u-blox has announced the u-blox JODY-W4, an automotive-grade module incorporating Wi-Fi 6E technology and Bluetooth LE Audio functionality in all its variants.
The JODY-W4 design tackles the current Wi-Fi congestion problem, supports the latest infotainment audio systems demands, and performs well at higher temperatures. With its three antenna ports, compact size (13.8 x 19.8 x 2.5 mm), Infineon chipset (89570 / 89570B), and pin compatibility with other members of the u-blox JODY family, this ready-to-go solution is ideal for addressing multiple interface, cost, and complex design challenges.
JODY-W4 is a pioneering module that scales up the use of frequencies, encompassing not only 2.4 and 5 but also 6 GHz. The spread of the 6 GHz band opens the possibility to use additional high bandwidth channels, enabling the support of current and future connectivity needs.
This new u-blox module supports long-awaited Bluetooth LE Audio operation in automotive applications. JODY-W4 features the latest Bluetooth low energy 5.3 version, which improves the audio experience, enables long-range support as well as compatibility with new accessories. It may also operate as a Wi-Fi DFS master with zero-wait, an advantageous function within areas like airports where the use of certain channels is restricted.
In response to market demands requesting operation temperatures higher than 85 °C, JODY-W4 variants work at ease even up to 105 °C, thus providing positioning flexibility in the car.
Following u-blox connecting vision, this module is a powerful asset to the automotive telematics, and infotainment industries. The module serves a variety of purposes including Telematics Control Units (TCU) for data collection from various sources, FOTA (firmware- over-the-air-updates) for ECUs (Engine Control Units), ‘ignition off’ mode (keyless access through Bluetooth LE) as well as in-vehicle infotainment (hotspot access point, DVRs, and cameras connection via Wi-Fi, and processing audio data via Bluetooth). Furthermore, JODY-W4 may become the perfect ally in the factory automation process, facilitating communication during the vehicle production process, for instance.
“As a long-term module partner, we are excited to be part of u-blox’s extended product roadmap to meet customers’ needs with the JODY-W4 module based on the Infineon CYW89570 triple-band Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 chipsets,” said Sivaram Trikutam, Vice President, Wi-Fi Product Line at Infineon. “This solution will enable customers to introduce Wi-Fi 6 on the 6 GHz band and to be early with LE Audio functionality. We see great potential for this versatile technology combination for many automotive applications.”
“JODY-W4 opens the path to an unused frequency range and provides more reliable Audio via Bluetooth LE. Faithful to u-blox’s innovation-driven mindset, this pioneering solution expands opportunities in the automotive sector,” says Sebastian Schreiber, Product Strategy, Short Range Radio, at u-blox.
