nrf51822 Operating Range

[TechGeek]

I was trying to find nrf51822's operating distance range (max) in the Bluetooth LE mode. Couldn't find any from the documentations.

Any theoretical numbers and/or practical observed would be highly appreciated.

[Håkon Alseth]

The overall range of a RF device is very hard to calculate, as there are many factors that come into play.

This list can go on and on. Another thing about RF is that you will have reflections, and obstacles (like concrete walls etc) that comes into play when talking about range. With an optimal tuned design, both antenna and output power, you will see around 20-25 meters in an office environment, depending on master used (phone, our dev dongle, BT4.0 usb dongle, etc.)

[Håkon Alseth]

Optimal output power is related to what you set in the radio, and what power is radiated from the antenna. In this case you will have to have two components matched to 50 ohm:

• Matching network
• Antenna

The antenna will not radiate omni-directional, meaning it will have a higher output in some angles than other.

Optimal output is basically setting x dBm, and measuring about the same power emitted from the antenna.

Best regards Håkon