nRF52832 Oscillator Selection Impact on BT Performance

[Rongal]

I am considering employing the  nRF52832 in a BT mesh configuration.

The  nRF52832 has a built in RC oscillator (LFRC), or allows connection of an external XTAL based oscillator (LFXO).

My question is, does the selection of an internal oscillator versus an external XTAL oscillator impact or have any ramifications regarding the performance of BT communications in general, and the performance of the nRF52832 in a BT mesh?

[awneil]

You can try it out with the online power profiler:

https://devzone.nordicsemi.com/nordic/power/

Having a better frequency reference does reduce power, because the chip doesn't have to spend extra time allowing for frequency/timing errors. 

[Simonr]

Hi

Using the RC over the LFXO should not have any large implications on the performance of the radio, neither regular BLE or a BLE Mesh design. You will have to expect lower accuracy and a somewhat higher current consumption for the RC oscillator though, as it is prone to drifting, and therefore has to be calibrated every now and then by the HF clock, which will draw some additional current. This should not affect the radio's performance, however.

Best regards,

Simon