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electronica 2016


Mesh networking module from Silicon Labs simplifies Thread and ZigBee connectivity


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ilicon Labs has introduced a new family of Wireless Gecko modules focused on mesh networking applications with support for best-in-class ZigBee and Thread software. Silicon Labs’ new MGM111 module is the first in this comprehensive family of multiprotocol modules based on the Mighty Gecko system-on-chip (SoC) device. The MGM111 module is supported by Silicon Labs’ reliable, secure and flexible mesh protocol stacks and the industry’s most advanced wireless software development tools. The module’s combination of onboard stacks, antenna options and RF regulatory certifications helps developers reduce cost, complexity and time to market for an array of mesh networking applications including home and building automation, connected lighting, smart metering, security systems and other IoT platforms. The MGM111 module gives developers a rapid on-ramp to the IoT, enabling them 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). This hardware and software compatibility makes it easy to migrate from modules to SoCs while enabling developers to preserve their investments in tools and software with little to no system redesign.


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 and allows them to focus on their end applications. 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). “As the market leader in mesh networking silicon and software, Silicon Labs offers more than a decade of leadership in developing and certifying standards-based mesh networking solutions,” said Skip Ashton, vice president of IoT software at Silicon Labs and a member of the board of directors for the ZigBee Alliance and the Thread Group. “Our customers rely on our deep understanding of mesh technology and RF certification. They also appreciate that we offer the tools and stacks they need to simplify the development process, as well as an upgrade path that safeguards their IoT products from being stranded on older technologies and standards.”


The MGM111 module comes in a compact 12.9 mm 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, a comprehensive suite of development and debugging tools that accelerates IoT product design. Key Simplicity Studio tools include AppBuilder, allowing developers to easily configure wireless applications while ensuring software reuse across designs based on Wireless Gecko technology; Network Analyser, providing full visibility and debugging of wireless networking activity by using the module’s packet trace port; and Energy Profiler, enabling developers to minimise the energy consumption of their code and extend battery life.


Hall A3, Booth 478 www.silabs.com


Dialog Semiconductor enhances connectivity of Tile Slim, the world’s thinnest Bluetooth tracker


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ialog Semiconductor plc, a provider of highly integrated power management, AC/DC power conversion, solid state lighting (SSL) and Bluetooth low energy technology, has announced that its DA14580 SmartBond System-on-Chip (SoC) is at the heart of Tile’s newest consumer product, Tile Slim. Available now, Tile Slim is the world’s thinnest Bluetooth tracker, designed specifically for wallets and measuring only 2.4 mm thick. Just like the popular Tile Original, which also uses Dialog’s SmartBond technology, Tile Slim allows users to ring their Tile to locate a misplaced item and find their smartphone even when it is in silent mode. Additionally, users can view their item’s last known location on a map or tap into Tile's community, the world's largest lost-and-found network, to help them find their lost or stolen item almost anywhere in the world. Powered by the DA14580, Tile Slim helps users locate anything within a range of around


10 CIE electronica 2016


100 feet (30 meters) by communicating with a smartphone or other iOS or Android smart device via Bluetooth low energy. The DA14580 includes intelligent power management features and an ARM Cortex M0 processor and delivers the industry’s highest Bluetooth performance, at the lowest power consumption, maximising the tracker’s battery life. “Dialog’s completely integrated feature set and ability to sustain Tile Slim’s battery life for at least one year were key in selecting them as a partner,” said Mike Farley, co-founder and CEO of Tile. “We are thrilled to deliver the world’s thinnest Bluetooth tracker, allowing more users to experience the tangible benefits of smart location in their everyday lives.” “With the launch of its latest tracker, Tile continues to prove that smart location has the potential to revolutionise the way we find and track lost items,” said Jalal Bagherli, CEO of Dialog. “Our silicon and software solutions make it simple to add Bluetooth low energy


connectivity to any device. We are pleased that Tile has chosen to partner with us to add those features to the world’s thinnest Bluetooth tracker.” Tile’s use of the DA14580 is the latest in a series of Internet of Things (IoT) design wins for Dialog that have entered high volume production in one of the fastest growing consumer electronics markets. According to ABI Research, Bluetooth low energy shipments will surpass 500 million units by 2021 in the tag and beacon market.


www.dialog-semiconductor.com


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