TI brings WiLink 8 for industrial and IoT applications

BANGALORE, INDIA: To help manufacturers easily add Wi-Fi and dual-mode Bluetooth to embedded applications, Texas Instruments (TI) has announced the WiLink 8 combo connectivity modules, which support Wi-Fi in the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands.

The new highly-integrated module family offers high throughput and extended industrial temperature range with robust Wi-Fi + Bluetooth coexistence. WiLink 8 modules are apt for power-optimized designs for home and building automation, smart energy, gateways, wireless audio, enterprise, wearables and many more industrial and Internet of Things (IoT) applications.

The WiLink 8 modules and software are compatible and pre-integrated with many processors including TI's Sitara processors. The WiLink 8 family requires less hardware and RF design experience, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth software stacks and sample applications are provided, and the modules are FCC/IC/ETSI certified.

By offering 2.4 and 5 GHz versions that are pin-to-pin compatible, the WiLink 8 family provides a scalable and flexible portfolio. With integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, the WiLink 8 modules enable new use cases and better user experiences.

"The new WiLink 8 certified modules bring cutting edge connectivity technology to any customer and offers easy access to development tools, software and support for many different industrial and consumer applications," said Amichai Ron, general manager, wireless connectivity solutions, TI.

The WiLink 8 modules complement several TI platforms to deliver system solutions for manufacturers including WiLink 8 module-based evaluation boards that are compatible with the AM335x EVM and AM437x EVM.

Additionally, the WiLink 8 modules, which offer Bluetooth and Bluetooth low energy dual-mode technology, are compatible with TI's Bluetooth portfolio that allows developers to create a complete end-to-end application.

WiLink 8 modules production units will be available in Q1 2015 through TI authorized distributors starting at $9.99 in 1,000 unit volumes.