6

In Thread Stack Fundamentals, the four types of devices in a Thread network are outlined on page 5/6:

  • Border Routers
  • Routers
  • Router-eligible End Devices (REEDs)
  • Sleepy End Devices

It is implied by the document that Routers must be able to constantly supply themselves with electricity (hence REEDs must also be able to run constantly if they are upgraded to Routers). However, can REEDs save power and sleep if they aren't currently being used as routers, or must they always be on in case they are needed?

Take, for example, a smart TV supporting Thread, currently acting as a REED. Since no other devices depend on it while it is a REED, can it suspend its network connection and act as a Sleepy End Device, or does the networking component need to be on all the time?

Improve this question
13
  • since the network devices themselves are responsible for connection and disconnection of dependent devices, they are supposed to be alive and awake!
    – Prashanth Benny
    Dec 30, 2016 at 10:09
  • 1
    if the network doesnt demand it at all to act as a router, it would be fine for it to sleep and take some rest... :D
    – Prashanth Benny
    Dec 30, 2016 at 10:23
  • 1
    here is the site which i had a reference for definitions from. i don't know legit the info is.
    – Prashanth Benny
    Dec 30, 2016 at 10:48
  • 1
    according to m conclusion the network component cannot be turned off. unless there is some other way of interrupting the REED's sleep(like a UART interrupt)!
    – Prashanth Benny
    Dec 30, 2016 at 11:35
  • 1
    Thank you... I just posted an answer! You may edit the answer since I am quite unsure about the logic behind!
    – Prashanth Benny
    Dec 30, 2016 at 12:16

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
5

Can it suspend its network connection and act as a Sleepy End Device, or does the networking component need to be on all the time?

They can be sleepy end devices! but, the Network device is still ON.

According to the definition "Sleepy end devices are host devices. They communicate only through their Parent Router and cannot forward messages for other devices" i.e, their network device is not off!

Sleepy end devices will be communicating with their parent router.

Improve this answer

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.