Bluetooth LE IC delivers low current consumption

The Bluetooth LE IC is based on an ARM Cortex-M0 microcontroller and incorporates 256 Kbytes of built-in flash ROM.

Developers can use the flash ROM to store programs and data in standalone operations, eliminating the need for an external EEPROM and contributing to an ultra-low bill of materials to reduce overall design cost and size.

The device also delivers Bluetooth Host Control Interface (HCI) functions and Bluetooth low energy GATTfunctions that allow for quick BQE system certification.

At a 3V supply voltage, the IC delivers one of the lowest power consumptions in the industry. Utilising its highly efficient DC-DC converter for power management, the IC’s low-power circuit design secures a nearly 46 per cent current reduction and peak current consumption of 3.6 mA in transmitting mode.

To support various battery types, the TC35678 has an operating voltage between 1.8V and 3.6V, and the IC’s programmable operation modes allow for optimal power consumption.

Other features of the TC35678 include 100 Kbtyes of SRAM, a general-purpose analogue-to-digital converter (ADC), PWM functions, a low dropout regulator, a wake-up signal for host devices and user program functionality.

An on-chip silicon oscillator helps drive both the main and sleep clocks, so no external clocks are required. Communications is accomplished through the IC’s UARTs, I²C, SPI and general-purpose inputs and outputs (GPIOs).