The module is the most cost-effective and highly reliable single-band Wi-Fi 6 module, perfect for battery-operated devices.
u-blox has unveiled the NORA-W4 module, designed to cater to the growing demands of the Internet of Things (IoT) market. The module stands out with its integration of advanced wireless technologies, including Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth Low Energy 5.3, Thread, and Zigbee. It is an ideal solution for many IoT applications such as smart homes, asset tracking, healthcare, and industrial automation. The compact module, measuring just 10.4 x 14.3 x 1.9 mm, is built on the Espressif ESP32-C6 System-on-Chip and is a single-band tri-radio Wi-Fi 6 module.
It is designed to enable battery-powered IoT nodes to operate directly over Wi-Fi, eliminating the need for a Bluetooth gateway and thus reducing system-level costs. This feature is particularly beneficial for wireless battery-operated sensors and other similar applications.
The key features include:
- Incorporates Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth Low Energy 5.3, Zigbee, and Thread connectivity
- Features Wi-Fi 6 Target Wake Time and support for low-power peripherals
- Comprehensive security features for enhanced protection
- Compact design with various antenna choices and compatibility with other NORA modules
- Supports Matter protocol over Wi-Fi or Thread
- Certified for global use
One of the key advantages of the module is its use of Wi-Fi 6 technology, which is optimized for IoT environments. This technology helps to reduce network congestion in crowded settings such as factories, workplaces, and warehouses, leading to improved throughput and reduced latency. The module is also fully backwards compatible with Wi-Fi 4, ensuring usability even in infrastructures that have not been upgraded. In addition to its wireless capabilities, it supports the Matter protocol, Thread, and Zigbee technologies, enhancing interoperability with other Matter-enabled smart home devices. Its small form factor allows for flexibility in design, catering to device size constraints. The module is also compatible with the company’s other modules, facilitating seamless technology migration, for example, from Wi-Fi 4 to Wi-Fi 6.
Security is a top priority for the module, with features such as secure boot, a trusted execution environment, and flash encryption. The module has six variants, offering options for open CPU or u-connectXpress, antenna pin or PCB antenna, and 4MB or 8MB flash memory. Early samples are currently available, with volume production expected to commence in the second half of 2024. This launch marks a significant milestone for u-blox in its commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions for the IoT market.
