STMicroelectronics simplifies Long-Range IoT Connectivity With LoRaWAN Sub-1GHz STM32 SiP Module

Pre-certified for connection to LoRaWAN and Sigfox networks, module targets remote metering, smart sensing and smart infrastructure

STMicroelectronics has revealed a long-range, low-power IoT System-in-Package programmable module built with dual-core STM32WL55JC wireless system-on-chip (SoC), saving bill-of-materials costs and time to market for remote metering, monitoring, and smart-sensing devices – enabling simple, immediate and effective LPWAN wireless connectivity.

The STM32WL5MOC SiP comes in a LGA92 10mm x 10mm package and combines the SoC with frequency-controlled oscillators, an IC containing balun, filter, and matching network, a receive/transmit switch, and associated passives needed for system operation. Bringing these components together in the module enables users to accelerate RF design, save space, and simplify circuit-layout challenges, thus saving the time and cost of otherwise complex RF design investments with experienced teams or certifications.

This miniature SiP module enables data communication over an exceptionally long range while using very little power, allowing system-battery lifetime greater than 10 years. Operating in the 864MHz to 928MHz band, permitting license-free use in regions worldwide, the STM32WL5MOC comes pre-certified for connection to LoRaWAN and Sigfox networks. The open wireless subsystem supports multiple modulation schemes, including (G)FSK, (G)MSK, BPSK, in addition to LoRa modulation, and is compatible with standard and proprietary protocols such as wM-Bus, Wi-Sun, Mioty, and others. Additionally, the RF output power is selectable up to 22dBm, as permitted in US and Asian territories, or 15dBm according to European regulations.

Leveraging the STM32WL55 SoC dual-core architecture with 256KB Flash and 64KB RAM on-chip, the module assures real-time performance of the user application. The SoC’s Arm Cortex-M4 core with DSP extensions and Cortex-M0+ both implement memory protection for enhanced security. The Cortex-M0+ has additional secure services including key management, secure firmware install and update, and secure sub-GHz MAC layer. An option with onboard STSAFE-A110 is also available to further strengthen end-to-end data and networking security.

The STM32WL5MOC is fully integrated in the STM32 development ecosystem and supported within the STM32CubeMX tool for project initialization and software development. The B-WL5M-SUBG1 wireless prototyping board is also available and contains a STM32WL5MOC module to facilitate evaluation and software integration. The USB-powered board is ready to use out of the box and is supplied with an antenna fitted.

The STM32WL5MOCH6TR modules are in production now and available from $9.09 web price for orders of 10,000 pieces. For larger quantity pricing, please contact your ST sales office. The B-WL5M-SUBG1 prototyping board is priced from $52.50.