Development kit enables rapid deployment of Bluetooth Smart prototypes using game-changing CSRmesh protocol
Bluetooth innovator CSR announces the launch of its CSRmesh Development Kit (DK-CSR1010-10184-1A), which will allow developers to get hands on with the recently launched CSRmesh Bluetooth Smart protocol. The kit, which became available from selected CSR distributors from July 2014, includes development boards, a USB programmer and access to the development platform (SDK) which includes example applications to accelerate the development of new low power connected Internet-of-Things (IoT) products. The SDK is initially offered with software supporting networked lighting applications, with updates for home automation and other IoT applications based on CSRmesh due later in the year.
The technically disruptive CSRmesh protocol, which launched earlier this year, allows for an almost unlimited number of Bluetooth Smart enabled devices to be simply networked together and controlled directly from a single smartphone, tablet or PC for the first time. The solution combines a configuration and control protocol with CSR’s proven Bluetooth Smart devices, including the CSR101x family. CSRmesh has already been adopted by several Tier-One lighting manufacturers, including Samsung, for its smart lighting solutions.
The CSRmesh protocol uses Bluetooth Smart to send messages to other Bluetooth Smart devices in the network, which in turn relay them onward. Messages can be addressed to individual devices or groups of devices. It is also possible for devices to belong to multiple groups. Control is enabled via any recent smartphone that supports the Bluetooth Smart standard, or via standard control devices such as light switches or control panels that have been Bluetooth Smart enabled.
Features
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Freedom of Control
CSRmesh works directly with your existing devices. You can collect data and control devices with existing tablets and smartphones. There is no need for a special hub to connect your devices. You can configure and control devices with existing tablets and smartphones.
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Simple Setup
CSRmesh is simple and easy to setup. Just switch on the device. Discovery and control is then handled by the app on your smart device.
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Safe and Secure
CSRmesh uses high-level banking-like encryption to ensure safe and secure transmission of messages throughout your network. There is an additional authentication mode for enhanced security. Simplicity is maintained with a network passcode that is provided to authorised users and devices to enable them to participate in the mesh.
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Applications
CSRmesh has been initially developed to support wireless lighting control, but the protocol supports models for additional applications. Full home automation models enabling Heating, ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC), as well as security and sensing will be rolled out in the future.
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Technology
CSRmesh is a protocol layer that runs on top of the Bluetooth 4.0 standard. It is supported on single mode Bluetooth Smart devices as well as dual-mode Bluetooth Smart Ready devices. By using the existing Bluetooth standard it enables consumer products such as smartphones, tablets, TVs and set-top boxes to interact directly with devices within the CSRmesh network. CSR is actively working to standardise the technology and enable wide participation from many manufacturers.
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Resources
The CSRmesh development kit provides three development boards, a programmer and access to a full SDK to enable you to develop wireless switches and lights and evaluate the CSRmesh technology. Additional CSRmesh development boards can be purchased to expand your network.
The CSRmesh Development Kit features:
- 3x CSRmesh Bluetooth Smart development boards
- 1x USB programmer
- Batteries and Setup Guide
Developers can also purchase additional CSRmesh Development Boards (DB-CSR1010-10185-1A) to expand their mesh development and testing. The full CSRmesh development kit is now available from selected CSR distributors from $299. Additional development boards can be purchased from $49 each.
