Japanese manufacturer Murata has introduced compact, low-power Wifi HaLow modules for long-range smart IoT deployments.

The LBWA0ZZ-2HK and -2HL comply with sub-1GHz wifi standards across key regions, achieving high-speed communication over distances of more than 1km. The modules support high power at +23dBm (type 2HK) and low power at +13dBm (2HL) smart IoT applications.

They can be used in consumer smart devices, such as connected smart homes and smart accessories, as well as for business and industrial applications, including access control, smart energy, building automation, security cameras, infrastructure management, and medical devices.

“Thanks to Murata’s proprietary high-density packaging technology, the 2HK and 2HL Wifi HaLow modules offer both high power and low power capabilities in a compact, surface mount package,” said Masatomo Hashimoto, director at Murata. “By utilising long-range, high-speed communication for a private network, smart device and smart equipment, manufacturers can change existing wifi and IP communication options to achieve area expansion while reducing radio usage and improving power consumption efficiency, contributing to more sustainability.”

Due to their IP-native standard compliance with no network costs, the modules reduce the need for repeaters in existing wifi and IP communication-based offerings, enabling private network area expansion and lowering system costs. Additionally, compared with other low-power, wide-area (LPWA) network technologies, the long-range, high-speed communication of the modules can facilitate image and video transmission. This enhanced communication capability can be used for IoT deployments to inspect and maintain infrastructure and hazardous areas outside of cellular coverage, enabling automation with significant energy and cost savings.

Based on the NRC7394 (newracom.com/products/nrc7394) chipset from Newracom, with Arm Cortex-M3 processor, the modules offer enough processing power to accommodate the wifi subsystem and user applications. The 2HK module operates at frequencies from 902 to 928MHz, whereas the 2HL is at 750 to 950MHz. Both feature an SPI host interface with peripherals including SPI, two uarts, two I²C, two-channel 10bit ADC and GPIO.

“The NRC7394 chipset represents the future of wifi for IoT applications, with low power consumption and extended range capabilities,” said Sok Kyu Lee, CEO of California-based Newracom (newracom.com). “By integrating our technology into Murata’s new module, we are providing a powerful platform for a wide range of industries to implement reliable, efficient wireless communication. We look forward to seeing how this module will help accelerate the adoption of next-generation IoT across the globe.”

Housed in a surface-mount LGA package with solder bumps, the modules typically measure 19 by 13.9mm, have a maximum profile of 2.5mm, and operate in temperatures from -40 to +85˚C.

For more information on the 2HK, go to www.murata.com/en-eu/products/connectivitymodule/wi-fi-bluetooth/overview/lineup/type2hk and for the 2HL to www.murata.com/en-eu/products/connectivitymodule/wi-fi-bluetooth/overview/lineup/type2hl.

Murata (www.murata.com) is a manufacturer of electronic components, modules and devices. Established in 1944, it is headquartered in Japan.