PearlBlue is a Class 1 (up to 100 m range) intelligent Bluetooth module that implements a transparent UART-to-Bluetooth interface bridge in Master or Slave modes, offering a fast, wireless solution for embedded applications. PearlBlue implements a proprietary command-based firmware over the Bluetooth SPP to allow worry-free, point-to-point wireless communications for devices incorporating this profile over Bluetooth. It connects the radio serial port to a physical UART that can be easily interfaced to any embedded microcontroller, PDA, or computer. The module also offers six general-purpose I/O lines.

The tiny 1.25² × 1.1² module can act as a master or slave and implement a wireless RS-232-type link between a piece of equipment and other Bluetooth devices. It may also be used as an RS-232-to-Bluetooth configurable dongle (when used with the RS-232 accessory board) with advanced capabilities such as: the ability to initiate a connection, wait for a connection, search/identify (name and Class of Device), define name and CoD, and security with configurable PIN.

PearlBlue is OS and hardware independent. It is intended to give Bluetooth capability to embedded instruments, industrial controls, ambient monitors, and medical instruments. The radio power is 14 dBm at a carrier frequency of 2.4 GHz. The power requirement for the module is 3.3 V at 100 mA, and it is rated to run over the –40° to 70°C range. An accessory RS-232 board is also available with sockets for the PearlBlue module and a 3.3-V regulator.

emxys’s PearlBlue is available in the United States through the Saelig Co. for $99.

emxys
www.emxys.com