Terminology » Zigbee » Zigbee XBEE Radio AT Commands: A Quick Guide

Zigbee XBEE Radio AT Commands: A Quick Guide

zigbee
xbee
at command
radio
configuration

This guide explores the essential AT commands used to configure Zigbee XBEE radios. We’ll cover frequently used commands like ATID, ATSH, ATSL, ATDH, ATDL, ATCN, ATWR, and ATMY. These commands are vital for configuring, controlling, and monitoring various functionalities of your Zigbee XBEE radio.

For a broader understanding of Zigbee, you might want to explore these topics:

  • About Zigbee
  • Zigbee network
  • Stack PHY frame
  • MAC Bands
  • Conformance
  • AODV protocol
  • Products

Understanding Zigbee XBEE AT Commands

Let’s dive into the details of the key AT commands.

Zigbee XBEE AT commandDescription
ATThis command is your basic “are you there?” signal. It’s used to check communication between the Zigbee radio device and your computer. Typing “AT” should elicit a response, confirming the connection.
ATIDThis command reveals the PAN ID (Personal Area Network ID) currently used by the radio. The PAN ID defines the network the radio is attached to. The range is from 0x0000 to 0xFFFF. Adding an address after the ATID command, such as ATID 1234, will assign that new PAN ID to the radio.
ATSH/ATSLEvery XBEE RADIO has a unique 64-bit address. Since a single register can’t hold such a large number, it’s split into two parts. ATSH displays the higher 32 bits of the address, while ATSL shows the lower 32 bits. This address is permanent and cannot be changed.
ATDH/ATDLThese commands deal with the destination address – where the local radio sends its information. ATDH displays the current high part of the destination address. To set a new high part, type ATDH followed by the new address portion (e.g., ATDH 40F2). ATDL works similarly for the low part of the destination address.
ATCNThis command immediately exits command mode and returns the radio to transparent mode (where it simply transmits data). If you don’t type anything for about 10 seconds while in command mode, the radio will also automatically revert to transparent mode.
ATWRThis is how you save the current configuration to the radio’s firmware. After making changes with other AT commands, use ATWR to make them permanent. The radio will then operate with the new configuration even after a power cycle.
ATMYThis command shows the radio’s current 16-bit address. This is the short address the radio uses within its PAN.

Illustration

To demonstrate, let’s say you want to set the PAN ID of your XBee module to 0x1234. You would enter command mode (typically by sending +++), and then type:

ATID 1234


After that, to save the setting, you type:

ATWR


The radio will now use `0x1234` as its PAN ID after it restarts or exits command mode.

## Important Notes:

*   Most XBee modules enter command mode when they receive the `+++` sequence. There is usually a guard time to make sure that the `+++` sequence is part of a command and not data.
*   Make sure to consult the specific documentation for your XBee module for the exact command set and any specific configuration requirements.
*   Incorrect configurations can prevent your XBee network from working correctly.

XBEE Series 1 vs Series 2: Key Differences

A comparison of XBEE Series 1 and Series 2 Zigbee radios, highlighting differences in range, features, and applications. Includes a comparison table.

wireless communication
zigbee
xbee