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Configurable Logic Block

Wireless on a budget

July 17, 2025 by Patricio Gonzalez Cabrera
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Using the deterministic, repeatable, and fast nature of the configurable logic blocks we are able to transmit data wirelessly using the PIC16F13145 as a digital radio. We use harmonics and On-Off keying modulation to encode data into a 96mhz carrier which is then received by an rtl-sdr and then decoded.

The data can either be decoded in real time or decoded after a sample has been captured using a variety of tools.

Encoded data, sync byte followed by test byte (slow)

Once I had figured out how to create an rf signal, I then needed a way to transmit digital data. To do so i used the manchester OOK protocol. In essence, a logical 1 is encoded as on to off so you detect an edge. A logical 0 is off to on. This is done because its more resilient to timings problems as can heavily rely on detecting the rising and falling edges of the signal.

Manchester OOK decoded using pulseview.

This data was received using an rtl sdr and in this case processed with python and then opened using pulseview.

Conclusion

The PIC16f13145 is a great all in one microcontroller and configurable logic chip. It allows for great flexibility outside its obvious uses at a very low price which is something that is crucial to keeping costs down in production environments and desirable to hobbyists and enthusiasts alike.

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