LoRa IoT modules run BLE 5.0

The solution does not require any additional BLE 5.0 device.

Target IoT applications include track and trace, building automation, construction monitoring, mining, farming, telemetry, remote data logging, and many others.

Built on Semtech's LoRa 2.4 GHz technology, Miromico provides a firmware platform that allows multiple wireless protocols running on the same microcontroller, i.e., LoRa and BLE 5.0.

The combination of both technologies in the same wireless module is a powerful new technology.

It enables commissioning, configuration, local data monitoring, or firmware update of IoT devices using smartphones, tablets, car navigation systems, or other iOS or Android-based devices.

After the initialisation process, it operates LoRa 2.4 GHz long-range applications anywhere in the world. For such dual-protocol use-cases, standard IoT devices usually require integrating separate, costly BLE chipsets to connect to the mobile phones. After the initial setup during deployment, these additional BLE chipsets become redundant.

"Full BLE 5.0 support as a firmware option for our SX1280-based 2.4 GHz LoRa modules and products is a game-changer for developers implementing IoT technologies," said Marcel Wappler, CTO of Miromico. "It enables new unique applications with very low additional costs compared to hardware-based BLE solutions. Our first goal was to provide the most important BLE peripheral role to our customers, and we are delighted that Avnet Silica is now stockingBLE-ready SX1280 modules and development kits."

"Miromico is a key partner for Avnet Silica, and now with the addition of BLE 5.0 support in the modules based on Semtech's LoRa 2.4 GHz technology, further unique market opportunities are available,” said Marco Giegerich, Director Business Development EMEA at Avnet Silica.

The FMLR-8x-x-STLx module-family is available with multiple options, including extra onboard flash memory to enable Over-the-Air (OTA) updates and local data buffering in times when cloud connectivity is temporarily unavailable. 

Using Miro Edge 2.4 GHz LoRagateways, the modules support Semtech's meter-accuracy, active-radar-based ranging and localisation technology for both indoor and outdoor environments.

Further supported high-bitrate modulation schemes include the very robust and bandwidth-efficient FLRC and (G)FSK. BLE allows bi-directional communication with smartphones, tablets, gadgets and more. Optional low-power high precision temperature compensated oscillators (TCXO) for both RTC and radio are also available.

The module's firmware, including the wireless stack, can be updated via SWD, UART Bootloader or optional Firmware Over-the-Air (FOTA) to support fast prototyping and development. 

Miromico's FMLR-8x-x-STLx LoRamodules, development kits and dual-band LoRa gateways are available now from Avnet Silica.