To help developers simplify the design of mesh-networked devices for the Internet of Things (IoT) and get to market faster, Silicon Labs has introduced a suite of software and hardware that supports new Bluetooth mesh specifications.
The new Bluetooth mesh solution includes development tools, a software stack, and mobile apps supporting Silicon Labs’ wireless system-on-chip (SoC) devices and certified modules.
The combination of Silicon Labs’ patented network analysis tools and Bluetooth mesh stack for smartphones enables IoT developers to cut time to market by up to six months, according to Silicon Labs.
Using Silicon Labs’ solution, designers can choose from a variety of Silicon Labs’ certified wireless modules and SoCs, including the world’s smallest Bluetooth system-in-package (SiP) module (BGM11S) and the latest EFR32BG13 Blue Gecko SoCs.
Modules with integrated antennas provide a fast, cost-effective means to design Bluetooth mesh-enabled products. Blue Gecko SoCs offer large memory options to support over-the-air (OTA) updates, as well as advanced features such as hardware security acceleration, capacitive sensing, low-power sensor interfaces and enhanced RF performance.
Developers may optimize mesh networking device designs with Silicon Labs’ Simplicity Studio software tools, which include patented network analysis and packet trace technology, energy profiling and visual application configuration.
Bluetooth is the next frontier in mesh networking, said Richard Baxter, President and CEO of Mesh Systems, an IoT software, services and solution provider. “We rely on Silicon Labs’ deep expertise in mesh technology to give us the hardware and software resources we need to increase productivity and speed development time so our customers can better compete in today’s IoT race,” Baxter said.