Is your firmware efficient enough to operate solely on harvested energy?
Ambient IoT devices, which often rely on energy harvesting methods such as photovoltaic cells, require firmware that is meticulously optimized for ultra-low power consumption. For product companies venturing into this space, collaborating with external firmware specialists can be a strategic decision.
As the demand for sustainable and maintenance-free IoT devices grows, especially in sectors like logistics, retail, and industrial monitoring, the focus shifts from merely adding features to optimizing energy efficiency.
1. Aligning Firmware with Energy Harvesting Constraints
Ambient IoT devices, powered by sources like indoor lighting, generate limited energy. Firmware must be tailored to operate within these constraints, ensuring reliable performance without depleting the harvested energy reserves. External experts bring experience in developing firmware that efficiently manages power consumption, balancing functionality with energy availability.
2. Leveraging Bluetooth® Technology for Efficient Connectivity
Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE) has become a cornerstone for low-power wireless communication. The 2024 Bluetooth® Market Update highlights the growing adoption of Bluetooth LE in Ambient IoT applications, such as electronic shelf labels and asset tracking devices. External firmware developers proficient in Bluetooth LE can implement features like periodic advertising and efficient connection intervals, optimizing energy usage while maintaining reliable connectivity.
3. Enhancing Location Services with Minimal Power Draw
Accurate location tracking is vital in various applications, from inventory management to equipment monitoring. Bluetooth® technology enables devices to determine the presence, distance, and direction of other devices, offering flexibility in positioning solutions. Outsourced specialists, working exclusively on these topics, can develop firmware that utilizes these capabilities efficiently, ensuring precise location services without compromising energy efficiency.
4. Ensuring Long-Term Maintainability and Scalability
Firmware for Ambient IoT devices must be not only efficient but also maintainable and scalable. Developers can design modular firmware architectures that facilitate updates and integration with various hardware platforms. This approach ensures that devices can adapt to evolving requirements without extensive redesigns, extending their operational lifespan.
5. Focusing Internal Resources on Core Competencies
By outsourcing firmware development, companies can allocate internal resources to areas like product design, user experience, and market strategy. This division of labor allows for a more focused approach to product development, leveraging external expertise for specialized tasks while concentrating on core business objectives.
Conclusion
Incorporating ultra-low power optimization into firmware is essential for the viability of Ambient IoT devices powered by energy harvesting. Collaborating with external firmware experts such as BLINQY provides access to specialized knowledge and experience, ensuring that devices meet performance requirements within stringent energy constraints. This partnership enables companies to develop sustainable, efficient, and scalable IoT solutions, aligning with the growing demand for energy-conscious technologies.
Want to assess your IoT performance or develop a new device? Book a no-obligation 20 minutes meeting here to assess whether a collaboration with BLINQY aligns with your project goals 👍
Thibaut WIAME
Sources:
ABI Research 2024: Bluetooth Data Set (4Q23, CR-BLU-148), Asset Tracking IoT Technologies (2Q23, MD-AST-101), Mobile Accessories and Wearable (3Q23, MD-WEAR-109) and Wireless Connectivity (1Q24, MD-WCMT-194).
Bluetooth® SIG: 2024 Bluetooth®Market Update.