Newest Bluetooth chips in two new compact modules

u-blox's new versatile Bluetooth LE modules ALMA-B1 and NORA-B2, integrating Nordic's new nRF54 Series chips, deliver powerful processing and high-security features for high-end and I IoT applications.

u-blox has revealed two additions to its Bluetooth LE portfolio, ALMA-B1 and NORA-B2. The modules are based on the latest generation nRF54 Series SoCs from Nordic Semiconductor. They both support Bluetooth LE 5.4 and Thread/Matter technologies in a compact, power-efficient, and secure format.

The devices are designed for a wide range of IoT applications, including industrial automation, healthcare, and smart home. ALMA-B1 is a high-end wireless MCU, while NORA-B2 brings ultra-low power to less complex applications. In the indoor positioning example, ALMA-B1 could act as an anchor point due to its vast processing capabilities, while the power efficiency of NORA-B2 makes it suited to asset tracking tags.

According to ABI Research, Bluetooth LE device shipments are expected to double by 2028 roughly. At the same time, new applications unleashed by AI/EdgeML and sensor fusion trigger the necessity for extra and stronger requirements, including higher security, more processing power, and efficient battery consumption.

Powered by the nRF54H20 and the nRF54L15 Nordic low-power multiprotocol SoCs, the products supply IoT devices with the processing power for edge computing and machine learning without additional components. With more than twice the processing power of previous Bluetooth LE modules, ALMA-B1 can even replace general-purpose MCUs in a compact solution.

Both modules also significantly reduce power consumption. NORA-B2 consumes up to 50% less current than previous generations of Bluetooth LE modules. This translates into smaller batteries or longer battery life in end products.

Designed for PSA Certified Level 3, the devices provide the highest levels of IoT security. In addition to features like secure boot, secure storage, secure debug interfaces, and hardware crypto accelerators, the modules include next-generation security features like physical tamper detection and protection against side-channel attacks.

The sizes of the modules (10mm x 11mm or 10mm x 14mm) save considerable space and facilitate migration from other company u-blox's modules. Both modules come with global certifications.

"We are thrilled to see Nordic's latest generation of chipsets, the nRF54 Series, being integrated into these u-blox's modules. Their full potential will undoubtedly open up a wealth of revolutionary IoT end products that were previously unfeasible. ALMA-B1's superior power efficiency in radio and MCU processing and NORA-B2's ultra-low power for the mass market are clear market differentiators," says Thomas Holmberg, regional sales director at Nordic Semiconductor.

The devices are available as wireless MCUs. Both offer two antenna options: an antenna pin or an embedded PCB antenna. Samples for these modules will be available in Q3 2024.