Drop-in module offers simple Thread/ZigBee connectivity
The module comes with Silabs’ wireless software stack, the subject of ‘thousands’ of downloads by designers working at component level with its Gecko wireless MCU products, and software tools to configure connections. Focused on mesh networking applications with support for ZigBee and Thread software, the MGM111 module is Silabs’ first multiprotocol modules based on the Mighty Gecko system-on-chip (SoC) device. The module’s combination of onboard stacks, ‘many variations’ in antenna configurations, and RF regulatory certifications simplifies the developer’s task in setting up networking applications including home and building automation, connected lighting, smart metering, security systems and other IoT platforms.
The objective is to bring mesh networking products to market quickly and easily with minimal engineering and certification costs; Mighty Gecko modules and wireless SoCs have similar technical features and application programming interfaces (APIs), offering a cost-reduction path for designs that move to high volume.
The MGM111 module combines a 2.4 GHz Mighty Gecko SoC, high-efficiency chip antenna, crystals, and RF matching and shielding into a complete, ready-to-use mesh networking module supporting ZigBee and Thread protocol stacks. This high level of integration frees developers from complex RF/antenna design and testing. The MGM111 module complies with the IEEE 802.15.4 standard used in ZigBee and Thread stacks and will be pre-certified for compliance with the following regulatory requirements: FCC (North America), IC (Canada), CE (Europe), RCM (AU/NZ) and KC (Korea). Silabs is a member of both the ZigBee Alliance and the Thread Group.
The MGM111 module comes in a 12.9 x 15 mm package that is footprint- and pin-compatible with Silicon Labs’ BGM111 Blue Gecko module supporting Bluetooth low energy technology. This compatibility eases migration and enables developers to support multiple wireless protocols with a common, future-proven system design. The MGM111 module is supported by Silicon Labs’ Simplicity Studio development platform. Simplicity Studio tools include AppBuilder, allowing developers to configure wireless applications while ensuring software reuse across designs based on Wireless Gecko technology; Network Analyzer, providing full visibility and debugging of wireless networking activity by using the module’s packet trace port; and Energy Profiler, enabling developers to minimize the energy consumption of their code and extend battery life.
Silicon Labs; www.silabs.com/mightygeckomodule
next page; feature listing and eval kit pricing information…
MGM111 Mighty Gecko Module Key Features
• Features the Mighty Gecko SoC combining a 2.4 GHz transceiver with a 40 MHz ARM Cortex-M4 core and 256 kB flash and 32 kB RAM
• Enables rapid time-to-market with onboard stack, antenna and regulatory certifications • Supports Silicon Labs’ reliable, secure and flexible ZigBee and Thread stacks
• Supports AES, ECC and SHA algorithms with a hardware cryptography accelerator
• Supports standalone or network co-processor (NCP) architectures
• Offers up to +10 dBm transmit power
• Energy-efficient radio consumes only 9.8 mA (receive mode) and 8.2 mA @ 0 dBm (transmit mode)
• Uses the same Simplicity Studio development tools as Mighty Gecko SoCs and Blue Gecko SoCs and modules
• Provides an easy migration path to discrete SoC designs
Pre-production samples of the MGM111 Mighty Gecko module are available now for engineering evaluation and prototyping, and volume quantities are planned for 2016Q4 when certifications are expected to be complete. The Mighty Gecko Starter Kit (SLWSTK6000A, priced at $499) combined with an add-on MGM111 Radio Board (SLWRB4300B priced at $49) enables evaluation of the MGM111 module.
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