Host microcontroller interface

What is the host microcontroller interface?

RF modules typically communicate with an embedded system, such as a microcontroller or a microprocessor. The communication protocols include UART, used in Digi International's X-Bee modules, Serial Peripheral Interface Bus used in Anaren's AIR modules and Universal Serial Bus used in Roving Networks' modules. 

Although the module may use a standardized protocol for wireless communication, the commands sent over the microcontroller interface are typically not standardized as each vendor has its own proprietary communications format. 

The speed of the microcontroller interface depends on the speed of the underlying RF protocol used: higher speed RF protocols such as Wi-Fi require a high-speed serial interface such as USB whereas protocols with a slower data rate such as Bluetooth Low Energy may use a UART interface.