Utilization of XBee ZigBee modules and MATLAB for RSSI localization applications

Localization is an important attribute for wireless sensor networks. Received signal strength indicator (RSSI) can be used to estimate distance between transceivers. Using these estimated distances, location of nodes within a network can be determined using various localization algorithms, such as trilateration. For implementation and testing of localization techniques, utilizing a sensor network development platform reduces time and difficulty during the process. Here we present a platform based on XBee ZigBee wireless modules, Arduino, and MATLAB for algorithm testing and debugging. For validation of this platform, a trilateration localization method is implemented.