Module combines dual-band WiFi & dual-mode Bluetooth

20th February 2015

u-blox

Nat Bowers

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Datasheet

A stand-alone multiradio module designed for IoT applications, the ODIN-W262, has been introduced by u-blox. The module makes adding wireless connectivity to any product quick and easy, with the added benefit that it is radio type-approved in countries across the world. The module supports multiple concurrent WiFi (2.4 and 5GHz), Classic Bluetooth and BLE links to provide the greatest flexibility possible.

The ODIN-W262 needs no external host, is ready-to-use, is easily configured using AT-commands and comes complete with embedded driver, stack and application for wireless data transfer. The WiFi and Bluetooth module measures just 14.8x22.3x4.5mm and operates over a temperature range from -40 to +85°C.

Future firmware upgrades will add micro access point, high-speed interfaces (such as RMII) and support for custom embedded applications. For example, the module will be able to act as a WiFi access point or as a gateway between WiFi and BLE sensors. These numerous configuration options minimise inventory requirements and reduce design effort and costs because one module can be software-configured for use in a variety of products. For example, a manufacturer may want to offer products in either WiFi or Bluetooth versions.

Herbert Blaser, Head of Product Center Short Range Radio, u-blox, comments, “Concurrent WiFi and Bluetooth has many uses. In retail applications, Bluetooth low energy may be used to detect the closest printer while data is sent to that printer over WiFi or Bluetooth classic. There are potential medical applications too. A patient monitoring device may be supervised via WiFi at a central location in the hospital, while local communication with nurses is carried out over Bluetooth. For such medical applications, the module complies with the IEC 60601-1-2 standard.”

The EVK-W262U is an evaluation kit for the module. It uses a single USB connection for data and power and comes complete with the u-blox configuration tool for Windows. For applications where an external antenna may be optimal, u-blox offers the ODIN-W260 module, which is a version with U.FL antenna connectors.

Samples and evaluation kits will be available in April 2015.