N540AS Si4463 RF Module | +20dBm Sub-1GHz Transceiver for Arduino & IoT
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N540AS Si4463 High-Performance Sub-1GHz RF Transceiver Module
Product Overview
The N540AS is a versatile, high-performance Sub-1GHz RF transceiver module designed for robust, medium-to-long-range wireless communication. Based on the feature-rich Silicon Labs Si4463 chip, it operates across key global ISM bands (169 MHz, 433 MHz, 868 MHz, and 915 MHz), delivering up to +20 dBm output power and excellent receiver sensitivity down to -126 dBm. With its ultra-compact 16 x 12 mm footprint, comprehensive SPI interface, and extensive support for Arduino and embedded platforms, the N540AS provides developers with a powerful, flexible, and easy-to-integrate wireless solution for a wide array of IoT and industrial applications.
Key Features & Benefits
Multi-Band Global Operation: Supports major Sub-1GHz frequency bands worldwide, offering a single hardware platform for international deployments.
Excellent RF Performance: Combines +20 dBm transmit power with high sensitivity for a strong link budget, enabling reliable communication over distances up to 2000 meters in open terrain.
Ultra-Low Power Consumption: Features an incredibly low sleep current of 0.1 µA and efficient active modes, making it ideal for battery-powered devices requiring long operational life.
Extremely Compact Form Factor: One of the smallest Si4463 modules available (16 x 12 x 3 mm), saving critical PCB space in size-constrained designs.
Developer-Friendly Ecosystem: Full pin breakout allows deep hardware control, while extensive software support includes mature Arduino libraries and sample code for rapid prototyping and development.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| RF & Performance | Frequency Range | 169, 433, 868, 915 MHz (Programmable 119-1050 MHz) |
| Max. Output Power | +20 dBm | |
| Receiver Sensitivity | -126 dBm (typical, depends on data rate) | |
| Data Rate | 0.3 – 500 kbps (programmable) | |
| Modulation | (G)FSK, OOK | |
| Typical Range | 1500 – 2000 m (Line-of-Sight, ideal conditions) | |
| Electrical | Supply Voltage | 1.8 – 3.9 V (Typical 3.3V) |
| TX Current (@ +20 dBm) | 120 mA (typical) | |
| RX Current | 18 mA (typical) | |
| Sleep Current | 0.1 µA (typical) | |
| Physical & Interface | Dimensions | 16.0 x 12.0 x 3.0 mm |
| Host Interface | SPI (for configuration & data) | |
| Antenna Interface | 50Ω RF Pad | |
| Package | Surface Mount (SMD) | |
| Environmental | Operating Temperature | -40°C to +85°C |
Pin Definition & Integration
The module provides full access to the Si4463's capabilities through a compact pinout, including:
SPI Pins (SDI, SDO, SCLK, nSEL): For chip configuration and data transfer.
GPIOs: Configurable for interrupts, RX/TX state indication, or other functions.
Power (VDD, GND): Simple 3.3V power supply connection.
Development & Software Support
Easy Hardware Integration: Connect via SPI to any host microcontroller (e.g., Arduino, STM32, ESP32).
Comprehensive Software Support:
Arduino Library: Mature, open-source library available for quick start, featuring interrupt-driven operation for efficient packet handling.
Sample Code: Provides clear examples for basic send/receive functions.
Silicon Labs SDK: For advanced development using the full feature set of the Si4463.
Applications
The N540AS is suited for a broad spectrum of applications requiring reliable, low-to-medium data rate wireless links:
Smart Metering & AMI: Wireless Meter-Bus (MBus), automatic meter reading.
Home & Building Automation: Smart lighting, security systems, HVAC control.
Industrial IoT & Telemetry: Wireless sensor networks (WSN), equipment monitoring, SCADA systems.
Environmental & Agricultural Sensing: Weather stations, soil moisture sensors, irrigation control.
Consumer Electronics & DIY: Remote controls, Arduino/Raspberry Pi projects.
Ordering Information
Select the standard model for your target frequency region, or contact us for custom variants.
| Model Number | Core IC | Target Frequency Band | Output Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| N540AS-169M | Si4463 | 160 – 175 MHz | +20 dBm |
| N540AS-433M | Si4463 | 410 – 480 MHz | +20 dBm |
| N540AS-868M | Si4463 | 860 – 960 MHz | +20 dBm |
Why Choose the N540AS Module?
The N540AS strikes an optimal balance between high RF performance, ultra-low power consumption, and an extremely compact size. By encapsulating the complex Si4463 RF design into a ready-to-use module, it eliminates the hurdles of RF circuit layout and matching, significantly reducing development time and risk. Backed by a strong software ecosystem, it enables both hobbyists and professional engineers to implement robust wireless connectivity with ease.
For technical documentation, software libraries, and design support, please visit our website or contact us.