STMicroelectronics (ST) announced on the 10th the launch of the STEVAL-ASTRA1B multi-connectivity evaluation platform, stating that it provides a complete ecosystem for fully realizing the proof-of-concept of asset tracking systems. This evaluation kit is battery-powered in a small form factor and includes firmware that simplifies the development of applications such as livestock monitoring, fleet management, and logistics.

This kit allows you to evaluate ST's industry-first near-range and short-range STM32* wireless System-on-Chip (SoC) devices. The STM32WL55JC, a sub-GHz SoC for long-range connectivity (LPWAN), implements the LoRaWAN protocol and provides LoRa, (G)FSK, (G)MSK, and BPSK modulation. Another wireless SoC, the STM32WB5MMG module, supports 2.4GHz Bluetooth LE (Bluetooth® Low Energy) and Zigbee® connectivity. Each device features an Arm® Cortex®-M4 core for application processing and a dedicated Cortex-M0+ core for wireless management.

This development kit includes the ST25DV64K, a Near-Field Communication (NFC) contactless chip that supports secure pairing and communication, as well as the STSAFE-A110 Secure Element, which prevents hacking and protects personal information.

In addition, accurate and stable outdoor positioning is possible with the compact GNSS module Teseo-LIV3F. Various ST sensors for monitoring asset status and the environment are also integrated. These include the STTS22H, a low-voltage, ultra-low-power temperature sensor with ±0.5°C accuracy; the HTS221, a digital humidity and temperature sensor; the LPS22HH, a barometric pressure sensor; and the LIS2DTW12, a 3-axis accelerometer. The LSM6DSO32X, an always-on inertial module, is also installed, which includes a 3D gyroscope with a machine learning core and a 3D accelerometer.

The STEVAL-ASTRA1B features a smart power and battery management architecture that enables developers to maximize application runtime. It includes the ST1PS02, a synchronous step-down converter with nano quiescent current; the STBC03, a lithium-ion charge controller; and the TCPP01-M12, a USB-C port protection IC.

Users can utilize a comprehensive ecosystem, including software and tools that support 'Road Testing' applications under development. This ecosystem includes the FP-ATR-ASTRA1 STM32Cube software feature pack, which features firmware libraries and common application examples. ST's asset tracking mobile app is also available on the Apple Store and Google Play. In addition, with DSH-ASSETRACKING, a web-based cloud dashboard, you can easily create a complete proof of concept, and the demo version is available for free.