Operating modes

XBee devices can use their local serial connection in very different ways. The "operating mode" establishes the way the host device communicates with an XBee module through the serial interface.

XBee modules support two different operating modes:

Application Transparent operating mode

This mode is called "transparent" because the radio passes information along exactly as it receives it. All serial data received by the radio module is sent wirelessly to a remote destination XBee module. When the other module receives the data, it is sent out through the serial port exactly as it was received. Transparent mode has limited functionality but is an easy way to get started with XBee devices.

To learn more about transparent mode, see XBee transparent mode.

API operating mode

Application Programming Interface (API) operating mode is an alternative to transparent mode. In API mode, a protocol determines the way information is exchanged. Data is communicated in packets (commonly called API frames). This mode allows you to form larger networks and is more appropriate for creating sensor networks to perform tasks such as collecting data from multiple locations, controlling devices remotely, or automating your home.

To learn more about API mode, see API mode.