Battery-less IoT a reality with Bluetooth Low Energy multi-sensor platform

ON Semiconductor has added to its battery-less and maintenance-free IoT with the launch of its RSL10 Multi-Sensor Platform powered only with a solar cell. This whole solution helps the development of IoT sensors using continuous solar energy harvesting to gather and communicate data through Bluetooth Low Energy, with no need for batteries or other forms of non-renewable energy. The combination of ultra-low-power wireless communications, small form-factor solar cell and low duty cycle sensing applications make it possible to develop and deploy maintenance-free IoT sensor nodes. The platform is enabled by the platform SIP, a complete solution featuring the RSL10 radio, integrated antenna and all passive components. The platform merges the SIP with a solar cell and a host of low power sensors from Bosch Sensortec, comprising the BME280 all-in-one environmental sensor and the BMA400 ultra-low-power three-axis accelerometer. Together, they will enable developers and manufacturers to produce complete IoT nodes that are completely powered through renewable energy or energy harvested from the sensor’s surroundings. “After the success of the RSL10 Sensor Development Kit, we are thrilled to work with ON Semiconductor on a new cutting-edge sensor development platform that is entirely solar powered,” said Dr Peter Weigand, vice president of Marketing, Bosch Sensortec. “The BMA400 is the first real ultra-low-power accelerometer that doesn’t compromise on performance. Combined with the BME280 integrated environmental sensor, this provides a comprehensive sensing solution for IoT applications such as climate control, intrusion detection and asset tracking.” Commenting on the release of the RSL10 Solar Cell Multi-Sensor Platform, Wiren Perera, who heads IoT at ON Semiconductor, said: “To support the growth of IoT, manufacturers are actively investigating alternative sources of energy to power their designs, helping to reduce environmental impact and lower manufacturing and maintenance costs. With this solution, established on the RSL10 Bluetooth Low Energy radio, we are proving that a battery-free and maintenance-free approach to smart sensor development is not only possible but can help manufacturers improve their designs.”