Tools needed for development of nRF8001 in PIC

[didier]

Hi,

I am using a PIC microcontroller in my project (18F family) and I would like to know which are the tools needed to begin development with the NRF80001.

I already read the datasheet and checked the github repository, so bellow is my list of what I need to get started and the doubts that I have along with it:

1 - nRF8001 . (This is obvious =D) My doubt is that on the datasheet I could only find QFN package, do you have any DIP package for it, to ease our (developers) life? 1a - In case only QFN is available, a simple QFN32 to DIP32 adapter can be used (Are you using standard QFN package?)?

2 - Antenna. Can I use a wire to emulate an antenna? (This is just for the development purposes).

3 - C Library. I realized that all I need is on the github repository, only thing I need is to follow the instructions to make the code portable to PIC. I am missing something?

4 - What is the difference from VDD and AVDD pins? Couldn't check it on the datasheet.

Am I missing something that I still need to have in hands before diving into nRF8001 world?

Best Regards,

[Hung Bui]

Hi Didier,

1. I don't think there is DIP package/module for the nRF8001 from us or 3rd party as far as I know. Yes, it's a standard QFN32 that we use.

2. Yes, for testing purpose and if you only range of 1 -2 meters you can use a wire as antenna.

3. Yes, you should use the SDK on github.

4. AVDD is the VDD input for the analog part inside the chip. It should be supplied with power the same as VDD pins.

[awneil]

Although the Adafruit module noted above is SIP (not DIP) its pins are on 0.1" pitch - so can easily be used for prototyping on breadboards, stripboard, etc.

There's also some Arduino shields - even if you don't use them with Arduino, you can easily connect to their 0.1" pitch connectors ...

[didier]

Thanks Hung! I will use a QFN to DIP adapter socket for it.

[awneil]

A socket will be very expensive, and not very reliable.

You would be far better to use a properly-made breakout board

[Hung Bui]

I agree with awneil :)

[awneil]

What is the difference from VDD and AVDD pins? Couldn't check it on the datasheet

Did you not look at Section 17 - Reference circuitry ?