Debashis Das, Author at CNX Software - Embedded Systems News

February 8, 2024February 7, 2024 by Debashis Das - 6 Comments

Microchip introduces PIC16F13145 Series MCUs with customizable logic

Microchip New MCU with Configurable Logic Block

Microchip recently introduced the PIC16F13145 series of 8-bit MCUs featuring a Configurable Logic Block (CLB). This allows users to create custom hardware-based logic functions within the MCU. This approach lowers the BOM costs and boosts performance. Last year, we saw Microchip introduce PIC32CZ Arm MCU with a Hardware Security Module (HSM) and before that, we saw they launched LAN8650/LAN8651 10BASE-T1S single-pair Ethernet Controllers. Feel free to check those out if you are interested in the topics. Microchip PIC16F13145 Series MCU Specification: 32MHz PIC16 CPU core Up to 1KB User SRAM for application data Up to 14KB Flash memory with code protection features CLB Capabilities: Up to 32 basic logic elements – AND/OR/NAND/NOR gates, buffers/inverting buffers, D/JK flip-flops, multiplexers, 4-input LUT Dynamic configuration for on-the-fly changes Tri-state logic capability Inputs/outputs from software, I/O pins, and PIC® peripherals (ADC, PWM, DAC, etc.) Less than 6 ns BLE propagation delay at 5.5V (typical) […]

February 2, 2024February 1, 2024 by Debashis Das - 1 Comment

M.2 E-Key Wi-Fi 7 HAT for Raspberry Pi 5 also supports Google TPU

Mcuzone MPW7 M.2 E Key Wi Fi 7 HAT for RPi 5 with Google TPU Support

The Mcuzone MPW7 HAT for the Raspberry Pi 5 is designed to work with 2230 Wi-Fi 7 M.2 E-Key modules like the Intel BE200, AX210, and AX200, but the M.2 socket can also take Wi-Fi 6/6E modules as well as Google’s Tensor Processing Units (TPUs). It also integrates Bluetooth support via a 1.25mm USB interface on the HAT. Previously, we have covered many different HATs for the Raspberry Pi module, such as the Mcuzone MPS2280 M.2 NVMe HAT, Mcuzone MP4GM 4G LTE HAT, and the Sixfab 5G Modem Kit. Feel free to check those out if you are interested in Raspberry Pi 5 HATs. Mcuzone MPW7 M.2 E-Key Wi-Fi 7 module specification: M.2 E-Key socket supports 2230 modules WiFi modules compatibility – Supports M.2 E-Key modules like BE200, AX210, AX200, MT7922, Intel 8265C, etc… Bluetooth connectivity – 1.25mm 4-pin USB interface for Bluetooth integrated into the WiFi module connected to […]

January 31, 2024January 30, 2024 by Debashis Das - 19 Comments

Mcuzone MPS2280 M.2 NVMe HAT for Raspberry Pi 5 takes an up to 22110 Gen3 SSD drive

Raspberry Pi 5 PCIE M.2 NVME HAT with 2280 2230 2242 Gen3 SSD Support

The Mcuzone MPS2280 M.2 NVMe HAT is another PCIe to NVMe adapter board built for the Raspberry Pi 5. What sets it apart from other boards is that it supports 2280 SSDs and offers the option to Jerry-rigg a 22110 SSD with zip ties. Previously we have covered many PCIe to NVMe expansion boards such as Pimoroni NVMe Base, Geekworm X1003 PCIe to NVMe SSD adapter, and PineBerry Pi’s HatDrive, so feel free to check those out if interested. Mcuzone MPS2280 M.2 NVMe HAT specifications: PCIe Support – Compatible with PCIe x1 interface, offering Gen2 and Gen3 modes. SSD compatibility – Supports M.2 M-key interface with 2280, 2242, and 2230 size SSDs, and offers the option to Jerry-rigg a 22110 SSD with zip ties. SSD booting – Enables booting from an NVMe SSD, with options for storage expansion. Alternatively, the system can boot from TF while using the SSD for […]

January 30, 2024January 29, 2024 by Debashis Das - 2 Comments

Quectel CC660D-LS IoT-NTN module is built for Skylo’s satellite network

Skylo Certified Quectel CC660D LS IoT NTN Chip

Quectel recently announced the launch of the Quectel CC660D-LS IoT-NTN module, created in partnership with Skylo. Designed for two-way IoT (Internet of Things) applications this model supports the latest 3GPP Release 17 standards for IoT over non-terrestrial networks (NTN). Additionally, It can operate on L-band (1 to 2 GHz), and S-band (2 to 4 GHz) frequencies, making it ideal for asset tracking, fleet management, and agricultural and maritime uses. Last year, we wrote about Qualcomm 212S and 9205S satellite modems which were also developed in collaboration with Skylo. Quectel CC660D-LS IoT-NTN Satellite Module Specifications: Module Type – NTN satellite communication module Compliance – Supports 3GPP Rel-17 IoT-NTN Frequency Bands – Operates on L-band (B255) and S-band (B256/23) Internet Protocols – Abundant embedded Internet service protocols Power Supply – Supports low voltage power supply from 2.2–3.6 V Power Consumption – Ultra-low power usage Sensitivity – Super-high sensitivity Temperature Range – Extended […]

January 29, 2024July 30, 2024 by Debashis Das - 2 Comments

Nordic’s nRF9161 SiP and DK support cellular IoT and DECT NR+ non-cellular 5G technology

Nordic Semiconductor recently announced the availability of the nRF9161 system in package (SiP) and pre-certified Development Kit designed to power both cellular IoT and non-cellular 5G technologies. This new device can connect to LTE-M, NB-IoT, and DECT NR+ networks while maintaining long battery life, better location tracking, and strong connectivity. Additionally, Nordic offers support through their nRF Connect SDK and the Nordic Developer Academy. The nRF9161 SiP is an improved version of the nRF9160 SiP, which has been the basis for various projects like the Actinius Icarus SoM DK, Conexio Stratus, nRF9160 Feather LTE IoT and GPS Board, Ruuvi Node, and many other projects. Feel free to check those out if interested. The press release mentions that this new chip is an update of the nRF9160 and includes features like an Arm Cortex-M33 processor, 1 MB flash, 256 KB RAM, along with SPI, I2C, UART, PWM, and a 12-bit ADC […]

January 28, 2024January 28, 2024 by Debashis Das - 8 Comments

Mcuzone MP4GM 4G LTE PCIe Module for Raspberry Pi 5 also adds three USB 2.0 interfaces

Mcuzone recently announced the MP4GM, a new 4G LTE module for the Raspberry Pi 5 SBC. This module connects to the Raspberry Pi 5 via PCIe and includes three extra 1.25mm JST connectors for three additional USB 2.0 interfaces. This HAT is compatible with various 4G LTE mini PCIe modules from Mcuzone and Fibocom, providing flexible options for 4G connectivity. We have previously covered a 5G Modem Kit for the Raspberry Pi 5, but this is the first time we have found out about a 4G LTE kit designed for the Pi 5. We have also covered Mcuzone RK3308 SoM and the MDK3308-EK Evaluation Kit, designed for smart voice applications as well as a Raspberry Pi CM4 board with dual Ethernet capabilities all from MCUzone. So, feel free to check those out if you are interested in their products. Mcuzone MP4GM 4G LTE module specification: Model – MP4GM PCIe to […]

January 26, 2024January 25, 2024 by Debashis Das - No Comments

Quectel FGH100M Wi-Fi HaLow module based on Morse Micro MM6108 receives CE and FCC Certifications

Quectel and Morse Micro's FGH100M Wi Fi HaLow Module

In a collaboration, Quectel Wireless Solutions and Morse Micro have developed the FGH100M a Wi-Fi HaLow module, powered by Morse Micro’s MM6108 SoC. This module has achieved CE certification in Europe and FCC approval in the US, meeting high safety and environmental standards. After reading through the press release, I initially thought the 802.11.ah WiFi, known as WiFi HaLow, would be similar to other LPWAN standards like LoRaWAN or Sigfox. However, further research showed that Wi-Fi HaLow, operating in the 900 MHz band, was first announced in 2014 and got its name in 2016. However, in the following years, there wasn’t much interest in this wireless standard. But starting from 2021, it’s becoming more popular, and we’ve seen many HaLow-based products like a mini PCIe card, a WiFi HaLow development board, and a gateway kit to extend the range of IP cameras, and also ALFA Network’s AHPI7292S Raspberry Pi HAT […]

January 25, 2024 by Debashis Das - 1 Comment

Waveshare ESP32-S3-LCD-1.28 development board with 1.28-inch IPS round LCD is available for $15

The Waveshare “ESP32-S3-LCD-1.28” is an ESP32-S3-based display board featuring a 1.28-inch round LCD screen with a 240×240 resolution, driven by the GC9A01 display driver chip. It also includes a Li-ion battery charger, a QMI8658 6-axis IMU (for motion tracking), a USB Type-C connector, and wireless capabilities. This board is quite similar to others like the Lilygo T-RGB, Round Display for XIAO, ESP32-S3 Round SPI boards. However, it’s thinner and more affordable. Waveshare ESP32-S3-LCD-1.28 development board specifications: Wireless MCU – ESP32-S3 Xtensa 32-bit LX7 dual-core, up to 240MHz frequency. Display: 1.28-inch round IPS LCD. Resolution – 240×240 pixels. 65K color. Display Chip – GC9A01A. IMU Parameters: Sensor – QMI8658 Accelerometer resolution – 16-bit; Range (Optional): ±2, ±4, ±8, ±16g. Gyroscope resolution – 16 bits; Range (Optional) – ±16, ±32, ±64, ±128, ±256, ±512, ±1024, ±2048°/sec. Memory: Built-in 512KB SRAM. 384KB ROM. Onboard 2MB PSRAM. External 16MB Flash memory (W25Q128JVSIQ). Wireless Connectivity: […]