"Because of the extended range, ZigBee mesh networking can now be used for applications where there is a greater distance between nodes like automated meter reading, asset management and remote sensor management," said Larry Kraft, senior vice president of global sales and marketing, Digi International. "The interoperability with Digi Drop-in Networking products and XBee modules also provides customers a tremendous amount of flexibility."

The XBee-PRO ZNet 2.5 provides reliable, wireless data communication over ZigBee networks and satisfies the unique needs of low cost, low-power wireless applications. It is a fully compatible, pin-swappable extended-range counterpart to the cost optimized XBee ZNet 2.5 which provides up to 400 feet RF line-of-sight transmission. The XBee-PRO ZNet 2.5 operates on the 2.4 GHz ISM band making it appropriate for use worldwide. It is easy to use and ready to operate out of the box, will be available with four antenna options, has a small form factor and shares the XBee footprint.

XBee RF modules are part of Digi's full line of Drop-in Networking solutions. Drop-in Networking products provide end-to-end connectivity to commercial-grade electronic devices in locations where wired infrastructure does not exist or satisfy customer needs.

The XBee-PRO ZNet 2.5 is available now for USD27.60 in quantities of 1,000. Development kits are also available for US $339 that include all of the tools necessary to make deployment easy.

Keywords: broadband wireless, wireless data communication, rf modules, antenna options, ism band, dgii, networking product, meter reading, senior vice president, global sales, wireless applications, znet, line of sight, networking solutions, networking products, mile 1, mesh networks