Introduction to WiFi Modules

A WiFi module is a self-contained SOC (system on chip) that provides WiFi networking capabilities to a product. WiFi modules integrate a WiFi radio, baseband processor, memory, and firmware into a single package, making it easy for manufacturers to add WiFi to their products.

WiFi modules come in different form factors and with varying levels of integration and functionality. Some common types of WiFi modules include:

• Surface mount modules (SMD)
• Plug-in modules
• Embedded WiFI modules with integrated MCU
• Standalone WiFi modules requiring an external host processor

WiFi modules support different WiFi standards such as 802.11b/g/n/ac/ax and offer capabilities like AP mode, STA mode, wireless security, low power modes, etc. They interface with the host system using standard serial interfaces like UART, SPI, SDIO, or USB.

EMW3165 WiFi Module Overview

The EMW3165 is a highly integrated, low power 2.4GHz WiFi module from MXCHIP. It combines a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M4 MCU with a 2.4GHz WiFi transceiver supporting IEEE 802.11b/g/n.

Key Features

• Integrated 32-bit ARM Cortex-M4 MCU @120MHz
• 512KB Flash, 128KB RAM
• Integrated TCP/IP protocol stack
• Secure WiFi authentication: WEP, WPA/WPA2, WPS
• Multiple network modes: STA, softAP, STA+softAP
• Integrated power management unit
• 16 GPIOs, UART, I2C, SPI, I2S, PWM, ADC interfaces
• Small form factor SMD package: 26.7mm x 20mm x 3.2mm
• Wide operating voltage: 3.0V to 3.6V
• Operating temperature range: -20°C to 85°C
• FCC/CE/IC certified

Block Diagram

Here is the block diagram of the EMW3165 module:

The key components are:

• STM32F411CE 32-bit ARM Cortex-M4 MCU
• BCM43362 WiFi radio
• 26MHz clock crystal
• Integrated PCB Antenna
• U.FL connector for external antenna

EMW3165 Hardware

Pin Diagram

The module has 44 pins:

• 16 GPIOs
• Dedicated UART, SPI, I2C, ADC, DAC interfaces
• Analog and digital power supply pins
• WiFi control and status pins

Power Supply

The EMW3165 operates from a 3.0V to 3.6V power supply. It has an integrated power management unit with high efficiency DC-DC converters and LDOs to generate the internal voltages required by the MCU and WiFi transceiver.

The typical power consumption is:

The module supports multiple low power modes to minimize power consumption when not active.

Interfaces

UART

The EMW3165 has a dedicated UART interface (UART1) for communication with the host system. The UART supports baud rates up to 921600bps.

SPI

The SPI interface can be used to access the module’s flash memory and for data communication.

I2C

The I2C interface is available for connecting peripherals like sensors.

GPIO

The 16 GPIOs can be configured as input or output and used for controlling LEDs, buttons, etc. Some of the GPIOs have alternate functions like PWM, I2S, etc.

RF Performance

The EMW3165 integrates a high-performance 2.4GHz radio with an on-board PCB antenna. The RF characteristics are:

The module is pre-certified for FCC, CE, and IC to reduce time to market.

EMW3165 Software

AliOS Things RTOS

The EMW3165 comes pre-installed with AliOS Things, a lightweight IoT operating system from Alibaba. AliOS Things provides a complete software framework including:

• Task scheduling and management
• Multiple network stacks: LwIP, uMesh
• Filesystems: SPIFFS, FATFS, RAM FS
• Security: TLS, DTLS, CRC, HASH, RSA, AES
• Middleware: FOTA, uData, uLog
• Device drivers

This allows developers to quickly build IoT applications using the EMW3165 module.

mbed OS 5

ARM Mbed OS 5 is also supported on the EMW3165. Mbed OS is an open-source embedded operating system that provides a complete software foundation for IoT devices, including:

• Drivers for sensors, I/O devices, and connectivity
• Security and device management
• Built-in RTOS and middleware libraries
• Online compiler and developer tools

Using Mbed OS simplifies application development on the EMW3165.

Arduino Support

An Arduino BSP package is available for the EMW3165, enabling it to be programmed using the Arduino IDE and core libraries. This allows makers and hobbyists to quickly prototype IoT projects using the familiar Arduino ecosystem.

Applications

The EMW3165 WiFi module is ideal for IoT applications requiring wireless connectivity, computing power, and low power consumption. Some example use cases are:

Smart Home

• Home automation gateways
• Security cameras
• Thermostats and HVAC control
• Lighting control
• Appliance control

The EMW3165 can be used to create smart home products that connect to the cloud and can be controlled remotely using mobile apps.

Industrial Automation

• Wireless sensor networks
• Industrial gateways
• Machine monitoring
• Asset tracking
• Predictive maintenance

The EMW3165 enables industrial devices to connect wirelessly for remote monitoring and control. It can interface with various industrial sensors and actuators over GPIOs and serial interfaces.

Wearables

• Fitness trackers
• Smartwatches
• Health monitors
• Personal safety devices

The small size and low power consumption of the EMW3165 make it suitable for wearable devices. It can collect sensor data and transmit it wirelessly to companion apps.

Agriculture

• Smart irrigation systems
• Soil monitoring
• Livestock tracking
• Greenhouse automation

WiFi-connected sensors and actuators based on the EMW3165 can optimize agricultural operations and improve crop yield.

Retail

• Inventory management
• Smart vending machines
• Digital signage
• Beacon-based promotions

The EMW3165 can add wireless connectivity and computing to various retail solutions for enhanced efficiency and customer experience.

Getting Started

To start developing with the EMW3165 WiFi module, you need:

1. EMW3165 development board or module
2. USB-UART adapter
3. 5V power supply
4. Antennas and connectors
5. Development PC with IDE and toolchain

Development boards like the EMW3165 Wistrio Ant make it easy to prototype by providing a USB interface, power management, and headers for accessing the module pins.

For software development, you can use:

• AliOS Studio IDE for AliOS Things
• Mbed Online Compiler or Mbed CLI for Mbed OS
• Arduino IDE for Arduino projects

Refer to the documentation and examples provided by the respective ecosystems to start writing code for the EMW3165. You can also find reference designs and application notes on the MXCHIP website.

Conclusion

The EMW3165 is a versatile WiFi module that combines high performance, low power, and ease of use. Its integrated MCU and rich interfaces enable it to function as a complete IoT Solution for a wide range of applications.

With support for multiple IoT operating systems and development environments, the EMW3165 makes it easy for developers to build connected products quickly and efficiently. As IoT continues to grow, WiFi modules like the EMW3165 will play an increasingly important role in enabling the next generation of smart devices and services.

FAQ

What is the price of the EMW3165 module?

The EMW3165 module has a unit price of $4-5 in volume quantities. Development kits and small quantity pricing may be higher.

Does the EMW3165 support 5GHz WiFi?

No, the EMW3165 only supports 2.4GHz WiFi (802.11b/g/n). For 5GHz WiFi, you would need to use a different module like the EMW3080.

Can the EMW3165 be used for battery-powered applications?

Yes, the low sleep current of the EMW3165 (5uA) makes it suitable for battery-powered devices. However, the actual battery life will depend on the specific application design and usage patterns.

What is the maximum range of the EMW3165?

The maximum range in an open field is about 110m. However, actual range will depend on factors like obstacles, interference, antenna design, and transmit power.

Is the EMW3165 certified for use in commercial products?

Yes, the EMW3165 has FCC, CE and IC modular certifications, which can reduce the time and cost of certifying your end product.