Next-generation BLE solutions with easy-to-use interface and embedded scripting capability

Microchip has announced two next-generation Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) solutions with an easy-to-use ASCII-style command interface that makes the devices easy to configure and eliminates any complicated code compiling. The RN4870 and RN4871 support the latest Bluetooth 4.2 specification and have a Bluetooth stack on board with a scripting engine to enable standalone operation and eliminate MCU use for simple applications. These next-generation devices enable fast time to market and improve the total manufacturing cost. The devices deliver up to 2.5 times data throughput improvement over previous generation products based on the Bluetooth 4.0 standard. In addition, the new solutions offer connection security based on FIPS coupled with advanced features. The devices can seamlessly transfer serial data over BLE devices and can support different beacon formats such as iBeacon or Eddystone via a single command. Both devices with a shield option are fully certified to meet worldwide regulatory standards and are available with compact package options as small as 6mm x 8mm. This, combined with the company’s user-friendly interface, helps speed customers’ time to market. Each module has an on-board software stack and pairs well with any of their large range of low-power MCU or any MCU with a UART interface. The devices are designed to complement the company’s diverse low-energy solutions designed for IoT applications. Also available from Microchip is the RN4870 Bluetooth 4.2 Low-Energy PICtail/PICtail Plus Daughterboard with a sensor board (RN-4870-SNSR).