Guidance Needed for People Tracking Project Using nRF52833

[Khalifa]

Hi all,

I’m working on a people tracking system using the nRF52833 module, and as I’m new to this, I want to start with a proof of concept (POC). Here’s my current plan:

1. nRF52833 DK Board: To program other nRF52833 modules.
2. nRF52833 Module: Planning to purchase six modules (E73-2G4M08S1EX). Three modules will act as tags, and the other three as receivers.
3. Antenna (CHW1010-ANT1-1.0): To implement Angle of Arrival (AoA) for direction finding.

I have the following questions:

1. Are there any alternative nRF52833 modules available at a lower cost?
2. Can the selected nRF52833 module be programmed directly using the DK board, or will I need additional circuitry?
3. How can the CHW1010-ANT1-1.0 antenna be connected to the nRF52833 module?

As this is my first project involving nRF-based modules, I’d appreciate any guidance on additional components or tools I might need to ensure a successful implementation.

Thank you in advance for your help!

[Khalifa]

Elfving said:

I guess that could depend on the module, which is again not something I know. We only deal with the nRF part here in DevZone, as other companies make the modules. For info about specific modules, ask an RSM. Though if the module has an JTAG/SWD Interface it should be fine.

Ok I got it, But if you can help me with this module https://hubtronics.in/e73-2g4m08s1ex?search=nrf52833 

will this module support the CHW1010-ANT1-1.0 antenna and also will i required external circuitry to program this module?

[Elfving]

You can see in the datasheet under "Development and Application" that it suggests using a big JLink programmer. I see that it also has SWD etc, meaning that you should also be able to flash it by using another DK as an external programmer of it. 

Regards,

Elfving

[Elfving]

I would ask your local regional sales manager for recommendations regarding third party products. I can't do that here. I assume they also have some go-to recommendations for antenna arrays.

I am not familiar with this product myself, but as long as it has the right antenna connector I would assume that it works. 

Regards,

Elfving

[Khalifa]

for simple AOA application how can i start can you guide with that?

[Elfving]

First of all, there is a certain complexity association with creating an angle algorithm, which you need to get this AOA system running, and we do not provide this. So I have a hard time calling direction finding "simple". Though I am not saying it is hard either, you just have to look into something like this. And for more info regarding how the AOA part should work, see here.

The basic things you need to get AOA up and running is an nRF52833DK as a locator, nRF52833DK as a tag, and antenna matrix, and a cable for this antenna.

EDIT: for a real world product however you wouldn't typically use a DK, but I assume you know that. 

Regards,

Elfving

[Khalifa]

Ok i will go through the documentation which you have share.
I have question regarding matrix antenna:
1)  Does nordic provide matrix antenna? if yes can you please share the link?
2)  Can you share AoA antenna array reference design?

yes, for real world we will design our own board using nRF52833.

[Elfving]

Note that in the WP I linked to there are a few details that go a bit beyond what the BLE spec defines. If you want to have something that follows the spec then the details mentioned either in BT SIGs documents or what we have here to describe the sample is a good addition.

Khalifa said:

1)  Does nordic provide matrix antenna? if yes can you please share the link?

Ask your local regional sales manager about this.

Khalifa said:

2)  Can you share AoA antenna array reference design?

Here you are.

Khalifa said:

yes, for real world we will design our own board using nRF52833.

The nRF5340 works for this as well, and is a good option, but the '33 is a simpler starting point.

Regards,

Elfving