Hello. I am new to using UWB modules and would like to use DWM3000 to create an tracking system with multiple sets of anchors and tags using two-way ranging.
Would it be possible to set up at least 2 clusters of anchors (3 anchors each), and have multiple tags dynamically “hop” between the clusters based on their proximity? For instance, 2 clusters distanced 300 meters apart. Could the tags be detected by both clusters if they are near a cluster?
Any help will be much appreciated. Thank you.
Hi @chuckberry,
UWB is not an efficient technology (due to high RX current) for discovery phase. Therefore, we are typically relying on out of band methods (normally BLE) for discovery and UWB activation. In your scenario, you could use BLE for determining which cluster you are in and then use 1 to Many UWB ranging as described in this tutorial.
In terms of the device to use, I would recommend to start with DWM3001C as it is a module which incorporates a BLE chip, nRF52833.
Hi @akash,
Thank you so much for your help with the suggestion. My group and I have been testing on Makerfabs ESP32 UWB DW3000 as that is what we have available. We have been testing with BLE, ESP-NOW, ESP32Servo and DW3000 separately, and individually have been able to function.
May I ask if BLE and DW3000 are used simultaneously, would it be an issue since both would require timers and the ESP32 only has a 40MHz crystal. From the DW3XXX datasheet, it mentions that PLL uses the 38.4MHz crystal. Can I check if this 38.4MHz is an external clock used only for DW3XXX, and the ESP32 clock will not be required for ranging.
Thank you so much again for your help.
@chuckberry, the DW3000 needs a 38.4 MHz crystal for operation but it should not be an issue because the Makerfabs ESP32 UWB DW3000 has our DWM3000 module on board and that module has a 38.4 MHz crystal under the shield.
More information can be found in the datasheet for the module: DWM3000 - Qorvo