Long range between nrf52832 and nrf52840 dongle

RE: Long range between nrf52832 and nrf52840 dongle

Simonr — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 07:32:43 GMT

Yes, the Fanstel modules (BT832F and BT840F) seem to be pin to pin compatible with one another, so if you're using the modules you shouldn't have to change the PCB to replace these with one another. I was only referring to our SoCs which are not.

Please note however, that there will be some changes necessary to your application, as the board does not use the same GPIO as the reset pin for instance.

Best regards,

Simon

RE: Long range between nrf52832 and nrf52840 dongle

arsh — Sun, 22 Aug 2021 14:03:34 GMT

Hello Simonr,

We contacted Fanstel when we faced this long range issue. They suggested us that we could simply replace the BT52832 board with BT52840 as the form factor is exactly the same.

If I got you correctly, you are saying that the form factor is not same and we can not simply just replace the boards? Please note that by 'replacing', I meant not changing the PCB design at all? If that is not the case, can you please correct me.

Thank you

Arsh

RE: Long range between nrf52832 and nrf52840 dongle

Simonr — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 11:33:52 GMT

Hi Arsh

I'm afraid the nRF52832 does not support Coded PHY (long-range), which is likely why you don't get the range you expected.

1. No, I'm afraid that won't be possible.

An alternative (if your peripheral's board design is already completed) is to switch to using the nRF52811 or nRF52820 instead, which does support Coded PHY, and has a QFN package that is pin compatible with the nRF52832. The nRF52840 is physically larger than the nRF52832, so nRF52811 and nRF52820 will be your only options.

There is no reliable way to communicate at 200-300 meters over BLE with the nRF52832 I'm afraid.

Best regards,

Simon