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As I discussed in a recent article, wireless design can be challenging and there are many decisions to consider regarding the use of a wireless module or a chip down approach. The bottom line is that, while likely more cost effective in higher volumes, a chip down methodology requires resources and skills that many companies may not have. So let’s talk about module solutions. In particular, Bluetooth.
It’s been noted (by IHS Technologies) that over 40% of new designs will include Bluetooth connectivity. Let’s assume you desire to use a module for time to market and limited resource due to the following needs:
Customer or Market Need |
Product Feature |
Benefit |
Time to market |
Antenna integrated |
Cost savings |
Low development costs |
Complete integration of HW and SW |
Fast time to market |
RF Performance |
Carefully designed RF |
Solid and predictable RF performance |
There are still considerations. For example:
- Application
- Size
- Range
- Cost
- Power/energy
Of course these are all related. Is the application a wearable (size/cost) or industrial automation (range). Or perhaps a commercial beacon (range) or home automation such as a door lock (size, battery). When considering a potential vendor, one should consider these overall needs and look to those that can cover a wide range of these requirements.
The good news is that Silicon Labs can do exactly that with our BGM111 (long range) and BGM113 (small size) offerings.
BGM111
- Long Range (200m)
- Up to +8dBm output power
- Integrated antenna and ARM M4 core
- Dimensions: 13mm x 15mm x 2.2mm
BGM113
- Short Range (50m)
- Up to +3dBm output power
- Integrated antenna and ARM M4 core
- Dimensions: 9.2 mm x 15.8 mm x 1.83 mm
Not to be dismissed is the development environment that support these devices. Wireless Starter Kit for modules (SLWSTK6101B includes BGM111 and BGM113 radio boards) come with all that is needed for testing, prototyping and development. Our Simplicity Studio provides a single place for developing and experiencing the Bluetooth. Our iOS demo application is a good way to start experiencing the BLE.