STMicroelectronics released the BlueNRG-Tile reference design, suited for monitoring social distancing. The new reference design leverages Bluetooth LE through the company’s ultra-low-power BlueNRG-2 System-on-Chip with tunable RF output power. The BlueNRG measures signal strength of non-connecting Bluetooth beacons and calculates the devices proximity. It can then send warnings when additional beacons enter an adjustable perimeter.

To add bi-directional tag-to-cloud communication through Sigfox “0G” global network, the reference design is supplemented by the S2-LP sub-GHz ultra-low-power RF transceiver.

“Developing this highly-efficient and cost-effective social distancing reference design has significant value in any environment where people need to work safely,” said president analog, MEMS and Sensors Group at STMicroelectronics Benedetto Vigna, in a press release. “This compact design can be used as is or enhanced for a wide range of applications, including as bracelets and bands or as plugins or add-ons to eyeglasses, helmets, and masks and shields.”

For extended battery life, the ultra-low power components are enhanced by a MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) accelerometer that power cycles the unit when it isn’t moving.

For more information, visit www.st.com.