Silicon Labs helps Laird with Bluetooth modules

  • February 23, 2022
  • Steve Rogerson

Ohio-based Laird Connectivity has launched Bluetooth LE modules to accelerates IoT development. The Lyra modules are based on a Silicon Labs system-on-chip (SoC).

Based on the EFR32BG22 SoC, the flexible modules marry the benefits of Silicon Labs hardware, software and tools with Laird’s added-value application software, services, certification and support capabilities. This partnership provides multiple software development options suited to the user’s resources and skillsets in Bluetooth LE-enabled product development.

“We are excited to partner with Silicon Labs for our new Lyra series of modules,” said Jonathan Kaye, vice president of product management at Laird Connectivity. “Together, through this partnership, we drive down our customers’ total cost of ownership, design complexity and project risk, while ensuring them the fastest time to market for their Bluetooth LE-enabled IoT designs.”

Users can choose from three firmware options for application development. This includes Laird’s AT command set, which has been developed from years of Bluetooth LE experience and implementations. The AT option provides a robust easy-to-use firmware for any user regardless of their Bluetooth LE expertise or host MCU.

Full software access for C code development using the Simplicity Studio IDE and Silicon Labs’ Wireless Xpress framework is also available. Additionally, Laird is providing technical and application support for all firmware options on the Lyra series.

The modules bring out the key features of the EFR32BG22 SoC, including Bluetooth 5.3 and LE connectivity, MCU peripherals, an extended industrial temperature rating, hostless and hosted operation, and a Cortex-M33 with 512kbyte flash and 32k RAM.

Development kits are available with everything needed in one box to start Bluetooth LE development. Users can layer onto their development additional Laird value-added support services including multiple pre-certified antenna options and complete design or certification services relating to any aspect of their IoT product design.

“The Lyra series is a seamless combination of Silicon Labs performance from the EFR32BG22 SoC, its associated firmware and tools plus Laird Connectivity’s rich added value firmware and industry-leading customer support,” said Anders Pettersson, director of sales enablement at Silicon Labs. “This combination makes Lyra a smart choice for OEMs looking to implement Bluetooth LE into new IoT product designs with low overhead in hardware, software and certifications.”

The modules are suitable for battery-powered IoT device applications including professional lighting, asset tags and beacons, secure medical peripherals, and industrial IoT sensors. Modular FCC, ISED, EU, UKCA, MIC, KC and Bluetooth SIG approvals extend to OEM designs with no new testing, speeding time to market and reducing development risks.