Is it possible to change the antenna in nRF51822 Beacon Kit?

[sgorgutsa]

Hi,

For my research project on novel antennas I need a demonstration prototype, and the nRF51822 Beacon Kit would be ideal for me (due to its small size and battery power) if I could some how connect my antenna to it.

I've studied the specs of the nRF51822 and saw that it basically has two pins dedicated to the differential antenna. Do you think it is realistic do disconnect them from the used PCB antenna and connect my antenna instead (provided that I deal with impedance matching somehow)?

My second (related) question is regarding the programming of the beacon kit and figuring out the right hardware to buy. I went through all the threads here on DevZone, manuals and etc. but still don't have a clear view.
Judging from this I can buy the nRF51822 beacon kit and the nRF51 DK + the 6-pin adapter and through the 'debug out' connect to the beacon. Is this right?

Thank you in advance, Stephan

[Asbjørn]

You can add you own antenna, but do it in the intersection of L1 and C4. Also remove L1 and C4 so that all energy from the radio enters your antenna instead of going into the pCB antenna.

The header on the beacon kit is a TC2030. You can use the programming header on the nRF51-DK to program the beacon, but either have to get a 10-pin to 6-pin TC2030 adapter or solder on the pins.

[sgorgutsa]

Thanks a lot!