Wi-Fi Alliance (WFA) – Certification program –QuickTrack

Wi-Fi Alliance (WFA) – Certification program –QuickTrack

 -Collaboration between Solution provider & End product developer

Source: https://www.wi-fi.org/certification

Raytac Corp. is officially a member of Wi-Fi Alliance now!

Before stepping into Wi-Fi module selection and adoption, Wi-Fi regulatory compliance will be essential for you to know.

Let’s dig into the Wi-Fi certification program and investigate the possibility of WFA Qualified Solution (provided by Solution Provider) & WFA certificate (obtained by end product developer).

  • What benefits you (end product developer) by working with Rayta Corp. (Solution Provider) for QuickTrack program?
  1. Faster time-to-market : By using available WFA Qualified Solution (provided by solution provider) to waive (or partially waive) compliance test criteria/decrease testing days for end product (WiFi Device), shorter development days would be took before product launch.
  2. Reduce test and certification costs: it significantly reduces the cost and certification days for your project with minimal resource by working with Raytac Corp. (Solution Provider) using available WFA Qualified Solution.
  3. Avoid testing redundancies: Raytac Corp. (Solution Provider) has pre-certified the core Wi-Fi architecture and protocols in Nordic WiFi module AN7002Q, the necessary qualification tests has been conducted. You (end product developer) don’t need to test on those same criteria for end product (WiFi Device) if Raytac WiFi module is implemented in your end device.
  4. Allow flexibility of Wi-Fi functionality change: In case those minor change of Wi-Fi feature which is not relates to core/essential/architecture change may be raised someday in the future , QuickTrack program delivers the qualified product base (Source product) and lower cost with conformance test (QuickTrackTool) responding to the minor change.
  • How QuickTrack certification program works?

QuickTrack certification program shall be completed by 2 different parties, one is solution provider and the other is end product developer.

(Refer to the following image)

As a Solution Provider, Raytac would proceed the essential and fundamental Wi-Fi protocol/compliance test and develop this into a Qualified solution so that end product developer can leverage this solution as a base (Source Product) to obtain a certificate entitled to end product developer.

Please note the conformance check (named QuickTrack Tool) would be required before Wi-Fi alliance certifies the application.

Conformance check (QuickTrack Tool) will be reviewed for the 8 Wi-Fi components.

  1. Chipset
  2. Wi-Fi Component Firmware Version
  3. Driver
  4. RF Architecture
  5. Wi-Fi Component Operation System
  6. Physical Interface
  7. RF Components
  8. Antenna

When you adopt Raytac WFA Qualified solution, the core/essential/architecture components are pre-certified in the solution, in most of cases, no further conformance test is required, you (end product developer) will be granted to obtain the certificate after a couple of days applying process.

Raytac leaves the right to Wi-Fi alliance for the conformance review (run QuickTrackTool).

  • Which membership level shall be applied in Wi-Fi alliance for being QuickTrack?

If you agree with QuickTrack program and are willing to participate in the partnership as end product developer with Raytac Corp. (solution provider), Implementer membership will be cost effective option for you.

Company like Raytac Corp. served as solution provider or require professional Wi-Fi alliance support, company own/multiple programs oriented or needs tasks management shall refer to the membership of top one – Contributor.

Source: https://www.wi-fi.org/membership

https://www.wi-fi.org/membership/membership-benefits

Raytac Corp. is about to launch WiFi module AN7002Q in 2024 ;

Keep your attention to the blog post recently.

Edited by Sales Manager: Jocelyn Tsai

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
www.raytac.com
email:service@raytac.com
Tel: +886.2.3234.0208

Criteria for Choosing Internal or External Oscillator (Crystal)

Bluetooth modules typically have options for a 32MHz Internal Oscillator (or some called internal crystal oscillator) and a 32.768KHz External Oscillator. The choice between the two is often influenced by specific application requirements, power consumption, accuracy, and cost considerations. Here are some basic differences between Internal and External Oscillators:

  • Internal Oscillator: (32MHz)
  • Function: The internal oscillator is embedded within the module and generates the clock signal for the Bluetooth module. This internal oscillator is typically smaller, lightweight, and reduces dependence on external components.
  • Advantages: Simplifies design, saves space, and reduces costs.
  • Disadvantages: Some applications may require higher clock stability, which the internal oscillator may not provide to the desired level of precision.
  • External Oscillator: (32.768KHz)
  • Function: An external oscillator is an independent oscillator externally connected to the module, offering higher clock stability and accuracy.
  • Advantages: Provides higher clock stability, suitable for applications with stricter timing requirements.
  • Disadvantages: Requires additional components, may occupy more space, and increases costs.

Criteria for choosing Internal or External Oscillator:

  • If the application has modest clock precision requirements, and cost and space are critical factors, choosing the internal oscillator may be suitable.
  • If the application demands higher timing precision, an external oscillator should be considered for its enhanced clock stability.

Benefits from switching between external and internal oscillator:

  • Increased Performance Requirements: If the application’s performance requirements increase, a higher-precision oscillator, such as an external oscillator, may be needed.
  • Insufficient Clock Stability: If timing stability issues arise during Bluetooth communication, upgrading to an external oscillator can provide better clock stability.

Followings are the instructions we can use to switch between internal oscillator and external oscillator for nRF5 SDK (v17.10) and NCS SDK (v2.5.2).

Keil (Keil μVision) and SES (Segger Embedded Studio) are another method commonly used Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) in the field of embedded systems development.

Choosing to use the internal crystal oscillator requires program modifications. Please refer to the following instructions for making these changes in the Keil and SES development environments.


Keil

SES


Edited by Sales Manager: Ms. Mandy Chao

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
www.raytac.com
email:service@raytac.com
Tel: +886.2.3234.0208

New Distribution Partnership in India Region – Millennium Semiconductors

Raytac Corporation, a globally recognized third-party Bluetooth module supplier endorsed by Nordic Semiconductor, has announced a strategic collaboration with Millennium Semiconductor, a specialized electronic agent, starting from November 2023. The establishment of this partnership aims to jointly expand into the Indian market and provide comprehensive services to customers in different regions. Raytac Corporation has consistently focused on the wireless field, earning a reputation as a leading provider of Bluetooth Low Energy modules with outstanding technological capabilities. Additionally, Raytac offers the latest WiFi + BLE modules and a complete range of solutions from Nordic.

The product lineup includes series such as nRF54, nRF5340, nRF52840, nRF52833, nRF52832, nRF52820, nRF52811, nRF52810, nRF52805, nRF51822, all of which have obtained qualifications for BT5.4, BT5.3, BT5.2, and BT5.1. Furthermore, the nRF7002 represents the first device in our array of distinct Wi-Fi products, seamlessly combining with Nordic’s established ultra-low power technologies. Raytac Corporation’s modules have received Bluetooth (QDID/DID/BQB) and regulatory certifications from various countries and regions, including FCC (USA), CE (Europe), IC (Canada),TELEC (Japan), KC (Korea), SRRC (China), NCC (Taiwan), RCM (Australia/New Zealand), and others.

In addition to delivering excellent performance and transmission distances, Raytac Corporation’s modules are relatively compact in size, offering a diverse range of module series choices. This flexibility empowers developers to design without being constrained by module dimensions. Furthermore, the inclusion of AT Command by Raytac facilitates a quick entry for developers into the realms of Bluetooth and the Internet of Things.

Millennium Semiconductors India Private Limited, 

17/18/19, 2nd Floor, Mahalaxmi Heights, Mumbai-Pune Road, Pimpri, Pune 411 018, Maharashtra, INDIA.

+91 20 67177100 / 151, +91 9130015701

info@millenniumsemi.com

Edited by Sales Manager: Ms. Mandy Chao

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
www.raytac.com
email:service@raytac.com
Tel: +886.2.3234.0208

AT Command Tutorial: MDBT42Q-AT/PAT

AT commands play a crucial role in wireless communication, IoT, and embedded systems.

This guide aims to assist developers in creating an appropriate environment for efficient AT command usage, ensuring smooth communication and application operation.

Credit to Hanyu Hsu /Avnet Taiwan.

Edited by Sales Manager: Ms. Mandy Chao

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
http://www.raytac.com
email:service@raytac.com
Tel: +886.2.3234.0208

SRRC Certification Update – Document No. 129

About SRRC Certification:

SRRC, or the State Radio Regulation Committee, is a mandatory certification required by the National Radio Management Committee of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of China. All wireless products sold within China must obtain certification, commonly referred to as SRRC certification, which involves approval of the wireless transmission equipment model.

SRRC Document No. 129:

Document No. 129 introduces various interference avoidance technical requirements for wireless transmission equipment, including “pre-transmission scanning," “monitoring and avoidance," and “Medium Utilization (MU)" for equivalent occupancy rate.

a. “Pre-transmission scanning" and “monitoring and avoidance" mechanisms involve monitoring and listening to the wireless channel before or during signal transmission. By setting appropriate detection threshold levels, the channel’s occupancy status is determined to select an idle channel for access.

b. The “equivalent occupancy rate" mechanism requires wireless transmission equipment to self-adjust based on parameters such as “Duty Cycle" and “transmission power," ensuring the “equivalent occupancy rate" remains at a lower level (not exceeding 10%).



1.     Certificate Validity Period:
Enforced from October 15, 2023. During this period, both old and new policies can be applied. Certificates obtained under the old regulation (Document No. 353) are valid until December 31, 2025. However, certificates obtained by complying with the requirements of Document No. 129 will be valid for 5 years.



2.     Sample Requirements:
2.1   The quantity of conducted samples prepared according to the old regulation remains unchanged: 5 samples.
2.2   The major change introduced by Document No. 129 is the addition of interference avoidance technical requirements. The interference avoidance test items include:
1.     Maximum channel occupancy time
2.     Minimum channel idle time
3.     Minimum silence period duration
4.     Detection of unused signals
5.     Detection threshold
6.     Short control signal duty cycle
7.     Equivalent occupancy rate.



Differences between Old and New Regulations:


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
http://www.raytac.com
email:service@raytac.com
Tel: +886.2.3234.0208



Tips for Nordic’s nRF52840 DK to successfully detect Raytac’s MDBT50Q-DB-40 Demo Board

WHY Nordic’s DK cannot DETECT Raytac’s modules?

Some tips to fix this problem

Nordic’S board no : PCA10056 (nRF52840)

Raytac’s board no : MDBT50Q-DB-40 (nRF52840)


1. Update the version of nRF Command Line Tools from below link
https://www.nordicsemi.com/Products/Development-tools/nRF-Command-Line-Tools/Download?lang=en#infotabs

2. Update the version of jlink driver from below link.
https://www.segger.com/downloads/jlink/JLink_Windows_V780c_x86_64.exe


3. Update the version of nRF Connect for desktop.
nRF connect for desktop V4.1.2
Programmer V3.0.9


4. Add jumper wire for GND shown as the below red arrow to avoid the different power reference between these 2 boards.


5. Make sure that IDE cable connects correctly. Red edge of IDE cable should connect to PIN 1 of both boards.

6. Supply power to VDD of Raytac’s demo board before flashing.



Edited by Sales Manager: Ms. Gracie Chuang

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:service@raytac.com
Tel: +886.2.3234.0208

Important Notice:Upcoming price increase in Bluetooth SIG Membership Fees and DID

The Bluetooth SIG Board of Directors(BoD) has granted its approval for a 15% increase in member fees, effective from January 1,2024. This decision comes after careful consideration of the organization’s financial situation and the need to cover the rising costs of current and futrue member services throughout 2024.

Bluetooth

Feel free to explore the mission and operations of the Bluetooth SIG by visiting the provided web pages below:

Raytac Corporation 勁達國際電子有限公司
A Bluetooth & WiFi module maker based on Nordic nRF53, nRF52, nRF70 solution 
www.raytac.com email: service@raytac.com Tel: +886.2.3234.0208           

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

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           

 

The “Must Know” about WPC-ETA certificate before entering Raytac Bluetooth module into India

Intro:

You will get a brief understanding of WPC-ETA certificate (India) and how it relates to Raytac low energy Bluetooth module and how it helps you entering Raytac Bluetooth module into India by passing through importing and Customs clearance procedure way efficiently.

There are some types of ETA certificate categorized by the spec of your wireless transmission product (Bluetooth/Wifi/RFID and by device using frequency spectrum).

Hereafter we’re talking about the WPC-ETA compliance regulation to specifically on “Raytac’s low energy Bluetooth module.”

Outline of the article:

  1. What is WPC Certificate/Equipment Type Approval (ETA) in India?
  2. Raytac Bluetooth module applied to WPC-ETA Regulation Category
  3. What is essential to get the ETA-SD license (ETA Approval)?
  4. How the ETA-SD license works during importing process

A. What is WPC Certificate/Equipment Type Approval (ETA) in India?

The WPC (Wireless Planning & Coordination) is the broadcasting authority and is part of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology in India.

Products with radio and/or wireless functionality imported or manufactured or marketed in India are required to have an Equipment Type Approval certificate (ETA certificate) from the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC India) Wing of the Ministry of Communications of the government of India. This includes product with Bluetooth, wireless local area network access technology (Wi-Fi), small digital radios (Zigbee), and radio frequency identification (RFID) and else more. The WPC-ETA certificate is required for anyone who wants to do wireless device business in India.

B. Raytac Bluetooth module applied to WPC-ETA Regulation Category

–ETA Through Self Declaration (ETA-SD License)

To specifically recognize what is the compliance regulation of equipment applies to Raytac Bluetooth module, we can be assured with our Bluetooth module spec located within “De-licensed Frequency Band list” , 2400-2483.5MHz / Limit with 10mW EIRP / Use of low power and very low power short range radio frequency device for Non-Specific Short range device, from the following chart which was released from WPC authority.

Once we confirm Raytac Bluetooth module spec is operated in De-License Frequency Band with low transmission power, at the mean time making sure the device is exempt from import license as per Import Policy of DGFT (Directorate General Of Foreign Trade), Ministry OM ETA-WPC-Policy-2018-19 dated 26th February 2019, free from EXIM Policy of DGFT, Raytac is granted to apply for “ETA Through Self-declaration” application procedure which was enabled by SARAL SANCHAR Portal of DoT on 12th April, 2019.

Here’s Raytac’s ETA through self-declaration (ETA-SD license) of module MDBT50 certified by WPC authority. (Please refer to the following image)

C. What is essential to get the ETA-SD license (ETA Approval)?

After getting idea of what ETA-SD license means to Raytac low energy Bluetooth module business, we need to get ready of the following points for applying the ETA Approval (ETA-SD License)

  • Applicant must be India manufacturing or authorized Indian representative
  • Making sure product exempt from import license
  • Making sure product working in the de-licensed frequency band
  • Wireless RF test report conducted by accredited laboratory
  • Details of Accreditation laboratory & Accreditation certificate issuing authority
  • Authorization letter

 

D. How the ETA-SD license works during importing process

  1. Once ETA through self-declaration is generated for a model, subsequently it may be utilized by other person(s) for import/usage purpose in India. It is not necessary the importing agent/manufacturer is same party to the applicant of the license.
  2. Question: How to import products falling under the category of ETA through Self-Declaration?      Answer: Such category of product(s) may be imported by submitting an undertaking to the customs along with ETA-SD License without additional payment.
  3. The ETA-SD license remains valid and NO renewal is needed until the technical parameter/design of the device is modified or altered.
  4. Generally speaking , India doesn’t follow Modular policy nor Non-Modular policy. It determines how you proceed WPC-ETA certificate by product type (Semi-finished & End-product) and product technical spec (Frequency spectrum & Max output power).  For instance: When the product is manufactured in India and its RF module(s) having ETA certificate is/are fitted inside it without any modification/alteration; then NO separate ETA is required for such finished product during import process. However, if finished product(s) are manufactured outside India, then ETA is required for each product before its import.
  5. For the product which does not fall under De-Licensed frequency band and exempt from import license, WPC/ETA Certificate shall be obtained by routine proceeding to the concerned RLO ETA certificate. Both ETA (RLO) certificate and Import license shall be submitted to Customs during importing process whereas ETA-SD license Raytac module certified is exempt from import license that is way easier to proceed.

Edited by Account Manager: Jocelyn Tsai

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                      BT5.3 & 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 

www.raytac.com email: service@raytac.com Tel: +886.2.3234.0208           

What’s New In BT5.4 Bluetooth Specification?

Bluetooth Core Specification 5.4 released in 2023 introduces four significant capabilities to the existing specifications.

1. Periodic Advertising with Response(PAwR)

PAwR is one of the key feature. Prior to Bluetooth 5.4, connectionless bidirectional communication is not possible. PAwR now allows bidirectional transfer of data in connectionless mode between a single central device and a large number of multiple devices (up to 32,640) in a star network topology. 

2. Encrypted Adverting Data (EAD)

EAD provides a standardized approach to the secure broadcasting of data in advertising packets and enables the encrypted data over-the-star network to be decrypted only by devices that have shared the key material previously. This security feature protects PAwR communications to safeguard against data tampering, human error, and data leaks.

3. LE GATT Security Levels Characteristic(SLC)

When a GATT Client attempts to access a server attributes (characteristics, descriptors), attributes permissions are checked. If permissions are insufficient, the access is denied and all GATT features will not work properly. With SLC, the client can upgrade its security level to reattempt access of the previous failed operation. SLC enables devices to identify the security mode and level for all their GATT functionality.

4. Advertising Coding Selection

For LE Coded PHY, a Forward Error Correction (FEC) algorithm is used which results in significantly longer transmission distances. FEC parameter (S) uses one of two values (S=2 or S=8) and controls how much data is made to fix errors and how much Bluetooth range may be achieved. Prior to Bluetooth 5.4, specifying the value of the S coding parameter was not impossible. Bluetooth 5.4 allows the host to specify the value of the coding parameter S (S=2 or S=8) when the LE Coded PHY is selected for use with extended advertising.

Main beneficiary market of Bluetooth 5.4

The combination of these features enables ultra-low power, efficient radio usage and secure star networks that can be deployed in large scale ESL (Electronic Shelf Labels) and sensor applications with transferring a small amount of data. Devices accept slightly longer advertising-delay to exchange an extended battery life. It’s easy to see the retail industry as well as the market for ESL and shelf sensors will benefit greatly. ESL are devices that display pricing information for product on retail store shelves. They use small electronic paper displays powered by batteries and can replace traditional paper labels. Besides, ESL use wireless technology and a central hub device to transmit data, allowing retailers to automate pricing and replace traditional manual processes, and creating more efficient in-store operations.

Edited by Account Manager: Ms. Gracie Chuang

Raytac Corporation 勁達國際電子有限公司
A Bluetooth & WiFi module maker based on Nordic nRF53, nRF52, nRF70 solution 
www.raytac.com email: service@raytac.com Tel: +886.2.3234.0208                             

Bluetooth Solution:  BT5.4 & BT5.3 & BT5.2 & BT5.1 & BT4.2 with nRF5340, nRF52840, nRF52833, nRF52832, nRF52820, nRF52811, nRF52810, nRF52805, nRF51822                                                                                         WiFi Solution: nRF7002