September 24 , 2013 – Laird, a global technology company, announced the release of its first dual-mode Bluetooth v4.0 modules. The high performance Class 1 Bluetooth 800 Series modules, along with associated development kits, are available now in mass-production quantities from all Laird global distributors.
Key application areas for the BT800 Series modules include AIDC devices, such as handheld computers and barcode scanners, medical devices, ePOS terminals, and industrial cable replacement. The new BT800 Series modules offer dual-mode, or Bluetooth Smart Ready™ support, enabling connections to devices that support BLE and Classic (pre-v4.0) Bluetooth.
“With Class 1 range and dual-mode support, our new BT800 series modules are the right choice for OS backed devices that need a cost-effective, high-performance solution for connecting to Bluetooth devices, old and new,” said Laird Product Manager Jonathan Kaye. “A packaged Laird USB dongle option is also available
for greater flexibility and cost-effectiveness in serving a variety of additional applications.”
The Laird BT800 Series modules are ideal for applications where designers require maximum performance in a small size. With a tiny footprint (8.5 x 13 mm), yet output power at 8 dBm, a BT800 Series module is perfect for adding robust, long-range Bluetooth data connectivity to any device that has its own Bluetooth software stack. The series also features HID (Human Interface Device) Proxy Mode, enabling out-of-the box HID connectivity for devices such as a keyboard and mouse.
For maximum flexibility in systems integration, the modules are designed to support a full speed USB interface plus GPIO and additionally I2S and PCM audio interfaces. All BT800 Series modules present a Bluetooth standard HCI interface and have native support for a wide range of Windows and Linux Bluetooth oftware stacks.
“Laird eases integration and speeds time to market by providing a low-cost developer’s kit, full certifications, quick and responsive global support, and a strong global supply chain of distributors with development kits always in stock,” added Kaye.
Laird’s BL600 Series modules, which made their debut in April of this year, offer a simple way to add single-mode BLE, or Bluetooth Smart ™, to small, portable, power-conscious devices. “Our BL600 series modules are the right choice for a broad range of sensors and devices that need Bluetooth Smart,” said Kaye. “The BT800 series modules now add Bluetooth Smart Ready™, enabling connections to both Bluetooth Smart™ devices and Classic Bluetooth devices.”
Embedded wireless solutions from Laird include Summit Wi-Fi radio modules, a full line of Bluetooth® radio modules and innovative RAMP radio modules. These unique product solutions are ideal for applications in the industrial, medical, and M2M communications industries.
About Laird
Laird is a global technology business focused on enabling wireless communication and smart systems, and providing components and systems that protect electronics. Laird operates through two divisions, Wireless Systems and Performance Materials. Wireless Systems solutions include antenna systems, embedded wireless modules, telematics products and wireless automation and control solutions. Performance Materials solutions include electromagnetic interference shielding, thermal management and signal integrity products.
As a leader in the design, supply and support of innovative technology, our products allow people, organisations, machines and applications to connect effectively, helping to build a world where smart technology transforms the way of life. Custom products are supplied to major sectors of the electronics industry including the handset, telecommunications, IT, automotive, public safety, consumer, medical, rail, mining and industrial markets. Providing value and differentiation to our customers through innovation, reliable fulfilment and speed, Laird PLC is listed and headquartered in London, and employs over 9,000 people in more than 58 facilities located in 18 countries.
