Colorado-based SparkFun has become a value-added reseller (VAR) for Digi, which has released XBee development tools to support cellular IoT from sensor to cloud.

SparkFun becomes a Digi VAR for OEMs and launches a series of development boards combining the Digi XBee module with SparkFun’s Qwiic Connect ecosystem. The marriage of these two technologies brings I²C-based rapid-prototyping tools to a wide range of users, from hobbyists to professional R&D developers, who are looking to integrate cellular IoT from sensor to cloud.

The added products include the Explorer USB-C, Explore Regulated and Arduino Shield development boards.

To support multiple applications and extensibility, SparkFun has also released MicroPython libraries for SparkFun’s line of Qwiic sensors. This enables the sensors to interact with the Digi XBee Sensor Lab to create a system of smart sensors that gather data at the edge.

SparkFun will also sell XBee modules as standalone products that are pre-certified, programmable and provide over-the-air updates. There will also be future content collaborations between the two companies, including projects and tutorials that could inspire cellular IoT applications.

“We’re thrilled to collaborate with SparkFun,” said Bob Blumenscheid, senior product marketing manager at Digi. “We’re so well aligned in our visions when it comes to supporting developers with excellent building blocks that simplify the complexity of IoT projects and support rapid time to market. By combining pre-certified modules with code libraries and tools for configuration, testing, deployment and remote management, we can give developers the leg up they need to succeed.”

Glenn Samala, SparkFun CEO, added: “We are honoured to be a key VAR for Digi International’s OEM team. Together we are supporting the development of cellular IoT from prototype to production. Between SparkFun’s development tools and Digi XBee modules, we believe we can significantly impact users from enthusiasts to professionals and inspire creative new applications.”

SparkFun (www.sparkfun.com) was founded in 2003. Founded in 1985, Digi (www.digi.com) has helped customers connect more than 100 million things and counting.