I will soon start with a project that requires RF communication to transfer data. The data speed is not that critical but the range is. I have ALOT of Microchip's RF chips, rfPIC and rfRXD, but I don't have time to test them, so I have decided to buy some RF transciever modules. Did anyone buy RF modules, where, THE COST?, and the satisfaction
I've been to:
Laipac.com - GREAT PRODUCTS, probably the winner 2,4GHz modules
Aerocomm.com - even better, long range-high power devices but too expensive!!!
I had the same problems, the module from RFIC was to expensive, chips from Melexis where good but hard to find passive components. At least I decided to build own modules with Chipcon CC1000, they have reference design on their web page. If you need modules contact me, costs are 25USD.
There are lost of rf modules. I'm not sure if RFPICs are cheaper but rf modules range from $1.5 to anything. Use the european ones are they are legal for their country for sure.