'OSHChip' Open Source Module, Unique 16-Pin DIP Package
It has through-holes like the pins of an IC.

Nordic Semiconductor announced the release of a third-party open-source module in a 16-pin through-hole DIP package type that can be plugged directly into any standard breadboard used by manufacturers or developers without soldering to implement Bluetooth® Smart and 2.4GHz dedicated wireless prototypes using Nordic chips.

The OSHChip module, named after the company and introduced by the U.S. manufacturing and hobbyist startup OSHChip (OSH; Open Source Hardware), features Nordic’s nRF51822 SoC (System-on-Chip) and has a soldering-free form factor of 1.98 x 0.89 cm, making it 5% smaller than the Arduino UNO and 22% smaller than the Arduino Nano.

Philip Freidin, founder of OSHChip, noted, “The small size of this module will be another major motivating factor,” and added, “Currently, wireless boards from almost all manufacturers cover all the holes under the breadboard, leaving no space for plug-in wires or other peripherals.” He continued, “All of these factors increase the time, complexity, and confusion of the project, and quickly "It hinders the possibility of developing and operating the design," they stated.

To develop the OSHChip module, the company had to develop proprietary IC-type pins compatible with a wide range of commercial breadboards. Friedin stated, “Without Nordic’s nRF51822 chip-scale package option, we would not have been able to develop a module of this small size.”

OSHChip allows programming and debugging (Keil) using a partner's OSHChip programmer board that supports USB drag-and-drop programming, SWD debugging, and bidirectional serial communication.

Freedin announced plans to make the OSHChip module completely open source (including circuits, Gerber files, and BOM). They also stated that they will add Over-the-Air (OTA) programming capabilities and will soon add sample apps for iPhone and Android.

Pricing and supply inquiries for OSHChip and OSHChip programmers/debuggers can be found at www.oshchip.org.