The Waveshare RP2040-BLE module is a novel providing within the Raspberry Pi ecosystem, combining the ability of a Raspberry Pi RP2040 microcontroller with an unnamed Bluetooth 5.1 dual-mode chip. This module, which doesn’t concern itself with WiFi, is specifically designed for Bluetooth performance, supporting a USB-C add-on board that proves helpful throughout the improvement part.
Evaluating RP2040 Boards
Whereas there are lots of Raspberry Pi RP2040 boards that characteristic each a WiFi and Bluetooth module, such because the Raspberry Pi Pico W, the RP2040-BLE board from Waveshare units itself aside for individuals who are solely excited by using Bluetooth. This board isn’t solely extra power-efficient but in addition contains a design extra conducive to integration inside merchandise.
Key Options of Waveshare RP2040-BLE
The Waveshare RP2040-BLE is supplied with a Raspberry Pi RP2040 dual-core Arm Cortex M0+ microcontroller that may attain as much as 133 MHz. It additionally boasts 264KB of SRAM and an onboard storage capability of 2MB Flash reminiscence. The module helps Bluetooth 5.1 dual-mode operate (BLE and traditional), and it’s managed by serial AT instructions. A ceramic antenna is included for connectivity functions.
The module expands 24x by way of and castellated holes with 14x multi-function GPIO pins. It contains 2x SPI, 2x I2C, 2x UART, 3x 12-bit ADC, and 14 x PWM. The FPC connector is designed for a board with a USB-C port, Reset and Boot buttons. The module additionally comes with a temperature sensor.
The facility provide could be delivered through a 5V VBUS pin or an FPC connector. The scale of the RP2040-BLE board are 33.5 x 21 mm, whereas the USB-C board measures 18 x18 mm.
Programming and Compatibility
The RP2040-BLE module helps drag-and-drop programming utilizing mass storage over USB, mirroring the performance of the unique Raspberry Pi Pico (W). This module is suitable with MicroPython and C/C++ SDKs, in addition to Arduino programming. There are assets accessible that will help you get began, which embody particulars concerning the Bluetooth APIs and assets comparable to (partial) schematics. Nonetheless, it stays unclear which Bluetooth chip the module makes use of, and whether or not it’s suitable with the Raspberry Pi Pico Bluetooth implementation.
Pricing and Availability
The Waveshare RP2040-BLE module is priced roughly at $11 and could be bought on platforms comparable to Aliexpress or Amazon with free delivery. The package, which incorporates the USB-C board and FPC cable, prices an extra 90 cents on Aliexpress. Relying in your location, it could be dearer than the Raspberry Pi Pico W, however it’s fairly smaller. The module and package are additionally accessible on the Waveshare store for $6.49 and $7.49, excluding delivery prices.
Because the demand for Bluetooth-centric Raspberry Pi modules will increase, the Waveshare RP2040-BLE affords a novel, power-efficient, and extremely integrable resolution for builders and fanatics alike.
