ulp wireless connectivity enters a new era

COVER STORY

ulp wireless connectivityenters a new era

Nordic reveals class changing nRF51 Series

pioneer selects aNt

understanding what Bluetooth Smart means

QUARTER 2 | summer 2012

svein-egil Nielsen works for Nordic and is also a member of the Bluetooth SIG’s board. Nielsen chats with ESM China

Page 16

The first two chips - the nRF51822 and the nRF51422 - are respectively the first time any company has allied a state-of-the-art ultra low power (ULP) 2.4GHz radio, 32-bit ARM Cortex-M based processor, embedded Flash memory, and Bluetooth low energy/Nordic 2.4GHz proprietary or ANT protocol software on a single chip. That’s a huge leap forward for ULP wireless because it gives engineers access to proven radio technology, incredible processing power, wide application coverage, and the leading ULP RF protocols in a System-on-Chip (SoC) solution. Nordic’s engineers have also increased the nRF51 Series’ link budget by up to 10 dBm and lowered average current consumption by up to 50 percent. This translates to greater range and improved interference robustness compared to our existing nRF24L and nRF8000 Series which themselves set the previous performance benchmarks for ULP wireless.

The physical attributes of the nRF51 Series are perhaps only overshadowed by the family’s novel software architecture. The Bluetooth low energy and ANT software stacks provide a clean separation of the application and protocol – a third world first. In existing ULP 2.4GHz SoCs the application typically has to be written specifically for a proprietary application framework such as a virtual machine or scheduler/real time operating system (RTOS) with both compile- and link-time dependencies with the protocol stack.

With the nRF51 Series there is no proprietary framework: The developer just works with a standard Cortex-M environment. There are no scheduler/RTOS dependencies, the stack interface is fully asynchronous and event driven, and there’s no link time dependencies. The application code can be programmed/updated and verified independent of the stack code. This makes it much easier for engineers to develop applications because they don’t have to worry about interactions with the RF protocol or integrate the application code within a vendor-imposed development framework.

In some ways the development mirrors the mobile handset market. Before the advent of the modern smartphone operating system (OS), introducing a new software feature entailed a complete rebuild of a handset's software. Today, however, even third parties can easily, quickly, and safely develop and distribute applications (apps) without any change to a smartphone’s OS resulting in an explosion of new apps. We believe the unique software architecture for the nRF51 Series will do the same for ULP wireless connectivity.

2 | summer 2012 | ulp wiReleSS quaRteR

i’m not given to marketing hype, preferring to let the spec sheet

promote the advantages of Nordic’s products. But i can confidently say

the launch of the company’s nRF51 Series genuinely represents at least

three ‘world firsts’.

“The physical attributes of the nRF51 Series are perhaps only overshadowed by the family’s novel software architecture” THOMAS EMBLA BONNERUD

Cover image:Nordic’s third generation product family, the nrF51 series, makes its debut. For the full story see pg 12

Contributors

architecture and performance define our new wireless SoCs

Yours Sincerely,

Thomas embla BonnerudDirector of Product Management

svenn-Tore Larsen, Nordic’s CEO, explains why the launch of the nRF51 Series is a watershed moment for the company

Page 7

Page 17

Jack shandle is a freelance writer specializing in semiconductors. In this issue, Shandle considers the security implications for ULP wireless

sally Ward-Foxton is a freelance journalist specializing in electronics. In this issue she deciphers the Bluetooth SIG’s new branding

Page 8

OpiNiONThomas Embla Bonnerud

The Bluetooth™ word mark and logo are registered trademarks and are owned by the Bluetooth SIG

© Nordic semiconductor 2012

www.nordicsemi.com

Nordic is offering a freespace pointing firmware upgrade for its nrFready 2.4GHz rF smart remote reference design. The upgrade supports one-handed freespace point and click control – similar to that of a regular PC wireless mouse but without the need for a flat surface – of the latest Internet-and Web 2.0-enabled TVs and set-top boxes. The nrFready 2.4GHz rF smart remote reference design leverages Nordic’s proven nrF24Le1 soC and Gazell 2.4GHz rF protocol stack. The design includes all the necessary hardware for freespace pointing and clicking control built-in via an on-board six-axis motion sensing solution from Invensense, and uLP accelerometer from sTmicroelectronics. in addition to a multi-touch enabled TouchPad from synaptics and miniature QWerTY keyboard.

Nordic freespace pointing upgrade

In brief

ulp wiReleSS quaRteR | summer 2012 | 3

New style bike computer mixes gpS, 3g, and aNt+ for more fun

Wi-Fi ANT+ bridge sends data from over 60 ANT+ sensors to InternetA unique Wi-Fi to ANT+ bridge gateway device allows wireless data from more than 60 ANT+ sensors to be recorded, analyzed, and uploaded to the Internet via Wi-Fi in group health & fitness applications such as gym classes (for example, indoor cycling, rowing, and aerobics), team sports, and remote health monitoring.

Developed by u.s. electrical engineering specialist North Pole engineering and called the ‘WAsP’, this portable product targets Oem sports & fitness and wellness product manufacturers and serves to bridge the gap between Wi-Fi networks and ANT+ devices.

The WAsP can also create its own 11mbps Wi-Fi network and can be used outdoors, powered by an internal rechargeable lithium-ion battery for up to 6-hours even in its most power-hungry 'continuous scan' mode.

The device employs a class-leading Nordic nrF24AP2-8CH 8CH ANT Connectivity IC, receives data from connected ANT+ devices at up to 1mbps, and translates the data into Wi-Fi packets, making it available to any Wi-Fi (Ieee 802.11 b/g/n) connected device. (See this issue page 15.)

Japanese consumer electronics giant, Pioneer, has launched a new type of

bicycle navigation computer. The device uses GPS to guide riders around their local neighborhoods while collecting wireless data from user-worn ANT+ heart rate, speed, and/or cadence sensors and uploading the data to the Internet.

The Potter-Navi SGX-CN700 uses a 2.4-in color LCD screen to display cycle navigation information as well as the location of local amenities and points of interest along the route.

During the ride, users can collect data from wireless ANT+ sensors for immediate display on the system’s screen – in numerical, graphical or meter format – and upload it to the Internet via a built-in 3G link. The user can then access the data via a Pioneer website to compare their ride with other excursions.

Initially released in Japan, the Potter-Navi comes with two

year’s free 3G connectivity courtesy of NTT DoCoMo. The system will be introduced to Europe later this year and North America in 2013. Pioneer plans to follow Potter-Navi with other cycling computers incorporating ANT+ technology. Products will be targeted at

both casual and serious cyclists.In operation the bike

computer uses a Nordic ultra low power nRF24AP2-8CH ANT chip that can communicate with up to eight ANT+ sensors simultaneously without compromising power consumption.

First Startup event in NorwayNordic sponsored and participated in a major startup event called ‘startup Weekend’ that has successfully been held almost 600 times in over 300 cities across 93 countries. The event has kick-started 56,000 entrepreneurs to fast-track their ideas into viable products. The 54-hour event was hosted in Trondheim from June 15 to 17. Nordic ran its own pre-event workshop and 'app' contest two weeks before where participants were given an introduction to Bluetooth low energy and provided with Nordic nrF8002 dev kits to develop their own apps that could be entered into the startup Weekend and win a 5000 NOK (about us$ 835) prize from Nordic.

The latest developments from Nordic Semiconductor

This bike navigation computer includes ANT+ support and GPs tracking

NewS

www.nordicsemi.com


Battery life of up to one year from wireless proximity key fob

In brief

RF with IR remote targets smart TVs and PCsNordic wireless technology is being employed in an advanced QWerTY keypad-equipped rF with Infrared (Ir) remote control developed by Chinese company, Qingdao Haier Intelligent electronics.

The remote is designed for use by consumer electronics (Ce) manufacturers of emerging ‘connected’ products such as smart TVs. The remote is equipped with a 48-button QWerTY keypad on one side, and a conventional 55-button remote interface on the other.

Both sides of the remote are backlit, and a built-in accelerometer automatically detects which side of the controller the user is about to access. The product can also be used to control a PC and the QWerTY keypad even includes a trackball that can be used to control the cursor on a PC.

In operation, the remote handset utilizes a Nordic nrF24Le1 system-on-Chip (soC) 2.4GHz uLP transceiver running Haier’s own rF protocol software. An nrF24Lu1+ soC 2.4GHz uLP transceiver and usB 2.0 compliant device controller, incorporated into a compact usB dongle, plugs into the host device (the product to be controlled) to form the other node of the wireless link.

The Nordic rF technology enables a

Hong Kong-headquartered OEM/ODM Dayton Industrial has announced a

Bluetooth low energy proximity key fob - based on Nordic’s µBlue™ nRF8002 System-on-Chip (SoC) - that is less than half the size of a credit card and can run for up to a year from a slimline CR2025 coin cell.

This production-ready product platform allows OEMs and developers to create a whole new range of both standard (Bluetooth v4.0 profile-based) and non-standard (uniquely developed) proximity, property location, and security applications (‘apps’) for use with devices that employ Bluetooth v4.0 wireless technology such as the latest iPad, iPhone 4S, and MacBook Air.

The nRF8002’s ULP performance and size helps

enable the Dayton Bluetooth low energy proximity key fob to run for around a year from a regular 3V CR2025 lithium coin cell battery under typical (daily) usage conditions while featuring an extremely slim (0.5cm-thick) and compact (4.9 by 3.2cm) plastic sensor housing.

The housing features a single push button and two submerged LED status lights (one red to

bi-directional communication link with sufficient bandwidth for rapid screen refresh and seamless navigation.

signal alerts, and one green to signal pairing status) in a product that weighs less than 40g.

Micro-vibrator and buzzer alert options are also available.

“The low cost nature of this device means it could also be bundled free-of-charge with higher value Bluetooth v4.0 products to attract customers,” comments Tony Chung, a Senior Marketing Executive at Dayton.

The three category winners in this year’s Bluetooth Innovation World Cup recently visited Nordic in Norway to receive complimentary technical training and a full suite of development tools. The overall winner came from the Healthcare category: Guilherme de Paula from Pancreum LLC whose 'CoremD' device senses temperature, heart rate, and glucose levels, and administer drugs as part of an artificial pancreas system. The sports & Fitness category was won by Diesel Dogs for its 'smart Weights' that look like regular hand weights but employ motion sensors to monitor and customize training routines. The Automotive, entertainment & more category was won by michael setton of sensaris for his 'senspods' that can send data from environmental sensors to social networking sites.

Bluetooth cup winners visit

Nordic embarks on Global Tech TourWith the launch of its latest nrF51 series of system-on-Chips (soCs), Nordic will embark on a Global Tech Tour. During the tour, a team of company experts will travel around the world to provide application developers and customers with a full day of local training in the ground-breaking technology employed in the new nrF51 series. The one-day seminars are designed to be high intensity but fun and will be packed full of technical insights and information, expert design tips, and real-world product development examples. For those not yet invited but wishing to attend please get in touch with your local Nordic sales office (see tinyurl.com/ContactNordic).

Being under half the size of credit card means this fob can fit in a wallet

This rF remote offers legacy Ir support plus a full QWerTY keyboard on the flip side

NewS

www.nordicsemi.com

Total global shipments of smartphones are set to exceed all other types of cellphone by 2016 – primarily driven by growth and innovation in the sub-$150 smartphone segment.

According to a new report from ABI Research (tinyurl.com/bpqghbg), the growth in total global shipments of non-smartphones will level off between now and 2016 to reach around 1.09 billion units, while smartphone shipments will almost double from 643 million units to 1.1 billion units.

In parallel, ABI says this smartphone growth will double the size of the aftermarket smartphone accessory segment from around $20 billion this year to $38 billion by 2017 (tinyurl.com/csblg5t). But ABI warns accessory manufacturers that they must focus on delivering tightly integrated devices that intelligently complement a smartphone’s functions and features.

Smartphone accessories is a rapidly expanding market for ultra low power wireless particularly now that interoperable ANT+ wireless technology has been joined by Bluetooth low energy wireless technology, and support for both technologies is increasingly being becoming standard in new smartphones.

smartphones to outship cellphones worldwide by 2016, says analyst

A Dubai-based pizza chain was unable to meet demand for a Bluetooth wireless technology fridge magnet it recently began offering its local customers.

red Tomato Pizza’s VIP (Very Important Pizza) fridge magnet allows users to auto-order their favorite pizza on-line – via a Bluetooth wireless link to a customer’s smartphone – at the touch of a button.

Customers then get sent a confirmation sms text message and the pizza order arrives soon after. Customers can also update their auto-fridge-magnet order details online at anytime.

The restaurant was quickly forced to re-ordered more of its pizza-box shaped fridge magnets and had to post an apology on its website due to a six-to-eight week delivery lead time. Although other pizza chains have long offered the ability to order pizzas over the Internet, this fridge magnet could indicate there is a market for simple wireless ordering devices.

implantable medical sensors dispense with batteries

Pizza ordering wireless fridge magnet is a hit

sony ericsson’s Xperia active smartphone ships with ANT+ support as standard

ulp wiReleSS quaRteR | summer 2012 | 5 www.nordicsemi.com

Researchers in germany have

succeeded in developing a

wireless power technology

that could eliminate the

need for batteries to

power implantable

medical sensors and

drug dosing systems. the

new technology could make

new applications viable that were

previously not possible due to limited

battery lifespan.

the researchers at the Fraunhofer

institute for Ceramic technologies and

Systems iKtS in Hermsdorf claim to be able

to wirelessly transmit up to 100mw of

power between a transmitting generator

and receiver module up to 50cm apart:

enough range to cover the entire body.

the power is transferred using a

harmless alternating magnetic field

that causes a magnetic pellet in the

receiver module to rotate and generate electricity.

Future implantable sensors - including units with a ulp RF link - could

be used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes and allow more

accurate and targeted medical treatments, including the targeted release of

pharmaceutical substances (for example, near tumors) to avoid unpleasant or

harmful side effects.

With a range of 50cm, a belt-worn transmitter could supply wireless power to internal sensors anywhere in the body

The latest developments in technology

ulp wiReleSS tReNDS

nRF51 Series cuts power, ups performance, and is easy to program

Nordic Semiconductor has announced the first two members its brand new nRF51

Series of ultra low power (ULP) RF integrated circuits (ICs) - the nRF51822, a multi-protocol Bluetooth low energy / 2.4GHz proprietary RF System-on-Chip (SoC), and the nRF51422, the world’s first ANT / ANT+ SoC.

The SoCs include a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M0 based processor and can deliver up to 50 percent lower power consumption, RF link budget improvements of up to 9.5dB, and up to 10 times more processing power compared to Nordic’s previous generation of ULP wireless ICs - redefining class-leading industry benchmarks for ULP wireless.

In addition, a novel software architecture for Nordic’s Bluetooth low energy and ANT SoC solutions frees designers from the integration effort, complexities, and restrictions of


chip vendor-supplied software frameworks and instead allows customers to develop their designs quickly and easily using highly popular and familiar ARM Cortex programming environments.

This major benefit is said to be achieved by using a software architecture featuring a unique separation between protocol stack and user application code. This provides developers with a clean boundary between application and protocol stack, and removes the need to struggle with integration of application code as part of a vendor-imposed application development framework. (See this issue pg 12 for more detail.)

As a result, Nordic says code development is now simplified and accelerated and at the same time risks associated with integration of application and stack code are significantly reduced. This means customers should expect lower bug rates

“The nRF51 Series SoCs redefine the class-leading industry benchmarks for ULP wireless”

and improved robustness for their applications.

The nRF51822 and nRF51422 are sampling to lead customers now. General availability is scheduled for early September 2012 and mass production is scheduled for Q4 2012.

Nordic will continue to introduce additional chips and protocol stacks for the nRF51 Series expanding customer’s choices of memory size, package types, serial interfaces, mixed signal peripherals, and wireless connectivity.

“Our new multi-protocol radio combined with the ARM Cortex-M0 based processor not only slashes power consumption, but also significantly improves performance, available processing power, and extends the range of applications we can cover with our new SoC solutions,” comments Thomas Embla Bonnerud, Director of Product Management at Nordic Semiconductor. Z

NewS extRa

www.nordicsemi.com


ULP Wireless Q: Why is the launch of the nrF51 series so important for Nordic

semiconductor?Svenn-Tore Larsen: Soon after joining the company I decided that our future was in ultra low power (ULP) wireless technology, primarily 2.4GHz. I could see that our IC design expertise could be leveraged to carve out a niche for what was then a small company, dealing with esoteric technology.

As a fledgling company we had to choose the areas into which we promoted our products very carefully. For example, we could see that companies wanted to displace older technology in favor of 2.4GHz for PC peripherals, so we chased that market and were fortunate to be successful. But we couldn’t risk overstretching ourselves and letting down customers in those early days.

Since then, due to a great team here at Nordic, healthy competition from other companies in this market, our work on developing the Bluetooth low energy part of Bluetooth v4.0 specification, and ULP wireless technology entering the mainstream, we are now a medium-sized company with a reputation for good technology.

That means designers’ expectation of our products, engineering support, and service is now much higher than it was in the early years. Our chips must be easy to design in to a wide range of applications, offer high performance and low power consumption, and, most important of all, operate seamlessly with the engineer’s choice of RF software protocol – whether that be Nordic proprietary, third-party proprietary, ANT or Bluetooth

Nordic’s CeO tells ULP Wireless Quarter why its third-generation of 2.4gHz ultra low power wireless SoCs mark a watershed for the company

Next step for ulp wireless leader

nRF51 Series has the flexibility to allow engineers to use it in products to which it had previously been impractical to add an RF link.

And further ahead than that, we need to consider how to integrate more digital and sensor capability into our established analog foundation.

By integrating more of those capabilities into a single device we could, for example, develop a platform that finally helps engineers realize the full potential of wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Z

different protocols, memory allocations, and other more subtle changes.

The company will continue to target our defined target sectors - for example, mobile phone peripherals, PC peripherals, sports, and health – and our existing range of nRF24L Series and µBlue™ Bluetooth low energy connectivity solutions will be available alongside the nRF51 Series products.

Nordic needs to continue to grow by seeking out opportunities to introduce its technology into new areas. The

low energy. The nRF51 Series is our answer to those expectations – that’s why the new range is so important.

ULP WQ: What excites you most about the new product range?STL: There’s so much to choose from! But some things that stand out are the level of integration – new radio, powerful 32-bit processor, Flash memory, and a host of peripherals on a slice of silicon measuring just 6 by 6 mm – and improvements in power consumption, sensitivity, and operational flexibility. (For more information on the technical attributes of the nRF51 Series please see page 12 this issue.)

But perhaps even more than the performance of the chip itself, I’m excited about the depth of talent in RF engineering that we have in this company. These engineers just keep coming up with class-leading technology. Last year, for example, the nRF8001 µBlue™ engineering team were shortlisted for two prestigious industry awards (see ULP WQ Summer 2011 pg 8) and now the nRF51 Series team have come up with this product family.

The marketers are describing the family as “seriously ingenious” – and just for once, I think they may be at risk of an understatement.

ULP WQ: What’s next for Nordic?STL: The products we’ve just released – the nRF51822 multi-protocol Bluetooth low energy/2.4GHz proprietary System-on-Chip (SoC) and nRF51422 ANT/ANT+ SoC – are just the start. Over the next several years we’ll be regularly extending the range. All the chips in the series will be based on the nRF51 common silicon architecture but will feature

For more information on the nrF51 series go to www.nordicsemi.com.

iNteRView

www.nordicsemi.com

“The marketers are describing the nRF51 Series as “seriously ingenious” – and just for once, I think they may be at risk of an understatement” NORDIC CEO – SVENN-TORE LARSEN

there are several different names associated with the latest version of Bluetooth – some

technical, some consumer branding - and at first glance it may seem like they are interchangeable. In fact, they are very clearly differentiated.

The latest version of the technology, Bluetooth v4.0, is different from previous versions in that it includes two separate protocols – so-called “classic” Bluetooth (Basic Rate/Extended Data Rate) and Bluetooth low energy. The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) refers to devices that operate both of these protocols as ‘dual mode’, and those operating only Bluetooth low energy are called ‘single mode’.

Bluetooth low energy is a new addition to version 4.0 and is designed to enable devices to communicate with ultra low power consumption. The protocol was developed for coin-cell powered devices and features a physical layer bit rate of 1Mbps over a range of up to 15 meters. Typical battery lifetimes for these devices stretch into months or years.

Back in October 2011, the Bluetooth SIG introduced the 'Bluetooth Smart' and 'Bluetooth Smart Ready' marks to highlight which devices would be compatible with Bluetooth low energy. But it’s not as straightforward as that. Simply being able to operate in a Bluetooth low energy mode does not mean the device will be qualified to use either the Bluetooth Smart or Bluetooth Smart Ready marks.

“Bluetooth Smart is a

Deciphering the Smart branding of Bluetooth v4.0Bluetooth v4.0, Bluetooth low energy, Bluetooth Smart, Bluetooth Smart Ready - similar descriptions that don't mean the same thing, as sally Ward-Foxton explains

brand name that you put on a device. Bluetooth low energy is a technology standard that includes physical parameters and radio protocols,” explains Svein-Egil Nielsen, Director of Emerging Technologies and Strategic Partnerships at Nordic Semiconductor and Board Member of the Bluetooth SIG. “While Bluetooth low energy is a feature of Bluetooth Smart, there are other requirements too.”

Brand qualificationA device qualifying for the Bluetooth Smart mark has to have a single mode radio, that is, it operates Bluetooth low energy only. It also has to have a Generic Attribute Profile (GATT)-based architecture. This branding is intended for coin cell operated devices like peripherals, remotes, and sensors.

Bluetooth Smart Ready is the “hub” version of the branding, perhaps for a cellphone, tablet, PC or TV. These devices are

dual mode, so they can operate classic Bluetooth technology and Bluetooth low energy, simultaneously or individually. They are backwards-compatible with previous versions of Bluetooth and also have a GATT-based architecture. Critically though, to qualify for Bluetooth Smart Ready branding, a device must provide a way for the consumer to update its software according to the particular Bluetooth Smart device he or she wants it to communicate with.

As an example, both the Apple iPhone 4S and the latest version of the Apple iPad are qualified to use the Bluetooth Smart Ready mark. These devices can function as a hub for Bluetooth Smart peripheral-type devices, such as Dayton Industrial’s heart rate monitor chest strap. This chest strap uses a Nordic µBlue™ nRF8001 single mode Bluetooth low energy radio, which has a GATT-based architecture, and can run for up to 18 months from

a regular CR2032 coin cell under typical usage conditions (one hour per day). The chest strap was one of the first products to get permission to use the Bluetooth Smart branding.

“The Bluetooth Smart branding lets our customers know that our solutions and wireless platform use the latest Bluetooth technology and standards,” says Johnson Chan, Product Engineering Manager at Dayton. “It also helps the consumer to recognize that the product we made meets the high standards of Bluetooth Smart and is fully compatible with Bluetooth Smart Ready products.”

The idea is that when the consumer buys the chest strap they will notice the Bluetooth Smart branding and know that it is both extremely low power and compatible with the Bluetooth Smart Ready iPad they have at home. Since Apple has provided a way for the consumer to update the iPad with software for the chest strap in the form of an application (“app”), it should be no problem to get the devices communicating quickly and easily. It would be either Dayton or Dayton’s customer that's responsible for making and maintaining this app though, rather than Apple.

“Our products usually work with an app that runs on the iPhone or iPad, or an embedded PC program or device driver that runs on the PC,” Chan explains. “Our customers usually create their own app and PC program. However, we can also provide this service to the customer if required.”

Another example of a Bluetooth Smart device is a


FeatuRe

www.nordicsemi.com

IDT's Bluetooth smart blood pressure monitor uses Bluetooth

low energy to seamlessly connect to tablet computers


blood pressure monitor recently developed by IDT. This device uses a Bluetooth low energy connection to a smartphone or tablet to send blood pressure data to a patient’s doctor – or even just concerned relatives. It also uses Nordic’s µBlue™ nRF8001 single mode Bluetooth low energy radio. The patient runs the appropriate app on their Bluetooth Smart Ready smartphone or tablet, turns on the blood pressure monitor, and the monitor connects automatically and synchronizes data to the smartphone/tablet. When the measurement is complete, the monitor automatically disconnects.

Danny Leung, the company’s Engineering Manager for its medical and sports & fitness division, explained that the Bluetooth Smart branding is very clear in indicating to consumers which products are interoperable.

“If users see a device with the Bluetooth Smart Ready logo, it is guaranteed that those devices will be able to receive data from our Bluetooth Smart blood pressure monitor,” he says. “Of course, a dedicated app will have to run on the Bluetooth Smart Ready

device to decode and display the received data.”

Leung says that on top of Bluetooth Smart, the blood pressure monitor will also be qualified to support the Bluetooth low energy Blood Pressure Profile, to maximize its interoperability. Many third party apps for the Bluetooth low energy Blood Pressure Profile are already available.

“This will make a comprehensive range of apps available to users buying our blood pressure monitor, leaving us to concentrate on developing more innovative hardware,” he adds. “To brand our product as Bluetooth Smart with Blood Pressure Profile compliance is a very simple way to pass this message to users and developers alike.”

Why the change?Clearly, the reasoning behind introducing the Bluetooth Smart and Bluetooth Smart Ready branding is to help consumers select compatible devices. Buying a device that is Bluetooth Smart Ready means it will communicate with any other type of Bluetooth device, past or present. Devices that are marked Bluetooth

Smart are only compatible with Bluetooth Smart Ready products. Older devices (running previous versions of Bluetooth technology) can communicate with other older devices, Bluetooth v4.0 devices running classic Bluetooth technology only, as well as Bluetooth Smart Ready devices.

The new branding also emphasizes that Bluetooth v4.0 is very different to previous versions.

“The thought behind it is, previously if you bought a phone, the profiles came pre-installed,” Nordic’s Nielsen says, explaining that in Version 4.0 this process is implemented by the end user via the app or software provided by the Bluetooth Smart product manufacturer.

Another thing that the new branding communicates to consumers is security. The standard uses military-grade 128-bit encryption to ensure absolute security of consumers’ data.

Failing to qualifyIt’s important to realize that not all Bluetooth v4.0 products are Bluetooth Smart or Bluetooth Smart Ready.

Just because a device is

Bluetooth v4.0, that doesn’t mean it is using Bluetooth low energy at all – it could be sticking to classic Bluetooth technology, like in a wireless headset, for example.

Just because a device can operate Bluetooth low energy, that does not necessarily mean it meets the criteria for Bluetooth Smart.

“Where a device typically fails [to meet the requirements for Bluetooth Smart Ready] is it does not provide a way for the end user to update its functionality,” Nielsen says. “It’s not up to the cellphone maker to provide functionality for the cellphone to make it operate with your heart rate chest strap, but they do have to allow the end user to add this functionality [if they want to apply the Bluetooth Smart Ready branding].”

Ultimately, the original Bluetooth logo will remain the most commonly used of the Bluetooth trademarks, since the Bluetooth Smart and Bluetooth Smart Ready marks will appear only on product packaging and descriptions. However, the new trademarks provide a way to effectively communicate to consumers the complex situation surrounding the latest version of Bluetooth technology, which is clearly very different to previous versions. Z

“Bluetooth low energy is a feature of Bluetooth Smart, but there are other requirements too” – Svein-Egil Nielsen

At a glance Bluetooth smart

branding emphasizes interoperability between low energy devices

A Bluetooth smart device must have a single mode radio running Bluetooth low energy only

A Bluetooth smart ready device must be dual mode and allow the end user to add software (or apps) for each Bluetooth smart device it’s communicating with

FeatuRe

www.nordicsemi.com

Is it Bluetooth smart ready? New branding will help consumers choose the right product

www.nordicsemi.com10 | summer 2012 | ulp wireless quarter ulp wireless quarter | summer 2012 | 11 www.nordicsemi.com

ulp prODuCt seleCtiOn guiDe

Find the chip you need using this latest listing of every nordic product

ultra low power wireless connectivity solutions

DATE: Q2 2012

Product Line

Product SeriesRF: Radio Frequency

“wireless”

ICsIntegrated Circuits

“chips”

OperatingBand

WirelessProtocol

IC Type

On-chip CPU

On-chip Memory

OTP: One TimeProgramable

Peripherals Applications

Ref. Designs Dev Tools

So

CS

yst

em

-on

-Ch

ip

Co

nn

ec

tiv

ity

Tra

nsc

eiv

er

Oscillators 2-W

ire

Adc

Aes

Analo

g co

mpa

rato

r

Batte

ry M

onito

r

I2s Mdu

PWM

Real

Time c

lock

Rng

sPI

s/Pd

If

Tem

pera

ture

sens

or

uART

usB

Pc P

erip

hera

ls

spor

ts &

fitne

ss

gam

ing

cellp

hone

Acc

esso

ries

cons

umer

elec

troni

cs

Auto

mat

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Healt

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Toys

2.4 GHz RF

nRF24L

nRF24LE1 2.4GHz Proprietary l 80511kB + 256B RAM

16kB + 1.5kB Flash16MHz / 32kHz Crystal

16MHz / 32kHz RCl l l l l l l l l l l l l l l

PC Desktop, RF Remote, R/C Toy

nRFgo Dev Kit Prog. Kit

nRF24LE1 OTP 2.4GHz Proprietary l 80511kB + 256B RAM16kB + 1kB OTP

16MHz / 32kHz Crystal16MHz / 32kHz RC

l l l l l l l l l l l l l l lPC Desktop, RF Remote,

R/C ToynRFgo Dev Kit

Prog. Kit

nRF24LU1+ 2.4GHz Proprietary l 80512kB + 256B RAM

16/32kB Flash16MHz Crystal l l l l l l l l l l

PC Desktop, RF Remote, R/C Toy


nRF24LU1+ OTP 2.4GHz Proprietary l 80512kB + 256B RAM16kB + 1kB OTP

16MHz Crystal l l l l l l l l l lPC Desktop, RF Remote,

R/C ToynRFgo Dev Kit

Prog. Kit

nRF24L01+ 2.4GHz Proprietary l – – 16MHz Crystal l l l l l – Eval Kit

nRF24Audio Streamer

nRF2460 (mono) 2.4GHz Proprietary l – – 16MHz Crystal l l l l l l Microphone nRFgo Dev Kit

nRF24Z1 (stereo) 2.4GHz Proprietary l – – 16MHz Crystal l l l l l l l – Eval Kit

Sub 1-GHz RF

nRF900Multiband

nRF9E5433 / 868915MHz

Proprietary l 8051 4kB + 256B RAM4/8/12/16/20MHz

Crystall l l l l l – Eval Kit

nRF905433 / 868915MHz

Proprietary l – –4/8/12/16/20MHz

Crystall l – Eval Kit

Bluetooth low energy

nRF8000nRF8001 2.4GHz

Bluetoothv4.0+

l – –16MHz / 32kHz Crystal

32kHz RCl l l l l l l l l l PC Desktop, RF Remote


nRF8002 2.4GHzBluetooth

v4.0+l – –

16MHz Crystal32kHz RC

l l Key TagnRFgo Dev Kit

Prog. Kit

ANT

nRF24AP2-1CH 2.4GHz ANT l – – 16MHz / 32kHz Crystal l l l l l l – ANT Dev Kit

nRF24AP2 nRF24AP2-8CH 2.4GHz ANT l – – 16MHz / 32kHz Crystal l l l l l l – ANT Dev Kit

nRF24AP2-USB 2.4GHz ANT l – – 16MHz Crystal l l l l l ANT USB Dongle ANT Dev Kit

256kBFlash

AH

B L

ite

bus

AP

B b

us

Timers / Counters

Analog I/O

Digital I/O

System Peripherals

16kBRAM

GPIO

GPIO pins

Power

RF Match/Antenna

16MHz/32MHz Crystal

32kHz Crystal (opt.)

RadioMulti-protocol 2.4GHz

Processor16 MHz 32-bit

ARM Cortex-M0 CPU

Power supply

Oscillators

Peripheral

Peripheral

Peripheral

Peripheral Peripheral

MO MCU

PPI BUS

Radio

Timer 0

‘‘

12 | summer 2012 | ulp wiReleSS quaRteR www.nordicsemi.com

the 2.4 GHz ultra low power wireless sector has transformed in the last three-to-five years,”

says Svenn-Tore Larsen, Nordic Semiconductor’s CEO. “From being a niche technology then, products such as the nRF24L Series, ANT, and Bluetooth low energy have pushed wireless into the mainstream. And now things are about to explode.”

But even Larsen, with over a decade of experience running one of the leading ultra low power (ULP) wireless silicon suppliers, is unable to predict just how that explosion will play out.

“Proprietary technology has been very successful and will continue to be so because it can be optimized for applications such as wireless desktops

where minimal latency and low power consumption are very important,” he explains. “But technologies such as ANT+ and Bluetooth low energy are rapidly expanding because they are able to seamlessly communicate with devices such as smartphones, PCs, and ‘health hubs’ from many manufacturers. That interoperability will support huge new wireless ecosystems.

“It’s impossible to say which technology will lead. My guess is that there’s plenty of space for each.”

Which is why Larsen has committed tens of millions of Nordic’s R&D dollars into developing a single silicon platform that can support these leading RF software protocols.

the ulp wireless sector is moving fast. But Nordic is keeping ahead of the competition with the launch of its third generation of 2.4gHz SoCs. ULP Wireless Quarter reports

(see figure 1). This chip is a 32-bit device that brings more powerful computing power compared to the 8-bit 8051 core of Nordic’s legacy chips. The microcontroller has been designed for ULP applications and is well suited to wireless connectivity.

The result is a highly optimized device with a small instruction set that can start-up in as little as 2.5 µs, uses its power to complete tasks very rapidly and then returns to a low power sleep state with minimal leakage current. While peak operating currents are similar to an 8-bit 8051, code execution is up to twelve times faster – dramatically reducing overall power consumption. The microcontroller’s performance and code density allows more to be done with less memory.

The Cortex standard for interfacing to these microcontrollers, Cortex Microcontroller Software Interface Standard (CMSIS), forms a basis for controller core interaction. CMSIS standardized code libraries can be used with the nRF51 Series

Next-gen rF connectivity That platform is Nordic’s nRF51 Series. Launched at the end of June, the range represents the company’s third generation of 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity. Performance is superior to the company’s legacy products, but is achieved without sacrificing the chips’ class-leading ultra low power consumption that allows the devices to run from regular coin cell (for example, CR2032) batteries.

The philosophy behind the nRF51 Series is to offer OEMs and ODMs common silicon that is equally adept at running proprietary protocols - such as Nordic’s Gazell - as it is running interoperable software stacks like ANT and Bluetooth low energy.

But the nRF51 Series is so much more than multi-protocol capable. It’s a brand new silicon architecture that redefines the ULP wireless sector.

At the heart of the System-on-Chip (SoC) is a brand new 2.4 GHz radio allied to a powerful ARM Cortex-M0 microcontroller

advanced silicon propels ulp wireless into new era

pRODuCt lauNCH

Figure 1: A schematic of Nordic’s nrF51 series. At its heart lies a new radio and Arm Cortex-m0 microcontroller

Figure 2: A Task & events module controls the interaction between peripherals without the microcontroller waking up

ulp wiReleSS quaRteR | summer 2012 | 13 www.nordicsemi.com

allowing code re-use including the many existing open-source libraries. Developers benefit from the advantages of working with well-known and mature ARM-based toolchains from Keil and IAR.

The nRF51 SoC incorporates a new feature called Peripheral to Peripheral Interconnect (PPI).

Nordic says this is an ingenious approach to peripheral interaction that allows peripherals to operate autonomously and independent of the ARM microcontroller.

PPI operates a 'task & event'

and pre- and post-processing. The microcontroller does all the heavy lifting and sorts the data that needs transmitting into FIFO RAM locations for the radio to access. In conjunction with PPI, EasyDMA relieves the microcontroller of much of the workload associated with packet transmission and reception, cutting power consumption.

The radio is compatible with Nordic’s successful nRF24L Series chips (at 250 kbps, 1 Mbps, and 2 Mbps raw data rates) and ANT, while also being fully compliant with Bluetooth v4.0 (which includes Bluetooth low energy as a hallmark element).

This is still a very impressive radio. The output power range is extended from -20 to +4 dBm (in 4dB steps). (A -30dBm ‘whisper mode’ is also available for applications that operate at very close range.)

Although the radio’s sensitivity depends on operational modes, Nordic says, for example, that it’s -96 dBm in 256 kbps nRF24L compatible mode, -92.5 dBm in Bluetooth low energy mode, and -85 dBm in 2 Mbps nRF24L compatible mode.

With the extension in output power and the increased sensitivity compared to the previous generation, the link budget has improved by nearly 10 dBm. That should result in greatly increased range.

Nonetheless, power consumption is comparable with Nordic’s current class-leading range of products. Peak transmit current is 8mA at -4 dBm, 10.5 mA at 0 dBm and 16 mA at +4 dBm (only 6 mA more to virtually double the range).

The peak receive current consumption is, for example, 13 mA in Bluetooth low energy mode.

secure software behaviorIn addition to the powerful new microcontroller and redesigned radio, the nRF51 Series features an innovative solution to how application and protocol firmware work together. In typical ULP wireless connectivity applications the application code and RF protocol code exist as part of

architecture that enables peripherals to be programmed to respond to events and changes, perform a task, and then generate a corresponding event. For example, the radio might periodically be instructed to send packets at intervals as instructed by a timer without initiation or involvement of the microcontroller (see figure 2).

redesigned radioThe nRF51 Series features a completely redesigned radio.

Nordic has incorporated an important new feature called 'EasyDMA'. The acronym stands for Direct Memory Access and it allows the radio to access data directly from memory, convert to packets, and transmit.

EasyDMA enables increased flexibility of packet format. Packet payloads are retrieved directly from assigned memory spaces allowing for dynamic payload sizes up to a maximum of 256 Byte. There’s no requirement for the radio to worry about factors such as logic timing, addressing,

pRODuCt lauNCH

ANT+ and Bluetooth low energy are rapidly expanding because they are able to seamlessly communicate with devices such as smartphones

BLU

ETO

OT

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IG

“It’s impossible to say which technology will lead. My guess is that there's plenty to space for each”

Application

nRF518 SDK

S110 SOFTDEVICE

Services and Profiles

S110 SOFTWARE STACK

APIs

GATT

DTM

ATT

GAP

SMP

L2CAP

Link layer

nRF518xx SoC

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Pin32_Out

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Pin32_Conf

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AR

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PB

BR

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a singular overall framework. This arrangement puts a lot of pressure on the developer to ensure applications perform as expected and in a timely manner – otherwise, disruptions can cause problems for the RF protocol.

The nRF51 Series addresses this challenge by creating a clean separation between the application and protocol stack elements. The stack, which is delivered in its entirety by the silicon vendor, is completely separate from the application in terms of dependencies.

Required resources needed by the stack are guaranteed in terms of availability and response times.

This encapsulation of the stack as a separate entity to the application brings significant advantages. It means the application developer can build or port an application safe in the knowledge that there are no compile or run-time associated dependencies or potential conflicts.

In addition, this arrangement means the developer can focus on developing in exactly the manner that serves the application best.

This is not the case with current wireless connectivity ICs whereby application and protocol code have an associated inherent coupling. Consequently, developers have to be on their guard for constraints and dependencies during the whole development cycle. Debugging can also be very time-consuming and difficult.

From an architecture perspective the nRF51 has two clear functional blocks that have complete autonomy from each other. The first block is the developer’s application; the second is the protocol block which Nordic calls the ‘Soft Device’. The Soft Device is the self-contained protocol block that has two variants, either a Bluetooth low energy- or ANT-stack (see figure 3).

The memory architecture is

pin’s configuration (for example, whether the pin triggers on a rising edge or a falling edge). A central bus, dubbed the ARM APB Bridge Bus, connects the I/O pins, the SoC’s system blocks, and the Task & Events module. Because of this interconnection and the fact that everything is done by software, the pins can be reconfigured ‘on-the-fly’. For example, pin 32 could be connected to peripheral 1 and then on-the-fly to peripheral 2 (see figure 4).

A major feature of the nRF51 series SoC family is consistent pin-outs between devices offering different protocol functionalities. This removes any concerns for designers related to migration across the family or layout tasks associated with device change. All GPIO functionality is configurable and thus pin behavior is under the control of the designer and not dictated by fixed pin outs that can’t be changed.

The nRF51 Series represents a leap forward in ULP wireless connectivity. The family’s performance, ultra low power consumption, and flexibility will provide a class-leading platform for the major RF protocols for years to come. And if Larsen’s hunch about the growth of the sector proves correct, Nordic’s investment in its third generation of 2.4GHz wireless solutions will have been a very shrewd bet. Z

Figure 3: The developer’s application and the soft Device (shown here as a Bluetooth low energy stack) work autonomously

designed to be fundamentally 'thread-safe' in operation, which ensures application and RF protocol software operates in a secure and predictable manner

Some of the chips in the nRF51 Series can operate as multi-protocol devices. This is useful, for example, if an OEM wants to supply a product that can communicate with legacy nRF24L Series devices while taking advantage of the interoperability of Bluetooth low energy for general communication.

In this arrangement, the Bluetooth low energy RF stack operates separately as a Soft Device while the Nordic Gazell (or other proprietary protocol) works together with the application program. A Soft Device manager decides which protocol takes priority and ensures that the other protocol is disabled.

A shrewd betThe Tasks & Events system approach also takes on the job of managing the I/O pin allocations. The nRF51 Series dispenses with fixed pin locations, instead allowing any pin to be allocated to any part of the chip’s architecture, or even other pins. Unused pins can be disconnected for additional power savings.

Each pin benefits from a dedicated memory area that holds information about the

Figure 4: I/O pins can be reconfigured to link to different peripherals at any time

For more information on the nrF51 series go to www.nordicsemi.com

ulp wiReleSS quaRteR | summer 2012 | 15www.nordicsemi.com

“WASP allows gyms to offer their members a genuine value-added benefit in a very competitive market”

aNT+ is a proven ULP wireless sensor technology developed by ANT Wireless

of Cochrane, Canada. The technology is used in millions of devices across the globe allowing amateurs and professionals alike to measure and record their fitness levels. Individuals can record the data, via the wireless link, to compatible sportswatches or a growing range of mobile handsets (see ULP WQ Winter 2011 pg 12).

However, collecting data from groups (for example, a spin class exercising at the gym) during the activity has proved a little more difficult. Due to its sophisticated interference immunity scheme, ANT+ has no problem operating on many sensors in close proximity, but the problem has been how to gather the information to a single point. If this could be done, exercise group coordinators would, for example, be able to compare the relative performance of all members of the class to see if any are finding things too easy while others are struggling.

A brilliant ideaNow, U.S. electrical engineering specialist North Pole Engineering has come up with the solution. Called WASP, the device is a portable standalone unit that uniquely serves to bridge the gap between Wi-Fi networks and ANT+ devices. WASP enables data from up to 60 ANT+ sensors (or more by adding further WASP units) to be collected and transferred to the Internet via a low cost Wi-Fi link. Once the information is available on the Internet, readily available applications can be used to analyze and present the data for the benefit of the exercise class (see this issue page 3).

“ANT+ wireless sensors are usually only designed to

waSp enables aNt+ to expand appeal in fitness market by making group use easy

Bridging aNt+ to wi-Fi gap

cadence and/or power) in real-time. The instructor could then modify the class or customize their instruction for individual members, something that could be a real value-added-benefit in the fiercely competitive gym market.

It’s a view echoed by Geir Langeland, Nordic’s Director of Sales & Marketing. "WASP allows gyms to offer their members a genuine value-added benefit in a very competitive market without any significant extra costs because the device utilizes a Wi-Fi network the gym probably already has in place and in many cases sports & fitness equipment and sensors they or their members already own.” Z

will store the data in its internal memory and transmit once Internet access is regained.

“The first reaction of many people is: ‘what a brilliant idea, how come nobody has thought of doing this before?’,” says Jim Meyer, VP of Business Development at North Pole Engineering. “This is because WASP opens an enormous application potential for ANT+ to further expand its dominance in the sports & fitness market by making it even easier to use for groups.

“We’re also developing ANT+ converters for gyms that have invested heavily in training computers such as those embedded in gym equipment that aren’t ANT+ compatible ‘out-of-the-box’,” notes Meyer.

Meyer explains that WASP could allow, for example, a spin class instructor to use an iPad to display every class member’s data (for example, heart rate, bike speed/

communicate out to about three meters so have traditionally had to be tied to some kind of hub device such as a sportswatch or USB stick to collect data,” says Joe Tretter, VP of Engineering at North Pole Engineering. “With the WASP you can move that ANT+ data straight to the Internet or some other end-point – such as a smartphone or tablet – using a low-cost Wi-Fi network.”

In operation the WASP is easy to use and highly robust. It has a single (screen) button on its OEM-brandable interface that users push to join a pre-configured Wi-Fi network and if for any reason the WASP can’t join that network – the user pushes the button again to instruct the WASP to create its own Wi-Fi network. The device will then receive data automatically from any ANT+ device in the vicinity and send that to the Internet. And if connection is interrupted WASP

For more on ANT go to www.thisisant.com, for more on nrF24AP2 go to http://tinyurl.com/Nordic-ANT-Products

CaSe StuDY

WAsP allows instructors to check an individual class member’s performance and customize the exercise program accordingly. (Below: WAsP unit)

ANT rF protocol software and ANT+ managed networks run on Nordic nrF24AP2 ANT chips – see panel below

Further Information

iN tHe pReSS


ESM China (ESMC): What are the prospects for Bluetooth v4.0 in the home

appliance market? Svein-Egil Nielsen (SEN): The next big opportunity for Bluetooth wireless technology is in the home environment. The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) is already seeing large consumer electronics (CE) manufacturers adopting Bluetooth wireless technology in a number of new applications. A recent example is Panasonic, Samsung, Sony, and XPAND selecting Bluetooth technology to provide a standardized Active 3D glasses platform.

There is also a lot of interest in RF remotes. Accessing modern digital content with a traditional IR remote’s basic ‘one-button-one-operation’ and step-by-step navigation does not meet the challenge of providing fast browsing and convenient access. Bluetooth wireless technology will play a key role in providing these more advanced and easy-to-use two-way, high bandwidth control interfaces than traditional (one-way, low bandwidth) IR remote control technology.

ESMC: What is the status of Bluetooth v4.0 profiles?SEN: Bluetooth v4.0 application profile development is a continuous process. Given enough interest in a particular market, a relevant profile can be developed. Standardized profiles ensure that equipment is 'speaking the same language' so that equipment from different manufacturers can communicate. But it’s also important to keep in mind that for vertical markets and specialized applications, developers can develop their own way of communicating with

Bluetooth low energy fuels new ideas for Chinese engineersBluetooth Sig Board Member Svein-egil Nielsen responds to ESM China’s questions

user to download the profile and application they want, to enable the exact functionality the user demands. Microsoft, for example, has announced a GATT programming interface that will be available in Windows 8 and I expect to see similar announcement from other platform vendors soon.

This increased flexibility built in to Bluetooth v4.0 will unleash the full creativity of engineers in China and across the globe. Chinese companies and engineers have shown themselves to be very good at coming up with new innovations, and Bluetooth v4.0 will enable them to develop new products and applications that have yet to be imagined.

For its part, Nordic is planning some major product releases in 2012 that’ll further enhance the performance of its ultra low power wireless links. While the global economic climate remains tough for electronics companies, this year is a good time to embark on new projects in ultra low power wireless connectivity. Z

www.nordicsemi.com

the product using the flexible nature of the Bluetooth v4.0 Generic Attribute Profile (GATT) architecture. This means a Bluetooth-approved profile is not always needed to develop new applications.

ESMC: What other insights can you share with our Chinese readers?

SEN: I believe that by leveraging Bluetooth v4.0 and its GATT-based architecture, the way we look at profiles and applications will be different from the Bluetooth wireless technology of the past.

In contrast to the past, when a phone or computer came preloaded with a set of profiles, tomorrow’s smartphones and computers will allow the

“The Bluetooth SIG is seeing large CE manufacturers adopting Bluetooth technology in a number of new applications”

Bluetooth v4.0 will enable the development of innovative

connected portable products

ESM ChinaThis article is an extract of a feature published in ESM China in simplified Chinese, during January 2012.

Transmission after authentication protects a cyclist’s heart rate data


the wireless market is evolving to deal with latency, interference, and power issues

information sensitivity makes each wireless data security case different

iN tHe pReSS

Depending on the application, interoperability may not be necessary for

successful wireless audio, according to Kenneth Megård, Senior Applications Engineer, Nordic Semiconductor.

“The value of interoperability really depends on the actual application,” Megård said. “For a smartphone wireless speaker, for instance, it’s essential. But for a pair of mics designed only to work with a dedicated karaoke product, interoperability does not really make a difference. Indeed, interoperability in these situations can actually be a negative, because proprietary products can be much more finely optimized for a given application in terms of performance without incurring

the added complexity and cost overhead that an interoperable solution would demand.”

The big advantage of using a proprietary wireless interface is that you can optimize it for the application; for example, it could be optimized for the lowest possible power or latency. Nordic’s nRF2460 (mono) and nRF24Z1 (stereo) audio streamer devices are prime examples.

According to Megård, Nordic found that a latency of typically about 20ms is required to handle even the worst operating environment scenarios. "This is really the biggest challenge with wireless audio," he said. "It's a trade off between maintaining good audio quality in the crowded 2.4GHz band and low latency." Z

The use case of fitness equipment, such as stationary bikes or

treadmills that interface with ULP-based sports watches, for example, has moved from a simple peer-to-peer model to data sharing with multiple types of equipment - introducing tougher security requirements. Health devices potentially covered by medical privacy regulations are also in this class. Heart rate monitors can fall into either category.

The ANT+ solution focuses on being certain that all data exchange takes place between

legitimate devices through authentication procedures. The pairing process is carefully defined, for example, and is augmented by inclusion and exclusion lists as well as proximity searching.

“A secure link provides as good a security performance as encryption,” says Mike Paradis, Global Sales Manager at Dynastream Innovations (the company that owns Cochrane, Canada-based ANT Wireless, the RF software protocol developer of ANT and ANT+). “And there is no RF overhead except the pairing itself.” ANT Wireless has also created use-case profiles for ANT+ that describe the use case and its design implications in detail, including whether or not communication can take place without a secure connection. In addition, ANT’s Time Domain Multiple Access (TDMA)-like adaptive isochronous interference avoidance scheme also aids security. Z

ulp wireless security: No one-size-fits-all solution

the evolution of wireless audio

RF & Microwave DesignLineThe full article was originally published on RF & Microwave DesignLine.

The website is published by UBM Electronics

Electronic SpecifierThe full article was originally published in Electronic Specifier.

The magazine is published by Electronic Specifier Limited

www.nordicsemi.com

To see the article in full go to: http://tinyurl.com/6vzxdbd

To see the article in full go to: http://tinyurl.com/6snn29v

By Jack shandle, freelance writer specializing in semiconductors

For a wireless microphone working with a dedicated karaoke interoperability is not important

From the Spec Sheet

• Fully qualified Bluetooth low energy 4.0 peripheral device

• Integrated Bluetooth low energy profiles and services

• Coin-cell battery operation

• single 1.9 to 3.6 V power supply

• Compact 5 by 5 mm QFN32 package

Adding Nordic’s µBlue™ nRF8002 to a product design demands no specialist understanding of Bluetooth

low energy wireless technology or any embedded firmware development. Using a Nordic nRFgo-compatible nRF8002 Development Kit, developers can design Bluetooth Smart tags and accessories using a simple graphical user interface that allows them to go no deeper than configuring the built-in application layer and mapping inputs and outputs to external components such as buttons, LEDs, and buzzers.

The nRF8002 is supplied in a compact 5 by 5 mm QFN package and includes a fully-qualified Bluetooth v4.0 low energy protocol stack, a highly configurable application layer, and built-in support for a range of Bluetooth v4.0 profiles including: Find Me, Proximity, Alert Notifications, and Battery Status.

Simple design answer for BluetoothSmart tags

“One of the truly unique features of the nRF8002 is its ease-of-use for developers,” says Kjartan Furset, Strategic Application Manager at Nordic Semiconductor. “It is the first and only Bluetooth low energy solution where developers can use a graphical PC-based tool to build their application – with no firmware development or deep Bluetooth low energy wireless technology understanding required.” Z

For more information on the nrF8002, go to tinyurl.com/nrF8002-spec


pRODuCt HigHligHtS

For more information on the nrF24AP2-1CH, go to tinyurl.com/nrF24AP2-1CH-spec

nR

F8

00

2

The nRF24AP2 platform delivers high functionality allied to low power and reduced cost. Reductions in peak and

average current compared to the previous generation allow designers to employ the nRF24AP2 in new applications and market segments that were previously inaccessible to wireless solutions because of severe (small battery) power or cost constraints.

The single-channel nRF24AP2 (nRF24AP2-1CH) is a cost-optimized version of the product suitable for a wide range of simple wireless sensoring applications in the sports, medical, industrial, and home networking sectors. Applications examples include the monitoring and reporting of: heart rate, speed & distance, bike power, bike cadence, blood pressure, blood glucose, temperature, pressure, and humidity.

“Compared to the previous generation, the nRF24AP2 provides major enhancements in terms of performance,

Redefining the ultra low power wireless connectivity benchmark

nR

F24

ap

2-1

CH

The single-channel nrF24AP2 is suitable for simple wireless sensors

From the Spec Sheet

• supports 1 ANT (logic) channel – suitable for sensors

• Fully embedded, enhanced ANT protocol stack

• Configurable channel period of 5.2 ms to 2 s

• Burst data rate up to 20 kbps

• Fully interoperable with nrF24AP1 and Dynastream ANT chipset / module-based products and other nrF24AP2 variants

Designing Bluetooth smart tags is made much easier with the nrF8002

power consumption and ANT features,” says Thomas Embla Bonnerud, Director of Product Management at Nordic. “On top of that, the nRF24AP2 product variants will be competitively priced even lower than the previous products.” Z

www.nordicsemi.com

“Bluetooth Smart will support a whole new world of applications and could solve a lot of problems”

Trondheim, situated in the middle of Norway, is home to Nordic's r&D HQ

David Devasahayam Edwin

Hi, I’m David Devasahayam Edwin and for four years I’ve been a

Senior Software Architect at Nordic Semiconductor’s R&D headquarters in Trondheim.

My main focus has been Bluetooth low energy all the way back to its 2006 origins as the Nokia-led Wibree initiative in which Nordic was an early member. Bluetooth low energy is a hallmark feature of the latest Bluetooth v4.0 specification and if certain qualification requirements are met can be used to develop Bluetooth Smart devices (such as wireless sensors, peripherals, and accessories) compatible with any Bluetooth Smart Ready hub product (e.g. smartphone, or tablet/computer).

In addition to architecting the higher layers of Nordic’s first Bluetooth low energy chip – the µBlue™ nRF8001 – I am currently engaged in a lot of specification work for the Bluetooth SIG.

This recently included helping to develop the Sensor Profile in the latest Bluetooth v4.0 spec that has become the basis for the latest Generic Attribute Profile – or ‘GATT’ for short. GATT is the technical foundation

new wireless technology that will support a whole new world of applications and solve a lot of problems.

This makes all the hard work worthwhile, which is important as sometimes I have to support customers on their time zone, often from home late at night, to ensure a problem is resolved and a product development schedule stays on track.

Outside of work I enjoy playing with my two year-old son and reading books about marriage and money as I think these are two of the most important things in life that are not taught in formal education. I also love sliding about in the snow and ice with my son – either on a Rumpebrett (a small plate-sized plastic sledge with a handle designed for kids) or my ski pants.

That said, it took me a while to stop complaining and start enjoying the weather in Trondheim (it snows half the year here).

The only downside is that for some reason I’ve lost three right-hand gloves and am now seriously thinking of developing a Bluetooth Smart-based snow glove proximity app to save me from my wife if I lose a fourth! Z

David Devasahayam edwin

for Bluetooth Smart devices and applications on smartphones that makes Bluetooth Smart downloadable apps viable.

More recently, I helped pilot the Bluetooth Smart Human Interface Device (HID) over GATT profile through the Bluetooth SIG adoption process, and am currently working on a future automation I/O profile. I also support the sales teams with technical training and customers.

One of the things I really like about my job is the feeling that what I do actually matters. Bluetooth Smart is an exciting

peOple & plaCeS

Personal ProfileNAME:

David Devasahayam edwinJOB TITLE:

senior software ArchitectJOINED NORDIC:

December 2007BASED:

Trondheim, NorwayINTERESTS INCLUDE:

Family, reading,sliding in snow and ice


Subscribe to ULP Wireless Quarter:To subscribe (or unsubscribe) to ULP Wireless Q please login to (or create) your Nordic myPage account at www.nordicsemi.com

BACK ISSUES: A complete archive of all previous ULP Wireless Q issues are available for you to download in PDF format at: www.nordicsemi.com/News/uLP-Wireless-Quarter

Focused on Bluetooth low energy since its wibree origins

NORDIC SEMICONDUCTOR

AANT+ wireless technology is employed in its millions in the vast majority of sports and fitness sensors and hub products (such as sports watches and bike computers) in use around the world today?

B ANT+ compatibility is now being included as standard in an ever growing list of smartphones?

CANT+ is considered to be the wireless technology of choice by the world’s top sports & fitness monitoring brands whose products are used by the world’s top athletes?

...and would it interest you to know that...Did you know that...

NORDICS E M I C O N D U C T O R

Nordic Semiconductor leads the world in ultra low power (watch battery) wireless chips and offers a complete range of class-leading proprietary, ANT+, and Bluetooth® low energy wireless technology solutions.

WWW.NORDICSEMI.COM

of ANT+ wireless chip solutions

from Nordic Semiconductor

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