Metl-Tech Cars Controlled by RF Transceivers

A multi-channel transceiver from Atmel Corp. is being used in Metl-Tech Racer’s line of “matchbox-sized,” remote-controlled race cars. Atmel sends data to the vehicle to precisely control steering and speed.

Metl-Tech designers cite the level of integration of Atmel’s SmartRF AT86RF211 transceiver that allowed them to meet the dimensional constraints of a car that’s just 2-3/4-inches (7cm) long. The Atmel transceiver includes all RF functions embedded on silicon, requiring a small number of external components and can be controlled by any low-cost microcontroller.

Lab-testing prototypes complied with Part 15 of the Federal Communication Commission’s regulations when first tested. The FCC governs operation of RF transmitters in the unlicensed ISM 902-928MHz frequency bands.