Nordic Semiconductor's nRF52840 system-on-chip (SoC) offers a unique dynamic multi-protocol architecture that allows it to support both Thread and Bluetooth 5 wireless connectivity simultaneously. This means devices using the nRF52840 can switch between or operate on both protocols without needing to disconnect from one network before connecting to another. This capability ensures seamless interoperability between Thread products based on the nRF52840 and Bluetooth 5-enabled devices.
The nRF52840 is now Thread 1.1 certified, having successfully passed all required certification tests. It supports Bluetooth 5 connectivity for central devices while maintaining full compatibility with Thread networks. This dual support makes it ideal for applications requiring both low-power Bluetooth and Thread-based mesh networking.
As the only multi-protocol SoC in the market supporting both Thread and Bluetooth 5, the nRF52840 leverages its dynamic multi-protocol capabilities to run the Nordic S140 v5 protocol stack (for Bluetooth) and the OpenThread RF protocol stack (for Thread) at the same time. OpenThread, developed by Nest Labs, is the first open-source implementation of the Thread protocol, and Nordic actively contributes to its development.
For developers, this means they can build wireless sensors and IoT products that are Thread-certified and compatible with Bluetooth 4.0 and newer versions. This dual functionality enables seamless communication between devices, such as smartphones interacting with sensors via both protocols without relying on a cloud network.
Pär Håkansson, Product Marketing Manager at Nordic Semiconductor, explained that the nRF52840 acts as a bridge between Thread and Bluetooth 5 networks. "Although it’s not a true simultaneous connection, the process is so fast and smooth that developers can design systems that function as if both protocols are running in parallel," he said. The complexity of managing these connections is handled internally by the S140 v5 protocol stack, allowing developers to focus on application development.
Thread is designed to create a secure, reliable, and scalable way to connect and control smart home and IoT devices. It includes features like AES encryption, IPv6 support, and energy-efficient operation. The Thread Group, a non-profit organization, works to educate developers and promote the adoption of Thread in home automation, security, lighting, and other IoT applications.
Jonathan Hui, leader of OpenThread technology at Nest, praised Nordic's continued support for OpenThread. "The fast path to Thread certification for nRF52840 devices highlights OpenThread’s strengths in being open source, portable, and optimized for performance," he said.
Grant Erickson, President of EDGE Group, noted that Nordic has been a long-time contributor to the Thread ecosystem. "Its efforts have helped make Thread a viable solution for low-power IP mesh networks, connecting hundreds of devices seamlessly and efficiently."
Geir Langeland, Director of Sales and Marketing at Nordic Semiconductor, emphasized the company’s strategic investment in Thread and Bluetooth 5 technologies. "With the nRF52840, developers can now build complex IoT applications that support both protocols, making it a powerful platform for next-generation smart home solutions."
**Dynamic Multi-Protocol Functionality**
Previously, Nordic's nRF5 SDK for Thread used a switching approach to support Bluetooth and Thread, which required stopping one protocol before starting the other. However, the latest version of the nRF5 SDK (v0.10.0) introduces a dynamic multi-protocol solution. This allows Bluetooth (via the S140 v5 stack) and Thread (via OpenThread) to run in parallel, sharing radio resources without interference.
The firmware automatically manages time allocation between protocols, ensuring both remain connected without developer intervention. This makes it easier to develop multi-protocol applications, whether focusing on Bluetooth, Thread, or both.
**About nRF52840**
Tinyurl.com/nRF52840
**About the nRF5 SDK for Thread**
Http://Thread
**About the Thread Group**
[Link]
**About OpenThread**
Https://openthread.io
**About Nordic Semiconductor ASA**
Tinyurl.com/NordicSemi-sc
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