RFXCOM blog

Large memory size:
The RFXtrx433XL has got a double size memory so that it can have now all currently supported protocols in one firmware version.

Pro firmware:
The protocol detection in the receiver is totally redesigned which makes it now possible to enable multiple protocols.
In the older Ext and Ext2 firmware for the RFXtrx433E some protocols were not received or not reliable received if another protocol was enabled. The ProXL firmware does not have this limitation. This firmware design is also available for the RFXtrx433E as Pro1 and Pro2. Because of the memory limitation there are still 2 versions for the RFXtrx433E.

RF noise level:
The new Pro firmware (Pro1, Pro2, ProXL) detects the RF noise level during startup of the receiver and RF signals above this level are processed. It is required to install the RFXtrx433XL on a good location with a low level of RF noise so that a good receive quality is guaranteed. The Noise level is displayed in RFXmngr on the Main tab. A value of 92 with the standard antenna is acceptable but lower is better. A general rule is to place the RFXtrx433XL not close to a Raspberry PI, routers or other electronic equipment, power cables or metal pipes.

Important note: The RFXtrx433XL must only be programmed with ProXL firmware. If an Ext or Pro2 is flashed in the RFXtrx433XL it will stay in the bootloader and it needs a special procedure to get it operational again, the enclosure must be opened and a temporary connection (without soldering) must be made on the Printed Circuit Board. The recovery procedure is available in the RFXtrx User Guide chapter 19.

Changed USB interface:
The RFXtrx433XL has another USB FTDI interface chip. It uses the same USB drivers as used by the RFXtrx433 and RFXtrx433E and needs no action in the operating systems.

Serial interface connection:
There is a connection available for a serial interface to replace the USB connection. This connection can be used to connect a RS232 or LAN interface. See chapter 18 in the RFXtrx User Guide. Select an interface that does not produce RF noise. As an example RFXCOM has tested the USR-TCP232 LAN interface but this interface module produces too much RF noise at 433MHz and the RFXtrx receives only sensor at a very short distance.

Smart meter interface:
There is a special serial interface connection on the RFXtrx433XL PCB to connect the Dutch P1 smart meter or an interface for the French Teleinfo meters. See chapter 16 & 17 in the RFXtrx User Guide. Support for this P1 connection is expected soon in Domoticz and Homeseer.