How to Select Wireless SoC Chip or a Module?

Selecting the right System on Chip (SoC) or module is most important for seamless connectivity and optimal performance. With a plethora of options available, it’s essential to consider specific parameters to make an informed decision. In this blog, we’ll discuss the key factors when choosing a wireless SoC chip or module, featuring renowned products like GSM modules and Wi-Fi modules from reputable brands such as SIMCOM and Espressif.

Consider the Following Parameters

Time to Market of an IoT Product

Looking after Time to market an IOT product is important when it comes to launching an IoT product successfully. A delay can mean reduced profits or facing stiff competition. Right from the start, it’s crucial to make decisions that keep your development timeline in check. Anticipate any potential issues that might arise along the way. Wireless module greatly reduces time-to-market as you don’t need to worry about design but only the application part of it.

Design Expertise

Several companies like Espressif and SIMCOM offer ready-to-use Wifi and GSM module connectivity solutions. Opting for an wireless module means the design engineer can concentrate on application development and interfacing, leaving the other complexities to the module. The design engineer can concentrate on the application development and its interfacing via SPI, UART, USB, SDIO, etc.

Compliance & Certification

Ensuring product compliance with country norms is essential but can be time-consuming and expensive. Pre-certified modules save you from compliance testing hassles, though at a slightly higher cost. During the new product development phase, using a module can speed up the process and get your product to market faster. These days modules are coming pre-certified, so you get saved from compliance testing hassles. Cost & effort estimation should be done considering the potential of the design and extra development time because of the complexity involved and issues might face.

For the same reason, when the new product is in development phase at least, per our suggestion, one should use the module and get to the market fast.

Wireless Standards and Connectivity

GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) and Wi-Fi are two fundamental wireless technologies widely used today. Assess your project requirements and ensure that the selected SoC chip or module supports the necessary wireless standards for your application. SIMCOM offers a range of GSM modules known for their reliability and efficiency. Espressif, on the other hand, is renowned for its Wi-Fi solutions, for example the ESP8266 and ESP32 series.

Power Consumption

Power efficiency is crucial, especially for battery-operated devices. Evaluate the power consumption of the wireless SoC chip or module under different usage scenarios. Espressif’s ESP32 series is recognized for its low-power modes, making it an excellent choice for battery-powered applications that require energy-efficient wireless connectivity.

Data Rate and Throughput

Consider the data rate and throughput requirements of your application. Different applications demand varying levels of data transmission speed, and selecting a wireless SoC chip or module that aligns with these requirements is essential. For high-throughput Wi-Fi applications, Espressif’s ESP32 offers data rates, ensuring smooth and fast data transfer.

Range and Coverage

Evaluate the range and coverage capabilities of the wireless solution, particularly if your application spans large areas. Different projects may require varying communication ranges, and selecting the appropriate SoC chip or module is necessary. SIMCOM’s GSM modules are known for their extensive coverage.

Ease of Integration

Choose a wireless SoC chip or module that seamlessly integrates with your existing hardware and software infrastructure. Consider factors like available development tools, documentation, and community support. Espressif’s Wi-Fi modules, including the ESP8266 and ESP32, boast a large and active community, providing valuable resources for developers and ensuring a smooth integration process.

Compactness / Size

Consider the size carefully, as modules are larger than individual chips. If size is not a primary constraint, modules generally prove to be a good option in most cases. Modules are bigger than the chip itself. Only if the size is the biggest constraint then a chip-based design else in-general, in most cases a module would be a good option.

Production (Inventory, Soldering, Testing, etc.)

For production chip-based designs require careful handling of inventory, controlled impedance PCB, soldering, and testing. Lack of expertise and tools can lead to issues, resulting in significant time and reputation loss. Some companies initially chose chip-based designs but later switched to module-based designs to simplify production and debugging.

Flexibility

Flexibility is a crucial factor, especially if you need various Wireless interfaces. Module-based designs offer more ease in handling multiple interfaces like GSM and WiFi. In case you need flexibility in your design like two different types of Wireless interface (GSM and WiFi), it becomes more complex when doing chip-based design (now two), while the module might give flexibility with ease. For example, some modules have WiFi & GSM both connectivity options.

Future-Proofing & Time to Migrate

Future-proofing is essential; if a chip goes end-of-life (EOL), redesigning is a complex process. Wireless Modules provide an easier solution, and some designers plan for two different modules to ensure compatibility in case one becomes obsolete.

Cost

The cost depends on quantity and application. Medical products, where quantities may be significant, can justify the use of modules despite the slightly higher cost. In contrast, consumer-grade products with high volumes often favor chip-based approaches due to cost considerations.

In conclusion, the selection of a wireless SoC chip or module requires a huge consideration of various parameters. By carefully evaluating above stated factors such as wireless standards, power consumption, data rate, range, flexibility, compactness/size and ease of integration, you can make an informed decision to the specific needs of your project. Products like GSM and Wi-Fi, from reputable brands like SIMCOM and Espressif, offer a diverse range of solutions to cater to the demands of the wireless IOT applications.

At Campus Component we offer and guide you with a comprehensive range of high-quality Wireless SoC chips or modules that align with your specific project requirements from SIMCOM and ESPRESSIF. Visit Campus Component — the electronic components shop in Pune to find the right wireless module for all your designing building process at the most reasonable prices and guaranteed quality.