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All About Ultra-Wideband #1: How Is It So Accurate?
Ultra-Wideband (UWB) is a very unique wireless technology. In this series of posts we’re examining what differentiates it from the rest, starting with how it measures location so accurately.
Our line up of innovative new Ultra-wideband modules seamlessly integrate cutting edge UWB silicon from NXP, with the processing and Bluetooth LE capabilities of Nordic Semiconductor’s nRF52 SoC. The combination of the two enables significant advancements in granularity of location that improves existing Bluetooth LE beaconing and RSSI-based ranging. They’re optimised for battery-powered implementations and integrate additional memory, crystals and components to simplify your overall BOM and drive down the cost of integration.
This comprehensive hardware approach is complimented by a range of added value software, Python scripting capabilities, and cloud and mobile tools. Whether your application is hosted or hostless, we have options to suit your application’s needs, as well as your engineering team’s capabilities. All of this is then backed by our industry leading technical support, design services, and test services to to help you simply implement UWB in your next project.
The time has come for Ultra-wideband (UWB) to grow beyond the consumer and automotive segments into mainstream IoT devices. Our innovative integration of the best wireless silicon from NXP and Nordic Semiconductor has produced the secure, flexible Sera NX040 range.
The series features tightly integrated hardware and RF designs, all optimized for low power operation and reducing the need for external clocks, filters and components. Already using Bluetooth LE for basic beaconing or RSSI-based ranging? Now, easily advance to the next level with NFC and UWB for more granular locationing and positioning. This granularity yields much higher accuracy compared to RSSI-only proximity applications in industrial environments.
Use UWB tags to track machines and equipment on vast factory floors to maximize efficiency and reduce costs. UWB can help factories track the location and movement of valuable assets, such as tools, machinery, and inventory in real time. This enables efficient asset utilization, reduces downtime, and enhances inventory management.
Users can access maps on their smartphones or navigation devices powered by UWB. These highly accurate indoor navigation services can guide people through hospitals, parking garages, and airports. These systems provides real-time guidance, including turn-by-turn directions, to their desired destinations.
UWB can enable quick, accurate tracking of inventory to increase productivity, deter theft, and provide more control of the overall supply chain process. UWB-based tracking can provide real-time visibility into inventory levels and the movement of goods throughout the production process.
UWB-based sensors and systems can collect data on various manufacturing processes, enabling real-time monitoring and optimization. This data can be used for predictive maintenance, energy efficiency improvements, and process automation.
UWB sensors can be integrated with machinery and equipment to monitor their health and performance. This helps in predicting maintenance needs, reducing unplanned downtime, and extending the lifespan of critical assets.
UWB can be effective for real-time location systems (RTLS) in hospitals to track the movement and location of assets, patients, and personnel. The high precision, low interference, and real time capabilities make UWB an ideal technology for optimizing operations and provide better patient outcomes.
Technology | Measurement Technique | Accuracy |
---|---|---|
Bluetooth, WiFi | Signal Strength | 7-10m |
Bluetooth, WiFi | Triangulation | 2-5m |
WiFi | Time of Flight | 2-5m |
UWB | Time of Flight | 10cm |
The Nano UWB Series antenna is the first antenna which has been designed to operate with the Sera NX040 UWB module. Ultra-wideband (UWB) is a short-range, high bandwidth wireless technology which enables applications that require high-speed data transfer or for precise location tracking application. UWB transmits and receives signals across an exceptionally broad frequency range.
The Ezurio NanoUWB antenna features a rigid printed circuit board (PCB) that supports UWB implementations. The adhesive backed antenna can be used in space sensitive applications with aesthetically pleasing integration and high durability.
UWB’s moment in the sun has been a long time coming, which makes its surging use cases and adoption all the more remarkable.