The Panasonic HCI (Host Controlled Interface) Bluetooth RF module PAN1326C2 is based on Texas Instruments’ CC2564C dual-mode Bluetooth controller that combines Bluetooth Basic Rate (BR), Enhanced Data Rate (EDR) and Low Energy (LE). The module supports up to ten BLE connections at the same time--thanks to independent buffering for LE without affecting the BR or EDR performance. It is now available at Rutronik UK.

With approximately twice the range of other BLE solutions as well as an output power of +12 dBm and receiver sensitivity of -93 dBm, the PAN1326C2 offers a solid RF performance. The BT4.2-compliant module includes updated BLE features, such as enhanced security, higher data rates compared to Bluetooth 4.0 or 4.1 and an assisted mode for the HFP1.6 Wideband Speech (WBS) profile or the A2DP profile.

It enables scatternet with up to three piconets simultaneously, one as master and two as slave. Up to two Synchronous Connection Oriented (SCO) links are possible on the same piconet. In addition, the module achieves low power consumption in all Bluetooth modes due to energy-saving features like shutdown mode and sleep mode where it needs only 135 μA.

The space-saving footprint of 85.5 mm² (9 mm x 9.5 mm x 8 mm), the pad pitch of 1.3 mm and only two module layers provide easy implementation and production. The PAN1326C2 is pin-compatible with all CC256x-based Panasonic modules and has the standard interfaces GPIO, PCM and UART. Unlike its predecessor model, the PAN1326C2 is CE, FCC and IC certified. Applications include blood glucose meters, industrial sensors, entertainment devices, mobile accessories and toys.