For a new project we are trying to decide between using a separate micro (e.g. a PIC) and RF transciever (probably CC1101) or a combined SOC (e.g. CC1110). Clearly there are considerations in the micro's capabilities, board layout, component costs etc. but I wonder if anyone has performed any comparative tests on practical radio range between these options? According to data sheets the CC1101 has a sensitivity of -113 dBm compared with the CC1110 at -111 dBm. (values are taken from datasheets for 1.2kBaud 868 MHz, although we shall be using a much higher data rate, probably 57600 kBaud). Is this difference very noticeable in practice? Both are in theory far better than the CC1010 we have been using up to now which is only -103 dBm.
Any thoughts welcome