Dev platform for IoT devices with advanced sound and vision
14 November 2018
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Computer/Embedded Technology
RS Components is boosting opportunities to create smarter IoT devices by introducing Sony Spresence, featuring Arm Cortex-M4F performance and extensive sensing, audio and imaging capabilities.
The low-power Spresence platform, comprising a 50,0 x 20,6 mm main board and 68,6 x 53,3 mm extension board, combines the Sony CXD5602 system-on-chip (SoC) for wearable electronics, and the CXD5247 power management and audio IC.
Expansion headers allow users to further extend the rich native features by adding Arduino shields or any of a selection of specially developed add-on boards. These include the Spresence-BLE-EVK-701 Bluetooth Low Energy board and the Spresence-SENSOR-EVK-701 containing a MEMS accelerometer, barometer and magnetometer.
Spresence is compatible with the Arduino development environment (IDE), and comes with a set of extended APIs that give developers the additional option to use the advanced NuttX based software development kit (SDK).
The CXD5602 SoC on the main board contains six 156 MHz ARM Cortex-M4F cores, ensuring generous compute performance and low latency. Peripherals include an 8-bit parallel camera interface, a multi-constellation GNSS receiver, and a sensor-fusion block to simplify movement or context sensing using a combination of external MEMS accelerometer, eCompass, gyroscope or pressure sensor.
The CXD5247 adds a class-D bridge-tied load (BTL) audio amplifier, 8-channel digital microphone and 4-channel analog microphone inputs, as well as DC/DC converters and a low-dropout (LDO) regulator to provide the system power rails. Battery-charging and fuel-gauge peripherals further simplify the design of self-powered, connected, smart objects.
The extension board handles interfacing and user access to signals, featuring level-shifting circuitry, headphone and microphone-input headers, and an SD card slot.
With its multicore compute engine and built-in GPS, Spresence is ideal for next-generation drones. Support for high-resolution audio recording and playback, and the full digital amplifier, also represent a platform for new and more powerful smart speakers. On the other hand, the built-in camera interface can support numerous opportunities for smart cameras and networked-vision applications such as security surveillance or remote time-lapse cameras.
Mobile satellite connectivity available in SA
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Space42 has commercially launched its next generation mobile satellite service, Thuraya 4 NGS, available in South Africa as of February 2026.
Read more...Next-gen Wi Fi 6E connectivity for embedded systems iCorp Technologies
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Espressif Systems has expanded its connectivity portfolio with the introduction of the ESP32-E22, the company’s first Wi-Fi 6E connectivity co-processor.
Read more...Quectel redefines connectivity with RG660Qx 5G Series iCorp Technologies
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Purpose-built to meet the demands of next-generation IoT and wireless broadband, these modules leverage the cutting-edge Qualcomm X85 and X82 5G Modem-RF systems to deliver enterprise-grade performance.
Read more...Contactless IO-Link couplers IOT Electronics
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
The IO-Link couplers from Phoenix Contact are industrial contactless couplers designed to transmit power and IO-Link data across a small air gap without physical connectors.
Read more...Ultra compact NTC thermistors RS South Africa
Test & Measurement
Murata Manufacturing Co. has expanded its compact NCU03 series of NTC thermistors with two ultra-small 0603M devices tailored for consumer and automotive designs.
Read more...Quectel’s RG255C-NA and RM255C-GL accelerate 5G RedCap adoption iCorp Technologies
Editor's Choice Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Quectel’s RG255C-NA and RM255C-GL modules represent a strategic move into this fast-growing segment, delivering Sub-6 GHz 5G connectivity optimised for mid-tier IoT applications.
Read more...SDRs – Which RF architecture should you choose? RFiber Solutions
Editor's Choice Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
There are several common methods of implementing SDR architectures. This paper discusses which is best when meeting a specific need.
Read more...Multi-band GNSS patch antenna RF Design
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
The Taoglas AHP2356A is a compact, high-performance active GNSS patch antenna designed for next-generation positioning systems requiring precision, reliability, and multi-constellation support.
Read more...Cellular routers for explosive areas Phoenix Contact
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Updated versions of the Cellulink outdoor cellular router product range from Phoenix Contact are now available; they have been specially developed for use in Zone 2 potentially explosive areas.
Read more...Power the next wave of IoT innovation Links Field Networks
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Links Field Networks’ portfolio includes connectivity platforms, edge devices, and network management tools designed to support secure, resilient IoT deployments across a range of use cases.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version