                            wrote on last edited by
                            #18

                            @doblanch ehm.. ATmega chip can get around 25mA maximum from one pin .. but nRF24L01 + PA + LNA is not powered from arduino pin .. is powered from converter.. and this converter must give more then 800mA then .. not problem power .. and if you power Arduino from 5V then OK .. nRF24L01+ have pin 5V tolerant inputs ..

                            AWIA 1 Reply Last reply
                            0
                            • D dzairo

                              @doblanch ehm.. ATmega chip can get around 25mA maximum from one pin .. but nRF24L01 + PA + LNA is not powered from arduino pin .. is powered from converter.. and this converter must give more then 800mA then .. not problem power .. and if you power Arduino from 5V then OK .. nRF24L01+ have pin 5V tolerant inputs ..

                              AWIA Offline
                              AWIA Offline
                              AWI
                              Hero Member
                              wrote on last edited by AWI
                              #19

                              @dzairo The "tolerance" you mention is only for in/outputs not for the power supply. It will most likely burn when you supply it with 5V

                              D 1 Reply Last reply
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                              • AWIA AWI

                                @dzairo The "tolerance" you mention is only for in/outputs not for the power supply. It will most likely burn when you supply it with 5V

                                D Offline
                                D Offline
                                dzairo
                                wrote on last edited by
                                #20

                                @AWI of course .. he ask for voltage converter.. from 5V to 3.3V ..

                                AWIA 1 Reply Last reply
                                0
                                • D dzairo

                                  @AWI of course .. he ask for voltage converter.. from 5V to 3.3V ..

                                  AWIA Offline
                                  AWIA Offline
                                  AWI
                                  Hero Member
                                  wrote on last edited by
                                  #21

                                  @dzairo Better to be safe ;-)

                                  1 Reply Last reply
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                                  • AWIA AWI

                                    @doblanch Sorry for confusing you. If you are using the Uno the 5V pin can deliver about 450mA if powered from USB and 650mA if powered from power jack. This is more than enough to supply the "Socket Adapter Board" which has a powerfull regulator. The 3.3V pin on the Uno can only supply 40mA.

                                    There is nothing wrong with the supply you mentioned either. The converter board is more convenient to connect and includes the capacitors (ceramic & tantalum) needed for a stable supply . Schematic below:

                                    upload-484c79ac-6b0d-4723-9674-ccff475064ae

                                    D Offline
                                    D Offline
                                    doblanch
                                    wrote on last edited by doblanch
                                    #22

                                    @AWI That's clear then.... I didn't know that 5V on uno can draw 450ma... ON their website, they precise only I/O and 3.3V... From now it's very clear. I will use the 5V pin, with "something" to reduce it to 3.3V...
                                    I have this in stock : http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mini-3A-DC-DC-Converter-Adjustable-Step-down-Power-Supply-Module-replace-LM2596s-/261328784505?ssPageName=ADME:L:OU:FR:3160
                                    a power down module, IN="5V" OUT-"adjustable (including 3.3V)"
                                    Do you know for the nano the +5V max draw ?
                                    Thank for your help, grandly appreciated.

                                    AWIA 1 Reply Last reply
                                    0
                                    • D doblanch

                                      @AWI That's clear then.... I didn't know that 5V on uno can draw 450ma... ON their website, they precise only I/O and 3.3V... From now it's very clear. I will use the 5V pin, with "something" to reduce it to 3.3V...
                                      I have this in stock : http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mini-3A-DC-DC-Converter-Adjustable-Step-down-Power-Supply-Module-replace-LM2596s-/261328784505?ssPageName=ADME:L:OU:FR:3160
                                      a power down module, IN="5V" OUT-"adjustable (including 3.3V)"
                                      Do you know for the nano the +5V max draw ?
                                      Thank for your help, grandly appreciated.

                                      AWIA Offline
                                      AWIA Offline
                                      AWI
                                      Hero Member
                                      wrote on last edited by
                                      #23

                                      @doblanch The Nano has an 78M05 regulator, should be able to supply 500mA (including the power for the MCU and FTDI chip, So more than enough power to power your step-down. Let us know if your problem is solved.

                                      D 1 Reply Last reply
                                      0
                                      • AWIA AWI

                                        @doblanch The Nano has an 78M05 regulator, should be able to supply 500mA (including the power for the MCU and FTDI chip, So more than enough power to power your step-down. Let us know if your problem is solved.

                                        D Offline
                                        D Offline
                                        doblanch
                                        wrote on last edited by doblanch
                                        #24

                                        @AWI Hello, I put a stepdown module on the both end, added a capacitor. I change the myconfig.h file to put RF24_PA_MAX on RF24_PA_LEVEL and RF24_PA_LEVEL_GW . The result was a little bit better, I'm not even sure :-( . But from now, result are good, I switch back my current antenna by the original one delivered with the module NRF24+.
                                        in fact, I installed some big antenna (I have some spare with my routed wifi network), but I think it was a mistake. With the NRF24 bulk antenna, it works really better, I have some others tests to do...I will keep you informed in the coming days. thanks again for you help

                                        1 Reply Last reply
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                                        • W Offline
                                          W Offline
                                          wico2002
                                          wrote on last edited by
                                          #25

                                          Hi, i have the same problem. Bought a pa+lna radio with black antenna and only work if i touch the antenna or the radio's pcb, else the data if not sent at all. i added only a 200uf capacitor. Even with the breadboard power supply, to have a separate 3.3v it dont work. My basic nrf24l01+ is working well (except the range) but not the pre amplified one.

                                          Any one have ideas ?

                                          OitzuO 1 Reply Last reply
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