Qorvo Helps Murata Introduce Small UWB Modules to Enable Low-Power IoT Devices

     Qorvo, Inc., a leading provider of RF solutions for mobile, infrastructure and aerospace and defense applications, announced that Murata has introduced a small ultra-wideband (UWB) module using Qorvo ICs, measuring only 10.5 mm x 8.3 mm x 1.44 mm. The module's high accuracy, reliability and low power consumption ensure that compact battery-powered IoT devices operate as efficiently and economically as possible. The Type 2AB UWB + Bluetooth® low-energy (BLE) connectivity module utilizes short-range radio frequency (RF) technology and can be used in a variety of applications where accurate detection is necessary, including ensuring social distancing in the workplace to minimize the risk of COVID-19 spread.

     Ideal for manufacturing engineers developing advanced products for the IoT market, this system-in-package module contains three antennas (two UWB for Phase Difference of Arrival (PDoA) functionality and one for BLE) . The module has high-precision position detection and powerful security functions, and is especially suitable for medical/wearable, industrial/commercial, and home/consumer industries. Type 2AB modules can easily implement location applications such as asset tracking, indoor navigation, smart lighting, digital payments, and finding nearby devices. At the same time, it is also suitable for applications such as smart factories, POI/indoor marketing, hospitals, museums, warehouses and underground construction projects. UWB modules offer significant advantages over systems based on Wi-Fi™/Bluetooth or GPS technology. The former proved unsuitable for indoor applications due to its reliance on satellite signals.

     Compared to chip-on-board designs, UWB modules integrating Qorvo ICs can reduce mounting area by approximately 75%. Resin-molded surface mount modules with built-in Nordic MCUs also increase design flexibility and reduce product development time (eg: no external MCU for customers). Other features include an excellent memory unit (256 kB RAM and 1 Mb Flash), 3-axis motion detection sensor, 250 nA deep sleep mode, and the ability to operate at -40°C-85°C temperature and 2.5 V-3.6 V.

     Toshifumi Oida, Senior Director, Communication Modules Division, Murata, said: "The UWB market is expected to grow by approximately 30% in the next few years due to the booming industry sectors such as smartphones, IoT and smart cities. Our highly reliable ultra-compact Type 2AB modules feature Excellent EMI performance. This is a great solution for product developers looking to bring the groundbreaking high-density surface mount technology based on RF design to this market.”

     "Qorvo leverages our ultra-wideband expertise to support high-performance solutions," said Paul Costigan, senior president of Qorvo UWB IoT Solutions. "We can provide breakthrough technology and manufacturing scale for integrated modules such as this one from Murata, the world's leading manufacturer of electronic components. modules to accelerate the deployment of UWB and unleash a new wave of innovation. Enterprises will be able to easily add enhanced location and distance sensing capabilities to drive business optimization, improve workflow efficiency, and improve smartphone, automotive, consumer and Security for applications such as the Industrial Internet of Things.

     BjørnÅge Brandal, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Asia Pacific, Nordic Semiconductor, said: “We are very excited to partner with Murata on this new UWB module. This product combines Murata’s strengths in highly integrated SiP module packaging with Qorvo and Nordic The results of Semiconductor's long-term collaboration on UWB and Bluetooth low energy solutions come together. This compact module takes advantage of the high level of integration and computing power of Nordic's nRF52840 system-on-chip, so customers can implement wireless Connected UWB ranging products, ensuring a small footprint and low power consumption.”