Bluetooth stand-alone module features strong security for the Industrial IoT

u-blox has released the NINA‑B2 dual-mode Bluetooth 4.2 stand-alone module, with built‑in secure boot and wide temperature ranges designed to enable industrial IoT applications.

Pre-flashed with u-blox connectivity software supports a range of common use cases such as Beacon, GATT client, GATT server, and serial port. The NINA-B2 is also designed to be configured easily using AT commands over UART, without requiring deep knowledge of the Bluetooth protocol.

u-blox says the built‑in secure boot“guarantees” that the software is authenticated by u-blox and therefore not been tampered with. This, u-blox adds, provides a secure operating environment for the Bluetooth module.

Equipped with dual-mode Bluetooth capability, u-blox explains that the device can simultaneously manage Bluetooth low energy and Bluetooth BR/EDR connections, making it “ideal to connect to legacy devices”.

NINA-B2 measures 10 x 10.6 x 2.2mm (without antenna) and 10 x 14 x 3.8mm (with antenna). Most of the Bluetooth modules at this scale are single-mode Bluetooth low energy or Bluetooth BR/EDR devices.

NINA-B2 is also pin-compatible with the u‑blox NINA family, allowing it to be swapped in or out with other NINA modules, with their different radio technologies such as Bluetooth low energy and Wi-Fi.

Apart from industrial automation, possible applications also include wireless-connected and configurable equipment, point of sale, telematics, and health devices.