u-blox Launches Wi-Fi / Bluetooth ‘Internet of Things’ Module

u-blox’ ODIN-W160, a rugged multiradio module.

u-blox has announced the ODIN-W160, a rugged multiradio module for demanding industrial, vehicle, medical, and security applications.

“u-blox’ compact ODIN-W160 module is perfect for small sensor applications in rugged environments, where faultless operation 24/7 is a requirement,” says Herbert Blaser, vice president of short-range radio at u-blox. “With this module, u‑blox customers can shorten their product development cycle significantly by integrating a robust, certified communication solution in their IoT applications.”

ODIN-W160 supports dual-band Wi-Fi 2.4/5GHz (U-NII bands 1, 2, 2e, 3), as well as dual-mode Bluetooth v4.0, which includes Bluetooth low-energy and classic Bluetooth (Bluetooth “Smart Ready”).

The host-based module is designed for a long life cycle, which makes it ideal for infrastructure, building, and automotive implementations. In addition, it extends battery life operation due to its ultra-low power consumption.

Together with the open-source Linux host driver, the 15 x 22 x 3 mm module minimizes development time to implement short range wireless communications in end-devices. Also, no trimming or tuning is required during manufacturing of customer end-devices, since ODIN-W160 has pre-calibrated radio parameters and MAC address stored in on-board EEPROM.

ODIN-W160 is in a castellated package, improving visual inspection of end-devices, and comes with a u.fl antenna connector for a wide selection of certified antennas.

It provides modular radio type approvals for Europe, USA, and Canada (R&TTE, FCC, IC), EMC certification, and Bluetooth qualification.

u-blox will be at CTIA 2014 / Super Mobility Week in Las Vegas September 9-11,  at Stand 5229, 7611-A. u-blox will also be speaking about solutions for the Internet of Things on September 9, 12.00–12.15 at the Sands Expo — MobileCON Show Floor, stage 3.