Team ELEBG – Electronics Buyer’s Guide
ST is expanding the STM32WB0 series with the launch of the STM32WB05 and STM32WB06/07, building on the STM32WB09 introduced late last year. This new series marks a shift from BlueNRG-LP(S) devices, allowing developers to leverage the STM32Cube ecosystem. Additionally, ST is introducing the STM32WB05xN, a new network processor designed for Bluetooth LE applications, offering a more cost-effective and straightforward solution for integrators needing a simple radio link with a serial interface. This launch fulfills ST’s promise to deliver the STM32WB0 series by mid-2024.
STM32WB09, STM32WB06/07, STM32WB05, and STM32WB05xN: What is happening?
The BlueNRG-LP(S) Legacy in STM32WB0x:
The new STM32WB0x series shares a lot of its core features with the BlueNRG-LP(S) line, using the same Cortex-M0+ processor and a similar Bluetooth stack. While aligning with the STM32Cube ecosystem required some adjustments to APIs and processes, migrating from the BlueNRG stack to STM32WB0 remains easy and straightforward.
For developers focusing on cost-effective and energy-efficient solutions, the STM32WB0x series offers the benefits of the BlueNRG’s modular software stack, which is optimized for memory footprint and performance. The stack is also known for its interoperability and reliability. Developers can take advantage of familiar features like advertising extensions, 2 Mbps high-speed data transfer, and long-range capabilities of up to 1.3 km (0.8 miles) in open environments. Additionally, new features like Periodic Advertising with Response (PAwR) are available, all while reusing some BlueNRG-LPS PCB reference designs.
Simplified Overview of STM32WB0x Series and Bluetooth LE Features
Understanding Periodic Advertising with Response (PAwR): PAwR is an advanced version of periodic advertising in Bluetooth, allowing a device to send ads at specific intervals. This helps systems stay in deep sleep, waking only when necessary, extending battery life. PAwR enhances this by allowing the receiving device to respond, making it ideal for applications like electronic shelf labels (ESL), where multiple devices need to confirm message receipt.
New Releases: STM32WB05, STM32WB06/07, and STM32WB09:
- STM32WB05: Built on BlueNRG-LPS tech, certified for Bluetooth LE 5.4, and supports advanced features like Angle of Arrival (AoA) and Departure (AoD) for precise position tracking. It’s ideal for asset tracking in large spaces like airports.
- STM32WB06/07: Derived from BlueNRG-LP, these models focus on long-range (up to 1.3 km) and high-speed connections, with a balance of power and memory (256 KB flash, 64 KB RAM). They target applications needing more memory without position tracking.
- STM32WB09: The flagship model, offering expanded memory and all Bluetooth LE 5.4 features, like Isochronous Channels for synchronized data streams. It’s perfect for complex applications needing robust performance.
New Network Processor: STM32WB05xN: The STM32WB05xN offers a simplified, cost-effective solution as a network co-processor for Bluetooth LE, designed to work seamlessly with existing systems via a serial interface. It’s ideal for developers seeking to integrate Bluetooth without running full applications on the device itself.
Ecosystem Integration: All STM32WB0x devices are supported by the STM32Cube ecosystem, allowing easy migration and development. Tools like STM32CubeMX, STM32CubeIDE, and STM32CubeProgrammer ensure a smooth transition from BlueNRG devices, providing developers with a unified platform for building cost-effective Bluetooth solutions.
Why This Matters: The STM32WB0 series reflects ST’s commitment to making Bluetooth LE accessible to a broader audience. By harmonizing its portfolio, ST offers devices that lower costs without sacrificing features, maintaining a strong price-to-performance ratio. The series supports advanced Bluetooth LE 5.4 features, making it a competitive choice for developing modern wireless applications.
