To provide the processing power for these devices, the DA1469x product family is the first wireless microcontroller in production with a dedicated application processor based on the ARM Cortex-M33 processor. The M33 offers developers greater processing power for more intensive applications, such as high-end fitness monitors, advanced smart home devices, and virtual reality game controllers.
The DA1469x series provides developers with advanced connectivity to future-proof their devices and adapt to the needs of multiple applications. Its new integrated radio offers twice the range of its predecessor, along with a software-programmable packet engine based on ARM Cortex-M0+ that implements protocols and provides complete flexibility for wireless communication.
In terms of connectivity, an emerging application is for manufacturers to implement precise positioning through the “Angle of Arrival” and “Angle of Departure” features of the new Bluetooth 5.1 standard. With its world-class radio front-end performance and configurable protocol engine, the DA1469x complies with this new version of the standard and opens up new opportunities for devices that require precise indoor location, such as building access and keyless entry systems.
To enhance the DA1469x's sensing capabilities, the M33 application processor and M0+ protocol engine are complemented by a Sensor Node Controller (SNC). This SNC is based on a programmable micro-DSP that operates autonomously and independently processes data from sensors connected to its digital and analog interfaces, activating the application processor only when necessary. In addition to this energy-saving feature, a power management unit (PMU) provides power management by controlling the various processing cores and activating them only as needed.
Overall, developers will have a wide range of computing power and functionality to work with in the DA1469x family. The SoCs include up to 144 DMIPS, 512 KB of RAM, memory protection, a floating-point unit, a dedicated cryptographic engine to enable end-to-end security, and expandable memories, ensuring that a wide range of advanced applications for smart devices can be deployed using the chipset family and supporting a range of key value-added interfaces to further extend functionality.
The PMU also provides three regulated power lines and an LDO output to supply external system components, eliminating the need for a separate power management IC (PMIC). Furthermore, the DA169x product family comes equipped with a range of value-added interfaces, including a display controller, an audio interface, USB, a high-precision ADC, a haptic controller capable of driving ERM and LRA motors, and a programmable stepper motor controller.
