We live in a tangled world that’s for sure. But, lucky for us, the world would have been a whole lot more tangled if we were to always use cables in connecting devices for the communication of data between them. There are billions of IoT (Internet of things) connections in the world. Only so many cables could be buried in underground tunnels or passed overhead. The cost, economic and general maintenance would likely choke us if the tangled cables don’t get to us first. Thanks to Bluetooth technology and Bluetooth module (and some other not-as-cool folks like WIFI, 4G), through the use of Radio frequencies, devices can connect and perform cross-communication data exchange completely wirelessly.
Bluetooth BLE module is a technology that acts as an interface that aids the wireless Bluetooth Low energy connection of any two devices and establishes a protocol for the communication of data between the devices. Bluetooth low energy module’s mediated data communication range is usually an average of tens of meters and data is communicated in specified frequency bands.
There are various brands, types, models and classifications of Bluetooth modules. Bluetooth Modules’ diversity in application makes them one of the most widely-accepted Internet of things (IoT) connectivity protocols.
Some of the areas where Bluetooth modules can be applied include:
Bluetooth modules had a lot of applications and can be used in a variety of ways and applications. They can be used as light switch controllers, as they can be connected to Micro controllers to switch the light on or off. They can also have other uses and applications like:
The Bluetooth module circuit supports the 2.4GHz frequency band and has a wide range of applications.
A typical Bluetooth module has 5-6 pins. Each of which performs different functions.
Examples of some Bluetooth module pins are:
Pins | Functions |
VCC | 5V is connected to the VCC pin. |
GND | Used for Grounding the module. You connect this pin to ground the module. |
TXD | While connected with the Micro controller’s Unit. TXD serially transmits the information received by the Bluetooth module, out through the TXD pin. |
RXD | The serial data RXD receives is then transmitted through a wireless protocol by the Bluetooth module. |
KEY | Used to switch between the Bluetooth module AT command and default modes. By setting the KEY pin to a specific value. |
State | The STATE Indicates The State Of Connectivity Of The Bluetooth Module (Whether It Is Paired Or Unpaired). |
Follow to the letter the under-listed points––describing the above perfect diagrammatic representation/suggestion of Bluetooth module mounting.
Bluetooth technology is classified into two major groups. Each of which is further split into sub-groups. The two primary Bluetooth technology classes are:
The Classic Bluetooth technology wirelessly connects devices and provides a channel for high-data-rate communication. The quality of data communicated through the Classic Bluetooth technology is usually high but, its data transmission consumes a high amount of energy and power. It also doesn’t have as wide a range of applications as the Bluetooth low energy technology.
The BLE (Bluetooth low energy) technology is a technology that connects any two devices and supports data communications with low energy consumption. The range of BLE could peak at over 100m depending on the type of BLE technology. Though, the BLE transmission speed is considerably slower than the high-speed communication of the Classic Bluetooth technology.
BLE technology is also usually used in ultra-low-power BLE modules.
NB: Modern Devices such as phones, needs to be able to communicate with both Low energy and Classic Bluetooth technology. For this purpose, Bluetooth Smart and Bluetooth Smart Ready authentication flags are used.
Bluetooth technology Frequency and Frequency Bands have the following features:
The Frequency hopping feature of Bluetooth technology in a way is responsible for its short range. It helps Bluetooth transmission to:
Bluetooth technology energy consumption and general design cost can be reduced by the change in the frequency modulation coefficient. As seen in the Low energy Bluetooth technology.
Here’s how you can have your product equipped with Bluetooth function:
Bluetooth Modules are designed to only achieve optimal and full functionality when implanted into an appropriate Bluetooth system. The Bluetooth module’s application microprocessor and Bluetooth chip circuit hardware design, together with the specific parameters included by Bluetooth products’ developers, equip the Bluetooth-module-implanted products with useful speciation for a wonderful wireless Bluetooth experience.
This is why you need to choose the Bluetooth module that best suits your need as there are many different modules. Each with different features such as; transmission distance and rate, frequency channels, etc. Here are what to consider while choosing a Bluetooth Module:
CONSIDERATIONS | DESCRIPTION | |||||||||||||
Standard and Protocols | Among the numerous available Bluetooth standards the three regularly available in the market include: The enhanced data rate (EDR), Latest low energy (LE) and the Basic Rate (BR). You should know that these Bluetooth technologies––as the technology world in general––are constantly being improved upon. So keep in mind to also get the latest market-available versions. In addition, they all have specific features (pros and cons) therefore, when selecting a Bluetooth module, it’s advisable to consult an expert (If you’re not one) and determine the module with the Standard and Protocols that best suits your needs. Note: The Bluetooth Module selected must also be able to support other standards/protocols aside from the manufacturer-embedded standard. | |||||||||||||
Frequency Band | Generally, in Bluetooth technology, the 79 total frequency channels at 1 MHz Band interval falls between 2.4 GHz and 2.4835 GHz frequency bands. Though, the Bluetooth 4.0 module employs the low-energy Bluetooth technology of low power consumption focus. Resulting in BLE having a 2MHz band interval and 40 frequency channels. If your needs require you to combine the WIFI-Bluetooth function into a single module, choose a module that has the Wi-Fi frequency Band 802.11b/g/ functioning at Bluetooth’s 2.4GHz frequency band. You might need to spend more on module design if you require a module equipped with an 802.11a/h/j/n/ac/p WIFI version because it can only be supported by a 5GHz frequency band.
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Transmission Distance | Bluetooth technology data transmission distance is usually short-ranged. There are three main classifications of Bluetooth modules based on their communication distance in meters. Class 1: 100 meters maximum distance Class 2: 10 meters maximum distance Class 3: 1-meter maximum transmission distance So, select the Bluetooth module of the class that best suits your need. Although, certain factors also influence the Bluetooth modules transmission distance such as; Module antenna and battery, Material and condition of transmission etc. | |||||||||||||
Data communication operating Current and Voltage and output power | Bluetooth module’s operating current and voltage is a significant determinant in Bluetooth modules’ battery lifespan, charging life Etc.
In Bluetooth technology, power is directly proportional to transmission range.
In addition to the above-listed power standards, the module you select must also be in conformation with your local government spectrum regulatory authority power requirements.
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Micro-controller | The Micro controller can be likened to the Bluetooth module’s brainbox. It controls and directs basically all the processes of a Bluetooth module including hardware optimization, data communication, data processing and more. Therefore, while choosing Bluetooth modules, take note of the; Price, power consumption, memory capacity, processing speed, and dimensions. And, select the module with the micro-controller parameters that best suit your need. | |||||||||||||
Operating system | Selecting Bluetooth modules that support multiple operating systems, such as Android, Mac, Linux, etc., allow you to use on different smart devices, optimize the Bluetooth module setup and configuration process. | |||||||||||||
Transmission rate | Different Bluetooth technology and hence, Bluetooth module’s energy classification has different transmission rate. BLE (Bluetooth low energy) is not optimal for high rate data communication because the technology design focus is on minimizing power consumption rate and a high data transmission rate is usually accompanied by large power consumption.
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Antennas and interfaces | Antennas can be either fixed to the Bluetooth module chip or could be external. Chip-fixed antennas though, are more compact in size (*5* 2.5mm) and can be applied to a wider range of usage, in addition to the convenience it provides. Also, another classification of antennas is on the basis of their signal transfer direction. Omnidirectional antenna: Transmits signals 360 degrees (in all directions) therefore, has more range. Unidirectional/ directional antenna: Only transmit data in a specific direction. Therefore, select the Bluetooth with the antenna speciation that best suits your need. And, ensure the antenna and modules are properly certified by your local spectrum regulatory authority. | |||||||||||||
Optimal Operating Temperature. | Bluetooth modules’ common and general optimal operating temperature is between the Ranges of -400C to 850C. Though, there are certain modules equipped with protective insulation and cooling systems which allows them to function optimally at extreme temperature ends. |
Arguably, the biggest mistake you could make as someone planning to integrate Bluetooth into your product––or any device–– will be to presume that, you purchasing ready-made Bluetooth modules automatically eliminates the need for an RF engineer. Even though recent years had seen Bluetooth Modules manufacturers carrying out very extensive RF tests on their Modules before releasing them for sale. These tests are, of course, carried out by RF experts.
Be that may, as there is no standard indication to determine which RF test has been done––or if any has been done––. So, you’d be wise to have a personal RF expert of your own. To carry out RF performance for Bluetooth module in all your Internet of things connections. RF performance tests help diagnose and inspects the connectivity, transmission quality and other important parameters of Bluetooth modules.
Some common RF performance Tests include Test for:
Modulation characteristics test uses the frequency deviation of special data pattern values (highest and average) to determine if the modal function of the Bluetooth’s Module transmitting signal is functioning properly. This is done by placing focus on the FSK modulation quality inspection.
Carrier frequency’s offset and drift test is carried out with either hopping, fixed or direct-mode transmitting frequency to determine the transmitting frequency stability by confirming if the transmitter’s transmitting signal carrier frequency is being controlled within the specified range.
In-band spurious emissions are conducted to determine if the Bluetooth transmitting frequency’s band hosted spectrum spurious signal is functioning in the range dictated by the standard.
Bluetooth devices are classified, based on power limit into three groups. The output power test is simply to determine the peak of the Bluetooth Module’s power and also the average output power. To conduct the output power test. Note:
The bandwidth test is also known as the 20 dB bandwidth test. It is a test to determine if the transmitting signals’ radiation frequency is lower than the peak value at 20 dB, therefore, making it to be not easily susceptible to interference and hence, in compliance with the standard requirement.
The power density test determines if the Bluetooth module’s highest transmittable maximum output power falls within the standard requirement range.
Bluetooth modules’ hardware, like the Hardware of the Bluetooth nrf5832 module, makes it a very flexible Bluetooth module that uses and consumes very low power. This BLE module has a size of not more than 10mm by 10mm, it is also one of the nrf52 modules and its hardware specifications are as follows:
Bluetooth Module Hardware is easily set up. Here are few steps to follow in the Hardware Installation:
During the installation process, it is necessary to establish a communication between the Arduino and some certain components and devices.
Here’s a simple source code that shows the communication between the Arduino board and a smartphone:
Bluetooth technology and all Bluetooth devices connect and communicate with each other without the aid of wires or cables. It is a wireless connection that makes use of radio waves that are not able to travel a very long distance. Each Bluetooth device contains a chip that emits radio wave signals whenever it is switched on, and other Bluetooth devices can recognize it and connect to it to begin communication and transmission of data, files or others. The connection of several Bluetooth enabled devices forms what is referred to as a piconet and they all can communicate seamlessly provided that they are all within range. Usually, in a connection like this, one device––referred to as the master––controls all other devices connected to it, which are referred to as slaves.
BLE (Bluetooth low energy) is one of the BLE modules and is a new entry in the range of Bluetooth modules that are compatible with the Arduino board as a BLE Arduino module.
The Bluetooth 5 modules include the Bluetooth 5.0 module, Bluetooth 5.1 module and Bluetooth 5.2 module and comprises of:
Bluetooth 5 also serves as a support protocol for the following Tl Bluetooth modules:
cc2642B1 modules, cc2540 modules and cc2652 modules
The Bluetooth 5 module Arduino is also worthy of mention.
This includes the Bluetooth 4.0 module, Bluetooth 4.1 module and Bluetooth 4.2 Module and these are a group of high performance and low energy modules and they comprise the BT 900 series, the BL600 series as well as the TiWI-UB1 and TiWI-UB2.
These are only audio and data Bluetooth modules.
Class 1: Modules whose distance range is 100 meters and gives an output of 100mW
Class 2: Modules whose distance range is 10 meters and gives an output of 2.5mW
Class 3: Modules whose distance range is 10 centimeters and gives an output of 1mW
In order for easy and seamless Bluetooth communication, a Bluetooth module is usually used with a Micro controller and the most common and widely used Micro controller used is the 8051 controller. First, you need to connect both the TX and the RX pins to their appropriate and respective connections.
After the appropriate connection, here is a small code to try and control LEDs with smartphones. The program will aim to do these things:
#include <reg51.h>
#include "UART_H_file.h" /* Include UART library */
sbit LED=P1^0;
void main()
{
char Data_in;
UART_Init(); /* Initialize UART */
P1 = 0; /* Clear port initially */
LED = 0; /* Initially LED turn OFF */
while(1)
{
Data_in = UART_RxChar(); /* Receive char serially */
if(Data_in == '1')
{
LED = 1;/* Turn ON LED */
UART_SendString("LED_ON"); /* Send status of LED*/
}
else if(Data_in == '2')
{
LED = 0;/* Turn OFF LED */
UART_SendString("LED_OFF"); /* Send status of LED*/
}
else
UART_SendString("Select proper option");
}
}
Bluetooth module price like Bluetooth 5.0 modules varies greatly depending on module type, brand and other factors. In order to select the Bluetooth module which best works and is most affordable, here are some factors to consider which might also affect the price:
Controlling Arduino with Bluetooth
An Arduino board can be controlled with Bluetooth and here is how to do so. First, you would need:
There are three parts of this, which are the android device (smartphone), a Bluetooth module transceiver and an Arduino, all of which are connected in a serial manner. The code which is to be sent to the Arduino is checked and followed according to the instructions and results in order to perform the required functions.
First, you need to properly connect the Arduino board to the Bluetooth module. Since there are not too many connections to be made, the connection between the Arduino and the Bluetooth module is relatively easy. The connection is as follows:
RX (Pin 0) TX
TX (Pin 1) RX
5V VCC
GND GND
After you are done with the connections, the next step is to upload the following code to Arduino using the Arduino IDE software.
char data = 0; //Variable for storing received data
void setup()
{
Serial.begin(9600); //Sets the data rate in bits per second (baud) for serial data transmission
pinMode(13, OUTPUT); //Sets digital pin 13 as output pin
}
void loop()
{
if(Serial.available() > 0) // Send data only when you receive data:
{
data = Serial.read(); //Read the incoming data and store it into variable data
Serial.print(data); //Print Value inside data in Serial monitor
Serial.print("\n"); //New line
if(data == '1') //Checks whether value of data is equal to 1
digitalWrite(13, HIGH); //If value is 1 then LED turns ON
else if(data == '0') //Checks whether value of data is equal to 0
digitalWrite(13, LOW); //If value is 0 then LED turns OFF
}
}
Connecting the Smartphone to the Bluetooth Module and the Arduino
Then you would have to download an android application and pair your device with the Bluetooth module.
Then, you:
Communication between Arduino UNO and PC via Bluetooth
Using a PC or Laptop to control the Arduino through the aid of Bluetooth is very similar to using a mobile phone. At least the first stages are. To communicate with the Arduino with a PC via Bluetooth you:
Which module has the highest range?
The Nordic nRF5232 module which is one of the Nordic Nrf52 modules, and Nordic Bluetooth module in general has a range of about 1120 meters -1140 meters among all the Bluetooth 5 modules and has the longest range for now. But in the future, as technology develops, there will undoubtedly be modules with a wider range.
This is not a difficult process and can be done in less than five minutes. It also does not require advanced knowledge and any beginner can do it. This can be done in easy steps:
If there is a problem with the connected Bluetooth device, you can completely reset the Bluetooth module from the debug menu. This will erase the Bluetooth configuration, reset the Bluetooth hardware, and disconnect any connected Bluetooth devices.
If you want to solve the problem of connecting to an Apple device, try the second menu.
The Bluetooth modules market is still growing and is worth over $800 million as recently as 2020 and is still expected to grow and reach over 1.2 billion dollars in the year 2026. The market is divided into different categories:
According to modules, the market can be divided into three namely;
The market is segmented according to regions into:
The Asia Pacific, which includes China, India, Japan, South Korea
Bluetooth mesh module is a kind of Bluetooth module that is more network-wise extensive than the BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy). Its technology enables communication through Bluetooth between a loT of inter-connected devices and is an upgrade upon former modules. It is designed in a way that it is extremely reliable and that data and information sent through it always gets to its intended destination without fail, compounded by its impressive security. Nordic offers a range of series like the nRF52 series, alongside development kits––such as the Bluetooth 5.1 development kit–– for the Bluetooth mesh module.
Bluetooth mesh can be used across a wide range of markets and is used in the Internet of Things which requires quite a large number of devices connected to communicate with one another. The Bluetooth mesh module also operates on Bluetooth Low Energy and can be improved upon and upgraded, depending on the type and size of available memory in the chip.
Some of the advantages of the Bluetooth mesh module include:
If you are interested in building a Bluetooth mesh networking product, you need compatible hardware and software. Bluetooth mesh networks require an underlying Bluetooth LE 4.X or 5.0 stack, which supports GAP broadcaster and observer roles to notify and scan notification packets.
To use the Bluetooth Mesh Networking Protocol on Bluetooth LE, it is recommended to use the SDK from the Bluetooth Module Provider, which contains the Bluetooth Mesh Networking Protocol and the corresponding API.
The Bluetooth mesh module consists of the following layers:
In your quest to selecting your best Bluetooth modules, you can contact us to help you.
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