How to create a CC2530 router
The CC2530 is highly suitable for serving as a router. It has an external antenna which will greatly improve the range of your Zigbee network. This tutorial will explain how to create a CC2530 router packed into a nice enclosure which can be powered via any regular outlet.
DISCLAIMER: The CC2530 router will use Mains AC so there is a danger of electrocution if not installed properly. If you don’t know how to install it, please call an electrician!
1. What do I need? #
Name | Price | Picture |
---|---|---|
CC2530 OR CC2530 + CC2591 The CC2530 + CC2591 is more powerful but more expensive |
+-7.50$ on AliExpress +-15$ on AliExpress |
|
HLK-PM03 | +-2.20$ on AliExpress | |
Enclosure (the one used has the following dimensions: 100x68x40mm) | +-2$ | |
Power cable | +-2$ | |
CC debugger | - | |
8 female to female jumper wires | - |
2. Flashing the CC2530 #
The CC2530 has to be flashed with a router firmware which has to be done with a CC debugger using 6 female to female jumper wires. Pins have to connected as follows:
CC debugger pin layout #
CC debugger | CC2530 |
---|---|
1 | GND |
2 | VCC |
3 | P2.2 |
4 | P2.1 |
7 | RST |
9 | VCC |
Pin layout of various CC2530 modules #
Name | Pin layout | Picture |
---|---|---|
CC2530 | ||
Webee CC2530 + CC2591 |
Flashing #
Now the CC2530 can be flashed using the same instructions as Flashing the CC2531. The router firmwares can be found here.
3. Putting it in an enclosure #
The following steps have to be followed:
- Drill 2 holes in the enclosure; one for the antenna, one for the power cable
- Lay a knot in the power cable; this serves as strain relief
- Solder the power cable on to the AC pins of the HLK-PM03
- Use 2 female to female jumper wires to connect the VC+ pin of the HLK-PM03 to the VCC pin of the CC2530 and the VC- pin of the HLK-PM03 to the GND pin of the CC2530
- Use double sided tape to fix the CC2530 and HLK-PM03 into the enclosure