Modules integrate wireless connectivity into portable devices

15th December 2014

Alpha Micro

Mick Elliott

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Datasheet

The Laird BT900 dual mode Classic and BLE modules are designed to provide standard short-range wireless connectivity for powered portable devices including ePOS terminals, barcode scanners and equipment used within the health sector. Measuring just 19mm x 12.5mm x 2.5mm, the new modules, available from Alpha Micro Components. come complete with an embedded BTv4.0 stack with smartBASIC, offering Central and Peripheral modes.

Developed to optimise performance the modules balance throughput versus power efficiency, aided by sleep mode triggers to optimise the module's duty cycle. The combination of the unit’s Cortex M3 and smart BASIC, enables the BT900 series to offer true hostless operation for products, providing maximum utility while saving on needless costs with the bill of materials.

The new modules come complete with smart BASIC which acts as the bridge between software and hardware, enabling an application written for one smart BASIC radio to work on any other. Event-driven smart BASIC language, unique to the wireless industry, offers built-in functions that replace thousands of lines of C code with a few abstracted lines of smart BASIC.

The field proven implementation of smartBASIC from the popular BL600 and BL620 single-mode BLE modules into the new BT900 series allows developers to flexibly utilize smartBASIC applications from those specific modules. This creates various interchangeable BLE applications between the BT900, BL600 and BL620 product ranges.

Commenting on the new modules, Tim Bonnett, Director and Chief Sales Officer, Alpha Micro Components, said, “Alpha Micro’s Laird BT900 modules carry several modular FCC, IC, CE, MIC and Bluetooth SIG approvals, meaning users do not need costly and time-intensive testing to bring certified Bluetooth to market. Certifications from worldwide regulatory bodies take time, effort, financial cost, and ultimately slow development. Laird's approvals extend to users’ designs with no additional testing, making them a fast and efficient route to production.”