Introduction
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology has become a cornerstone of modern connectivity, enabling innovative solutions in asset tracking, smart buildings, healthcare, and industrial automation. EM Microelectronic’s EMBP (Beacon Platform) exemplifies the capabilities of BLE beacons with its rugged design, ultra-low power consumption, and optional integrated sensors. At the heart of the EMBP lies the EM9305 BLE SoC, a cutting-edge solution that delivers unmatched energy efficiency, processing power, and flexibility.
This article explores the EMBP as a robust beacon platform and dives into how the EM9305 enhances its performance, making it a standout solution for engineers seeking reliable and scalable BLE technologies.
EMBP: Rugged BLE Beacons for Modern Applications
The EMBP (EM Microelectronic Beacon Platform) sets a new standard for BLE beacons, combining durability, efficiency, and advanced sensor capabilities. Designed for long-term deployment in challenging environments, the EMBP is tailored to meet the demands of modern industrial, commercial, and consumer applications.
Key Features of the EMBP
Ultra-Long Battery Life: Operates for up to 10 years on a single coin cell battery, drastically reducing maintenance costs.
Durable Construction: Rated up to IP69, offering protection against water, dust, and harsh environmental conditions.
Integrated Sensors: Optional features include:
3-axis accelerometer for motion sensing.
NIST traceable temperature sensor for precise environmental monitoring.
Customisable Configurations: Flexible settings to tailor beacon functionality for specific applications.
Applications for BLE Beacons like the EMBP
The EMBP is versatile, with applications across multiple sectors:
Asset Tracking: Monitors goods and equipment in warehouses and supply chains.
Smart Buildings: Enables navigation, occupancy tracking, and environmental sensing.
Healthcare: Supports patient monitoring and hospital equipment tracking.
Industrial Automation: Ensures reliable performance in harsh factory conditions.
The EM9305 BLE SoC: em-Powering EMBP BLE beacons
At the core of the EMBP lies the EM9305 BLE SoC, a high-performance chip designed for ultra-low power operation and advanced BLE functionality. The EM9305 enhances the EMBP’s efficiency, reliability, and scalability.
We wrote a full article introducing the EM9305 on its release over a year ago, but here is a summary of the key specs:
Technical Highlights of the EM9305
Energy Efficiency:
Deep sleep current: 220nA.
Typical TX current: 3.5mA @ 3V.
Typical RX current: 3.0mA @ 3V.
Powerful Processing:
ARC EM7D-based 32-bit MCU with DSP, FPU, and DMA support.
512kB flash memory and 64kB RAM for flexible code execution.
Advanced RF Capabilities:
RX sensitivity down to -103dBm.
Transmit power up to +10dBm, supporting long-range BLE applications.
Comprehensive Interfaces:
SPI, UART, I2C, I2S/TDM, and 12 GPIOs for integration flexibility.
How the EM9305 Elevates the EMBP
Optimised Energy Use: The EM9305 enables the EMBP’s impressive 10-year battery life.
Enhanced Connectivity: High RX sensitivity and robust RF performance ensure reliable communication in noisy environments.
Scalability: Supports flexible configurations for diverse use cases, from simple beacons to advanced sensing platforms.
Why Choose EM Microelectronic BLE Solutions?
EM Microelectronic’s BLE solutions stand out due to their combination of innovation, durability, and efficiency. The EMBP platform, powered by the EM9305, offers:
Size and Power: They manufacture the world's smallest and lowest power BLE ICs, making deployment easy.
Long-Term Reliability: With IP69 durability and 10-year battery life, the EMBP is designed for continuous use in tough conditions.
Advanced Technology: The EM9305 delivers best-in-class energy efficiency and processing power.
In-House Production: EM Microelectronics, part of the Swatch Group, manufacture the ICs and batteries in their beacons - offering full end to end control of the process
Customisable Form and Function: Integrated sensors and flexible configurations cater to diverse applications. They also offer the ability for custom branding and colours for their beacons which is a massive selling point for some customers.
Looking at some of their recent projects at Electronica, it is clear that they take a collaborative approach to producing the best possible outcome for every customer. Take a look at our video tour during our visit:
Conclusion
The EMBP beacon platform and EM9305 BLE SoC provide a powerful combination for engineers developing BLE-enabled systems. With its rugged design, ultra-low power consumption, and advanced features, the EMBP addresses the needs of applications ranging from asset tracking to smart buildings. By leveraging the cutting-edge capabilities of the EM9305, EM Microelectronic sets a benchmark in BLE beacon solutions.
Contact Ineltek to start your BLE Beacon development journey with EM Microelectronic.