QDID for nRF52840 dongle

[avi_2020]

I have seen a compatibility matrix for nRF52840 SoC at the link below:

https://infocenter.nordicsemi.com/index.jsp?topic=%2Fcomp_matrix_nrf52840%2FCOMP%2Fnrf52840%2Fnrf52840_comp_matrix.html

I wanted to know if the same QDID applies to the nRF52840 dongle ?

If not, could you please tell me the QDID for nRF52840 dongle as I couldn't find it anywhere in the info center or maybe I missed it somewhere.

[tesc]

Hi,

Our QDIDs listed in the compatibility matrix are End Product listings for SoC and stack combinations. For finished products, you need to use those QDIDs as part of the combined design.

Regarding the Dongle, I need to check what the status is. I see there is an RF phy listing at Bluetooth launch studio with the nRF52840 Dongle in the Product List.

Whether or not you need a QDID, and which one, depend on the usage. For what purpose do you need the QDID? Are you including the Dongle in your product?

Regards,
Terje

[avi_2020]

Hello Terje,

A quick update from my enquiry.

I sent a query to Bluetooth SIG, regarding the dongle and the Bluetooth Launch Studio reference you sent me. I got the following reply from them:

'QDID 156585 is listed as an Component (Tested).  A Component is intended to be integrated to create a new End Product or Subsystem. Components cannot be used in a Qualification With No Required Testing.'

I wanted to know if there are any plans from Nordic to declare it as a End Product with Bluetooth SIG, or if any such thing is already in the process. I would like your advice on how can we proceed.

Thanks and regards,

Avi

[tesc]

Hi,

You are correct that if the QDID 156585, which is a Component, is to be used for further qualification then there is some testing required. Unfortunately we cannot provide our test data for this process, as our Bluetooth lab status does not allow third party testing. (For instance providing the required test reports.) Further, I am afraid we do not plan to declare the Dongle an End Product. (And if we did, it would be tied to specific firmware.)

The main advice would be to see if you can qualify the encased dongle using the nRF52/SoftDevice QDIDs only, as per your original question. My understanding is that since the Dongle uses our reference design, using it in a product can be treated similar to creating your own PCB using that same reference design.

If that turns out to not possible, there might be third party module makers producing nRF52840 Dongles as modules, that may or may not be drop-in replaceable. Worst case you may need to solder a USB plug to a module. Please note that the "USB plug" of the Dongle is not a proper USB plug (and cannot be qualified as one,) as there are no USB plug standard for PCB plugs.

Regards,
Terje