About the range of sniffed frequency band in nRF Sniffer

[EthanJia]

Hi there,

I am wondering about the range of sniffed frequency band in nRF Sniffer.

The assumed scenario is two nrf52dk set up a connection between themselves, with an extra nrf52dk serving as a sniffer.

Then, will the sniffer monitor a part of the frequency band, during the sniffing process? Or will it just jump together with the other two devices?

If the former is right, then how much of the whole frequency band is being monitored during the process?

Appreciate it a lot if this could be answered.

Best regards :-)

Ethan

[Hung Bui]

Hi Ethan,

Your second assumption was correct. 
The sniffer when following a connection will jump the frequencies with the two peers in the connection. It read the channel table and hop the frequency the same as other devices in the connection. 
During this the sniffer won't be able to sniff anything else (advertising packet or other connections)

[EthanJia]

Hi Hung,

Got it. Thanks a lot!

By the way, how could the sniffer read the channel map on the air? Will it also be possible for us to read the AFH channel map on the air in both SDKs (nRF5 SDK and nRF Connect SDK)? If yes, by what API then?

Appreciate it a lot.

Best regards :-)

Ethan

[Hung Bui]

Hi Ethan, 
It's included in the connect request. You can have a look at my blog here at section A-II:  https://devzone.nordicsemi.com/guides/short-range-guides/b/bluetooth-low-energy/posts/bluetooth-smart-and-the-nordics-softdevices-part-2

As far as I know this information is not available to the application and is handling by the MAC layer in the stack. 

[EthanJia]

Hi Hung,

Aha, got it. Thanks!

BTW, your blog is awesome. I will take a closer look at it.

Really appreciate your help and wish you a nice day.

Best regards :-)

Ethan