AN698: PCB Design with an EM35x

AN698
PCB DESIGN WITH AN EMBER® EM35X
(Formerly document 120-5060-000)
Silicon Labs provides a ZigBee product designer a number of paths towards the successful design of a ZigBeecompliant solution based upon Silicon Labs’ EM300 Family of System on Chip (SoC) platforms. The lowest risk
path begins with the purchase of an EM35x Development Kit (P/N: EM35X-DEV or EM35X-DEV-IAR). The
Development Kit contains software, hardware, and documentation designed for developers to create applications
efficiently on a tested and controlled platform. Once the design team is familiar with Silicon Labs’ EM300 family of
SoCs and EmberZNet PRO software, the next step in the design path involves designing application-specific
hardware to meet the product requirements.
This application note is intended to accompany the Ember hardware reference designs and provide detailed
information regarding the design decisions employed within them. In addition, it details the design guidelines for
developing an application-specific, ZigBee design using an IC from the EM300 family. After reading this document,
developers should be able to successfully implement a design involving the EM300 Series. For further information,
visit www.silabs.com/zigbee-support.
New in This Revision
Rebranding for Silicon Labs.
Contents
1
Introduction ............................................................................................................................................................ 3
2
EM35x with Ceramic Balun.................................................................................................................................... 4
2.1.1
EM35x RF Ports ...................................................................................................................................... 4
2.1.2
Optimizing for TX (Boost Mode) .............................................................................................................. 5
2.1.3
Matching Network Circuit Design ............................................................................................................ 6
2.1.4
Harmonic Filter Design .......................................................................................................................... 10
2.2
2.2.1
Layer 1-2 Thickness .............................................................................................................................. 17
2.2.2
Matching Network.................................................................................................................................. 17
2.2.3
Harmonic Filter ...................................................................................................................................... 17
2.2.4
PCB Tolerance ...................................................................................................................................... 18
2.3
3
RF Layout Guidelines ................................................................................................................................... 17
Other Design Considerations ....................................................................................................................... 19
EM35x with SKY6533X FEM Reference Design ................................................................................................. 19
3.1
RF Design Guidelines................................................................................................................................... 19
3.1.1
EM35x RF Ports .................................................................................................................................... 20
3.1.2
Optimizing for TX (Normal Mode) ......................................................................................................... 20
Rev 0.6
Copyright © 2013 by Silicon Laboratories
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3.1.3
4
3.2
Antenna Port of SSKY6533X FEM ............................................................................................................... 21
3.3
Digital Control of SKY6533X FEM ................................................................................................................ 21
EM35x with RF6525 FEM .................................................................................................................................... 21
4.1
5
2
Optimizing for RX (Normal Mode) ......................................................................................................... 21
RF Design Guidelines................................................................................................................................... 21
4.1.1
EM35x RF Ports .................................................................................................................................... 22
4.1.2
Optimizing for TX (Normal Mode) ......................................................................................................... 22
4.1.3
Optimizing for RX (Normal Mode) ......................................................................................................... 23
4.2
Antenna Port of RF6525 FEM ...................................................................................................................... 23
4.3
Digital Control of RF6525 FEM .................................................................................................................... 23
Non-RF Design Considerations ........................................................................................................................... 23
5.1
High-frequency (24 MHz) Crystal Reference (Y1, C11, and C12) ............................................................... 23
5.2
Optional Low-frequency Crystal Reference (Y2, C9 and C10) .................................................................... 24
5.3
1.8 V Regulator Load Capacitor ................................................................................................................... 25
5.4
1.2 V Regulator Loading ............................................................................................................................... 25
5.5
1.8 V Net Decoupling.................................................................................................................................... 26
5.6
1.8 V Analog to 1.8 V Digital Filtering ........................................................................................................... 26
5.7
RF Test Connector ....................................................................................................................................... 26
5.8
Debug and Programming Interface .............................................................................................................. 26
Rev. 0.6
AN698
1 Introduction
Due to the application-specific nature of the Ember hardware reference designs, Silicon Labs recommends that
hardware designers familiarize themselves with each reference design available. Each EM35x reference design is
bundled within the most recent release of Silicon Labs’ EmberZNet PRO stack build, and each has been released
to www.silabs.com/zigbee-support. This variety is intended to meet the design requirements for most ZigBee-based
products and provides a lower risk and simplifies design and implementation.
Note:
Due to the fact the EM351 and EM357 are pin-compatible, the EM35x Reference Designs can be used for
either SoC. Also all EM35x Reference Designs are built on 4-layer, FR-4 material.
Silicon Labs has released the following EM35x-based Reference Designs:



EM35x with a Ceramic Balun (EM35X_REF_DES_CER.zip)
EM35x with Skyworks SKY65336/7 Front End Module (FEM) (EM35X_REF_DES_SKY6533X.zip)
EM35x with RFMD RF6525 FEM (EM35X_ REF_DES_RF6525.zip)
Each Reference Design includes the following elements:







Schematic (in .PDF and DX Designer formats)
Schematic Netlist (in .ASC format)
Bill of Materials (BOM)
Layout file (Source in PADS 2005 and PADS 2007)
Gerbers (in .PDF and .PHO formats)
Layout Netlist (in .ASC format)
Characterization data
While each Reference Design includes most of the information required to start an application-specific design, if
there are additional items needed, visit the Customer Support portal at www.silabs.com/zigbee-support.
The next four sections of this document describe the RF guidelines in detail for each of the released reference
designs. The remaining sections include items that are common to each of the EM35x reference designs.
Rev. 0.6
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2 EM35x with Ceramic Balun
Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram of the ceramic balun reference design.
24MHz
Crystal
C3
Y1
C4
VBRD
1
Antenna
2
L2
EM35x
PB0
PC4
PC3
PC2
JTCK
5
6
7
8
C5 C6
9
Harmonic
Filter
RF_P
L1
4
C9
VDD_VCO
Matching
Network
RF_N
PB2
VDD_RF
RF_TX_ALT_P
RF_TX_ALT_N
VDD_IF
PB1
PA6
VDD_PADS
NC
PA5
10
11
PC5
nRESET
PA4
PA3
GND
36
35
34
33
32
31
30
29
28
27
26
25
49
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
12
VDD_PADSA
PC6
PC7
VREG_OUT
VDD_PADS
VDD_CORE
PA7
PB3
PB4
PA0
PA1
VDD_PADS
PA2
L3
VDD_24MHz
DC
Ceramic
Balun
3
OSCA
OSCB
VDD_SYNTH
VDD_PRE
VDD_CORE
PB5
PB6
PB7
PC0
VDD_MEM
PC1
VDD_PADS
48
47
46
45
44
43
42
41
40
39
38
37
R1
C7
32.768kHz
(Optional)
C2
Y2
C8
PC2
PC0
PC3
R3
JTCK
PC4
C1
nReset
PA4
Programing and
debug interface
(these pins should be
routed to test points)
PA5
Figure 1. Block diagram of EM35x ceramic balun reference design
Silicon Labs’ EM35x with ceramic balun reference design utilizes an external 0805 sized, ceramic balun as its
primary RF component. A single inductor makes up the matching network and optimizes the RF performance. A
five-element harmonic filter suppresses the conducted harmonics to below the FCC and ETSI limits.
Due to the market demand that ZigBee designs across all ZigBee profiles maximize their communication range,
Silicon Labs has optimized their designs accordingly. In Boost mode, the EM35x ceramic balun design achieves a
transmit output power close to 9 dBm across the 16 channels. This means the ceramic balun design can be used
without external amplification in regions where regulations require the EIRP to be a maximum 10dBm, that is, EU
countries.
This section describes the design decisions behind each of the items shown in Figure 1.
2.1.1 EM35x RF Ports
The EM35x’s bi-directional RF port—RF_P (pin 3) and RF_N (pin 4)—provides access to a low noise amplifier
(LNA) and a power amplifier (PA) through a shared differential interface. The disabled high-Z state of either the PA
or the LNA allows transmitting and receiving through the shared port without the need for a conventional T/R
switch.
An ‘alternate’ PA-only port—RF_TX_ALT_P (pin 6) and RF_TX_ALT_N (pin 7)—is also provided. This function is
achieved via an additional PA. Design considerations for the alternate PA are not covered in this document.
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Note:
The on-chip parasitic capacitance is different between the two ports, which will alter the off-chip matching
component values slightly.
2.1.2 Optimizing for TX (Boost Mode)
The EM35x Reference Design has been optimized for maximum transmitter (TX) output power in Boost mode using
practical components and readily available printed circuit board (PCB) substrates. The optimum load at the PA on
the silicon die is approximately 700 Ω when the PA/LNA device capacitance is resonated-out. This maximizes the
voltage swing at the drains of the PA devices within the available supply voltage. Too large a load causes voltage
limiting whereas too small a load does not make full use of the available supply voltage. Figure 2 illustrates a die
level simulation of the load impedance and its effect on PA output power.
Figure 2. Simulated Boost output power with PA load resistance
Optimizing the TX output performance in Boost mode does not cause degradation in either Normal mode or RX
Sensitivity. Because the receiver is CMOS-based, it amplifies the input signal voltage, rather than its current. The
receiver noise is a fixed value of noise voltage that may be referred to its input. It might be expected that increasing
the transformation would yield higher signal voltage swings at the LNA input, making the input referred noise less
significant and thereby improving sensitivity. However, this also increases the source resistance, thereby increasing
the source noise voltage. In practice at the 700Ω level, the improvement gradient is very small and the transmit
output power exhibits far greater sensitivity to load variation than receiver sensitivity. The main objective for receive
sensitivity is to minimize network loss, which is a common objective for transmit.
The optimum load presented to the pins of the EM35x SOC must take into consideration not only the optimum PA
load but also on-chip parasitic capacitance and package bond-wire inductance. It is estimated that the optimum
load presented to the pins is 27 + j95 Ω (series impedance). This is equivalent to a parallel resistance of 368 Ω
combined with a parallel inductance of 6.6nH.
Optimal Load for EM35x (series impedance)
27 + j95
Rev. 0.6
Ohms
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2.1.3 Matching Network Circuit Design
The term “matching” typically implies conjugate power matching. It is important to understand that the EM35x PA is
not power matched according to the traditional definition. The term is used in this document to describe designing
to optimal PA impedance.
The best way to understand Silicon Labs’ approach towards optimizing the EM35x “matching” is to plot the
impedance of the ideal 700Ω PA load transformed by the chip/package parasitics on the Smith chart. The
combination of the ideal load with the parasitics is the conjugate of the ideal load presented to the package pins.
Knowing the combined load and its conjugate allows the designer to approach matching in a more traditional
sense, namely, ‘How do we get to 50 Ω’?
It is also be necessary at some point in the network to include a balanced-to-unbalanced (balun) conversion. Use of
a ‘proper’ balun has performance benefits related to common-mode suppression both on transmit and receive.
There are a variety of balun architectures and solutions available. The primary objective of any of the Ember
hardware reference designs is to minimize design complexity and maximize time to market. Therefore, Silicon Labs
decided to implement its primary reference design with a ceramic balun. The cost of ceramic baluns is low, and
they are available from a number of vendors.
Ceramic baluns are available in 1:1 (50 to 50 Ω), 2:1 (100 to 50 Ω), and 4:1 ratios (200 to 50 Ω). Figure 3, Figure 4,
and Figure 5 illustrate the ‘matched’ impedance normalized to these three ratios.
Figure 3. Conjugate of ideal EM35x load (normalized to 50 Ω)
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AN698
Figure 4. Conjugate of ideal EM35x load (normalized to 100 Ω)
Figure 5. Conjugate of ideal EM35x load (normalized to 200 Ω)
The magnitude of the reflection coefficient, |ΓL|, in these three cases is:



1:1 (50 Ω) → 0.8
2:1 (100 Ω) → 0.76
4:1 (200 Ω) → 0.8
Rev. 0.6
7
AN698
This implies that a 2:1 ceramic balun should offer the lowest network loss, assuming identical balun loss because it
requires the least transformation.
Investigation into ceramic balun performance from various vendors reveals that 1:1 and 2:1 ratio baluns often have
about 0.3dB insertion loss advantage over a 4:1 ratio. Thus the 2:1 ceramic balun is preferred.
To minimize network loss, the matching topology should try to keep Smith chart loci towards the center of the Smith
chart. To do that, the following impedance transformation options are available:

Series inductance followed by Shunt capacitance




Series inductance followed by Shunt inductance



Akin to auto-transformer action.
Sweet-spot for 100 Ω balun if series inductance fabricated from PCB traces since not too long or too
short.
Shunt inductance followed by series capacitance


This option favors lower balun ratios.
It leads to comparatively large inductance values.
It requires either long PCB traces or two discrete inductors (balanced network) which means inductor
Q becomes an issue.
Not allowed because DC feed to PA is required from balun centre-tap.
Shunt inductance followed by Series inductance


Favors lower balun ratios, but even at 1:1 the required series inductance is comparatively large.
It requires either long PCB traces or two discrete inductors (balanced network) which means inductor
Q becomes an issue.
PCB parasitics play a part in the impedance transformation and that, even with the tightest of layouts, traces
between the matching elements will add significant reactance at 2.4 GHz. In particular, there will be some series
inductance between the package pins and the first matching element. This is significant when that element is in
shunt because it cannot be absorbed into that reactance. Since this effect cannot be avoided, it is best to take
advantage of it.
The lowest loss, least complex arrangement is series inductance followed by shunt inductance. To make use of
the PCB traces it must be recognized that they operate more like transmission lines, which travel slightly differently
on the Smith chart compared with real inductors and this affects the shunt inductance value.
The Ember EM35x Ceramic Balun Reference Design uses 100 Ω traces which equate to 150µm wide on a 0.4 mm
thick FR4 substrate. In the simple single-ended representation in WinSmith, the balanced pair must be modeled as
a single 200Ω transmission line. Figure 6 illustrates the impedance transformation on a Smith chart.
8
Rev. 0.6
AN698
Figure 6. EM35x Ceramic Balun matching network
Figure 7 shows an extract of the EM35x Ceramic Balun Reference Design PCB layout (layer 1). It is important that
the PCB designer notice the routes between the EM35x and the balun. Silicon Labs recommends the use of a 0603
inductor to allow ample space for the traces to go to the balun first with deterministic lengths. Trace inductance
between the inductor and balun is then absorbed into the total shunt inductance, so it may be predictably offset by
reducing the physical component value. The tuned value on the reference design came out to be 3.3 nH.
Figure 7. Layer 1 except showing the balun routes
The PCB designer has the option to route the traces to the inductor first and the balun second, but this has the
effect of moving the components further away from the EM35x. By routing in this manner PCB area and cost are
wasted. It also requires the model to be updated to a three-element match, generally making it more difficult to
simulate.
An added benefit of using an 0603 inductor over an 0402 inductor is that better Q is obtainable. The EM35x
Ceramic Balun Reference Design uses a Murata LQG18H series inductor which has a typical Q around 100 at
2.4GHz. Compare this to the commonly used LQP15M 0402 inductor, which has a typical Q around 50. This is
worth nearly 0.2dB. The disadvantage is that it is not possible to get E24 values in 0603 style at these sorts of
component values. So a small price is paid on design centering.
As previously mentioned, the balun center tap is fed with a 1.8V DC feed. A decoupling capacitor is required to
define the common-mode RF potential. The balun decoupling capacitor needs to be as close as possible to the
balun pins and with a high quality ground connection. Its value is chosen to be series resonant with its parasitic
Rev. 0.6
9
AN698
inductance at 2.4GHz. While it would be possible to tune-out longer tracks by using a smaller capacitor value, this
has the effect of making the decoupling more narrow-band, which can impact common-mode harmonic
suppression. Therefore, Silicon Labs recommends that the EM35x layout is copied exactly in this area.
2.1.4 Harmonic Filter Design
FCC 15.35 allows for a duty-cycle relaxation to the regulatory limits. For EmberZNet PRO, the relaxation is 6.9 dB.
FCC 15.205 defines ‘restricted bands’ where harmonics must meet the levels set out in FCC 15.209. This is defined
nd
rd
th
th
as -41.2 dBm/MHz up to 12.5 GHz. This applies to the 2 , 3 , and 5 harmonics, but not the 4 harmonic.
ETSI EN 300 440-1 requires spurious emissions to be less than -30 dBm/MHz, 1 GHz~24 GHz, so this becomes
th
the default limit for the 4 harmonic.
Generally, if the FCC limits are met it is extremely unlikely that harmonics to 24 GHz would fail the ETSI
th
requirements, so harmonics above the 5 will not be considered here.
The overall requirement is shown in Table 1.
Table 1. Harmonic power limits
Harmonic
Frequency
Limit
nd
4810~4960MHz
≤-34.3 dBm/MHz
rd
7215~7440MHz
≤-34.3 dBm/MHz
4
th
9620~9920MHz
≤-30.0 dBm/MHz
5
th
12025~12400MHz
≤-34.3 dBm/MHz
2
3
Figure 8 shows a network analyzer measurement of a 3-pole low-pass filter using 1p0, 2n7, 1p0. Murata LQP15M
(0402) series inductors were used.
20 Mar 2009 09:23:40
CH1
S21
LOG
10 dB/
REF 0 dB
1 : - . 40310
dB
2 450 . 000
000
MHz
CH1
MARKER 1
Cor
2.45 GHz
4. 90000
1
2
START
. 030
000
MHz
STOP
6 000 . 000
000
MHz
Figure 8. 3-pole Harmonic Filter performance
10
Markers
2 : -15 . 945
Rev. 0.6
dB
GHz
AN698
nd
Figure 8 indicates the 3-pole filter can attenuate the 2 harmonic by 15 dB. Initially this seems just enough, when
nd
you consider that the 2 harmonic is typically -20 dBm in Boost mode, that is, -35 dBm plus any per MHz
measurement benefit. However, this leaves little room for performance spread and in practice it was found that the
aggregate harmonic levels were higher than expected. The higher harmonic levels were from practical layout
effects (that is, the ground plane itself is not necessarily at zero RF potential at any point), and also because the
PA’s source impedance is not conjugately matched, so the filter is effectively mismatched.
To guarantee regulatory conformance it was decided that a 5-pole filter was needed. There is no real advantage in
reducing to 4-poles because most of the loss resides in the inductors. Additionally, the 5-pole version yields more
convenient values, which are 1p0, 2n7, 1p8, 2n7, 1p0. A network analyzer plot of a version using Murata LQP15M
series inductors is shown in Figure 9.
26 Mar 2009 10:21:16
CH1
S21
LOG
10 dB/
REF 0 dB
1 : - . 59430
dB
2 450 . 000
000
MHz
CH1
MARKER 1
Cor
Markers
2 : -41 . 483
2.45 GHz
4. 90000
dB
GHz
1
2
START
. 030
000
MHz
STOP
6 000 . 000
000
MHz
Figure 9. 5-pole Harmonic Filter Performance (with multi-layer inductors)
Rev. 0.6
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AN698
The same filter with Murata LQW15A (0402 wire-wound) series inductors is shown in Figure 10.
26 Mar 2009 11:02:34
CH1
S21
LOG
10 dB/
REF 0 dB
1 : - . 39040
dB
2 450 . 000
000
MHz
CH1
MARKER 1
Cor
Markers
2 : -42 . 056
2.45 GHz
4. 90000
dB
GHz
1
2
START
. 030
000
MHz
STOP
6 000 . 000
000
MHz
Figure 10. 5-pole Harmonic Filter Performance (with wire wound Inductors)
Comparing Figure 9 and Figure 10 indicates that there is a 0.2 dB penalty to using the LQP15M series inductors.
The position of the stop-band notch is controlled by the capacitor values together with ground via inductance. The
above plots were recorded on boards that use one ground via per shunt capacitor.
12
Rev. 0.6
AN698
Figure 11 plots the same LQW15A, 5-pole filter with two ground vias per capacitor.
6 May 2009 11:35:28
CH1
S21
LOG
10 dB/
REF 0 dB
1 : - . 40970
dB
2 450 . 000
000
MHz
CH1
MARKER 1
Cor
Markers
2 : -31 . 524
2.45 GHz
4. 90000
dB
GHz
1
2
START
. 030
000
MHz
STOP
6 000 . 000
000
MHz
Figure 11. 5-pole Harmonic Filter performance (with two GND vias / shunt capacitor)
The loss is virtually identical but the stop-band notch has been moved to a higher frequency. The recommended
filter layout uses double vias to diminish any PCB variations.
The effect of component tolerance can only be investigated by simulation. Generally for the small values of
capacitance used in the filter there is a choice between ±0.25 pF and ±0.1 pF. Figure 12 and Figure 13
demonstrate the effect of capacitor tolerance on the in-band insertion loss. This was simulated within Eldo RF using
a 100 run Monte Carlo simulation using uniform distributions. The inductors were fixed using Murata’s S-parameter
files.
Rev. 0.6
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AN698
Figure 12. Filter Pass Band
performance with +/- 0.25pF
capacitor tolerance
Figure 13. Filter Pass Band
performance with +/- 0.1pF
capacitor tolerance
A variation of 0.4 dB is considered unacceptable so the ±0.1 pF tolerance components are recommended.
Figure 14 shows the stop-band variation for the ±0.1 pF tolerance case with markers at the 2
Clearly stop-band variation for a 5-pole filter is not a tolerance concern.
nd
rd
and 3 harmonics.
Figure 14. Harmonic Filter stop band performance
There are in fact three tolerance choices for the Murata LQW15A 2.7 nH inductors: ±0.1 nH (3.7%), ±0.2 nH
(7.4%), ±0.5 nH (18.5%). To investigate these tolerances the S-parameter representations were replaced with
lumped elements, which affect the shape slightly. Figure 15, Figure 16, and Figure 17 demonstrated the passband
sensitivity to inductor tolerance.
14
Rev. 0.6
AN698
Figure 15. Filter passband
performance with +/-0.5 nH
tolerance
Figure 16. Filter passband
performance with +/-0.2 nH
tolerance
Figure 17. Filter passband performance with +/-0.1 nH tolerance
The simulations indicate that 0.03dB variation or less is achieved with ±0.2 nH inductors, which are recommended
in the EM35x Ceramic Balun Reference Design. There seems little need to use ±0.1 nH tolerance, whereas
0.25 dB variation from the ±0.5 nH inductors is too much variation.
Rev. 0.6
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Figure 18 shows the aggregate performance with ±0.1 pF capacitors and ±0.2 nH inductors.
Figure 18. 5-Pole Harmonic Filter, Monte Carlo simulation
Another choice that must be made is whether or not to use high-Q capacitors. This was investigated by comparing
the filter response with Murata’s general purpose GRM series capacitors and their high-Q GJM counterparts. This
was done by using Murata’s S-parameter data. Note that PCB parasitic effects have been removed from this
simulation. Figure 19 illustrates the difference between the two capacitor series.
Figure 19. General purpose vs. High Q capacitor performance
The EM35x Ceramic Balun Reference Design specifies high-Q capacitors to achieve the best performance, but
0.1 dB may not be considered cost-effective in production designs.
16
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2.2
RF Layout Guidelines
At 2.4 GHz it does not take much for a poorly designed PCB to build up enough parasitic reactance to noticeably
compromise RF performance. The following notes describe how the PCB design was implemented and some of the
pitfalls that could arise in transferring the design to a product.
2.2.1 Layer 1-2 Thickness
Because the EM35x Ceramic Balun Reference Design was principally designed to allow characterization of the
EM35x, an SMA style RF connector was preferred. This has driven decisions on PCB layer 1-2 thickness because
of the land pattern width required for the center-pin. It is preferable to be able to merge this land pattern within the
width required for 50 Ω microstrip to maintain line impedance accuracy. The smallest pin width SMA available was
the Emerson 142-0701-851 connector that has a flat tab center pin of width 0.51 mm. To simplify soldering this
leads a minimum width of 0.6 mm.
In addition, choosing a width that allows the harmonic filter’s 0402 footprints to be merged into the 50 Ω track width
is also beneficial. A minimum width of 0.6 mm also achieves this.
The reference design PCB is fabricated using conventional FR4 material to demonstrate realistically achievable
performance. FR4 would traditionally be expected to have a dielectric constant (εr) of 4.5, but a review of various
manufacturers’ materials at 2.4 GHz shows that on average it is about 4.0.
Microstrip width calculators are widely available on the internet (for example,
http://emclab.mst.edu/pcbtlc2/microstrip/ ). Using a copper thickness of 35 µm (1oz), a minimum width of 0.6 mm
requires a board thickness of 0.33 mm for a 50 Ω trace. To use a commonly available core thickness, it was
decided to increase this to 0.4 mm (16-mil), increasing the required trace width to 0.75 mm.
2.2.2 Matching Network
The traces between the balun and the EM35x have a length and width that has been carefully optimized for 0.4 mm
thick FR4, as discussed in the section “Matching Network Circuit Design.” While it would be possible to reduce
layer 1-2 thickness to 0.2 mm (8-mil), this reduces these trace widths to less than most PCB manufacturer’s
minimum track width capability (usually 3-mil or 75 µm). This would then lead to higher line characteristic
impedance and a different line length. In addition, any parasitic capacitance from fixed size footprints would
increase. Considerable simulation and/or PCB experimentation would then be required to achieve optimum
performance.
This circuit area exhibits the greatest sensitivity to PCB variations, deliberate or otherwise. Therefore, Silicon Labs
highly recommends that the PCB layout is copied exactly.
2.2.3 Harmonic Filter
The benefit of making the microstrip width at least as wide as the 0402 footprint width is that the 0402 pad does not
then appear as a parasitic capacitance. This is especially useful when replacing the filter with 0Ω links to test
unfiltered performance because line discontinuities are minimized. The spacing between components is also
important because this can affect parasitic inductance in series with the lumped inductors. In fact, the layout design
has taken advantage of this because 2.7 nH is very slightly smaller than ideal. Changing the layout, for example by
turning a corner with the inductor, may therefore lead to poorer performance.
Grounding is crucial in obtaining satisfactory performance from the harmonic filter. The working assumption is that
the ground-plane is at zero RF potential at any point on its surface. This would be true of an infinite extent ground
plane, but isn’t necessarily true on practical PCBs where there may be ground keep-outs and components close to
the edge of the PCB. This is a common problem on PCBs that add a surface mount antenna, where ground must
be relieved to allow the antenna to work properly. There needs to be enough ground ‘mass’ for the filter grounds to
connect to, so placing the capacitors at the edge of a keep-out area is likely to affect performance.
Rev. 0.6
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The harmonic filter is laid-out with the first capacitor on the opposite side to the other two capacitors. This is critical
nd
to 2 harmonic performance. Silicon Labs discovered that the first capacitor earth return needs to be close to the
balun decoupler’s earth return. Silicon Labs has proven that the top-side ground plane does not play a part in this
effect. It seems most likely that the layer 2 ground dimensions are such that it is not quite the same ground
nd
potential at every location at the 2 harmonic.
A general RF engineer’s rule of thumb is that top-side ground should be at least three microstrip widths away from
a microstrip trace. In commercial cost-sensitive designs this wastes too much PCB space and the EM35x
Reference Design uses just a single width clearance. It has negligible effect on the line impedance. Nonetheless, it
indicates the sphere of influence that the microstrip EM-field covers and where you may need to keep other tracks
and components out of.
It is acceptable not to have a top-side ground, and this is preferable to having multiple small islands of ground. The
EM35x Reference Design includes it mainly to help with experimentation. If a top-side ground is included, it must be
adequately tied to layer-2 ground and not just at the fundamental frequency. This requires ground vias on a grid
th
spacing that is smaller than 1/8 wavelength at the highest frequency of interest. The Radio Communications
Module (RCM) uses a grid spacing of approximately 1.2 mm. It is vital that these vias run close to the edge of the
copper adjacent to the microstrip. Otherwise the microstrip can excite the floating edge.
2.2.4 PCB Tolerance
Volume manufacturing requires the least expensive materials to be used while meeting an acceptable level of
performance. The effects of component choice have already been discussed, but the PCB also plays a major part
in the matching network and so you must consider its performance.
For the types of cost-sensitive applications targeted, a low-cost PCB substrate is mandatory, which means
standard FR4. But within the FR4 classification there are cost trade-offs to be made against:


Dissipation Factor, DF (also known as loss tangent, tanδ)
Dielectric Constant, DK (also known as relative permittivity, εr)
Generally, materials are split into ‘standard loss’ and ‘low loss’ categories, with a corresponding cost penalty. Other
product considerations such as flammability rating and lead free assembly will narrow these choices. These are
beyond the scope of this document.
Modern PCB manufacturing achieves very accurate etching and so this is not considered as a performance
variable. Z-axis expansion is really a function of the FR4 material and does not alter much between vendors’
material.
Silicon Labs ran simulations in Eldo RF to investigate DF and DK variation, shown in Figure 20. Since the harmonic
filter is modeled using S-parameters, it was replaced with 20 mm of 50 Ω track so that its PCB-based loss was
included. The simulation measured S21 with the PA end terminated in the ideal 700 Ω load. As such it does not
take into account the additional PA power variation with load resistance, which will add to the indicated loss.
18
Rev. 0.6
AN698
Figure 20. Effect of FR4 DF and DK variation
The simulations show that there is about 0.06 dB difference between a DF of 0.01 and 0.025. DK is more sensitive
and there is nearly 0.1 dB difference between a DK of 3.5 and 4.0.
Silicon Labs recommends that the DK be 4.0±5% at or near 2.4 GHz. Note that the DK for FR4 typically reduces
with increasing frequency, so the value at 1MHz cannot be used reliably.
A DF value of 0.025 does not appear to add any noticeable loss compared with low loss materials at the 0.01 level,
so this is the recommended limit.
The recommended values for DF and DK encompass the majority of low cost FR4 materials available.
2.3
Other Design Considerations
Please refer to the section Non-RF Design Considerations for the non-RF requirements of the EM35x-based
design.
3 EM35x with SKY6533X FEM Reference Design
3.1
RF Design Guidelines
To obtain the maximum allowable transmit power from a ZigBee system, Silicon Labs and Skyworks jointly
specified a Front End Module (FEM) optimized for Silicon Labs’ ZigBee SoCs. With the specification, Skyworks
developed two FEMs, the SKY65336 and the SKY65337. These pin compatible designs offer ZigBee designers a
unique opportunity to test their ZigBee enabled product with (SKY65336) or without (SKY65337) a Low Noise
Amplifier (LNA).
Rev. 0.6
19
AN698
To assist designers interested in the EM35x and SKY6533X solution, Silicon Labs developed a reference design
around this two-chip solution. Figure 21 illustrates the Typical Application circuit of the reference design.
24MHz
Crystal
C3
Y1
C4
VBRD
R1
VBRD
1
2
SKY6533X
3
RX_P
OSCA
OSCB
VDD_SYNTH
VDD_PRE
VDD_CORE
PB5
PB6
PB7
PC0
VDD_MEM
PC1
VDD_PADS
TX_VCC
RX_VCC
Antenna
48
47
46
45
44
43
42
41
40
39
38
37
Matching
Network
VDD_24MHz
VDD_VCO
RF_P
EM35x
L1
4
5
TX_P
6
7
8
L2
9
PC3
PC2
RF_N
PB2
VDD_RF
RF_TX_ALT_P
RF_TX_ALT_N
VDD_IF
PB1
PA6
VDD_PADS
NC
PA5
RX_EN
10
TX_EN
T_R
11
PC5, TX_ACTIVE
nRESET
PA4
PA3
GND
36
35
34
33
32
31
30
29
28
27
26
25
49
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
12
VDD_PADSA
PC6
PC7
VREG_OUT
VDD_PADS
VDD_CORE
PA7
PB3
PB4
PA0
PA1
VDD_PADS
PA2
BIAS2_PASS
TX_N
BIAS1_PASS
PC4
JTCK
RX_N
ANT
PB0
C7
32.768kHz
(Optional)
C2
Y2
C8
PC2
PC0
PC3
R3
JTCK
PC4
C1
nReset
PA4
Programing and
debug interface
(these pins should be
routed to test points)
PA5
Figure 21. Block Diagram for the EM35x and Skyworks FEM
For detailed descriptions of the FEMs, please refer to Skyworks datasheets for the SKY65336 and SKY65337
chips.


SKY65336 URL: http://www.skyworksinc.com/Product.aspx?ProductID=369
SKY65337 URL: http://www.skyworksinc.com/Product.aspx?ProductID=370
3.1.1 EM35x RF Ports
The EM35x’s bi-directional RF port—RF_P (pin 3) and RF_N (pin 4)—provides access to a low noise amplifier
(LNA) and a power amplifier (PA) through a shared differential interface. The disabled high-Z state of either the PA
or the LNA allows transmitting and receiving through the shared port without the need for a conventional T/R
switch.
An ‘alternate’ PA-only port—RF_TX_ALT_P (pin 6) and RF_TX_ALT_N (pin 7)—is also provided. This function is
achieved via an additional PA. The on-chip parasitic capacitance is different between the two ports, which will alter
the off-chip matching component values, L1 and L2, slightly.
3.1.2 Optimizing for TX (Normal Mode)
The EM35x with SKY6533X Reference Design has been optimized for maximum transmitter (TX) output power in
normal mode using practical components and readily available printed circuit board (PCB) substrates. The optimum
load at the RF_TX_ALT ports of the EM35x silicon die is approximately 700Ω when the integrated PA/LNA device
capacitance is resonated-out. This maximizes the voltage swing at the drains of the integrated PA devices within
the available supply voltage. Too large a load causes voltage limiting whereas too small a load does not make full
use of the available supply voltage.
20
Rev. 0.6
AN698
Therefore, in order to maximize the TX power from the SKY6533X / EM35x reference design, Silicon Labs placed
shunt inductor across the RF_TX_ALT differential ports. This inductance resonates with the parasitic capacitance of
the EM35x package as well as the RF Traces and allows for a +3 dBm signal to be present at the TX port of the
SKY6533X device.
3.1.3 Optimizing for RX (Normal Mode)
To minimize the RX path loss between the SKY6533X and the EM35x device, Silicon Labs has placed a shunt
inductor across the differential RF input port. The value of the inductor was varied until the optimum RX Sensitivity
(1% PER, 20 byte packet) was determined.
3.2
Antenna Port of SSKY6533X FEM
The Antenna port of the SKY6533X FEM presents a 50Ohm, single-ended impedance in order to connect to
standard, off-the-shelf, singled port, 2.4 GHz antennas. Silicon Labs recommends the HW designer follow any and
all application notes around their antenna of choice in order to maximize efficiency and directivity.
3.3
Digital Control of SKY6533X FEM
To control the configuration modes of the Skyworks FEM, Silicon Labs recommends using the TX_ACTIVE (PC5)
and an inverting gate to drive TX_EN and RX_EN.
To put the FEM into deep sleep, both TX_EN and RX_EN must be driven low. This can be accomplished in a
variety of ways. Silicon Labs recommends controlling the VDD input of the inverter with a second GPIO as well as
adding a pull down resistor (10k) to the output of the inverter. When DEEP_SLEEP mode is initiated, the VDD can
be disconnected from the inverter. The pull-down resistor would drive RX_EN low, and the EM35x in sleep mode
would drive TX_EN low.
4 EM35x with RF6525 FEM
4.1
RF Design Guidelines
To obtain the maximum allowable transmit power from a ZigBee system, Silicon Labs and RFMD jointly specified a
Front End Module (FEM) optimized for the EM35x family of SoCs. With the specification, RFMD developed one
FEM, the RF6525. The RF6525 contains a Power Amplifier (PA), Low Noise Amplifier (LNA), integrated balun,
RX/TX Switch for RF as well as a diversity switch for use with applications that require antenna diversity. In
addition, the RF6525 allows designers a unique opportunity to characterize their design both with and without an
LNA. This is due to the integrated LNA bypass mode.
Rev. 0.6
21
AN698
To assist designers interested in the EM35x and RF6525 solution, Silicon Labs developed a reference design
around this two-chip solution. Figure 22 illustrates the Typical Application circuit of the reference design.
24MHz
Crystal
C3
Y1
C4
VBRD
R1
VBRD
1
2
RF6525
3
RX_BP
OSCA
OSCB
VDD_SYNTH
VDD_PRE
VDD_CORE
PB5
PB6
PB7
PC0
VDD_MEM
PC1
VDD_PADS
VCC
VCC
Antenna
VCC
VCC_BIAS
Antenna
48
47
46
45
44
43
42
41
40
39
38
37
Matching
Network
VDD_24MHz
VDD_VCO
RF_P
PC3
PC2
JTCK
4
RX_BN
5
TXP
6
7
8
L2
9
ANT2
PC4
EM35x
L1
ANT
PB0
TXN
RF_N
PB2
VDD_RF
RF_TX_ALT_P
RF_TX_ALT_N
VDD_IF
PB1
PA6
VDD_PADS
NC
PA5
TXCT
T_R
11
PC5, TX_ACTIVE
PA4
nRESET
PA3
GND
35
34
33
32
31
30
29
28
27
26
25
49
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
12
VDD_PADSA
PC6
PC7
VREG_OUT
VDD_PADS
VDD_CORE
PA7
PB3
PB4
PA0
PA1
VDD_PADS
PA2
10
TX_EN
RXCT
ANT_SEL
LNA_MODE
RX_EN
36
C7
32.768kHz
(Optional)
C2
Y2
C8
PC2
PC0
PC3
R3
JTCK
PC4
C1
nReset
PA4
Programing and
debug interface
(these pins should be
routed to test points)
PA5
Figure 22. Block Diagram for the EM35x and RFMD FEM
For detailed descriptions of the FEMs, please refer to the datasheet for the RF6525 on the RFMD website.
RF6525 URL: https://estore.rfmd.com/RFMD_Onlinestore/Products/RFMD+Parts/PID-P_RF6525.aspx
4.1.1 EM35x RF Ports
The EM35x’s bi-directional RF port—RF_P (pin 3) and RF_N (pin 4)—provides access to a low noise amplifier
(LNA) and a power amplifier (PA) through a shared differential interface. The disabled high-Z state of either the PA
or the LNA allows transmitting and receiving through the shared port without the need for a conventional T/R
switch.
An ‘alternate’ PA-only port—RF_TX_ALT_P (pin 6) and RF_TX_ALT_N (pin 7)—is also provided. This function is
achieved via an additional PA. The on-chip parasitic capacitance is different between the two ports, which will alter
the off-chip matching component values, L1 and L2, slightly.
4.1.2 Optimizing for TX (Normal Mode)
The EM35x with RF6525 FEM Reference Design has been optimized for maximum transmitter (TX) output power in
normal mode using practical components and readily available printed circuit board (PCB) substrates. The optimum
load at the RF_TX_ALT ports of the EM35x silicon die is approximately 700Ω when the integrated PA/LNA device
capacitance is resonated-out. This maximizes the voltage swing at the drains of the integrated PA devices within
the available supply voltage. Too large a load causes voltage limiting whereas too small a load does not make full
use of the available supply voltage.
Therefore, in order to maximize the TX power from the RF6525 / EM35x reference design, Silicon Labs placed
shunt inductor across the RF_TX_ALT differential ports. This inductance resonates with the parasitic capacitance of
the EM35x package as well as the RF Traces and allows for a +3dBm signal to be present at the TX port of the
RF6525 device.
22
Rev. 0.6
AN698
4.1.3 Optimizing for RX (Normal Mode)
To minimize the RX path loss between the RF6525 and the EM35x device, Silicon Labs has placed a shunt
inductor across the differential RF input port. The value of the inductor was varied until the optimum RX Sensitivity
(1% PER, 20 byte packet) was determined.
4.2
Antenna Port of RF6525 FEM
The Antenna port of the RF6525 FEM presents a 50Ohm, single-ended impedance in order to connect to standard,
off-the-shelf, singled port, 2.4GHz antennas. Silicon Labs recommends the HW designer follow any and all
application notes around their antenna of choice in order to maximize efficiency and directivity.
4.3
Digital Control of RF6525 FEM
To control the configuration modes of the RFMD FEM, Silicon Labs recommends using the TX_ACTIVE (PC5) and
an inverting gate to drive TX_EN and RX_EN.
To put the FEM into deep sleep, both TX_EN and RX_EN must be driven low. This can be accomplished in a
variety of ways. Silicon Labs recommends controlling the VDD input of the inverter with a second GPIO as well as
adding a pull down resistor (10k) to the output of the inverter. When DEEP_SLEEP mode is initiated, the VDD can
be disconnected from the inverter. The pull-down resistor would drive RX_EN low, and the EM35x in sleep mode
would drive TX_EN low.
5 Non-RF Design Considerations
To operate properly, each of the EM35x Reference design contains additional, non-RF components. These include
a 24 MHz crystal, appropriate decoupling capacitors and RF test point as well as a Packet Trace Port connector.
5.1
High-frequency (24 MHz) Crystal Reference (Y1, C11, and C12)
The EM35x requires a single, accurate 24 MHz crystal source in order to develop the proper EM35x clock
distribution and IEEE 802.15.4 timing (see Figure 23).
OSCA
(Pin 48)
Y1
1
C11
22pF
OSCB
(Pin 47)
2
NC
4
NC
3
C12
22pF
24 MHz
Figure 23. 24 MHz high-frequency crystal
Silicon Labs recommends that the shunt loading capacitors, C11 and C12, be located fairly close together and
share a common ground via. The shunt capacitors and the crystal form a resonant circuit with a reasonably high Q,
so the circulating currents are high. As a result, despite only consuming 1mA (for example), the circulating current
through the shunt caps may be several mA. If the grounds of the capacitors are widely separated, this several mA
loop current has to flow through the ground plane to get between the two capacitors. The high current causes
voltage to be developed due to the via inductance, as well as potentially inducing a voltage in the ground plane.
Bringing the capacitors together means the majority of the loop current flows in surface tracks—only imbalance
current flows to ground, which should be small if the signal across the crystal is symmetric and sinusoidal. Whether
this really makes a difference or not is difficult to say, and capacitors are commonly taken to ground separately.
Rev. 0.6
23
AN698
However, the crystal is very near the RF and the VCO in particular, and 24MHz tones of the VCO are very
detrimental, so the problem is best avoided.
Due to the timing requirements of the IEEE 802.15.4-2003 Standard, this crystal must meet an accuracy of +/40ppm over tolerance, temperature, and aging as listed in Table 3. In addition, the crystal must have a maximum
ESR of 60Ω to control the integrated oscillator signal strengths.
A manufacturing token within the EM35x stores the crystal bias register setting. This setting is automatically
determined during PCB manufacturing test when Silicon Labs’ RangeTest or MFG Library SW is used, and it is
dependent upon the crystal chosen. For more information on this token, refer to Document AN710, Bringing Up
Custom Devices for the EM35x SoC Platform. Loading capacitors C11 and C12 should be chosen according to the
crystal manufacturer’s requirements, then optimized during characterization to minimize the normalized frequency
offset. The EM35x Ceramic Balun reference design has been optimized with 11pF (two 22pF capacitors) even
though the crystal specifies 18pF loading capacitance.
Table 2. High Frequency Crystal Requirements
Parameter
Test Conditions
Min.
Typ.
Frequency
Max.
24
Duty cycle
40
Phase noise from 1 kHz to 100 kHz
- 40
Unit
MHz
60
%
- 120
dBc/Hz
+ 40
ppm

Accuracy
Initial, temperature, and aging
Crystal ESR
Load capacitance of 10 pF
100
Crystal ESR
Load capacitance of 18 pF
60

Start-up time to stable clock (max. bias)
1
ms
Start-up time to stable clock (optimum bias)
2
ms
5.2
Optional Low-frequency Crystal Reference (Y2, C9 and C10)
The EM35x contains an integrated sleep timer that allows for SW configuration of sleep/wake cycles of the wireless
node. There are two options for driving the sleep timer: a 32.768 kHz crystal oscillator or an internal RC oscillator.
The crystal oscillator is more accurate but consumes more current than the RC oscillator. The RC oscillator is
sufficient for operating the EmberZNet PRO stack. Therefore, the application’s sleep timing accuracy will decide if a
32 kHz crystal is required.
24
Rev. 0.6
AN698
Figure 24 illustrates the crystal oscillator with its loading capacitors. To reduce the effects of overdriving the
oscillator circuit within the EM35x, Silicon Labs recommends an asymmetrical loading of the crystal.
32.768kHz Watch Crystal
C10
22pF
1
OSC32A (PC6)
(Pin 13)
(Optional if internal RC Oscillator
is used for Sleep Timer.) If used,
please note the asymmetric
loading of the XTAL.
This reduced the drive level of
the oscillator and keeps the sleep
current within specified
limits
Y2
32.768 kHz
2
OSC32B (PC7)
(Pin 14)
C9
33pF
Figure 24. 32 kHz low-frequency crystal
If the application does not need the 32 kHz crystal, then the pins OSC32A (PC6) and OSC32B (PC7) can be used
as General Purpose IO.
5.3
1.8 V Regulator Load Capacitor
The EM35x operates over a supply voltage (VBRD) of 2.1 to 3.6 V. An integrated 1.8 V regulator converts VBRD
down to a trimmed 1.8 V. To stabilize the integrated regulator, a 2.2 µF ceramic loading capacitor is required on the
output of VREG_OUT (Pin 16) of the EM35x. A series resistor (R7) is used to keep the minimum ESR of the
loading capacitor below 1 Ohm. This is shown in Figure 25
1.8V
VREG_OUT
(Pin 15)
R2
1R
+ C8
2.2uF
Figure 25. 1.8 V regulator loading capacitance
5.4
1.2 V Regulator Loading
The EM35x contains an integrated 1.2 V Regulator to drive the Core Logic. By driving the core at this lower VDD
potential, significant current consumption is achieved. To utilize this regulated voltage, a PCB designer should
connect pin 17 (VDD_CORE_0) to pin 44 (VDD_CORE_1). If you would like to drive the core at 1.8 V, then the 1.8
V net should be connected to both pins 17 and 44.
A 1 µF ceramic loading capacitor should be placed close to pin 17. In addition, a 10 nF decoupling capacitor should
be place close to pin 44.
Rev. 0.6
25
AN698
5.5
1.8 V Net Decoupling
To minimize noise and coupling paths into the EM35x, decoupling capacitance must be placed on each of the VDD
pins. All decoupling capacitors should be placed as close to the EM35x as possible as well as in between the
source point (via) and the EM35x pin. In addition, all values should be maintained as defined by the EM35X
Reference Design.
5.6
1.8 V Analog to 1.8 V Digital Filtering
To keep the Radio Active current at 36 mA, Silicon Labs recommends adding a single element filter (resistor)
between the digital and analog 1.8 V nets, 1.8 V_A and 1.8 V_D, respectively (see Figure 26). This resistor
maintains a reduced bias current for the digital logic within the EM35x. If this resistor is not used, the RX current will
increase by 1 mA to 37 mA.
1.8V_A
1.8V_D
R1
10R0
Minimizes digital supply noise and
increase RX sensitivity by reducing
the digital supply voltage
Figure 26. Digital VDD filter
The lower current consumption also allows for a reduction in the digital 1.8V Domain noise. This means the RX
Sensitivity improves by 2 dB with the 10 Ohm resistor.
5.7
RF Test Connector
To assist with manufacturing test of the printed circuit assemblies, Silicon Labs recommends the use of a RF switch
connector, such as the Murata RF switch connector. The RF switch connector allows an external 50 Ohm, RF cable
to be connected during design verification testing. With the external RF cable connected to the RF switch
connector, the antenna is isolated from the RF test measurement which provides for an accurate and repeatable
RF Test. When the cable is not connected, the RF switch connector allows the antenna to be connected to the
EM35x RF path.
The RF switch connector is in stock, low cost, and low loss. However, if a designer does not want to incur the extra
cost, you can add the footprint for the RF switch connector along with two resistors to select the connector during
prototyping phase and not populate when in higher volume manufacturing.
5.8
Debug and Programming Interface
To program the integrated flash and debug the software application within the EM35x, Silicon Labs recommends
the designer incorporate the 10-pin Packet Trace Port connector. With this connector in place, the Ember Debug
®
Adapter (ISA3) can connect directly to the ARM Cortex-M3 core and integrated memory bus.
26
Rev. 0.6
AN698
To facilitate packet-level debugging of an EM35x-based application, Silicon Labs utilizes two GPIOs, PA4 and PA5,
as well as nRESET. To use the full program and debug environment from Silicon Labs’ tool chain (Ember Desktop),
Silicon Labs recommends the designer route the following signals from the EM35x to either test points or to a
connector:










nRESET
PA4
PA5
PC0
PC2
PC3
PC4
JCLK
VDD (2.1V to 3.6V)
GND
To allow for direct connection to a Debug Adapter (ISA3) with the Packet Trace Port cable, the designer should
consider using a dual-row, 0.05″ pitch connector similar to the one used on the EM35x Radio Communication
Module (RCM).
The connector used on the Ember EM35x Radio Communication Module (RCM) is from Samtec (MFG P/N: FTSH105-01-F-DV-K). It is keyed to guarantee proper connection with the Packet Trace Port cable (Samtec P/N: FFSD05-D-12.00-01-N). Figure 27 illustrates the pinout for the Packet Trace Port, and Table 3 describes the pins.
VDD
1
2
PC2
PC0
3
4
PC3
GND
5
6
JCLK
PC4
7
8
nRESET
PA4
9
10
PA5
Figure 27. Packet Trace Port Pinout
Table 3. Packet Trace Port Pins
Pin #
Signal Name
Direction
Description
1
VBRD
Power
2.1 to 3.6V supply for the EM35x
2
PC2 (JTDO / SWO)
Output
JTAG JTDO, serial wire out
3
PC0 (nJRST)
Output
JTAG reset
4
PC3 (JTDI)
Input
JTAG Data In
5
GND
Power
Ground
6
JCLK / SWCLK
Input
JTAG clock, serial wire clock
7
PC4 (JTMS / SWDIO)
I/O
JTAG JTMS, serial wire data in / out
8
nRESET
Input
Active low, EM35x reset (internal pull-up within EM35x)
9
PA4 (PTF)
Output
Packet trace frame signal
10
PA5 (PTD)
Output
Packet trace data signal; 500kbps
Rev. 0.6
27
AN698
CONTACT INFORMATION
Silicon Laboratories Inc.
400 West Cesar Chavez
Austin, TX 78701
Tel: 1+(512) 416-8500
Fax: 1+(512) 416-9669
Toll Free: 1+(877) 444-3032
Please visit the Silicon Labs Technical Support web page for ZigBee products:
www.silabs.com/zigbee-support and register to submit a technical support request
Patent Notice
Silicon Labs invests in research and development to help our customers differentiate in the market with innovative low-power, small size,
analog-intensive mixed-signal solutions. Silicon Labs' extensive patent portfolio is a testament to our unique approach and world-class
engineering team.
The information in this document is believed to be accurate in all respects at the time of publication but is subject to change without notice.
Silicon Laboratories assumes no responsibility for errors and omissions, and disclaims responsibility for any consequences resulting from the
use of information included herein. Additionally, Silicon Laboratories assumes no responsibility for the functioning of undescribed features or
parameters. Silicon Laboratories reserves the right to make changes without further notice. Silicon Laboratories makes no warranty,
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28
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