All IoT-solutions that bring your concept into reality!

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From sensors to the cloudJoin the Internet of Things with Acal BFi

consult. design. integrate.

www.acalbfi.com/IoT

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About Acal BFiWe are a technology-led provider of customised electronics for industrial applications with design, manufacturing and distribution capabilities.

With our roots firmly founded in design expertise and engineering knowledge we are able to provide our customers with an extensive range of additional custom services along with access to leading-edge technologies. Working closely with world-leading suppliers we act as a technical partner to help solve our customer’s design challenges.

We offer a strong and stable partnership to help you develop your products and bring them to market quickly.

Carefully selected technologies to support our chosen markets

We offer products across 12 specialist technology areas. Customers use our design-led expertise and expert consultation services to find the best technology solutions for their design, prototype and production needs. Each product area has a dedicated team of technical and sales support specialists available to ensure our customers get the best technical advice and pre- and post-sales support.

Consult. Design. Integrate.

As well as offering off-the-shelf products, we can also provide technical consultation for your design process, provide design and application advice and we can integrate the latest in advanced technologies seamlessly into your design, ensuring a cost-effective solution with optimum performance.

IoT solutions contentsThe complete IoT offer from Acal BFi 3A world of wireless solutions – Design and consultancy 4A world of wireless solutions – Technical support, Products and solutions 5Sensor solutions for IoT applications 6-72G / 3G / 4G LTE connectivity 8-9Cloud connectivity and airtime services 10Multi-GNSS solutions – GPS, Glonass, Gallileo and BEIDOU 11WiFi modules and embedded Ethernet 12-13Bluetooth® connectivity solutions 14ISM solutions – M-Bus / SIGFOX / LoRa® / ZigBee 15 Beacons 16Antenna solutions for IoT applications 17Frequency control solutions for IoT applications 18RF solutions for IoT applications 19Kick start your design with evaluation boards 20-21Time to connect? 22World-leading suppliers 22Further information about Acal BFi 23Contact details 24

Product availabilityPlease see page 22 for full details of products and suppliers affected by territory restrictions.

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INTERNET ofTHINGS

The complete IoT offer from Acal BFi

The Internet of Things (IoT) is rapidly expanding, and consumers now expect devices to communicate with each other and the internet instantaneously.

Acal BFi are at the forefront of the IoT revolution with an extensive portfolio of products supported by established in-house technical expertise.

From simple plug-and-play solutions and technical support services through to our class-leading design and consultancy services, we can support all levels of IoT design and production.

Regardless of application, sector or level of support required, we can enable your products and devices to connect to and thrive in the IoT universe.

Whether you need technical advice and support, a simple boxed solution or a custom development, we can deliver the right IoT solution to your specific requirements.

Access to world-leading manufacturersPartnering with a wide range of leading manufacturers, we combine our design and support with the latest technologies to deliver the right solution for your individual requirements.

Vendor and technology neutralWe are not restrained to any technology or manufacturer, so you will always get the best solution for your needs.

Extensive range of productsWith a portfolio of products that encapsulates every aspect of IoT, we cover every element from sensors and wireless modules to airtime services and frequency control.

In-depth product knowledgeWith engrained product knowledge and experience across our comprehensive portfolio, our technical team provide you with the latest technology and the knowledge to best apply it.

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A world of wireless solutions

Technical supportProducts and solutions

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sign and consultancy

Sensors Data

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Airtime

The complete IoT offer

Acal BFi can support every aspect of the design and production stages of IoT products. Regardless of sector and application, we work with you to find the right product or solution to meet your time and budget requirements.

Design and consultancy

Acal BFi’s engineering team of specialist wireless design experts understand the evolving technologies that underpin current and future wireless connectivity. As an extension of your team, we listen to your ideas, understand your requirements and build a tailored proposal that will bring your concept into reality.

Working with you, we identify the most appropriate wireless technology to achieve your desired functionality and design a solution that adds wireless functionality to your product, leaving you to concentrate on your core technologies. Together with your in-house teams, we create wireless solutions that meet your needs, budget and timescales.

Specialist services

• Dedicated project management

• Expert RF hardware and system design

• PCB layout

• Software development

• First article samples

• Testing support

Design and consultancy – Technical support – Sensors – Data – Airtime – Transfer / share – Wireless

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A world of wireless solutions

Technical support

Throughout your design and development stages, our field-based engineers are available as an extension to your internal design teams, working hand-in-hand to support you when necessary.

Support can start from the design phase, with initial advice on the best wireless technology to meet your specific requirements, and lasts as long as you need it, through to pre-production, final testing and post-production support. At every stage, you can benefit from our specific IoT expertise.

Design phase support

• Advice on the best wireless technology for your needs

• Full technical support from initial start to refined tuning

• Detailed responses to technical queries

• Direct access to manufacturer’s technical support team

• PCB and schematic review to advise on optimum layout

• Evaluation boards

Pre-production phase support

• Access to our European Technical Competence Centre to solve complex design issues

• Advice on regulatory compliance issues

• Access to our UK-based EMC chamber for pre-compliance testing

• Design support on impedance matching for optimum antenna performance

Production phase support

• Continued technical support for unforeseen production issues

Products and solutions

We offer a complete portfolio of class-leading wireless products to add internet and M2M connectivity to your products. From wireless sensors to system-in-package solutions, WiFi modules to airtime services, we can provide multiple component options for every aspect of an IoT device.

Our partnerships with leading suppliers and manufacturers provide you with access to the latest technology with unbiased advice and direct access to technical support, either from our technical team or direct with the manufacturer.

Details are available in this brochure and on our website.

Contact us today

To discuss your individual requirements, contact your local Acal BFi office. Full details are provided on the back cover of this brochure.


Design and consultancy – Technical support – Sensor – Data – Airtime – Transfer / share – Wireless

Sensor solutions for IoT applications

Sensors

Accelerometers

• Low-power, digital-output, miniature LGA packages

• MEMs based, 3 axis, measuring tilt, motion and shock

• Ideal for wearable and consumer applications

CO2 sensors

• Wall mounted, duct mounted, handheld and PCB mount versions for domestic and industrial applications

• No calibration required

• High accuracy, wide measurement range (0-5000ppm)

Environmental sensors

• Temperature, pressure, humidity and gas measurement in one package

• Low power consumption

• 2.5 x 2.5 x 0.93mm SMD package

• Ideal for IoT applications

Dust / particle sensors

• Detect dust and cigarette smoke

• Ideal for indoor asthma trigger and detection

• Particle detection as small as 0.3uM

• Easy maintenance and installation

Bringing the physical world into a digital universeAt the start of any IoT journey is data generation. Many applications look to share information from remote or distant locations to other geographies around the world. You may need to collect data from multiple points and consolidate this to one central hub, or share data from one focal point with multiple users.

Perfectly complementing our complete IoT offer is our comprehensive range of innovative sensors. Capable of measuring almost any physical parameter, our miniature and low-power sensors allow for multiple and combined parameters to be measured and shared with the cloud within one compact component, so you can measure almost anything from almost anywhere in the world and beyond. With our sensors you can be sure the data sent to and received from IoT is as accurate and reliable as if you had measured it yourself.

Whether you’re sensing for indicative purposes only or require high precision measurements in a harsh environment, we can provide the knowledge, expertise and products required to start your IoT journey.

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Sensor solutions for IoT applications

eCompass

• Measures the earth’s geomagnetic field as well as dynamic and static acceleration in all three dimensions and outputs tilt-compensated heading and orientation information

• 6 axis / 12 bit digital resolution

• 2.2 x 2.2. x 0.95mm miniature LGA package

Gyro / angular rate

• 3 axis integrated digital gyroscope

• 16 bit digital resolution

• Low power (<5mA)

• I2C and SPI (4 wire and 3 wire) interface

Humidity sensors

• Leaded and SMD variants

• Small size and low weight

• Low power

• Analogue and digital output variants

• Fast response time

Humidity and temperature combined sensors

• Analogue or digital output

• Fully calibrated and temperature compensated

• Water resistant


• Optional wire length

Pressure sensors

• Miniature package size


• Digital and analogue output variants

• Extensive variety of pressure ranges

• Commercial, industrial and harsh environment variants

Temperature sensors

• Thermistor elements and thermistor sensors

• Custom thermistor sensors available, custom R/T curves

• Clip sensors

• Overmoulded temperature probes, waterproof to IP68

• Ideal for demanding, harsh environment applications that require precision and the very best performance

Design and consultancy – Technical support – Sensor – Data – Airtime – Transfer / share – Wireless

DESCRIPTION

The HIH-4000 Series Humidity Sensors are designed

specifically for high volume OEM (Original Equipment

Manufacturer) users.

Direct input to a controller or other device is made possible by

this sensor’s near linear voltage output. With a typical current

draw of only 200 µA, the HIH-4000 Series is often ideally

suited for low drain, battery operated systems.

Tight sensor interchangeability reduces or eliminates OEM

production calibration costs. Individual sensor calibration data

is available.

The HIH-4000 Series delivers instrumentation-quality RH

(Relative Humidity) sensing performance in a competitively

priced, solderable SIP (Single In-line Package).

Available in two lead spacing configurations, the RH sensor is

a laser trimmed, thermoset polymer capacitive sensing

element with on-chip integrated signal conditioning.

The sensing element's multilayer construction provides

excellent resistance to most application hazards such as

wetting, dust, dirt, oils and common environmental chemicals.

FEATURES Molded thermoset plastic housing

Near linear voltage output vs % RH

Laser trimmed interchangeability

Low power design

Enhanced accuracy

Fast response time

Stable, low drift performance

Chemically resistant

POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS

Refrigeration equipment

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning)

equipment Medical equipment

Drying Metrology Battery-powered systems

OEM assemblies

Sensors

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2G / 3G / 4G LTE connectivity

Modems and gateways – the simplest way for IoT

cellular connectivity

Modems and gateways offer the most convenient way for remote devices to connect to the internet via the cellular mobile phone network. Typically these modems offer ethernet-to-cellular connectivity or serial-to-cellular tunnelling with I/O capabilities. Fully standalone and ready to deploy, modems are designed for enterprise-class quality and reliability.

Key features of our range of modems and gateways

• Options available for 2G / 3G / 4G LTE

• Ethernet-to-cellular failover/failback

• Serial, I/O and USB interface options

• Remote configuration, deployment, monitoring and management

• Easy to use

• Ready to deploy

What you need for a successful cellular connectivity

In order to have successful cellular connectivity the system designer should consider the three core elements concurrently, as all are required to work together for a successful cellular-based IoT implementation.

Hardware – this is the electronics that gives your product or system the capability to connect to the cellular network. You will need to know the network variant (2G, 3G, 4G LTE) that you plan to use and the geographic region you plan to operate it in.

Air-time services – these are the services provided by a network operator that will allow you to use the cellular network. Typically this relates to SIMs and air-time contracts.

Cloud connectivity – this is the services provided by a hosting company to allow you to host data in the cloud.

Design and consultancy – Technical support – Sensors – Data – Airtime – Transfer / share – WirelessData

Connect your product anywhere in the worldWhen considering connectivity options, it is important to consider when, where, what and how long devices will need to communicate. Those which are deployed worldwide can leverage the benefits offered by the global cellular mobile phone network. There are multiple options with this approach, including the use of a modem, gateway or embedded module.

Modem options offer the easiest connectivity solution for a product with an existing serial port; similarly, a gateway approach can provide the same ease of access to IoT for products with an ethernet port or WiFi connectivity. Embedded solutions are also desirable for many customers and modules provide the most viable option to achieve this method of connectivity.

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2G / 3G / 4G LTE connectivity

The most cost-effective cellular connectivity – 2G, 3G, 4G LTE modules

Embedded modules are a cost-effective, flexible and functional option to add cellular connectivity directly into your product. We have a comprehensive range of 2G, 3G, 4G LTE modules from Sierra Wireless.

AirPrime® HL series – scalable cellular 2G to 4G IoT modules

The AirPrime® HL series offers reliable IoT and M2M connectivity in the standard CF3™ form factor for use across 2G, 3G and 4G LTE. It is ideal if you want a compact size, long life cycle and the ability to support multiple product lines with a single platform.

• Small – CF3™ form factor, 22 x 23 mm

• Flexibility – solder-down or snap-in socket options

• Scalability – 2G, 3G, and 4G LTE versions in same CF3 form factor

• Security – free firmware-over-the-air (FOTA) updates keep connectivity optimised and secure

• Future proof – LTE cat 1 devices available with LTE cat M1/M2 planned

AirPrime® WP series – 3G and 4G smart modules running Linux OS

If you are looking to simplify your overall system design, the WP series smart application processing solutions let you build a connected product on a single module. The secure device-to-cloud architecture enables you to build a Linux-based product on a single module, reducing overall system complexity and time to market.

• ARM core application processor with dedicated Flash and RAM running Legato™ (Open Source Linux) enhances security, reduces system complexity, and lowers overall BOM

• CF3™ form factor, 22 x 23mm, with solder-down or snap-in socket options

• Security – secure boot and free FOTA updates keep the connectivity optimised and secure

• Rich set of interfaces including USB, UART, SDIO, HSIC, I2C, SPI, GPIO, ADC, PCM, and more

• Open hardware reference design from Project mangOH™, enables rapid prototyping

• Connect to any cloud or use the secure device-to-cloud architecture with AirVantage®, which is pre-integrated into the Legato platform

AirPrime® MC and EM series – high-speed, standards-based modules

The EM and MC series offer unprecedented LTE speeds, bandwidth, and network performance on PCI Express Mini Card (MC series) and M.2 (EM series) form factors commonly used in networking equipment.

• LTE-A cat 6 for download data rates of up to 300 Mbit/s

• Global coverage on LTE-advanced networks with only two module variants

• Up to three different certified firmware variants on board (MC/EM74xx)

• Linux SDK is available to extend control over the module using APIs instead of AT commands.

• GNSS integrated with GPS, Glonass, Beidou and Galileo satellite system

• Secure boot and FOTA updates

Design and consultancy – Technical support – Sensors – Data – Airtime – Transfer / share – WirelessData

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Cloud connectivity and airtime services

Air-time and cloud connectivity servicesCellular connectivity often brings data requirements. We are proud to provide the Sierra Wireless IoT acceleration platform, currently a unique solution in the world of IoT platforms. The platform combines SIM and connectivity management with over-the-air device management and a fully fledged application enablement service. This combination of services provides all of the infrastructure you need to build, connect and operate your IoT application in a single platform, from a single distributor.

Smart SIMs for use around the world

To successfully connect your IoT application to the world you’ll need a solution designed for machines, not people. IoT deployments are fundamentally different from roaming smartphones which is why the Sierra Wireless solution is optimised for IoT applications. The Sierra Wireless smart SIM and connectivity service delivers multi-operator coverage, superior data service quality and resilience to outages, whether your application is global, regional or local.

Key benefits

• Global multi-operator connectivity – devices connect more often with a simplified, more cost-effective single SIM solution

• Smart network selection – automatically connects to the best network, ensuring you’re always connected

• Resilient to outages – smart SIM tests for a valid data connection and autonomously finds a new network when outage occurs

• Central management – unique ability to manage all aspects of deployment and legacy third-party SIMs with the IoT acceleration platform

• Plan flexibility and scalability – flexible plans that support global, regional or local deployment supported by best-in-class coverage in all countries

Key features

• Device monitoring and management

• FOTA updates and configuration for deployed devices

• Data storage, alert rules engine and notifications

• Cloud connectors for easy interfacing with third-party cloud platforms

• SIM management of multiple operators

• Comprehensive set of web service APIs

• Supports standard protocols including lightweight M2M, MQTT and HTTP(S)

• End-to-end data security

• Real-time, bi-directional communication with connected devices

Design and consultancy – Technical support – Sensors – Data – Airtime – Transfer / share – WirelessAirtime

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Multi-GNSS solutions – GPS, Glonass, Gallileo and BEIDOU

Locating, tracking and timing on a global scale We offer a wide range of multi-GNSS modules for both navigation and timing. Our range includes some of the smallest, fully integrated module solutions on the market, with the Origin GPS Nano Spider measuring just 4 x 4 x 2.1 mm. For each series we offer versions with fully integral patch antenna or modules designed for use with external antennas.

Small size, high performance

Our modules are easy to integrate from both hardware and software perspectives. Designed to be completely plug-and-play, with easy access to the data you need, these modules are suitable for a wide range of end markets uses including tracking, wearables and drones.

Key features of our range

• True multi-GNSS offering with products supporting GPS, Glonass, Gallileo and BEIDOU

• Integral antenna versions available for each range

• Very small, surface-mount form-factors

• Rapid time to first fix (TTFF), as low as 1s from hot start

• Excellent accuracy (1-2m depending on module)

• Evaluation boards available for all families

• Versions optimised for timing applications

• Multiple power management options

GNSS open-source reference design Whilst the layout considerations are relatively straightforward, many engineers may not be familiar with layouts using on-board RF antennas. To help with this issue, our European wireless technical competence centre have developed an open-source reference design for the multi spider GNSS module from OriginGPS using a Proant GNSS antenna.

This layout is fully approved by OriginGPS with an optimised RF layout that can easily be adapted for other OriginGPS modules or antennas. The design can be used as a plug-in board to easily add GPS functionality, or as a reference PCB layout that can be used as part of a ‘cut and paste’ approach, saving time in the design process.

Design and consultancy – Technical support – Sensors – Data – Airtime – Transfer / share – WirelessTransfer / share

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WiFi modules and embedded Ethernet


Easily connect any device via Ethernet or WiFiWiFi and Ethernet connectivity is synonymous with the internet, with both options well established as popular and easy ways to connect devices. With WiFi ever present in our everyday lives, it is a compelling choice when thinking about IoT connectivity for an embedded product.

We have developed a comprehensive, complementary portfolio of products that address all levels of integration, from easy-to-use WiFi modules with on-board software stacks and device servers to PCIe and mini-cards designed specifically for embedded applications.

WiFi for all levels of integration

Embedded device wireless servers – these modules take the hard work out of WiFi connectivity by providing an AT-like command set running over a serial interface which easily connects to any host via an SPI, USB (device) or serial interface.

Features of our range:

• Complete device server application with full IP stack and web server

• Production ready, easy to configure with zero host load

• 802.11 b/g/n support

• Simultaneous soft AP and client mode

• Security – IEEE 802.11i WPA-personal, WPA2-personal, 256-bit AES

• Modular RF certification – FCC Class B, UL and EN EMC certification

• Industrial temperature range (-40°C to 85°C)

• On-board and off-board antenna versions

SIP modules – for medium- and high-volume opportunities Acal BFi offer Wireless SiP modules from USI. Based on the Broadcom WICED™ chipset, these modules are highly user configurable with the use of the WICED™ development tools. Typically users of the SIP modules would use the protocol stacks supplied with the SDK and then develop their own application layer using the SDK tools which would run on the module.

• Highly integrated SiP package with metal-lid shielding


• Excellent power management performance extends battery life

• IEEE 802.11b/g and 802.11n 1x1 single-band 2.4 GHz

• Advanced security with WEP 64/128, WPA and TKIP, AES, CCX

• WAPI support

• WiFi direct and software AP function

• Simple APIs to access WiFi and network functions

• Serial interface to host – SPI, UART and USB

• RF certification – FCC, CE

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WiFi modules and embedded Ethernet

Industrial USB / PCIe / mini-card modules

We have a wide range of industrial WiFi cards from world-leading manufacturers in the most commonly used form factors. Our factory-trained Field Application Engineers can recommend the most appropriate solution based on your preferred form factor and price vs performance trade-offs. Features include:

• 802.11ac, 802.11n, 802.11 b/g/n support

• M.2 mini card, PCIe, PCI and USB form factors

• Commercial and industrial temperature ranges

• On-board and off-board antenna with or without diversity

• Dual-band WiFi and Bluetooth

Ethernet-to-enterprise WiFi bridge module

For mission critical industrial and commercial applications, we can offer 5G Wi-Fi (802.11ac) connectivity. With a production-ready software stack, enterprise-class security and modular RF certification, it reduces development and deployment risks and accelerates the availability of robust WLAN connected IoT products.

• Dual band 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz band WiFi

• IEEE 802.11b/g /n and IEEE802.11ac support

• Extensive security

• Modular RF certification – FCC, CE

Intemo case study

As part of the Smart Emissions project, Intemo were approached to develop an innovative sensor capable of measuring up to 63 environmental variables and feeding this data back to a central point for analysis.

Intemo chose to work with Acal BFi and the Lantronix xPico WiFi for the following reasons.

• xPico WiFi promised shortest time to market

• Long-term reliability of Lantronix products

• Superior technical support from Acal BFi including: - Hardware verification - Firmware development support - Bug fixing support


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Short-range wireless for cable replacementWhen looking for a simple wireless cable replacement, one of the best solutions is Bluetooth because of the light-weight stack and the proliferation of Bluetooth-enabled products. With the arrival of Bluetooth 4.1 (also known as Bluetooth LE or Bluetooth Low Energy) it is now also suited to very low-power applications, such as connecting remote sensors to intelligent peripherals such as smartphones and tablets. We offer a range of Bluetooth modules with embedded Bluetooth software stacks from Fujitsu, Skyworks and USI. For more details on Bluetooth beacons see page 17.

Bluetooth® connectivity solutions

Bluetooth 4.1 explained

The popularity of Bluetooth technology continues to grow aggressively year on year, but it’s the recent evolution and release of Bluetooth 4.1 that has captured the imagination of IoT developers around the world. Bluetooth 4.1 allows for short transmissions of data rather than a continuous data stream. This key change reduces power consumption and improves efficiency, a necessary quality for IoT applications such as wearable technology. Embedded into all of Apple’s operating systems as well as Windows 8.1 and Android 4.3, this low-energy, short-range wireless technology is set to continue as one of the most popular wireless connection methods the world over.


Bluetooth 4.1 modulesThese ready-to-use modules are perfect for quickly adding Bluetooth 4.1 functionality to any product with a serial port (UART, SPI, USB). The module is pre-configured with Fujitsu’s data communication (FDC) profile. This is an SPP (serial port profile), ideally suited for sensing, monitoring and wearable applications.

Chip-based SIP modulesFor applications requiring a higher degree of flexibility and customisation Acal BFi offer a range of Bluetooth 4.1 modules from USI. These modules use the latest WICED™ chipsets and support application specific code developed using the WICED™ development platform.

With a compact form-factor and built-in antenna these modules are ideal for mid- to high-volume applications that require customised functionality and low power consumption. Modules are available as Bluetooth only or dual Bluetooth / WiFi.

Front-end modulesDesigned with cost and space savings in mind, Skyworks Front-End Modules combine the company’s industry-leading power amplifier (PA), low noise amplifiers (LNA) and switch functions into single low-cost, laminate-based multi-chip modules (MCM). Furthermore, the new module requires no external matching components, accelerating time to market.

Manufactured using Skyworks’ proprietary heterojunction bipolar transistor (HBT) power amplifier process and low-loss pseudomorphic high electron mobility transistor (PHEMT) switch technologies.

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ISM solutions – M-Bus / SIGFOX / LoRa® / ZigBee

Custom solutions and modules for the ISM frequency bands

Working with our ISM module partner, Embit, we are able to offer a wide range of custom solutions and standard products designed specifically for the ISM frequency bands, particularly the 169 MHz, 868 MHz and 2.4 GHz bands. Custom solutions

Our technical competence centre work with Embit to bring you a variety of design services aimed at developing a wireless module solution tailored to your exact needs. Our expertise and support services cover all stages from the product idea to the product deployment.

• Feasibility study

• Design and prototyping

• Test and diagnostics

• Certification

• Deployment

• Production

ISM modules

Our off-the-shelf modular ISM solutions cover the following standards:

• Wireless MBus (169 MHz and 868 MHz)

• Zigbee / 802.15.4 ready modules (868 MHz, 915 MHz and 2.4 GHz)

• LoRa® / LoRaWAN™-ready modules

• SIGFOX-ready modules

Low-power, wide-area networks (LPWAN) explained Many existing M2M and IoT applications only require low bandwidth as they are transferring small amounts of data. With low bandwidth and small data packets comes the opportunity to look at alternatives to cellular based networks, including SIGFOX and LoRa®. These technologies and networks operate on frequencies in the ISM band and use ultra-narrow band (UNB) technology.

Typically these networks operate in a star format where client devices connect via the UNB technology to gateways, which then connect to the cloud.

Whilst the technology is restricted to geographies with installed networks capable of using these protocols, the advantage for client devices is simpler hardware and software, and much lower power consumption than traditional cellular networks. This makes it ideally suited to remote monitoring applications with low bandwidths and small data requirements.

5,000

1,000

100

10

1

100bps

Range(m)

Data rate

20kbps

100kbps

1Mbps

10Mbps

UNB

Weightless-PLoRa

RPMA

NB-IoT

802.11ah

EC-GSMLTE

LTE

LTE

License - exempt spectrum

802.15.4/ZigBee

BLE

Licensed spectrum


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Beacons

Beacons explained Beacon technology allows mobile apps running on a smartphone to listen for signals from beacons in the vicinity and then react accordingly. Based on Bluetooth LE, the system effectively allows the mobile app to understand its position on a micro-local scale and then receive hyper-contextual information, based on the location.

Using a standardised format for Bluetooth LE advertising, the beacon broadcasts an advertising packet at frequent intervals, typically 100ms. The advertising broadcast contains a unique ID (UUID), which is identified by an app running on a smartphone which then triggers push messages, app actions or prompts.

Bluetooth LE-enabled devices typically have ranges of 100m, making the technology ideal for indoor location tracking and awareness. The powerful nature of the beacons is that any app running on the smartphone will be able to understand exactly where the customer is in a given physical environment and then deliver a highly contextual, hyper-local and meaningful message.

Bluetooth® beacons for IoT solutions

Driven by the popularity of smartphones, beacons provide marketing messages and indoor location information to any Bluetooth-enabled smartphone. Inside every beacon is a Bluetooth LE transmitter.

We offer two products to enable rapid development of beacons.

Smart sensor beacon FWM8BLZ02-109047

A complete, production-ready beacon with the following unique features:

• Possible to set arbitrary advertising data / scan response data

• Easy beacon setting / maintenance by text-based command

• Remote updating and configuration

• Three operating modes selectable: Broadcast mode – sending advertise data one way Peripheral mode – sending and receiving data bi-directionally Recovery mode – initialise beacon setting

Bluetooth LE module MBH7BLZ02 The ideal embedded module for use inside a beacon with all the features required to support beacon functionality.


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Antenna solutions for IoT applications

Multi-frequency or multi-band devices to satisfy connectivity challenges

Having the right antenna can literally make or break your design. Acal BFi, working with our carefully selected antenna partners, can source the most appropriate antenna for your application and frequency, whether internal or external.

Our field applications engineers work with you, explaining the options, advising which one is best for your design and then work with you on matching the antenna to the RF input/output. This ensures that your end product has the best possible range with the lowest possible power consumption.

Antennas for all applications

Our antenna range covers all applications and technologies, including:

• Cellular (2G, 3G, 4G LTE)

• WiFi, Bluetooth, ZigBee

• SIGFOX, LoRa

• GNSS (including Beidou, Galilleo, Glonass, and GPS)

• ISM, bands

• Custom designs for non-standard frequencies

Our antenna range includes:

• Single and multi band

• External connectorised antennas

• Internal chip, patch, PIFA and PCB antennas

• Customised antennas

Challenges with embedded and miniaturised antennas In many data gathering and wearable IoT applications it is desirable to make the product as small as possible, which mandates the use of an on-board antenna. These antennas can be chip, patch or PIFA antennas, or embedded into the PCB itself.

Many factors affect the performance of these types of antenna including ground planes, position of other components, orientation of the unit, materials used in the outer casing, and proximity to the outer casing.

A poorly optimised or tuned antenna will have adverse effect on the wireless range and power consumption.

Acal BFi, through our antenna suppliers, have access to the latest RF antenna modelling tools to help you determine the optimum antenna for your system.

Design and consultancy – Technical support – Sensors – Data – Airtime – Transfer / share – WirelessWireless

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Frequency control solutions for IoT applications

MEMS oscillators explained MEMS oscillators combine MEMS technology and analog CMOS circuit design to produce a unique, silicon-based timing technology that competes well with the traditional quartz-based alternatives. Typically MEMS-based oscillators offer the following benefits over their quartz-based equivalents.

• Better frequency stability over temperature

• Lower phase noise and jitter

• Lower power consumption

• Superior resilience

• Superior vibration sensitivity

• Superior shock sensitivity

• Wide range of package types with ultra-small footprints

• Commercial, industrial, automotive and military temperature ranges

Performance

Features

Availability

Resilience /Reliability

Price

SOC integration

Quartz Silicon

Better stability, AgingNo activity dips

Programmablesilicon

Samples - 48 hrsProduction - 3 wks

Up to50% better

Silicon cost andtrajectory

Quartz cannotbe integrated


Improve systems performance with a wide portfolio of product solutionsIn medium- and high-volume applications it is often more economical to move away from a module-based solution towards a chip-set-based solution. These solutions require good, affordable and stable frequency-control solutions.

We have over 30 years of experience in working with frequency control products from some of the world’s leading manufacturers. Our engineers are available to help you identify the most cost-effective products from our range, whatever your application.

Frequency control

Our extensive range includes:

• Ceramic resonators

• Crystal oscillators

• MEMS-programmable oscillators

• OCXOs, TCXOs, VCTCXOs, VCXOs

• Oscillators

• Real time clocks

• SAW resonators

• VCOs, PLLs

• Watch crystals

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RF solutions for IoT applications

FEMs simplify product design and manufacture Front-end modules (FEMs) is the name that is increasingly being adopted by manufacturers of RF sub-systems. These sub-systems are generally application-specific and designed to support one or more specific frequency bands or base-band chip sets, particularly in the ISM, ZigBee and WiFi space.

These modules are the ideal complement to the chip sets as they are complete, fully tested and matched radio sub-systems, which generally offer power and space savings over discrete designs.

Typical features include:

• Complete RF sub-system including LNA, filters and switches

• Pre-configured, matched and aligned reduces final test time

• Low current consumption extends battery life

• Small, low-profile packages reduce footprint

• Available for all common RF technologies including Bluetooth, ZigBee and WiFi

Comprehensive range of RF components

We have over 30 years of experience in supporting RF design engineers on some of the most innovative radio designs in Europe. We believe our technical expertise is second to none, supporting our customers with expert advice, evaluation boards, samples, data sheets and, where necessary, S-parameters.

Our RF product portfolio covers frequencies from as low as 100 MHz to as high as 30 GHz, and offers a broad product offering from world leaders in RF component design.

The range covers:

• RF amplifiers, including general purpose, power and LNAs

• RF attenuators and baluns

• RF diodes including pin, Schottky, limiter, detector and varactor

• RF couplers and dividers

• RF filters

• RF front-end modules

• RF mixers, modulators and demodulators

• RF capacitors, inductors, switches and transistors


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Kick start your design with evaluation boards

IoT solutions that require cellular communications

mangOH™

Project mangOH™ is an open-source reference design for the CF3 form factor modules, including Sierra Wireless WP series and HL series. When used with the WP series it provides an out-of-the box wireless and cloud connected reference design, and enables rapid prototyping of new ideas for IoT developers. With its Arduino connector and its three IoT connectors fully supported by the Legato™ platform, you can try out multiple wireless and sensor technology combinations to best meet your specific requirements. Once your prototype is complete, you can then re-use the industrial-grade design and IoT modules in final production.

Features

• CF3™ socket-compatible processors, including wireless processors (2G to 4G and LTE-M)

• Legato™ open-source, Linux-based embedded platform designed to simplify connected IoT application development

• IoT connectors based on industrial-grade QSFP+ interface to adding any combination of wired, wireless and sensor technologies in both prototypes and final products

• Industrial-grade, on-board components or footprint-compatible options to quickly turn prototypes into final products

• Support for other open hardware projects (for example mangOH™ Green has Arduino-compatible connectors to support Arduino-compatible shields)

IoT solutions that require WiFi communications

XPCW1003100K – xPico WiFi module evaluation kit

The xPico Wi-Fi evaluation board provides a test platform for the Lantronix xPico device server products. It uses 5V power from a USB device port connector and provides a header for connection to a 2.2V to 5.5V external source, such as a battery. It includes a 5V wall adapter with a USB plug to allow powering from a standard power strip. It also includes all necessary regulators to power the 3.3V xPico module.

Features

• One DB9 serial port connector with a multi-protocol RS232, RS422, RS485 transceiver at rates up to 1 Mbps. Serial port modes are configured by on-board jumpers

• A second RS232 serial port is available on a header

• One RJ45 10/100 Ethernet port

• One mini-type B USB device port connector for 5V input power. This port also has an integrated USB-to-serial converter, which can be connected to the xPico second serial port via a board-jumper setting

• A second mini-type B USB device port is available for connection to the xPico module USB device port


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Kick start your design with evaluation boards

IoT solutions that require Bluetooth communications

Fujitsu Bluetooth evaluation kit – KS/MBH-FUJI2 and daughter board

To evaluate and develop applications for Bluetooth LE modules, Fujitsu provide a standard board that supports multiple daughter boards with the different LE modules.

This evaluation board can be used for evaluation and testing of modules that incorporate the Fujitsu Data Communication (FDC) profile and those that support the Nordic Semiconductor SoftDevice platform to develop your own application.

The main board supports the Segger J-Link LITE debugger for firmware development with the Nordic Semiconductor SoftDevice SDK.

Features

• Easy evaluation of different modules

• Perfect for antenna performance measurements

• For all Bluetooth LE products

• USB serial port (UART over USB)

• Power via USB or dedicated pin with power measurement pin

• Access to the digital I/O

IoT solutions that require WiFi with and without

Bluetooth communicationsUSI evaluation board – WM-N-BM-02 evaluation board

USI provide a standard evaluation capabale of testing all modules. The board provides one or more external antenna connectors (depending on the module capabilities), and those with more than one WiFi antenna connection can also be used for antenna diversity.

Features

• Test firmware, tools and scripts included with product and design documentation

• Externally connect to host processor / controller

• Easy access to all modules pins

• Power from USB or external VBatt

• JTAG


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Conclusion of services and products offered by Acal BFi Time to connect?

Belgium France Germany Italy Netherlands Nordics UK

Advanced Crystal Technology • • • • • • •Amphenol Advanced Sensors • • • • • • •Anaren • • • • • • •APA Wireless • • • • • • •Bosch Sensortec • • • • • • •CTS • • • • • • •Embit • • • • • • •Epson •Fujitsu Wireless Solutions • • • • • •Honeywell • • • • • • •Johanson Technology • • • • • • •Lantronix • • • • • • •OriginGPS • • • • • • •Proant •Sangshin • • • • • • •Shibaura • • • • • • •Shinyei • • • • • • •Sierra Wireless • • • • •SiTime • • • • • • •Skyworks • • • • • • •Sparklan • • • • • • •Tai-Saw Technology (TST) • • • • • • •Taitien • • • • • • •USI • • • • • • •

Territory and product availability.

The IoT universe is set to become the largest electronic ecosystem in world. Can your idea, product or solution afford not to be part of it?

Our portfolio of leading-edge products incorporates every aspect of IoT, supporting you throughout your entire product development and design lifecycle. Servicing every sector and supporting any application, we provide everything you need to succeed in IoT, from design and consultancy to technical support, with the very latest products and solutions.

Contact us today and our technical team will find the right solution for your individual project and requirements, providing you with the latest technology and the knowledge to best apply it.

Find details of your nearest Acal BFi office on the back cover.


World-leading suppliers

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Further information about Acal BFi International presence

Acal BFi operate throughout Europe, with dedicated sales force and technical support teams in:

•Belgium •Denmark

•Finland •France

•Germany •Italy •Norway •Sweden

•TheNetherlands •UK

We also have a presence in China, India, Poland, Slovakia, South Africa, South Korea, Sri Lanka and the USA.

Areas of expertise

•CablesandConnectors •Electromechanical

•Embeddedcomputing •Fibreoptics

•Imaging •IoTandWirelessmodules

•LEDsandLighting •Magneticcomponents

•Photonics •Powersuppliers

•RFandFrequencycontrol •Semiconductors

•Sensors •TestandMeasurement

Follow us Find our contact details on the back cover, and follow us on:

@AcalBFi /AcalBFi/company/acal-technology-ltd

24

www.acalbfi.co.uk

Acal BFi UK Limited (Wokingham) 3 The Business Centre Molly Millars Lane, Wokingham Berkshire, RG41 2EY,

Tel: +44 (0) 118 978 8878 Fax: +44 (0) 118 977 6095 Email: sales-uk@acalb�.co.uk

Acal BFi UK Limited (Milton Keynes) Unit D - Mill Court Wolverton Mill South, Milton Keynes Buckinghamshire, MK12 5EU,

Tel: +44 (0) 1908 326326 Fax: +44 (0) 1908 221110 Email: sales-uk@acalb�.co.uk

Acal BFi Belgium Lozenberg 4 1932 Zaventem Belgium

Tel: +32 (0)2 720 5983 Fax: +32 (0)2 725 1014 Email: sales-be@acalb�.be

Acal BFi Nordic AB (Denmark) Jernbanegade 23 B DK-4000 Roskilde Denmark

Tel: +45 70 26 22 25 Fax: +45 70 26 22 21 Email: info@acalb�.dk

Acal BFi Nordic AB (Finland) Teknobulevardi 3-5 Fl-01530 Vantaa Finland

Tel: +358 207 969 770 Fax: +358 207 969 771 Email:

Acal BFi France SAS 4 Allée du Cantal Z.l. La Petite Montagne Sud CE 1834 - Lisses

Tel: +33 (0)1 60 79 59 00 Fax: +33 (0)1 60 79 89 01 Email: sales-fr@acalb�.fr

Acal BFi Germany GmbH Assar Gabrielsson Straße 1 D-63128 Dietzenbach Germany

Tel: +49 (0)6074 4098 0 Fax: +49 (0)6074 4098 110 Email: sales-de@acalb�.de

Acal BFi Germany GmbH Oppelner Straße 5 D-82194 Gröbenzell Germany


Acal BFi Italy SRL Via Cascina Venina n.20/A 20090 Assago (Ml) Milan, Italy

Tel: +39 02 53583.1 Fax: +39 02 53583201 Email: sales-it@acalb�.it

Acal BFi Italy SRL Via E. De Marchi 27 00141 Roma, Italy

Tel: +39 06 86894259 Fax: +39 06 86895354 Email: sales-it@acalb�.it

Acal BFi Nordic AB (Norway) PO Box 74 3529 Royse Norway

Tel: +47 (0)32 16 2060 Fax: +47 (0)32 16 2069 Email: info@acalb�.no

Acal BFi Iberia SL C/ Anabel Segura, 7-bajo Alcobendas, 28108 Madrid, Spain

Tel: +34 91 453 1160 Fax: +34 91 539 4404 Email: sales-es@acalb�.es

Acal BFi Nordic AB (Sweden) Fålhagsleden 59 Box 3002SE-750 03 Uppsala, Sweden Tel: +46 (0)18 56 58 30 Fax: +46 (0)18 69 66 66 Email:

Acal BFi Nordic AB (Sweden) Solna Strandvag 21 SE-171 54 Solna Sweden

Tel: +46 (0)8 5465 6500 Fax: +46 (0)8 5465 6565 Email: info@acalb�.se

Acal BFi Netherlands BV Luchthavenweg 53 5657 EA Eindhoven The Netherlands

Tel: +31 (0)40 250 7400 Fax: +31 (0)40 250 7409 Email: sales-nl@acalb�.nl

UK UK 91018 EVRY Cedex, France

Eng/09/14

www.acalbfi.co.uk

Acal BFi UK Limited (Wokingham) 3 The Business Centre Molly Millars Lane, Wokingham Berkshire, RG41 2EY, UK


Acal BFi UK Limited (Milton Keynes) Unit D - Mill Court Wolverton Mill South, Milton Keynes Buckinghamshire, MK12 5EU, UK







Tel: +358 207 969 770 Fax: +358 207 969 771 Email:

Acal BFi France SAS 4 Allée du Cantal Z.l. La Petite Montagne Sud CE 1834-91018 EVRY Cedex, France







Tel: +39 02 53 58 31 Fax: +39 02 53 58 32 01 Email: sales-it@acalb�.it







Acal BFi Nordic AB (Sweden) Falhagsleden 59 PO Box 1335SE-751 43 Uppsala Sweden

Tel: +46 (0)18 56 58 30 Fax: +46 (0)18 69 66 66 Email:





Eng/09/14

www.acalbfi.co.uk

Acal BFi UK Limited (Wokingham) 3 The Business Centre Molly Millars Lane, Wokingham Berkshire, RG41 2EY,


Acal BFi UK Limited (Milton Keynes) Unit D - Mill Court Wolverton Mill South, Milton Keynes Buckinghamshire, MK12 5EU,







Tel: +358 207 969 770 Fax: +358 207 969 771 Email:

Acal BFi France SAS 4 Allée du Cantal Z.l. La Petite Montagne Sud CE 1834 - Lisses







Tel: +39 02 53583.1 Fax: +39 02 53583201 Email: sales-it@acalb�.it







Acal BFi Nordic AB (Sweden) Fålhagsleden 59 Box 3002SE-750 03 Uppsala, Sweden Tel: +46 (0)18 56 58 30 Fax: +46 (0)18 69 66 66 Email:





UK UK 91018 EVRY Cedex, France

Eng/09/14

Acal BFi BelgiumLozenberg 41932 ZaventemBelgium

Tel: +32 (0)2 720 5983Fax: +32 (0)2 725 1014Email: [email protected]: www.acalbf i.com/be/IoT

Acal BFi Nordic AB (Denmark)Jernbanegade 23 BDK-4000 RoskildeDenmark

Tel: +45 70 26 22 25Fax: +45 70 26 22 21Email: [email protected]: www.acalbf i.com/se/IoT

Acal BFi Nordic AB (Finland)Teknobulevardi 3-5Fl-01530 VantaaFinland

Tel: +358 207 969 770Fax: +358 207 969 771Email: [email protected]: www.acalbf i.com/se/IoT

Acal BFi France SAS4 Allée du CantalZ.l. La Petite Montagne SudCE 1834 - Lisses 91018 EVRY Cedex, France

Tel: +33 (0)1 60 79 59 00Fax: +33 (0)1 60 79 89 01Email: [email protected]: www.acalbf i.com/fr/IoT

Acal BFi Germany GmbHAssar-Gabrielsson-Straße 163128 DietzenbachGermany

Tel: +49 (0)6074 4098 0Fax: +49 (0)6074 4098 110Email: [email protected]: www.acalbf i.com/de/IoT

Acal BFi Germany GmbHOppelner Straße 582194 GröbenzellGermany

Tel: +49 (0)8142 6520 0Fax: +49 (0)8142 6520 190Email: [email protected]: www.acalbf i.com/de/IoT

Acal BFi Italy SRLVia Cascina Venina n.20/A20090 Assago (Ml) MilanItaly

Tel: +39 02 53583.1Fax: +39 02 53583201Email: [email protected]: www.acalbf i.com/it/IoT

Acal BFi Italy SRLVia Alessandro de Stefani 6000137 RomaItaly

Tel: +39 06 86894259Fax: +39 06 86895354Email: [email protected]: www.acalbf i.com/it/IoT

Acal BFi Netherlands BVLuchthavenweg 535657 EA EindhovenThe Netherlands

Tel: +31 (0)40 250 7400 Fax: +31 (0)40 250 7409 Email: [email protected]: www.acalbf i.com/nl/IoT

Acal BFi Nordic AB (Norway)Gigstadsvei 243511 HönefossNorway

Tel: +47 (0)32 16 2060Fax: +47 (0)32 16 2069Email: [email protected] Web: www.acalbf i.com/se/IoT

Acal BFi Nordic AB (Sweden)Rissneleden 138SE-17457 SundbybergSweden

Tel: +46 (0) 8 5465 6500Fax: +46 (0) 8 5465 6565Email: [email protected]: www.acalbf i.com/se/IoT

Acal BFi Nordic AB (Sweden)Fålhagsleden 59Box 3002SE-750 03 Uppsala Sweden

Tel: +46 (0)18 56 58 30Fax: +46 (0)18 69 66 66Email: [email protected]: www.acalbf i.com/se/IoT

Acal BFi UK Limited 3 The Business CentreMolly Millars Lane WokinghamBerkshire, RG41 2EYUK

Tel: +44 (0)1189 788 878Fax: +44 (0)1189 776 095Email: [email protected]: www.acalbf i.com/uk/IoT

Acal BFi UK Limited Challenge HouseSherwood DriveBletchley, Milton KeynesBuckinghamshire, MK3 6DPUK

Tel: +44 (0)1189 788 878Fax: +44 (0)1189 776 095Email: [email protected]: www.acalbf i.com/uk/IoT

www.acalbfi.com/IoT

UK/10/16

All IoT-solutions that bring your concept into reality!

Technology

Transcript of All IoT-solutions that bring your concept into reality!