Technology distributor Avnet is enabling easier ultra-wideband (UWB) module integration for IoT applications following a deal with Italian firm TrueSense.

The distributor is enhancing its linecard offering with TrueSense UWB modules based on chipsets from Dutch electronics giant NXP.

Through Avnet Silica, Avnet’s European semiconductor specialist division, it has announced a distribution agreement with Milan-based TrueSens that should help its customers simplify the integration of reliable UWB technology for industrial, smart home and consumer, mobility, logistics, and security applications, such as indoor and real-time location systems, access control, asset tracking and presence-aware applications.

UWB technology offers accurate positioning and secure, interference-resistant communication, but integrating high-frequency RF systems remains difficult for many developers. TrueSense’s modules and customised options are based on chipsets from Avnet Silica semiconductor partner NXP (www.nxp.com), including the Trimension SR040 and SR250 UWB ICs.

Alongside the hardware, Avnet Silica customers now have access to TrueSense’s software and firmware ecosystem. This includes customisation as well as mobile app, SDK-API integration and technical assistance, which helps accelerate developments and reduce time-to-market for UWB-enabled products.

The modules support secure, high-precision ranging and positioning, while dedicated products also enable radar-based capabilities, supporting applications such as child presence detection, occupant monitoring and contactless vital sign detection. This opens the door to applications across smart home, healthcare, industrial, mobility and security markets.

“Providing in-depth solutions and support to our customers is essential to our philosophy of driving growth through innovation,” said Walter Puhl, wireless technology specialist at Belgium-based Avnet Silica (www.avnet-silica.com). “Onboarding TrueSense as our UWB modules supplier demonstrates our continuous commitment to encouraging innovative applications with more manageable development times.”

Armando Caltabiano, CEO of TrueSense (www.truesense.it), added: “By combining Truesense’s certified UWB modules, firmware and software ecosystem with Avnet Silica’s technical expertise and market reach, we can help customers reduce integration complexity, accelerate time-to-market and unlock new high-precision ranging and radar-enabled applications across Emea.”

For more information about the UWB technology and TrueSense modules available via Avnet Silica, visit my.avnet.com/silica/manufacturers/m/truesense/.