Standalone wireless module speeds secure IoT development

Mouser is stocking the BL652 Bluetooth 4.2 and NFC module from Laird Technologies. This small, powerful, energy-efficient, standalone Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and Near Field Communication (NFC)-certified module features robust security and an easy-to-use programming language to enable designers to rapidly develop secure connectivity for the Enterprise Internet of Things (EIoT). This module is designed to help designers quickly and easily integrate secure BLE capabilities into EIoT applications by reducing the engineering burden and technical risk for developers. The device is a fully integrated standalone BLE and NFC module based on the Nordic nRF52 series systems-on-chips (SoCs). Designers can develop on the device using either Nordic’s software development kit (SDK) for the nRF52 or Laird’s smartBASIC programming language. The smartBASIC programming language offers built-in functions that replace lines of C code and acts as a bridge between software and hardware, allowing designers to take applications developed on other Laird BL600 series solutions and port them seamlessly to the module. The module features an industrial temperature rating of -40C to + 85C and choice of an integrated antenna or an IPEX MHF4 connector for external antennas. In addition, the module includes modular regulatory and Bluetooth SIG approvals that cover multiple antenna listings, which can extend to OEM designs without requiring additional testing for the fastest route to production. The module’s ultra-small 14mm × 10mm form factor, optimized low power schemes, and smartBASIC programming language provide a robust and stable Bluetooth environment for any embedded design in industrial or commercial settings, medical peripherals, and sensors and beacons.