G-NiceRF BLE5101 BLE 5.1 Module w/ OTA DFU & Mesh

Configure the module via UART AT commands. Set the operating mode (transparent or command), define the connection role (master/slave), and configure parameters like broadcast interval and connection intervals using the provided AT command set. Ensure a stable 3.3V power supply during configuration. The module's UART default baud rate is typically 9600 or 115200 bps, as specified in the datasheet.

OTA updates require the module to be in a specific DFU mode, often activated via an AT command or a hardware pin. Use a smartphone app or a central gateway supporting the Nordic Semiconductor Semiconductor DFU protocol to transmit the new firmware binary. Ensure the connection is stable and the battery is sufficiently charged, as a failed update may require a wired recovery. The process typically uses a secure, segmented data transfer.

Implementing BLE Mesh requires firmware that supports the Bluetooth Mesh profile. You may need to develop custom firmware using Nordic Semiconductor's nRF5 SDK or a similar framework that utilizes the underlying SoftDevice. The module's hardware supports the necessary features, but mesh functionality (like provisioning, relaying, and managing networks) must be implemented in your application code, not just through AT commands.

For battery operation, provide a stable voltage within the 1.7V to 4.3V range, with 3.3V being typical. Maximize battery life by utilizing the module's low-power sleep modes and configuring advertising/connection intervals to be as long as your application allows. Measure the peak current during transmission (at 10 dBm) and the sleep current to accurately calculate your battery capacity requirements.