Next-Generation Wi-Fi Module Brings Leading Edge Connectivity to More Embedded Devices

Pan-European Representative/Stockist Ismosys is releasing samples of Gainspan Corporation’s latest Wi-Fi module. Delivering future-proof wireless connectivity to a host of embedded devices the Gainspan GS1500M is a high-performance 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi module that provides enabling support for peer-to-peer networking. The new module makes it easy to add Wi-Fi connectivity to standard 8-32 bit microcontrollers and is aimed at plug-and-play integration of Wi-Fi into embedded platforms using SPI or UART interfaces, such as security cameras, home appliances and industrial control systems.

According to Olaf Houtepen, Ismosys’ Gainspan Product Manager, the feature rich GS1500M module builds on the manufacturer's existing ultra low power embedded Wi-Fi portfolio: “The GS1500M preserves the software architecture, feature set and is pin to pin compatible with the GS1011M module currently in production, preserving customers’ existing investment and ensuring a smooth migration to 802.11b/g/n”, Houtepen said. “In the GS1500M Gainspan has optimised 802.11b for Internet of Things (IoT) applications that require higher radio network while maintaining interoperability with existing access points. It opens new opportunities for IoT applications which demand an optimal cost of deployment, range and power consumption.”

Features
The GS1500M module utilises a highly integrated 802.11b/g/n WLAN radio with leading edge receiver sensitivity and features best-in-class transmit power (18dBm), enabling excellent range. Currently undergoing certification by the world’s major regulatory regions the new module is an ideal solution for organisations with limited or no Wi-Fi or RF expertise, as it not only eliminates RF design time but also reduces the burden of testing and global certification. On top of 802.11b/g/n capability, the new Gainspan GS1500M module provides supports for peer-to-peer networking and features configurable antenna options - built-in or external -, which means Wi-Fi devices are able to connect to one another without an access point, enabling easy transfer of content anytime, anywhere.

Since ease of provisioning a device onto the Wi-Fi network is crucial in IoT applications, particularly for devices with no display screen or user control buttons, the GS1500M offers three other provisioning modes — Wi-Fi Protected Set-up (WPS), Web server based Ad hoc provisioning and Provisioning Access Point modes, in addition to a rich suite of features such as Wi-Fi Personal and Enterprise security.
The GS1500M's highly integrated architecture facilitates effective and dynamic power management. The module features extensive low power modes – with both a Sleep and Deep Sleep option. The module can be rapidly put to sleep to reduce power consumption without loss of data; the system can recover from the Deep Sleep state back to full operation in only a few milliseconds.

Like all GainSpan embedded Wi-Fi solutions, the GS1500M offers easy system integration and minimal use of host resources. It provides serial UART or SPI interfaces, making it possible to connect to any device using an 8/16/32-bit microcontroller via a few AT commands. Multiple firmware configurations of the embedded networking software stack are available on the module: For applications using a small 8-bit microcontroller host, the module supports a serial to Wi-Fi function, with the complete Wi-Fi and embedded (TCP/IP) networking software stacks running on the module, thereby completely offloading the host. For applications using more powerful microcontroller host, the embedded networking software stack can reside on the host while the module provides all Wi-Fi functionality including security, WPS and provisioning features. As a single-sided module, the GS1500M can be easily soldered down onto the customer application baseboard.