Wireless MCU simplifies automotive connectivity

24th April 2014

Nat Bowers

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Datasheet

Delivering low power, low cost and simplified automotive connectivity to emerging smartphone-controlled and wire-replacement applications, Texas Instruments introduce the SimpleLink Bluetooth low energy CC2541-Q1. The CC2541-Q1 leverages the success of TI’s broad-market Bluetooth Smart solution (SimpleLink CC2541) and automotive connectivity offerings for combo WiFi, Bluetooth and GNSS (WiLink 8Q) and dual-mode Bluetooth (BL6450Q).

With ultra-low power Bluetooth low energy operation, the CC2541-Q1 consumes less than 1mA of sleep current with RTC and RAM retention. This enables it to operate from a coin cell battery and also allows the application to remain on while the automobile is off. Operating over a temperature range from -40 to +105°C, the MCU offers high performance in extreme conditions faced in the automotive market.

The highly-integrated wireless microcontroller is targeted at an emerging market of new automotive features aimed at using Bluetooth Smart technology to make it easier for consumers to get information and control automotive systems. These features include smartphone-controlled applications such as: keyless entry using a Bluetooth Smart Ready smartphone or Bluetooth Smart key fob, either standalone or in conjunction with TI’s leading car access solutions; lighting controls to deliver ambient, clustered and programmable LED lighting; diagnostic information to help users understand engine warning lights; and services with iBeacon technology for fast discovery and easy pairing with in-car Bluetooth Smart technology.

It is also targeted at wire replacement, which reduces weight and cost, and in turn increases fuel economy, in applications such as: wireless infotainment controls in the steering wheel; low data rate systems for control, personalisation settings and alerts via smartphone; and Bluetooth Smart remotes for rear seat entertainment systems.

The SimpleLink CC2541-Q1 is based on TI’s market leading CC2541 which is deployed today in a wide variety of applications spanning consumer, industrial, medical and home applications worldwide. The CC2541-Q1 is a complete solution with TI’s BLE-Stack software and sample applications including over-the-air download support for in-field updates.

The SimpleLink Bluetooth low energy CC2541-Q1 wireless MCU is sampling now and is expected to be available in volumes in 3Q 2014. To speed time to market of Bluetooth Smart automotive designs, CC2541 development kits can be used including the evaluation module kit, mini development kit and SensorTag development kit.