Advantages of Using Bluetooth Modules for New Product Development

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Differences Between Modular and Non-Modular Approval Processes

[TAIWAN, 17th Jan. 2025]

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In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, the surge in electromagnetic spectrum allocation for advanced communications has paved the way for a plethora of innovative wireless electronic and digital devices. This shift has prompted manufacturers to increasingly favor wireless communication interfaces over traditional wired connections, offering enhanced user mobility without sacrificing transmission speed or accuracy. However, navigating the intricate process of securing global regulatory approval for products with integrated wireless modules remains a significant challenge.

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Before introducing new products with wireless transmission features to any new market, manufacturers must secure certification from the wireless (Bluetooth) regulatory authority. This certification ensures that those products meet the required reliability standards. These certifications function like a passport for the product, enabling it to legally enter the market and be imported or exported to designated countries. There are two methods for the certification and regulatory process of wireless communication devices: modular approval and non-modular approval.

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Modular Approval

Modular approval refers to the certification of wireless modules (such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth modules) during their design and manufacturing stages. This means that the module itself is certified and can be integrated into final products without requiring the entire product to undergo certification again. The advantages of this approach include:

l Simplified Certification Process: Since the module is already certified, manufacturers only need to ensure that the module's use in the final product complies with relevant regulations, avoiding comprehensive certification tests.

l Reduced Time to Market: Modular approval significantly shortens the time to market, as manufacturers do not have to wait for the entire product to be certified.

l Cost Savings: It reduces the costs associated with repeated testing and certification, which is particularly beneficial for small businesses and startups. (Please refer to the Certification Cost Comparison table below)

However, modular approval has its limitations. Manufacturers must ensure that the module's use in the final product does not alter its wireless performance; otherwise, re-certification may be required.

Non-Modular Approval

Non-modular approval requires the entire product to be certified by regulatory bodies, not just the wireless module. The benefits of this approach include:

l Comprehensive Testing: The entire product undergoes thorough testing to ensure that all components work together without causing interference or other issues.

l Flexibility: Manufacturers have the freedom to design and integrate wireless modules without being constrained by the conditions of pre-certified modules.

l Compliance Assurance: Ensures that the entire product complies with regulations in various markets, avoiding compliance issues due to improper module usage.

However, non-modular approval has its drawbacks. The certification process is usually more complex and time-consuming, potentially delaying the product's market entry. Additionally, the comprehensive testing and certification costs are higher, posing a challenge for companies with limited resources.

Some countries follow and accept modular approval, such as the FCC (USA), IC (Canada), Telec (Japan), KC (South Korea), NCC (Taiwan), and SRRC (China). Besides module approval, Arad Connectivity product also complies with the certification that follows non-modular approval, including CE (Europe), RCM (Australia and New Zealand), and others.

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Bluetooth modules of Arad connectivity built with Nordic Semiconductor SoC can effectively increase the transmission range of Bluetooth signals due to our strong wireless signal development capabilities. The minimum transmission distance in an open field can reach 300 meters.

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