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Navigating RF Certification: A Guide to DTM and Radio Testing

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RF Test – DTM & Radio Test

When launching new products, there is a requirement for RF testing, and two methods are commonly used:

DTM (Direct Test Mode) and Radio Test.


Nordic’s SDK provides two RF testing programs: DTM (Direct Test Mode) and Radio Test. While both methods can test RF indicators, they have some distinctions. DTM follows the Bluetooth specification’s Direct Test Mode data format (referenced in Bluetooth Core Specification Version 5.2, Vol. 6, Part F.), primarily for Bluetooth certification tests.

On the other hand, Radio Test focuses on the chip’s radio indicators, making it more suitable for FCC and ETSI certifications.

Let’s delve into detailed explanations for DTM and Radio Test programs.



DTM(Direct Test Mode)

The Bluetooth Association offers a feature for testing RF characteristics. Nordic has incorporated DTM firmware into the SDK according to SIG standard documents. Customers only need to modify the Baud Rate and UART TX/RX pins to conduct RF tests.

1. Download and install nRF Connect for desktop software and nRF5 SDK from the Nordic website.

nRF Connect for desktop download:

https://www.nordicsemi.com/Software-and-tools/Development-Tools/nRF-Connect-for-desktop/Download


nRF5 SDK download:

https://www.nordicsemi.com/Software-and-tools/Software/nRF5-SDK/Download#infotabs



2. Install the Direct Test Mode program in the nRF Connect for desktop software.


3. Extract the SDK package, open the DTM example code from

nRF5_SDK_vxx\examples\dtm\direct_test_mode\ board number\blank, modify TX and RX pins based on the target board’s definitions, then compile.

Download the program to the target board connected to the PC.
(Select the appropriate sample code based on the IC/module for testing, referring to the board number below.)

IC P/Nboard number
NRF52832pca10040
NRF52810pca10040e
NRF52840pca10056
NRF52811pca10056e
NRF52833pca10100
NRF52820pca10100e

RF testing is performed using UART TX/RX commands.
The SDK program defaults to certain positions, but users can modify these two pin positions according to their product design without changing the Baud Rate setting.

UART PinnRF51nRF52
TXDP0.09P0.06
RXDP0.11P0.08


4. Use nRFConnect DTM for testing by adjusting UART TX/RX pins.

Please refer to Video tutorial from link below:
https://github.com/NordicSemiconductor/pc-nrfconnect-dtm/blob/master/resources/screenshot.gif



Radio Test

Nordic provides a tool for simpler RF testing, allowing the configuration of radio-related data such as TX power, frequency, TX carrier, and TX modulation carrier through a Command List. It doesn’t include testing for RX sensitivity; if needed, users must either write a program for this test or use DTM for testing.

1. Open from nRF5_SDK_vxx\examples\peripheral\radio_test\board number\blank
(Based on the IC/module for testing, referring to the board number below.)

IC P/Nboard number
NRF52832pca10040
NRF52810pca10040e
NRF52840pca10056
NRF52811pca10056e
NRF52833pca10100
NRF52820pca10100e


2. This test also utilizes a Command-based approach to send instructions for different parameter tests. Compared to DTM, Radio Test is more flexible, offering a wider range of RF parameters to test.
The connection method between the target board and PC, serial port modifications, and the approach with DTM are identical.


3. Use the command-Line interface (CLI) through the serial port to control and test the output power, bitrate, and channel settings of the radio parameters during testing.

Additionally, configure the CLI to enable the 32 MHz high-frequency crystal oscillator.

The application allows setting scanning mode with intervals ranging from 1 millisecond to 99 milliseconds (per 1 millisecond) for each channel.


4. Refer to the Nordic CLI commands documentation for the command testing method.

https://infocenter.nordicsemi.com/index.jsp?topic=%2Fcom.nordic.infocenter.sdk5.v15.2.0%2Fnrf_radio_test_example.html&cp=4_0_0_4_5_29_0&anchor=nrf_radio_test_example_commands

5.Testing

Lastly, we can utilize Spectrum to test PCBA RF characteristics.



Edited by Sales Manager: Ms. Vicky Huang
Raytac Corporation 勁達國際電子股份有限公司
Bluetooth & WiFi module maker based on Nordic nRF54, nRF53, nRF52, nRF7002 solution                     

BT5.4 &BT5.3 & BT5.2 & BT5.1 Qualified, FCC/IC/CE/Telec/KC/RCM/SRRC/NCC Pre-Certified.         
Bluetooth Solution:  nRF54, nRF5340, nRF52840, nRF52833, nRF52832, nRF52820, nRF52811, nRF52810, nRF52805, nRF51822    WiFi Solution: nRF7002 
https://www.raytac.com email: mailto:sales@raytac.com Tel: +886.2.3234.0208           

Understanding Wireless Certification and Compliance:A Guide to Module and Non-Module Approval Processes

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Certification and compliance:

By obtaining wireless (Bluetooth) certification, manufacturers can demonstrate that their products comply with the required technical reliability. In another words, these certifications are like products’ passes, allow them legally entering the market and be able to import or export specific countries. Modular approval and Non-modular approval are two different approaches to the certification and regulatory processes for wireless communication devices.

Modular approval is a process in which a wireless device is certified as a modular component, such as a Bluetooth module, that can be integrated into multiple host devices without additional testing for each host device. Once certified, the module can be used in various host devices without undergo the same level of testing.

Non-modular approval is also known as end-product approval, is the traditional certification process for wireless devices, where the entire device needs to be tested and certified for compliance with wireless (Bluetooth) standards and regulations.

Countries follow and under modular approval such as FCC (USA), IC (Canada), Telec (Japan), KC (South Korea), NCC(Taiwan), SRRC(China)…etc.Meanwhile, countries are under non-modular approval, we have CE (Europe), RCM (Australia and New Zealand)…etc.

The elaboration and the easy steps on how the process we go through as you choose Raytac, detail for each as following:

Modular Approval:

FCC  (USA)
FCC ID Search | Federal Communications Commission
1. Part 15C –> Simply use our module FCC ID on product label
2. Part 15B (EMC) –> request lab to test on EMC, SDoc*
*Definition: SDoc(Supplier’s Declaration of conformity)
One way to show that a product, process or service to comply with a standard or technical regulation, in which a supplier provides written assurance of conformity to the specified requirements.

IC (Canada)
IndustryCanda Wireless ID Database (industrycanada.co)
1.Similar to FCC –> Simply use our module IC ID on product label.
2.–> request lab to test finished good on EMC (IC ES003).
Recommend combining test with FCC Part 15B

Telec (MIC)(Japan)
MIC ICT Policy (soumu.go.jp)
1.–> Simply use our module Telec ID on product label
2.Different from the USA and Canada –> EMC is optional in Japan, upon on end customer’s request.

KC  (South Korea)
South Korea – Labeling/Marking Requirements (trade.gov)
1. Wireless test can be continued to use module report, new test is not required.
2. EMC KN301489(same rule as CE EN301489)
–> to be tested based on final goods under EMC test policy. Same rules as FCC and IC.
Recommend combining test with FCC Part 15B.
3. If product obtain additional cable IO port, test on KN3235 is required.
4. To be KC certified, the new test is required, certification no. cannot be continued to use from other policy. And the test must be done locally.

NCC (Taiwan)
NATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (ncc.gov.tw)
1. Products is compliant with platform policy –> lab submit photo and add product under Raytac NCC no.
2. Products is not compliant with platform policy –> product must be tested as final goods at the lab to be certified.
*Definition: platform policy: product itself has it’s own function before Bluetooth was installed. For example, a Bluetooth installed pen has a new function; it vibrates when the switch is on. In this scenario, pen originally has it’s own function, and now the addition function; vibration has been added to this device. We say this product is compliant with platform policy.

SRRC (China)
State Radio Regulation of China (srrc.org.cn)
1. –>Simply use our module SRRC ID on product label.
2. Products doesn’t under the category of home electronics / office supplies, SRRC test must be implemented.

Non-Modular Approval:

CE  (Europe)
CE Marking (trade.gov)
1. Wireless test: EN300328
–> Conducted test could continue to use Raytac ‘s CE report.
–> Radiated test is required to be tested based on final goods under wireless regulation.
2. EN301489 (EMC) –> Same rules as FCC and IC. Recommend combining test with FCC Part 15B
3. Safety test: EN60950 (EN62368)–> safety test is required to be tested based on final goods under regulation.

RCM (Australia and New Zealand)
The Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM) (General) – EESS
1. Products is CE certified –>lab can copy CE report to apply RCM
2. Products is not CE certified –> go through the same test as CE regulations.

Overall, it’s important to note that the certification process and requirements may vary across different regions. Manufacturers should consult the relevant certification authorities to determine the specific requirements for their wireless devices.
Raytac already took a step ahead gone through complex procedures of obtaining certifications, and we also have strong IT team to support for best solutions.Choosing Raytac would allow you to work more efficient and it will be your key in success for all the projects.

Edited by Sales Manager: Mandy Chao

Raytac Corporation 勁達國際電子有限公司
A Bluetooth & WiFi module maker based on Nordic nRF54, nRF53, nRF52, nRF7002 solution 
www.raytac.com email: service@raytac.com Tel: +886.2.3234.0208           

　

How To Get started with Nordic nRF5340 Project by Raytac MDBT53/MDBT53V Development Kit Demo Board

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Edited by Jocelyn Tsai / Account Manager

Here provides the easy introduction to the article of Hardware & Firmware Set up with step-by-step guidelines for nRF5340 Module demo board MDBT53-DB-40/MDBT53V-DB-40.

  1. Hardware Set Up
  2. Software Kits Resource & Preparation
  3. To recognize your nRFConnect SDK version case by case

1. Hardware Set Up

  • 1 x Nordic nRF5340-DK Board: PCA10095(2.0.0)
  • 1 x MDBT53-DB-40 or 1x MDBT53V-DB-40
  • 1 x IDC Wire 
  • 1 x Power Micro USB
  • 1 x Power Mini USB

**Reminder: Both “Nordic nRF5340-DK” and “Raytac MDBT53/53V Demo BD” should be included into the working network for program development.

Where to buy MDBT53-DB-40 , MDBT53V-DB-40
MDBT53-DB-40 (nRF5340 Solution)
MDBT53V-DB-40 (nRF5340 Solution)

  • Using Nordic DK as J-Link ( nRF5340 DK ONLY) Connects with MDBT53/53V DB by IDC wire.
  • Powered up MDBT53/53V DB by Mini USB wire.
  • Powered up the nRF5340-DK by Micro USB wire.
MDBT53-DB-40 Schematic Diagram
MDBT53-VDB-40 Schematic Diagram

 

2.Software Kits Resource & Preparation

Download nRF Connect For Desktop (Please Click Me)

Download nRF Command Line Tools (Please Click Me)

Preparation

a. Prepared with the latest version of nRF Connect for Desktop

Selected version 3.12.0 Windows 32-bit and 64-bit

nrfconnect-setup-3.12.0-ia32.exe

b. Prepared with the latest version of nRF Command Line Tools

Selected version 10.18.1 Windows X86 64

nrf-Command-Line-Tools-10.18.1-x64.exe

**Note: SEGGER J-LINK Upgrade message might pop up while you’re doing above download.

 If you’re initiating Segger Embedded Studio (SES) application, please check the guideline here

c. Locate all the necessary kits for programming in PC (Check Software/Application list)

 

 

3. To recognize your nRFConnect SDK version case by case

Intro: The preparation of nRF Connect SDK Vx.x.x(NCS SDK version, ) and Nordic Example code will help you get through the program code building and trace debug in VS Code IDE or Segger Embedded Studio IDE. Here’s the brief way to recognize your nRFConnect SDK version which suits your project development.

Step1.

  Activated your “nRF Connect for Desktop”  >> “Toolchain Manager” >> “Open” >> “Install”

(**Note: The development nRF Connect SDK(NCS) provides with free VS Code IDE and Segger Embedded Studio IDE as compiling system)

Step2.

To recognize your project is with or without Audio inquiry and download the “nRF Connect SDK(NCS)” by the following classification.

A.) Project with Non-Audio case

Option1. Go with NCS V1.9.1 (Included) and previous version.

There’re either “Open VS Code” or “Open Segger Embedded Studio” IDE options could be selected for program coding.

Option2. Go with NCS V2.0.0(included) and the later.

 There’s simply “Open VS Code” IDE that could be run for program coding.

B.) Project with “Audio” inquiry

You would only have option of NCS V2.0.0(included) and the later version working in “Open VS Code” IDE.

Step3.

 Please make sure the nRFConnect SDK is installed at same base directory with compiling system  (the root of Open VS Code)

(This is using D:\ncs-work base as example.)    

If the base is not directing to the same, do “Select directory’” to re-direct the route.

Step4.

nRFConnect SDK Vx.x.x Download ready

Find more information about nRF5340 Module firmware development resources in below link!

“How To USE Nordic Connect SDK (NCS) Flashing Built Code into nRF5340 Module" , Please click this link! 

“How To Get Started With nRF5340 Module Program Coding and Compiling" Please click this link

 

Raytac Corporation 勁達國際電子有限公司
A BT5.2 & BT5.1 & BT5 module maker based on Nordic nRF53 & nRF52 solution 
(nRF5340 & nRF52840 & nRF52833 & nRF52832 & nRF52820 & nRF52811 & nRF52810 & nRF52805)
www.raytac.com email: service@raytac.com Tel: +886.2.3234.0208

Nordic nRF5340 Module MDBT53 and MDBT53V By Raytac Corporation

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Nordic nF5340 is the first wireless SoC with dual core processors which aimed to optimized the performance of complex IoT applications and LE audios. The dual core contains a 1MB Flash / 512K RAM M4F MCU for application processor and another 256K Flash / 64K RAM for network. This structure remarkable optimized the performance also low power efficiency.

Raytac released 5 modules with 2 form factors, MDBT53 and MDBT53V,  with different antenna options for selection. The modules deployed nRF53 SoC supports high-speed SPI, QSPI, USB, I2C, I2S, and NFC interface and 105°C industrial temperature specification. BT5.3 pre-qualified, FCC/IC/CE/Telec (MIC)/KC/SRRC/NCC pre-certified is a MUST for all Raytac modules.

MDBT53 is a System-on-Module (aka SoM) with a good size of 9.3mm x 14.3mm and 48 GPIO which is an ideal dimension to fit in most applications. MDBT53 provides 3 antenna options, Chip antenna; PCB antenna; and u.FL connector for external antenna which deliver a maximum feasibility for most IoT projects. MDBT53-1M (Chip Antenna) MDBT53-P1M (PCB Antenna) MDBT53-U1M (u.FL Connector for External Antenna)

MDBT53V is designated for the application which has a space constraint design. A 7.8mm x 12.4mm with 25 GPIO is small enough to offer the opportunity of employing nRF5340 modules in the project. MDBT53V provides 2 options of antenna, Chip and PCB, for developers’ selection which is capable of optimizing the project plan in terms of performance and budgetary.  MDBT53V-1M (Chip Antenna) MDBT53V-P1M (PCB Antenna)

Raytac Corporation 勁達國際電子有限公司
A BT5.3 & BT5.2 & BT5.1 module maker based on Nordic nRF53 & nRF52 solution 
(nRF5340 & nRF52840 & nRF52833 & nRF52832 & nRF52820 & nRF52811 & nRF52810 & nRF52805)
www.raytac.com. email: sales@raytac.com Tel: +886.2.3234.0208

Raytac nRF53 Module BT5.2 Qualified, FCC/IC/CE/Telec/KC Pre-Certified

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The nRF5340 is the world’s first wireless SoC with two Arm® Cortex®-M33 processors. The architecture is including an “Application Processor" which deployed a 1M Flash 512K RAM; and a “Network Processor’ which deployed a 256K Flash and 64K RAM. With the IoT applications has become more and more complex nowadays, nRF5340 is exact the solution to meet higher specification demand of technology and provide an easier and quick path toward project success.

Raytac deployed nRF5340 SoC to built up 2 series of module which are MDBT53 & MDBT53V . Both modules now have been completed BT5.2 qualification; FCC/IC/CE/Telec/KC/SRRC/NCC pre-certified. Quoted from Nordic Blog: First nRF5340 modules eliminate processor trade-off for developers, Raytac offer a range of qualified and certified modules based on Nordic technology which can immediately save the cost, time and complex process of the testing works. Shorten the Time to Market and Get the thing done quickly and effectively is what the advantage Raytac module can bring over to you.

Raytac Corporation 勁達國際電子有限公司
A BT5.2 & BT5.1 & BT5 module maker based on Nordic nRF53 & nRF52 solution 
(nRF5340 & nRF52840 & nRF52833 & nRF52832 & nRF52820 & nRF52811 & nRF52810 & nRF52805)
www.raytac.com email: service@raytac.com Tel: +886.2.3234.0208

Wireless Certification For Wirepas Massive On Pre-Certified Module

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Does the end products need to perform certification test again if using Wirepas Massive software on a Pre-certified Bluetooth module? The Answer is “No"!

Local wireless regulation is the obligation for all devices need to follow. Raytac recently have received several queries from customers asking about if products built by Raytac’s Bluetooth modules need to perform FCC testing again if loaded Wirepas Massive software (aka Wirepas Mesh)?

Wireless regulation by countries may simply divided into 2 categories which are modular policy and non-modular policy. Countries like USA (FCC), Canada (IC), Japan (MIC/Telec)…etc. are following modular policy which means end products do not need to perform wireless testing and allow to use certified module ID on end products directly without further testing required. For non-modular policy countries like Europe (CE), the end products can only reference part of module testing report but still need perform the testing based on product base.

Bluetooth modules loaded Wirepas software would not change the wireless characteristics and features in term of frequency, channels, modulation, transmit power and antenna from original. Therefore, the original module certification and testing report can be referenced, used and leveraged.

Wirepas, an IoT software provider offers a flexible, scalable, and high reliability connectivity solution has been significantly reducing the cost and complexity over projects. The long-standing partnership between Raytac and Wirepas framed a combined hardware and software solution, has built up an ecosystem by providing a per-certified module and ready-to-use software successfully shorten time-to-market for system integrations and accelerate business.

Raytac Corporation 勁達國際電子有限公司
A BT5.3 & BT5.2 & BT5.1 module maker based on Nordic nRF53 & nRF52 solution 
(nRF5340 & nRF52840 & nRF52833 & nRF52832 & nRF52820 & nRF52811 & nRF52810 & nRF52805 & nRF51822)
www.raytac.com. email: sales@raytac.com. Tel: +886.2.3234.0208

Raytac Corporation Factory Tour

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Many Customers are interested about Raytac’s facility, reliability and capacity. Here, Raytac would like to invite customers having a quick tour and know more about Raytac’s factory.

Raytac’s factory is located in New Taipei City where is located in north of Taiwan. The factory scales 4600 M2 with 180 man power. A completed in house SMT equipment and inspection facility provide a reliable and speedy module production line with over 600,000 pcs monthly capacity.

Raytac Corporation 勁達國際電子有限公司
A BT5.2 & BT5.1 & BT5 module maker based on Nordic nRF52 & nRF51 solution 
(nRF5340 & nRF52840 & nRF52833 & nRF52832 & nRF52820 & nRF52811 & nRF52810 & nRF52805 & nRF51822)
www.raytac.com. email: cs@raytac.com. Tel: +886.2.3234.0208

Nordic nRF52833 Module by Raytac

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 nRF52833 is a powerful solution which supports multiprotocol such as Bluetooth, Zigbee, and Thread but also qualified for industrial operation at an extended temperature range of -40°C to 105°C. 

Raytac’s MDBT50Q and MDBT50 module employed nRF52833 solution offering 2 kinds of form factor with either 48 or 18 GPIO option for selection. 3 antenna options helps developers to find the best balance between performance and budgetary for projects.

MDBT50Q and MDBT50 modules are BT5.2 qualified supports direction finding and Bluetooth long range feature.  Both are built around 128K RAM, 512K Flash memory with I2C, SPI, I2S, UART, NFC, USB interface. A 1.7V to 5.5V supply voltage range enables powering the device from rechargeable batteries or over USB and +8dBm output power has significantly enhance the bluetooth long range coverage which is suitable for outdoor or smart home applications.

Nordic nRF52833 module by Raytac MDBT50Q & MDBT50

The modules are FCC/IC/CE/Telec/KC/SRRC/NCC/RCM pre-certified and in mass production for volume shipment. EVK demo board is also available for quick debug and evaluation. Developers who are interested in nRF52833 module MDBT50Q and MDBT50 are welcome get in touch with Raytac for immediate service support.

Raytac Corporation 勁達國際電子有限公司
A BT5.2 & BT5.1 & BT5 module maker based on Nordic nRF52 & nRF51 solution 
(nRF5340 & nRF52840 & nRF52833 & nRF52832 & nRF52820 & nRF52811 & nRF52810 & nRF52805 & nRF51822)
www.raytac.com. email: cs@raytac.com. Tel: +886.2.3234.0208

Nordic nRF52805 module, MDBT42TV

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Developers love to use smaller module in order to fit in maximum kinds of implement and applications. 

Nordic’s nRF52805 is a BT5.2 solution features an ARM Cortex M4 MCU with 24KB RAM and 192K Flash Memory, an idea solution to fulfill the applications which only need simple Bluetooth function but cost constrained budgetary.  

Raytac has developed 2 module lines, MDBT42T & MDBT42TV, employed nRF52805 with different antenna options for customer election. All the modules have Bluetooth BT5.2 qualification granted, FCC/IC/CE/Telec/KC/SRRC/NCC pre-certified. A well RF designed module with completed coverage of certification offer an advantage to speed up time to market efficiency and minimal the BOM cost.

Raytac Corporation 勁達國際電子有限公司
A BT5.2 & BT5.1 & BT5 module maker based on Nordic nRF52 & nRF51 solution 
(nRF5340 & nRF52840 & nRF52833 & nRF52832 & nRF52820 & nRF52811 & nRF52810 & nRF52805 & nRF51822)
www.raytac.com service@raytac.com Tel: +886.2.3234.0208

Raytac nRF52833 Series Module MDBT50Q & Demo Board Now Are Available

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Just right at the start of 2020, we are happy to announce nRF52833 modules are now available!

Raytac’s nRF52833 series modules are introduced in 3 kinds of antenna options (Chip Ceramic / PCB / u.FL connector for external antenna) brings the best usability to meet different implements.

Chip Antenna Version: MDBT50Q-512K

PCB Antenna Version: MDBT50Q-P512K

u.FL Connector Version: MDBT50Q-U512K

Nordic nRF52833 Module Series.jpg

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