Understanding 2.4 GHz Wireless Communication for Mice/Keyboards to implement in nRF52840: How Do Devices and Receiver Dongles Work Together?

[Suman Rames]

Hi everyone,

I’m trying to understand how wireless mice/keyboards using 2.4 GHz protocols communicate with their receiver dongles so that i can try build one using nRF 52840 MCU. Specifically, I’d like to know:

1. Protocols Used :

   • What are the common protocols or standards (proprietary vs. open) used in 2.4 GHz wireless mice/keyboards?

2. Data Transmission Basics :

   • How is data (e.g., keystrokes, mouse movements) encoded and sent over 2.4 GHz?
   • What role does the receiver dongle play in decoding this data?

3. Pairing and Synchronization :

   • How do the device and dongle establish a connection? Is it via frequency hopping, encryption, or another method?
   • How is interference (e.g., from other wireless devices) mitigated?

4. Power Management :

   • What techniques are used to ensure low power consumption for battery-operated devices?

5. Implementation Tips :

   • For someone building a custom wireless mouse/keyboard, what components (e.g., MCUs, RF modules) are recommended?
   • Are there open-source examples or libraries for implementing 2.4 GHz protocols?

Also, which SDK is recommend using the nRF5 SDK or the nRF Connect SDK?

I’ve read about module, but I’m unclear on how they fit into the overall system. Any resources, tutorials, or explanations would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance for your help!

[Asbjørn]

Hello Suman,

Your questions are good and at a fundamental level. What I would suggest for you is to have a look at the courses we have on DevAcadamy. https://academy.nordicsemi.com/

Bluetooth Low Energy fundamentals: https://academy.nordicsemi.com/courses/bluetooth-low-energy-fundamentals/

SDK fundamentals: https://academy.nordicsemi.com/courses/nrf-connect-sdk-fundamentals/

There's a HID example code in the nRF Connect SDK.

Best regards

Asbjørn