Build a device using the Modem
Reference for device builders
A Blecon modem can be integrated into your device and a host MCU can access its API over a SPI, UART or USB connection. It manages the whole Blecon stack from security, RPC and down to radio and optimising power consumption.
On the cloud-end, a collection of devices can be associated with HTTP web-hook endpoints which are triggered on different events (device request, device spotted, etc) forming a network. This gives a clear integration contract to cloud and device teams.
Capabilities
Request/Response communication
A host MCU can request a connection to a Blecon network. Once established, the host MCU receives an event from the modem and can start sending requests and retrieving responses from the corresponding cloud application.
Self-Provisioning
On the first power-up, a modem will generate its identity (unique UUID) and credentials (public/private key pair) and register itself in-band with the Blecon infrastructure, ensuring security throughout its lifecycle without a complex provisioning process.
Device Identification and Connection
Each modem possesses a unique identifier (UUID). This UUID can be recovered by the host MCU using the modem's API. Additionally if a NFC antenna is connected to the modem, NFC can be used to identify the device. Finally, the host MCU can trigger an identification procedure (typically at the push of a button) over BLE to let nearby hotpots retrieve the device's UUID.
Once retrieved, this unique identifier can be used to connect the device to a Blecon network, and/or associate the device using application-specific logic.
Secure Bluetooth Communication from device to cloud
Blecon modems manage Bluetooth advertising and connections to Blecon hotspots. Unlike typical Bluetooth security, Blecon security is ensured from device to cloud, so a Blecon hotspot cannot understand or tamper with any data. Additionally this means no pairing is necessary for a Blecon device to operate, meaning any hotspot can provide a device with connectivity.
For more information about the Blecon security model and threat model, please contact us.
Blecon Modem
The Blecon Modem is provided as firmware and is currently available for a selection of nRF52 based chips and modules.
For getting started with the Blecon Modem firmware, see:
pageBlecon Modem Firmware on the NRF52840-DKFor further information and firmware images for different modules, email us at support@blecon.net
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