Long range connection between 2 52840 modules (with PCB antenna)

[Avi]

I have 2 52840 modules with PCB antenna and I am trying to check the max connection range

I followed the recommendations and achieved only 120m. 

I cannot use the examples that require DK, so, I would appreciate if you can direct me to a code that I can use:

One for the peripheral and one for the central.

Both will be connected via UART - so I will be able to monitor

I have doubts if the range problem is due to my code or if it is a limitation of the hardware

This is the link to the 52840 modules I have:

en.szrfstar.com/.../161.html

[ovrebekk]

Hi 

What example were you using to test the range, and what bitrate was the link running at?

Also, what was the TX output power?

Have you tried contacting the module vendor to ask what condition they tested the range under, if any?

If you don't have a regular nRF52840 DK to compare I would suggest getting it, even if you just get a single one. Then you can compare the signal strength from the kit to your module, and having one will greatly simplify your development anyway. 

Best regards
Torbjørn

[Avi]

I used: ble_app_uart

with +8dbm

The link bit rate is 1 byte ber second

I don't have information from the manufacturer, I guess that by that time there was no ref design for testing long range.

I currently have only 832DK . 

Is there a way to make a short example that can be programmed to my two modules in order to check range?

I think it would be helpful to many others

Thank you

[Avi]

One more update - I used SDK15.0 with s140 6.0.0

I noticed that now there is an updated version - would that fix the range problem?

[ovrebekk]

Hi

The following blog has some information about long range testing:
https://devzone.nordicsemi.com/b/blog/posts/testing-long-range-coded-phy-with-nordic-solution-it-simply-works-922075585

I don't think switching from SDK15.0 to SDK15.2 is going to make a difference on range. 

If you are testing ble_app_uart at the standard 1Mbps bitrate you could try to use your nRF52 DK on one end to see if it makes a difference. 
120m range doesn't sound too bad for 1M, but if you are testing with the long range phy I agree it sounds low. 

Best regards
Torbjørn