New Bluetooth 5.1 Modules for Next Gen Industrial IoT

Introducing the new BL653 Bluetooth 5.1 module series. The BL653 is a complete multi-protocol embedded wireless module that delivers longer range, multi-wireless capabilities, and extended temperature range to bring Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity to the harshest RF environments.

Powered by the Nordic Semiconductor nRF52833 silicon, the BL653 modules and development kits provide a secure, robust BLE and Cortex-M4F CPU for any OEM’s product design. The BL653 provides maximum development flexibility with programming options for the Nordic SDK or Zephyr RTOS, a simple, intuitive AT command set, or Ezurio's (formerly Laird Connectivity) smartBASIC environment.

The BL653 enables industrial applications that were previously challenged in supporting wireless connectivity. With Bluetooth meshing capabilities, OEMs can create wireless mesh networks, which extend the reach of messages by relaying them from node to node in a large group of connected devices. Mesh networks are well suited for smart lighting and factory automation applications, which also benefit from the BL653’s enhanced operating temperature range (up to 105°C). The additional strengths of Bluetooth 5 long range (Coded PHY support) means Bluetooth signals can travel further and enable wireless communication for constrained, hard to reach equipment within factory floors and manufacturing plants. These enhanced capabilities of the BL653 now open up industrial equipment such as pumps, valves and drives for wireless connectivity.

Stand-out features of the BL653 include:

• Bluetooth 5.1 direction finding (AoA/AoD)
• Bluetooth 5.2 capable
• Long-range (Coded PHY) support
• Enhanced operating temperature (up to 105°C)
• NFC and 802.15.4 (Thread and Zigbee) support
• Multiple programming options – Nordic SDK, Zephyr, smartBASIC, and AT command set

Visit the product page to access preliminary product information and to sign up for a chance to win a free alpha development kit.

Learn more about the BL653 Bluetooth Module