APPLICATION LAYER

Let’s start from the top and drill our way down. The ZigBee application layer is comprised of your application-specific code incorporating hardware drivers and whatever else your project requires. You write this into your ZigBee device object (ZDO) according to the standard. In the ZDO you must specify the function of your device within the ZigBee framework and indicate how to initiate and respond to events.

For example, you must define whether you’re implementing a reduced function device (RFD) or whether your device is capable of coordinating other devices. You then must decide which type of network layer security to use. Finally, you must hook in the functions that respond to messages from the system. Like Bluetooth, there are a number of profiles that assist with the standardization of top-level device behavior. Smoke alarm manufacturers can adhere to a profile to make an alarm compatible with other devices associated with smoke alarm events.