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PDA 05 5/30/03 11:35 AM Page 59
Chapter 5 / The Electronics
The encoding/decoding functionality of the MCP2150 is designed to
be compatible with the physical layer component of the IrDA stan-
dard. This part of the standard is often referred to as “IrPHY.” The
complete IrDA standard specifications are available for download
from the IrDA Web site (www.IrDA.org).

MCP2150 Applications: PDA Robot
The MCP2150 infrared communications controller supporting the
IrDA standard provides embedded system designers the easiest way to
implement IrDA standard wireless connectivity. Figure 5.20a shows a
typical application block diagram. IR communication is a wireless
two-way data connection, using IR light generated by low-cost trans-
ceiver signaling technology. This provides reliable communication
between two devices. Reliability is the main reason I chose this proto-
col and this chip. It certainly simplifies the task of creating the PDA-
to-Robot data link. You can port the PDA code to the PIC microcon-
troller if you have the time.
IR technology has the following advantages:

• Universal standard for connecting portable computing devices.
• Easy, effortless implementation.

• Economical alternative to other connectivity solutions.
• Reliable, high-speed connection.

• Safe to use in any environment (can even be used during air
travel).
• Eliminates the hassle of cables and the possibility of damage to
your PDA.
• Allows PCs and other electronic devices (such as PDAs, cell
phones, etc.) to communicate with each other. In this case it
allows the PDA to communicate with PDA Robot.

• Enhances mobility by allowing users to easily connect.
The MCP2150 allows the easy addition of IrDA standard wireless con-
nectivity to any embedded application that uses serial data. Figure
5.20a shows typical implementation of the MCP2150 in an embedded
system.

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