STMicroelectronics Introduces Next-Generation Bluetooth Low Energy Chip to Boost Connected Smart Things

STMicroelectronics, a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronic applications, has introduced the new-generation Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) System-on-Chip. It is aimed at accelerating the spread of connected smart objects throughout homes, shopping areas, industry, gaming, personal healthcare, and infrastructure. The new technology enables users to connect their own devices with any BLE-enabled objects. In addition, service providers can also connect assets to the Cloud for service delivery and data collection. 

 

ST believes that there are noteworthy opportunities for BLE-connected applications that are simple, functionally-focused, and can be operated on a button cell for a long time. The new BlueNRG-2 chip fulfills all these requirements through its highly power-efficient programmable processor and low-power features including an ultra-frugal standby mode. 

 

 

It’s a Bluetooth 5.0 certified chip that ensures interoperability with the latest smartphones and supports enhanced functions like state-of-the-art security, privacy, and extended packet length for faster data transfer.

 

The strong RF signal saves system power by ensuring reliable wireless communication and generous on-chip memory for BLE software and application code simplifies system design by saving external components.

 

The BlueNRG-2 Evaluation Kit (STEVAL-IDB008V1) contains MEMS sensors, LEDs, push-buttons, and programming interface to run the provided demonstration software out-of-the-box. An Arduino-compatible connector is also featured on-board, which allows development of more complex applications by adding extra expansion boards.

• The ARM® Cortex®-M0 core provides low-power, extremely efficient, 32-bit processing performance for BlueNRG-2.

 

• 256KB of Flash memory gives extra flexibility to handle code and data storage. 

 

• The integrated BLE radio with +8dBm RF output power maximizes communication range and saves overall energy consumption by avoiding data errors and retries. 

 

• The device is specified for operation up to 105°C, allowing use in a wide range of scenarios including automotive environments.

 

• The increased memory size and the high-efficiency core architecture allows running ST Open.MEMS libraries with low impact on the overall power consumption.

 

• The sensors and libraries enable developers to implement advanced capabilities like gesture recognition and activity tracking.

 

“The BlueNRG-2 ushers in an era of connected smart things all around us, enabling secure, reliable and energy-efficient interaction with any object, like a toothbrush or lighting switch, from our mobile devices,” said Benedetto Vigna, Executive Vice President, Analog and MEMS Group General Manager, STMicroelectronics. “Moreover, the objects can benefit from simple construction, fully sealed if necessary, and yet fully interoperable through natural voice control or the feature-rich and stylish user interface of an Android or iOS smart application.”

 

 

BlueNRG-2 is available now, in a 32-pin QFN. Further options will be introduced later in the year, offering more GPIO in a 48-pin QFN and an ultra-small 2.6mm x 2.7mm WLCSP chip-scale package. Pricing for the BlueNRG-232 (QFN package) is USD1.95 for orders of 1000 pieces.