Anglia Live

STMicroelectronics introduce Cloud-Compatible Wi-Fi Module which Simplifies and Secures IoT and M2M Applications

The SPWF04 Wi-Fi module integrates an ARM® Cortex®-M4 STM32 microcontroller with a rich set of multi-functional GPIOs and with 2MB on-chip Flash and 256Kbyte RAM for generous code and data storage. Further extra features include a hardware cryptographic accelerator and an SPI port for faster host communications. In addition, the new MicroPython scripting engine dramatically simplifies development of custom applications to run directly on the module in standalone mode. Host interactions can use AT commands via a UART, compatible with the previous generation of Wi-Fi modules, or equivalent proprietary protocol over SPI.

Support for strong internet-security protocols includes WPA2-Enterprise, which enables enhanced authentication and access control in large networks, and Wireless Protected Setup (WPS) that helps safely connect devices like printers or embedded systems. There is also support for advanced HTTPS and encryption protocols including Transport Layer Security (TLS), as well as Secured Over-The-Air (OTA) updates for applying software, firmware, or Flash file-system upgrades in the field via the Wi-Fi connection.

A full-featured TCP/IP protocol stack including HTTP, HTTPS, MQTT, SMTP, and WebSockets, simplifies connections to the Cloud and mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets. Multiple UDP[1] protocols, including TFTP, SNTP, and mDNS, aid device discovery and file exchanges. Further highlights include IPv6 support, extended web-server functionality (SSI) to simplify interaction with connected devices, and a REST (REpresentational State Transfer) API that enables bandwidth-efficient interaction with web resources.

Versatile operating modes simplify integration with existing network infrastructure, using the module in Station mode, or setting up direct point-to-point connections using the module in MiniAP mode as an access point for other devices (up to five stations). The SPWF04 also comes with an extensive socket layer, capable of managing up to eight socket clients or two socket servers simultaneously handling up to eight clients each, or two WebSocket clients.

Like its predecessor, the SPWF04 benefits from high RF output power and receiver sensitivity, ensuring reliable communication even in harsh environments. Furthermore, the new module delivers its extra performance and versatility within tight size and power constraints: it measures just 26.92mm x 15.24mm x 2.35mm, and draws as little as 40µA in standby and 5mA in idle connected (DTIM=1) mode.

The SPWF04 is available in two versions, with a highly efficient ISM-band antenna ( SPWF04SA ), or with a built-in U.FL connector for attaching an external antenna ( SPWF04SC ). Modules are FCC (US), CE (EU) and IC (Industry Canada) certified, and RoHS compliant, thereby helping to streamline mandatory end-product approvals.

The SPWF04 Wi-Fi module is supported by the X-NUCLEO-IDW04A1 Wi-Fi evaluation board which is based on the SPWF04SA module and expands the STM32 Nucleo portfolio. The SPWF04SA module has an embedded STM32 MCU, a low-power Wi-Fi b/g/n SoC with integrated power amplifier and power management, and an SMD antenna. The SPWF04SA module utilises 2 MB MCU internal Flash with 1 MB of the internal Flash for storing the user file system and to perform secure firmware update over the air (FOTA).
A hardware interface allows the use of external memory to extend file system storage capability with no size limit. The firmware includes a complete IP stack, dynamic web pages with SSI to interact with the module and a REST API (get & post) for conveniently transferring files to and from servers in the cloud. The module can simultaneously behave as a socket server and socket client. The firmware supports secure sockets with TLS encryption, ensuring secure end-to-end communications with the cloud. The X-NUCLEO-IDW04A1 interfaces with the MCU on the STM32 Nucleo board via the UART serial port and SPI interface.

Anglia are offering customers a FREE evaluation kit and samples of the SPWF04 Cloud-Compatible Wi-Fi Module from STMicroelectronics, please fill in the form below to register your interest now.