Digi deal boosts BCD Atlantik's IoT portfolio

It connects the millions of sensors, valves and components that make these critical infrastructures function, and provide the remote monitoring and management that critical applications depend on.

Products that BCD-Atlantik will sell in the UK include the Digi ConnectCore 6UL, an embedded module platform delivering a connected System-on-Module (SOM). It features an integrated dual-band 802.11ac wireless LAN and Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity in a low-profile surface-mount form factor that is slightly larger than a postage stamp.

Built on the NXP i.MX 6UltraLite applications processor, the SOM is designed as an intelligent, small footprint, low power embedded module for highly cost-effective and reliable integration into connected devices without the traditional hardware or software design risk, allowing device manufacturers to focus solely on their core competencies.

The module’s patent-pending Digi SMTplus surface-mount form factor (29x29x3.75mm) enables device manufacturers to optimise product designs by lowering cost and improving capabilities without compromising design flexibility.

By providing two integration options (fully featured LGA and simplified castellated edge vias) in one common form factor, it offers a scalable platform solution that addresses a wide range of product feature requirements, unit cost targets and levels of design expertise.

The surface mount form factor also provides highly reliable mounting for high shock/vibration applications and compact low-profile devices, and eliminates the need for costly board-to-board connectors.

Digi’s complete Linux Board Support Package (BSP) and software support deliver integrated, tested, regular software maintenance based on current, stable community releases.

As part of the Linux software support, the new Digi TrustFence device security framework offers the critical features required to protect today’s connected devices and applications, providing strong device security and peace of mind for device manufacturers and their customers.

Digi TrustFence implements device security-relevant features such as secure connections, authenticated boot, encrypted data storage, access-controlled ports, secure software updates, and seamless integration of the dedicated on-module Secure Element (SE).

“The Digi ConnectCore 6UL delivers on Digi’s leadership in embedded and wireless technology excellence by providing a connected product development platform with complete hardware and software support, including a strong embedded device security story,” said Barry Coomber, director of BCD-Atlantik. “Customers can now bring smart and secure connected devices to market at a fraction of the traditional time and effort, working with one strong partner, while focusing on their core competency without compromising design flexibility.”

Key features of the Digi ConnectCore 6UL SOM platform include, NXP i.MX 6UltraLite applications processor, Cortex-A7 at up to 696MHz, NXP PF3000 power management IC (PMIC), independent on-module Cortex-M0+ Microcontroller Assist™ subsystem, ultra-low power modes, watchdog, interface extension, custom applications, up to 2 GB reliable SLC NAND flash, and up to 1GB DDR3, pre-certified 802.11a/b/g/n/ac + Bluetooth 4.2 (Smart Ready) option, integrated dual 10/100 Ethernet connectivity, dedicated, intelligent Secure Element (NXP).

The device offers an industrial operating temperature range, 5-year Digi hardware warranty and long-term product availability.

Coomber adds, “NXP provides an unrivaled portfolio of products supporting the incredible growth of smart, connected solutions. The Digi ConnectCore 6UL SOM demonstrates how Digi delivers best-in-class products built on i.MX. NXP products are the trusted foundation of the Internet of Things (IoT) that customers can build on, now and in the future.”

Digi ConnectCore 6UL development kits are available from BCD-Atlantik in two versions: the Digi ConnectCore 6UL Starter Kit and the Digi ConnectCore 6UL Jumpstart Kit. BCD-Atlantik can also offer additional go-to-market options to its customers through the Digi Wireless Design Services team, offering antenna design/selection guidance, cellular integration, certification assistance, as well as custom design services.