BT832X clock configuration

[Avi A]

SDK version: nRF5_SDK_15.0.0_a53641a

Softdevice version: s132_nrf52_6.0.0_softdevice

I am trying to evaluate Fanstel BT832X SOC. I am using the ble_app_uart example. I am trying to enable the SKY66112 PA in order to compare range performance with BT832F.

I am using a custom PCB without an external oscillator.

In order to enable the PA user manual for BT832X required the following clock configuration: 

#define NRF_CLOCK_LFCLKSRC {.source = NRF_CLOCK_LF_SRC_SYNTH, \
.rc_ctiv = 0, \
.rc_temp_ctiv = 0, \
.xtal_accuracy = NRF_CLOCK_LF_XTAL_ACCURACY_250_PPM}

So I made the following changes to the sdk_config.h to set the above configurations

1. #define CLOCK_CONFIG_LF_SRC  1

2. #define NRF_SDH_CLOCK_LF_SRC 2

3. #define NRF_SDH_CLOCK_LF_ACCURACY 0

Do I need to make any other setting in the sdk_config.h or any other files for the correct clock configuration as described in the BT832X user manual?

[Simonr]

Hi Avi

I'm not too familiar with our 3rd party modules, but according to the BT832X datasheet (page 13-15), it seems to me that you won't have to do anything to the sdk_config.h files. If you configure what's stated in the datasheet, I assume you should be good to go. If this doesn't do the trick, please tell me and I'll look further into it.

Best regards,

Simon

[Avi A]

Hi Simonr,

   The reason I am asking is that I am not able to successfully turn on the PA. Everything works perfectly when I dont make the PA enable changes. I have tried several different ways to set the clock including repeating exactly as described in the document (both clock and PA GPIO changes).  I want to understand more about how to change the clock.

I tried making the clock change to PCA10040.h, but I am not sure if that actually works, I find that the board appears to stop working after making the change (I also have PA GPIO enable changes).  When I make the same change using on sdk_config.h, I find that the board resets after a few minutes (I do see an improved RSSI). What is the difference between sdk_config.h and making the change in PCA10040.h because I get different behavior.

[Simonr]

Hi Avi

You could check out this thread, as well as the PA/LNA support blog here on DevZone to see if that helps.

The sdk_config.h file is specific to that one project, while the PCA10040.h file will make changes to all the projects within the SDK that are using it. What exact changes were you making in PCA10400.h and sdk_config.h that only worked in sdk_config?

Best regards,

Simon