How to Use RF Link Receiver - 4800bps (434MHz): Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The RF Link Receiver - 4800bps (434MHz), manufactured by WENSHING, is a compact and efficient radio frequency receiver module. It is designed to receive data signals at a baud rate of 4800 bps and operates at a frequency of 434 MHz. This module is widely used in wireless communication systems for transmitting and receiving data over short to medium distances.

• Wireless remote controls (e.g., garage doors, home automation)
• Data transmission in IoT devices
• Wireless sensor networks
• Robotics and remote monitoring systems
• RF-based communication between microcontrollers

The following table outlines the key technical details of the RF Link Receiver:

The RF Link Receiver module has four pins, as described in the table below:

1. Power Supply: Connect the VCC pin to a 5V DC power source and the GND pin to the ground.
2. Data Output: Connect the DATA pin to the input pin of a microcontroller or a decoder IC to process the received signal.
3. Antenna: Attach a 17cm wire or a pre-designed antenna to the ANT pin to improve signal reception.
4. Pairing with a Transmitter: Ensure that the RF Link Receiver is paired with a compatible 434 MHz RF transmitter module for proper communication.

• Antenna Placement: For optimal performance, place the antenna in an open area, away from metal objects or other sources of interference.
• Power Supply Stability: Use a stable 5V power supply to avoid noise or signal distortion.
• Decoding the Signal: The output from the DATA pin is raw digital data. Use a microcontroller or a decoder IC to interpret the signal.
• Range Limitations: The communication range is up to 100 meters in line-of-sight conditions. Obstacles like walls or interference may reduce the range.

Below is an example of how to connect the RF Link Receiver to an Arduino UNO and read the received data:

• Connect the VCC pin of the receiver to the 5V pin on the Arduino.
• Connect the GND pin of the receiver to the GND pin on the Arduino.
• Connect the DATA pin of the receiver to digital pin 2 on the Arduino.
• Attach a 17cm wire to the ANT pin for the antenna.

// Example code to read data from the RF Link Receiver (434MHz)
// Connect the DATA pin of the receiver to digital pin 2 on the Arduino.

#define RECEIVER_PIN 2  // Pin connected to the DATA pin of the receiver

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);  // Initialize serial communication at 9600 bps
  pinMode(RECEIVER_PIN, INPUT);  // Set the receiver pin as input
  Serial.println("RF Receiver Ready");
}

void loop() {
  int receivedData = digitalRead(RECEIVER_PIN);  // Read the data from the receiver
  Serial.print("Received Data: ");
  Serial.println(receivedData);  // Print the received data to the Serial Monitor
  delay(100);  // Small delay to avoid flooding the Serial Monitor
}

1. No Data Received:

   • Ensure the transmitter and receiver are operating at the same frequency (434 MHz).
   • Check the antenna connection and placement for proper signal reception.
   • Verify that the DATA pin is correctly connected to the microcontroller.

2. Short Communication Range:

   • Use a longer or properly tuned antenna for better reception.
   • Minimize obstacles and interference between the transmitter and receiver.

3. Unstable or Noisy Output:

   • Use a decoupling capacitor (e.g., 0.1µF) across the power supply pins to reduce noise.
   • Ensure a stable 5V power supply is used.

4. Interference from Other Devices:

   • Avoid using the module near devices operating at the same frequency (e.g., other 434 MHz devices).
   • Use proper shielding or filters to minimize interference.

Q1: Can I use this module with a 3.3V microcontroller?
A1: The module requires a 5V power supply. However, the DATA pin output can often be read by 3.3V logic microcontrollers. Use a level shifter if needed.

Q2: What type of antenna should I use?
A2: A simple 17cm wire works well as an antenna. For better performance, you can use a pre-designed 434 MHz antenna.

Q3: Can this module be used for bi-directional communication?
A3: No, this module is a receiver only. For bi-directional communication, pair it with a compatible RF transmitter module.

Q4: What is the maximum baud rate supported?
A4: The module supports a maximum baud rate of 4800 bps. Ensure the transmitter is configured to the same baud rate.