New SoC offers identical feature set to existing nRF51422 ANT/Bluetooth Smart device with more economical flash memory size.

Ultra low power (ULP) RF specialist Nordic Semiconductor ASA today announces the immediate availability of a lower cost variant of its award-winning nRF51422 multiprotocol SoC (System-on-Chip) which offers an identical feature, peripheral, and performance set with half the flash memory of the original 256kB version. This new device complements the existing nRF51422 (256kB) flash SoC by targeting the most price sensitive and high volume applications such as those used in sports, health and wellness, as well as industrial and commercial applications.

Engineers using this new variant can still access all of the innovative features and flexibility associated with other nRF51 series SoCs.  The series incorporates the ARM Cortex-M0 CPU, optimized for ultra low-power wireless applications, and the 2.4GHz radio which offers -90dBm sensitivity in ANT mode. The nRF51422 can operate on coin cell batteries down to a 1.8V supply while drawing peak currents of just above 10mA, permitting multiple years of battery life. The device is on-air compatible with all existing Nordic ANT products.

The nRF51422 offers complete pin-compatibility with the existing nRF51422 (256kB) and can be used as a drop-in replacement for any existing nRF51422-based designs operating with 128kB of flash memory.  This allows for smooth, seamless migration across devices. End products transitioning from the 256kB SoC to the 128kB part will not need to be re-qualified with teleregulatory bodies.

"Many markets where the nRF51422 (256kB) device is the part of choice have seen significant growth over the last few years. The sport and fitness, and health and wellness markets in particular have begun to offer products to a wider range of consumers at the entry-level. The nRF51422 (128kB) addresses this need for consistent functionality whilst shaving off costs where they can be implemented," explains Geir Langeland, Nordic Semiconductor's Director of Sales and Marketing. "This now allows companies to offer a broader range of product offerings at appropriate price points without sacrificing features and performance".

“ANT’s minimal use of resources leaves ample space for applications on the 128kB part and in turn, pays dividends to the developer,” said Rod Morris, Vice President ANT Wireless.  “It’s a very practical, economical part that can be used in a significant range of applications.”

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