u-blox Launches MAYA-W5 and NORA-W5 Wi-Fi 6 Modules

u-blox has introduced the MAYA-W5 and NORA-W5 wireless module families for IoT devices. The new modules support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth Low Energy and are intended for applications including smart buildings, industrial automation equipment, healthcare devices, asset tracking products, and consumer electronics.

MAYA-W5 and NORA-W5 are wireless communication modules used to add Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capability to embedded systems. The two product families differ in architecture, with MAYA-W5 operating as a host-based module and NORA-W5 incorporating an Arm Cortex-M33 microcontroller.

Host-Based and Stand-Alone Designs

The MAYA-W5 series uses the Texas Instruments CC3351 wireless device. Wi-Fi communication is provided through an SDIO interface, while Bluetooth Low Energy communication uses UART. The module is intended for designs that already incorporate a host processor.

NORA-W5 uses the Texas Instruments CC35x1E series and incorporates an Arm Cortex-M33 microcontroller. The module also supports u-blox's u-connectXpress software platform. Unlike MAYA-W5, the NORA-W5 family combines wireless communication and application processing within the same module.

Internal and external antenna versions are available across both product families.

Wi-Fi 6 Support for Existing Product Families

Both module families support Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth Low Energy in compact form factors. u-blox states that the modules maintain compatibility within the existing MAYA and NORA portfolios, allowing migration to Wi-Fi 6 while remaining within the same product families.

The modules are designed and manufactured in Europe and are globally certified for deployment in multiple markets. u-blox also specifies the products for industrial-grade applications.

Availability

Samples of the MAYA-W5 and NORA-W5 families are expected to become available during the coming month.

Learn more and read the original announcement at www.u-blox.com

Technology Overview

The MAYA-W5 and NORA-W5 families are wireless modules that support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth Low Energy. MAYA-W5 uses the Texas Instruments CC3351 wireless device, while NORA-W5 uses the CC35x1E series and incorporates an Arm Cortex-M33 microcontroller.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between MAYA-W5 and NORA-W5?

MAYA-W5 is a host-based module that works with an external processor. NORA-W5 incorporates an Arm Cortex-M33 microcontroller.

Which wireless standards do the modules support?

Both module families support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth Low Energy.

What applications are listed by u-blox?

Applications include smart buildings, industrial automation equipment, healthcare devices, asset tracking products, and consumer electronics.