Laird Connectivity's Vela IF820 Series Simplifies IoT with Bluetooth Upgrade

Let’s talk about Laird Connectivity.

Laird simplifies wireless connectivity with embedded system-on-modules (SOMs), IoT devices and internal antennas, as well as wireless modules for Wi-Fi, LoRaWAN, cellular, and Bluetooth.

In terms of the following news, that last one is most relevant.

Recently, Laird announced another addition to its Bluetooth portfolio:

The Vela IF820 Series.

This range of dual-mode, flexible modules, adapters and DVKs allows for just a single module to, per Laird, “cover legacy Classic Bluetooth and migration to Bluetooth LE with a single part.” This series marries the benefits of Infineon Technologies’ AIROC CYW20820 silicon (on which its based) and CYW20820 hardware, software, and other tools with Laird’s application software, services, certification and support capabilities.

"In a growing environment of Bluetooth LE-only wireless options, the Vela IF820 Series helps our customers ensure that their estates of Classic Bluetooth devices don't get left behind," said Jonathan Kaye, VP of Product Management, Laird Connectivity. "Together with Infineon, we drive down customers' total cost of ownership, design complexity and risk, all while ensuring faster time to market for dual-mode Bluetooth IoT designs."

The Vela IF820 Series is great for those developing dual-mode Bluetooth applications with all of Laird’s value-added software and development options. Hosted or hostless, the Vela IF820 offerings provide a platform to either design new Bluetooth applications or refresh legacy designs, with either an onboard antenna or external antenna option available. This covers use cases like home automation, asset-tracking devices, secure medical peripherals, and even IIoT sensors.

"Infineon is pleased to build on our strategic partnership with our Premium Partner, Laird Connectivity," said Shantanu Bhalerao, VP of the Bluetooth Product Line at Infineon. "Pairing the AIROC CYW20820 (which delivers flexible, low-power, high-performance connectivity) with Laird Connectivity's extensive development support, the Vela IF820 ensures that customers have the flexibility needed to address the ever-evolving needs of modern Bluetooth applications."