Bluetooth smart module

6 August 2014 Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT

Microchip has launched its first Bluetooth 4.1 Low Energy module – the RN4020. It carries worldwide regulatory certifications and is Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) certified.

An integrated Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) stack and onboard support for the common SIG low-energy profiles speeds time to market while ensuring Bluetooth compatibility, eliminating expensive certification costs and reducing development risks. The module is also pre-loaded with the Microchip Low-energy Data Profile (MLDP), which enables designers to easily stream any type of data across the BLE link.

Because the RN4020 is a stack-on-board module, it can connect to any microcontroller with a UART interface or it can operate standalone without a microcontroller for basic data collection and communication, such as a beacon or sensor. This standalone operation is facilitated by no-compile scripting, which allows module configuration via a simple ASCII command interface, with no tools or compiling required.

Its turnkey, low-power wireless command-and-control capabilities make the device ideal for cost-sensitive embedded applications such as home automation and appliances; medical and wearable devices; toys, tags, fobs and remote controls; pulse and proximity sensor-based systems; and even industrial applications.

In addition to common public Bluetooth profiles, private services can be created via the ASCII command interface. The RN4020 also provides a built-in PCB antenna with 7 dBm transmit power and a receive sensitivity of -92,5 dBm, enabling operation over 100 metres in a compact form factor of 11,5 x 19,5 x 2,5 mm.

A supporting development board is also available, which enables code development via USB interface to a PC, and over the onboard In-Circuit Serial Programming interface for Microchip’s development tools.

For more information contact Shane Padayachee, Avnet Kopp, +27 (0)11 319 8600, [email protected], www.avnet.co.za

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