Two STM32 micro-controllers are exchanging data witlessly over LoRa using E22900T22D module that is interfaced over UART.

1. Components Involved


  • STM32 Micro-controllers:
    STM32 microcontrollers are a popular family of microcontrollers developed by STMicroelectronics. They offer a wide range of features, different memory sizes, and various peripheral options. In this context, two of these microcontrollers are being used. They are likely to be programmed to perform specific tasks and handle the data exchange process. For example, one might be collecting sensor data while the other is responsible for processing and acting on that data.
  • E22900T22D Module:
    This is a LoRa transceiver module. LoRa (Long Range) technology is known for its ability to provide long-range wireless communication with relatively low power consumption. The E22900T22D module is designed to send and receive data wirelessly over the LoRa network. It has its own set of configurations and capabilities that enable it to operate in different frequency bands and with various transmission parameters to suit different application requirements.
  • UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter):
    UART is a common serial communication protocol used in embedded systems. It allows for the asynchronous transmission of data between devices. In this setup, the E22900T22D module is interfaced with the STM32 microcontrollers via UART. This means that the microcontrollers can send commands and data to the LoRa module, and also receive incoming data from it, using the UART pins on the microcontroller. For example, the microcontroller can configure the transmission power, frequency, and other settings of the LoRa module through UART commands.

2. Data Exchange Process


The two STM32 microcontrollers are set up to exchange data wirelessly using the LoRa technology enabled by the E22900T22D modules. Here's how it generally works:

  • Initialization:
    First, each STM32 microcontroller initializes its respective UART interface to communicate with the connected E22900T22D module. This involves setting the correct baud rate (the speed at which data is transmitted), data bits, stop bits, and parity bits according to the requirements of the LoRa module. For instance, a common baud rate could be 9600 bits per second.
  • Configuration of the LoRa Module:
    The microcontrollers then use the UART to send configuration commands to the E22900T22D modules. These commands could set the LoRa frequency (e.g., in the 433 MHz or 868 MHz ISM bands depending on the region), the spreading factor (which affects the range and data rate), the transmission power, and other parameters. This step is crucial to ensure that both LoRa modules are set up to communicate with each other effectively.
  • Data Sending:
    Once the modules are configured, one STM32 microcontroller can prepare the data it wants to send. This data could be in the form of sensor readings, status information, or any other relevant data. The microcontroller then sends this data through the UART to its connected E22900T22D module. The LoRa module then transmits this data wirelessly over the LoRa network.
  • Data Reception:
    The other STM32 microcontroller's connected E22900T22D module receives the wirelessly transmitted data. It then passes this data back to the microcontroller via the UART interface. The receiving microcontroller can then process the received data as per its programmed functionality. For example, if it's receiving temperature sensor data, it might compare it to a threshold value and take appropriate action if the temperature is too high or too low.

3. Potential Applications


This setup of two STM32 microcontrollers communicating wirelessly over LoRa has several potential applications:

  • Remote Monitoring:
    For example, in an environmental monitoring system, one STM32 could be connected to various sensors (like temperature, humidity, air quality sensors) at a remote location. It would collect the sensor data and send it over LoRa to another STM32 located at a central monitoring station. The central microcontroller could then display the data, log it, or trigger alarms if certain conditions are met.
  • Industrial Automation:
    In a factory setting, multiple STM32-based devices could communicate with each other wirelessly. One device might control a motor or a valve, and another could monitor the status of that equipment. The wireless communication would allow for flexible placement of the devices and easy monitoring and control without the need for extensive cabling.
  • Smart Agriculture:
    An STM32 microcontroller on a field could gather data from soil moisture sensors, light sensors, etc., and send it to another microcontroller in a farm office or a cloud-connected gateway. This data could then be used to automate irrigation systems, adjust fertilization schedules, and make other informed decisions to improve crop yields.