on November 17th 56

CC1101 Transceiver: Datasheet, Pinout, and Alternatives

The CC1101 from Texas Instruments is a versatile sub-1 GHz transceiver that provides a cost-effective solution for power-conscious wireless applications. This article explores its technical features, pinout, and specifications, highlighting how it supports the growing demand for efficient and reliable wireless communication systems.

Catalog

What is the CC1101?

The Texas Instruments CC1101 stands out as a cost-effective transceiver crafted specifically for wireless communications in the sub-1 GHz range. Its design focuses on minimizing energy consumption, resonating well within the ISM and SRD bands at frequencies like 315, 433, 868, and 915 MHz. Moreover, it showcases adaptability by incorporating additional bands such as 300-348 MHz, 387-464 MHz, and 779-928 MHz, rendering itself versatile across varied territorial and regulatory landscapes. Within its architecture lies a flexible baseband modem, adept at accommodating different modulation formats and achieving data rates up to 600 kbps. This versatility finds value in applications where data transmission requirements fluctuate.

The CC1101 is employed alongside a microcontroller, accompanied by some passive components, highlighting an industry-favored method that capitalizes on modular design beneficially to amplify systemic performance. In situations demanding extended communication reach, pairing with a CC1190 range extender is common. This synergy not only heightens the device's sensitivity but also boosts its output power, enhancing network robustness and reliability. The CC1101's features reveals its promising role in IoT device management, smart metering, and remote control applications where efficiency, coupled with modulation flexibility. Its inherent modularity and adaptability embody a scalable solution adept at keeping pace with technology's ever-shifting landscape, suggesting it holds promise for ongoing advancements in wireless communications.

CC1101 Pin Configuration

Pin No	Pin Name	Description
1	SCLK	Serial configuration interface, clock input
2	SO (GDO1)	Serial configuration interface, data output. Optional general output pin when CSn is high
3	GDO2	Digital output pin for general use: Test signals, FIFO status signals, Clear channel indicator, Clock output, down-divided from XOSC, Serial output RX data
4	DVDD	1.8 - 3.6 V digital power supply for digital I/O’s and for the digital core voltage regulator
5	DCOUPL	1.6 - 2.0 V digital power supply output for decoupling. NOTE: This pin is intended for use with the CC1101 only. It cannot be used to provide supply voltage to other devices
6	GDO0 (ATEST)	Digital output pin for general use: Test signals, FIFO status signals, Clear channel indicator, Clock output, down-divided from XOSC, Serial output RX data, Serial input TX data. Also used as analog test I/O for prototype/production testing
7	CSn	Serial configuration interface, chip select
8	XOSC_Q1	Crystal oscillator pin 1, or external clock input
9	AVDD	1.8 - 3.6 V analog power supply connection
10	XOSC_Q2	Crystal oscillator pin 2
11	AVDD	1.8 - 3.6 V analog power supply connection
12	RF_P	Positive RF input signal to LNA in receive mode. Positive RF output signal from PA in transmit mode
13	RF_N	Negative RF input signal to LNA in receive mode. Negative RF output signal from PA in transmit mode
14	AVDD	1.8 - 3.6 V analog power supply connection
15	AVDD	1.8 - 3.6 V analog power supply connection
16	GND	Analog ground connection
17	RBIAS	External bias resistor for reference current
18	DGUARD	Power supply connection for digital noise isolation
19	GND	Ground connection for digital noise isolation
20	SI	Serial configuration interface, data input

CC1101 Symbol, Footprint, and CAD Model

Features of the CC1101

RF Performance

The CC1101 module combines high sensitivity with power efficiency, offering up to +12 dBm of programmable output power while consuming minimal energy. This makes it ideal for energy-conscious devices, especially in IoT systems where long battery life is important. By balancing sensitivity and energy use, the module enhances communication range and device durability.

Analog Features

The CC1101 supports multiple modulation techniques, quick frequency tuning, and includes an integrated temperature sensor. These features provide flexibility and reliability in varying environments, making it easy to adapt communication strategies for specific needs. Temperature compensation and dynamic modulation options boost performance in challenging conditions.

Digital Features

The CC1101 includes advanced digital tools like packet handling, a flexible SPI interface, wireless detection, and data whitening. These ensure secure and efficient data transmission, improving system stability and speed. Its optimized packet management enhances performance in complex digital systems, making it ideal for reliable wireless communication.

Power Efficiency

The CC1101 is highly power-efficient, drawing only 200 nA in sleep mode and featuring fast startup and wake-on-radio capabilities. This low power consumption extends battery life, reducing the need for frequent replacements, which is important for devices like remote sensors and electronics.

General Characteristics

With a compact design and minimal external components, the CC1101 meets both European and US standards. Its small size and regulatory compliance make it versatile for global markets. Simplifying designs while maintaining robustness aligns with modern industrial practices, ensuring easy integration across various applications.

CC1101 Technical Specifications

Technical specifications, features, and parameters of the CC1101, along with components similar to the Texas Instruments CC1101RGP.

Type	Parameter
Lifecycle Status	ACTIVE (Last Updated: 4 days ago)
Contact Plating	Gold
Mounting Type	Surface Mount
Number of Pins	20
Operating Temperature	-40°C~85°C
JESD-609 Code	e4
Part Status	Active
Number of Terminations	20
Voltage - Supply	1.8V~3.6V
Peak Reflow Temperature (Cel)	280
Supply Voltage	3V
Depth	4.15mm
Base Part Number	CC1101
Power - Output	12dBm
Data Rate (Max)	800kbps
Factory Lead Time	6 Weeks
Mount	Surface Mount
Package / Case	20-VQFN Exposed Pad
Weight	69.994479mg
Packaging	Tube
Pbfree Code	Yes
Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL)	3 (168 Hours)
Type	Tx/Rx Only
Terminal Position	QUAD
Number of Functions	1
Terminal Pitch	0.5mm
Frequency	300MHz348MHz, 387MHz464MHz, 779MHz~928MHz
Density	0 b
RF Family/Standard	General ISM < 1GHz
Serial Interfaces	SPI
Current - Receiving	14.3mA~17.1mA
Current - Transmitting	12.3mA~34.2mA
Number of Receivers	1
Modulation	2FSK, 4FSK, ASK, GFSK, MSK, OOK
Sensitivity (dBm)	-116 dBm
Length	4mm
Thickness	930µm
Height	1mm
Width	4mm
Radiation Hardening	No
Lead Free	Lead Free
REACH SVHC	No SVHC
RoHS Status	ROHS3 Compliant

Functional Block Diagram of the CC1101

The diagram above shows the CC1101 basic structure, which uses a low-IF receiver design. First, the low-noise amplifier (LNA) strengthens the RF signal. This signal is then converted into intermediate frequency (IF) signals in two components (I and Q). These signals are digitized using analog-to-digital converters (ADCs). After digitization, processes like automatic gain control (AGC), channel filtering, demodulation, and synchronization of bits and packets are performed. For transmitting, the CC1101 generates RF signals directly using frequency synthesis.

In receive mode, the chip’s frequency synthesizer uses an on-chip LC VCO and a 90-degree phase shifter to create the local oscillator (LO) signals (I and Q) needed for signal conversion. A crystal connected to pins XOSC Q1 and XOSC Q2 provides the reference frequency for the synthesizer and clocks for the ADC and digital circuits. A 4-wire SPI interface is used for configuration and data access, while the digital baseband manages channel settings, packet handling, and data storage.

CC1101 Application Circuit

Typical Application and Evaluation Circuit 315/433 MHz (excluding supply decoupling capacitors)

Typical Application and Evaluation Circuit 868/915 MHz (excluding supply decoupling capacitors)

Alternatives to the CC1101

Part Number	Description	Manufacturer
CC1100ERGPT	Low-power Sub-1GHz wireless transceiver for China and Japan frequency bands 20-QFN -40 to 85	Texas Instruments
MD59-0049RTR	RF and Baseband Circuit, PQCC20, 4 MM, PLASTIC, MLF-20	MACOM
CC1101RTKRG3	IC TELECOM, CELLULAR, RF AND BASEBAND CIRCUIT, PQCC20, 4 X 4 MM, GREEN, PLASTIC, QLP-20, Cellular Telephone Circuit	Texas Instruments
CC1101RTK	TELECOM, CELLULAR, RF AND BASEBAND CIRCUIT, PQCC20, 4 X 4 MM, GREEN, PLASTIC, QLP-20	Texas Instruments
CC1101RTKG3	TELECOM, CELLULAR, RF AND BASEBAND CIRCUIT, PQCC20, 4 X 4 MM, GREEN, PLASTIC, QLP-20	Texas Instruments
CC1101RGP	Package / Case 20-VFQFN Exposed Pad, Number of Pins 20, Frequency 300MHz ~ 348MHz, 387MHz ~ 464MHz, 779MHz ~ 928MHz, Current - Receiving 14.3mA ~ 17.1mA, Current - Transmitting 12.3mA ~ 34.2mA, Sensitivity -116 dBm, Supply Voltage 3 V, Terminal Pitch 0.5 mm	Texas Instruments
CC115LRGPR	Package / Case 20-VFQFN Exposed Pad, Number of Pins 20, Frequency 300MHz ~ 348MHz, 387MHz ~ 464MHz, 779MHz ~ 928MHz, Current - Receiving 13.9mA ~ 15.9mA, Current - Transmitting 12.3mA ~ 31.1mA, Sensitivity -112 dBm, Supply Voltage 3 V, Terminal Pitch 0.5 mm	Texas Instruments
CC1100RTKR	Package / Case 20-VFQFN Exposed Pad, Number of Pins 20, Frequency 300MHz ~ 348MHz, 387MHz ~ 464MHz, 779MHz ~ 928MHz, Current - Receiving 13.3mA ~ 15.9mA, Current - Transmitting 12.3mA ~ 34.2mA, Sensitivity -111 dBm, Supply Voltage 3 V, Terminal Pitch 0.5 mm	Texas Instruments
CC110LRGPR	Package / Case 20-VFQFN Exposed Pad, Number of Pins 20, Frequency 315MHz, 433MHz, 868MHz, 915MHz, Supply Voltage 3 V, Terminal Pitch 0.5 mm	Texas Instruments
CC1100RTK	Package / Case 20-VFQFN Exposed Pad, Number of Pins 20, Frequency 300MHz ~ 348MHz, 387MHz ~ 464MHz, 779MHz ~ 928MHz, Current - Receiving 14.3mA ~ 17.1mA, Current - Transmitting 12.3mA ~ 34.2mA, Sensitivity -116 dBm, Supply Voltage 3 V, Terminal Pitch 0.5 mm	Texas Instruments

Applications of the CC1101

The CC1101 is an ultra-low-power wireless transceiver designed for sub-1 GHz applications, ideal for scenarios where energy-efficient communication is required. Its versatility makes it valuable in security systems, automation, industrial operations, and emerging technologies like IoT.

Security Systems

The CC1101 enhances wireless security systems by enabling low-power, long-lasting devices like motion detectors and alarm sensors. Its efficiency reduces the need for frequent maintenance, ensuring uninterrupted monitoring and extended battery life.

Automation Solutions

In both home and industrial automation, the CC1101 supports seamless communication between devices, enabling smart systems to monitor environmental metrics and optimize energy use. It’s a key component in building more efficient and adaptive living and working environments.

Industrial Processes

The CC1101 facilitates reliable wireless communication in challenging industrial settings, allowing remote monitoring and control of machinery. This improves safety, reduces downtime, and enhances operational efficiency, especially where wired solutions are impractical.

Emerging Technologies and IoT

The CC1101's flexibility makes it a strong candidate for Internet of Things (IoT) applications, supporting low-power, wide-area networks. As IoT expands, the CC1101 is great in creating smart, energy-efficient devices that communicate seamlessly across interconnected systems.

Package for CC1101

CC1101 Manufacturer Information

In the competitive landscape of the semiconductor industry, Texas Instruments stands distinguished for its influence on analog and embedded processing innovations. The company's CC1101 RF transceiver exemplifies their relentless drive toward refining communication technologies. This device is not only crafted with precision but also finds its utility across diverse sectors, including home and industrial automation where stable and efficient wireless systems. Texas Instruments thrives on an unwavering dedication to pioneering new technologies and developing products that resonate with current industry trends. Their philosophy is driven by the aspiration to merge state-of-the-art technology with practical uses. TI products are crafted through repetitive improvements to ensure they seamlessly integrate with various systems, showcasing an adaptability that meets diverse requirements.

Datasheet PDF

CC1100ERGPT Datasheets:

Cylindrical Battery Holders.pdf

CC1100ERGPT Datasheets:

Cylindrical Battery Holders.pdf

CC1101RTK Datasheets:

CC1101RTx.pdf

CC115LRGPR Datasheets:

CC115L.pdf

CC1100RTKR Datasheets:

CC1100.pdf

CC110LRGPR Datasheets:

CC110L Datasheet.pdf

CC110LRGPR Datasheets:

CC1100.pdf