HC-12 V3.0 Long-Range 433MHz Wireless Serial Module – 1000m UART Communication, SI4432/SI4463 RF Chip, Bluetooth Alternative

Description

Description

The HC-12 V3.0 433MHz Long-Range Wireless Serial Module is a high-performance, long-range transceiver that offers an exceptional alternative to Bluetooth for projects requiring distance and reliability. Built around the high-performance SI4463 (or SI4438) RF chip, this module provides a robust wireless serial link of up to 1000 meters in open areas with proper antenna placement, making it ideal for applications where Wi-Fi and standard Bluetooth fall short .

Unlike simple RF modules that require complex low-level programming, the HC-12 acts as a transparent wireless serial cable. It features a built-in MCU that handles all RF protocol processing automatically, effectively functioning as a wireless replacement for a physical UART cable . Data sent into the module’s UART port is transmitted wirelessly and appears instantly at the UART port of another HC-12 module on the same channel, with no RF programming required by your microcontroller.

The module offers exceptional flexibility with 100 selectable channels in the 433.4–473.0 MHz band and multiple operating modes that allow you to balance power consumption against communication distance . Whether you need ultra-low power operation for battery-powered sensors or maximum range for remote control applications, the HC-12 can be configured to meet your needs using simple AT commands.

Hardware & Chipset Updates: The HC-12 V3.0 represents the latest hardware revision. While initial versions utilized the SI4463 transceiver IC, newer production batches feature the functionally equivalent SI4438 chip paired with an N32S032 (ARM Cortex-M0) microcontroller for enhanced processing capability . Both versions deliver the same high performance, with a notable improvement in signal sensitivity and reduced interference over earlier revisions.

The module is remarkably easy to use. It connects directly to any microcontroller via its UART pins (TX/RX), supports both 3.3V and 5V logic levels, and features a straightforward pinout . The green V3.0 PCB maintains the same pinout as previous versions, ensuring backward compatibility with existing designs while offering better performance .

Important Note: The module requires an external antenna (typically a spring or 17-23cm wire) to achieve maximum range. Soldering the included spring antenna to the ANT pad is recommended. The HC-12 is not compatible with the HC-11 module; all devices in your network must be HC-12 modules for successful communication .

Whether you need to build a remote weather station, control a device across a farm, create a wireless serial link between buildings, or replace wired connections with a reliable long-range alternative, the HC-12 V3.0 delivers exceptional performance in a compact, easy-to-use package.

Key Features

• 1000m Long Range – Up to 1 kilometer communication distance in open areas (at 5000bps air baud rate)

• 100 Selectable Channels – 433.4–473.0 MHz frequency range with 400KHz channel spacing

• Transparent Serial Transmission – Built-in MCU handles all RF protocols; works like a wireless serial cable; no additional libraries required for basic operation

• Adjustable Transmit Power – 8 power levels from -1dBm to +20dBm (100mW max)

• Multiple Operating Modes – FU1 (3.6mA idle), FU2 (80µA idle), FU3 (16mA idle), FU4 (long-range) for power/performance optimization

• Wide Voltage Range – 3.2V–5.5V DC, compatible with both 3.3V and 5V microcontrollers

• Configurable via AT Commands – Set channel, baud rate, power level, and operating mode using simple text commands

• High Receiver Sensitivity – -117dBm sensitivity ensures reliable reception even in challenging conditions

• Wide Baud Rate Support – UART speeds from 1200 bps to 115200 bps (default: 9600 bps)

• Industrial Temperature Range – -40°C to +85°C for reliable operation in harsh environments

Technical Parameters