Quectel HCM511S high-performance MCU Bluetooth module

Quectel Wireless Solutions has launched the HCM511S high-performance MCU Bluetooth module for compact connected devices such as digital keys, portable devices and battery-operated motion sensors. Utilising Bluetooth Low Energy 5.4, the module accommodates an ARM Cortex-M33 processor and features built-in 32 KB RAM and either 352 or 512 KB flash memory to deliver efficient performance.

Featuring good receiver sensitivity and a maximum transmit power of +6 dBm to achieve long-distance transmission, the module has been designed to enable compact, low-power devices to connect effectively. Measuring 16.6 x 11.2 x 2.1 mm, it has an ultra-compact LCC form factor in order to optimise size and cost for end products.

Suitable applications include sports and fitness devices, PC peripherals and accessories, health care (including blood pressure and glucose metering), indoor navigation, digital key, connected lighting control and smart homes/smart buildings. For battery-powered devices such as Bluetooth remote controls or electronic shelf labels, the high power efficiency of the module will be an added benefit.

Critically, the module offers the option of support for Bluetooth mesh network low-power nodes. This enables increased network scalability and node counts over mesh topology, enabling greater device density to be enabled. The module offers up to 18 GPIOs which can be multiplexed for various interfaces, including ADC, USART, I2C, I2S, SPI and PWM, to maximise developer design options.

Connecting via a PCB Bluetooth antenna, the high-performance product operates in industrial-grade operating temperature ranges of -40 to +85°C and weighs just 0.57 g. The module also supports Secure Vault, an enhanced secure engine for a high level of IoT security. It is certified for use in Europe, America, Canada, China, Australia and New Zealand, and has been named a qualified Bluetooth product by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group.