Design of a Frequency Controller System for UHF Radio Wave Receiver Device

Abstract

Frequency is fundamental in data communication for transmitter and receiver stations. The most common problem found in the data communication is the signal quality measurement. A LoRa module, as one of the wireless devices with UHF (Ultra High Radio) frequencies, has extended range frequencies and signal strength parameters (RSSI, Received Signal Strength Indicator). RSSI parameter on signal bandwidth and the distance between stations. However, there is no supporting research in terms of the RSSI quality and short-distance variations. In line with this, this study aims to design a frequency control system of a LoRa module and to investigate the effect of short-distance and frequency differences on RSSI. The system consists of a transmitter, a LoRa SX1278 module, and push buttons as frequency control buttons. The system's performance was tested by receiving data over various distances from 0 to 1.25 m. The results show that the system works efficiently in controlling the frequency (ranging from 433 – 525 MHz) with good flexibility and accuracy. The system maintained an RSSI level > -120 dBm using a constant power supply and varied distances. The highest RSSI level is found at the shortest distance (0.2 m) with a higher frequency (525 MHz). There is a significant correlation between distance, frequency variations, and RSSI levels (R2 > 0.75). It can be concluded that the LoRa SX1278 module can be used as a short-distance-based data communication with moderate quality (average RSSI levels are about 80 - 120 dBm). Higher frequencies provide better RSSI levels due to increased transmission energy.