STMicroelectronics BLUENRG-234N

Overview

BLUENRG-234N from STMicroelectronics is a Bluetooth® LE 5.2-certified network coprocessor in VFQFPN32 package, integrating ARM Cortex-M0 core, 32 MHz ±50 ppm crystal oscillator, +8 dBm programmable RF output, 96 dB link budget, and dual power regulation (DC-DC + LDO). It operates as a standalone BLE radio subsystem for host MCU offload in ultra-low-power wearable and medical edge devices.

For engineers reviewing the BLUENRG-234N datasheet, BLUENRG-234N pinout, BLUENRG-234N application, or BLUENRG-234N equivalent, key selection criteria include verified sleep current (900 nA), TX/RX current at 3.0 V (6.8 mA / 6.2 mA), RF output power configurability, SPI/UART host interface support, and integrated SWD debug capability - all validated per DS13280 Rev 6.

Technical Context

The BLUENRG-234N implements a dedicated BLE network processor architecture: the ARM Cortex-M0 core runs only the ST-provided BLE stack (stored in on-chip Flash at 0x2000), with no customer application code execution permitted. All GATT profiles execute externally on the host MCU.

Its RF subsystem uses a fully integrated transceiver with programmable PA output up to +8 dBm, supported by internal 32 MHz XO (±50 ppm) and 32.768 kHz oscillator options. Power management includes three low-power states (Preactive, Standby, Sleep), with DC-DC converter enabling 900 nA sleep current and LDO fallback mode.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

BLUENRG-234N is housed in a 5 mm × 5 mm, 0.5 mm pitch VFQFPN32 package with exposed thermal pad. Pin functions are validated per DS13280 Rev 6 Figure 6 and Table 3.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar BLE network coprocessor applications.

Compared with nRF52833 DK and CC2642R, BLUENRG-234N delivers the lowest verified sleep current (900 nA) and highest RF link budget (96 dB) in its class, making it optimal for battery-limited edge nodes where runtime and link reliability are non-negotiable.

Availability

BLUENRG-234N is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for watches, fitness trackers, and remote medical sensors requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.

Supply support for BLUENRG-234N includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, specializing in microcontrollers, analog ICs, and wireless solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The BlueNRG product line delivers ultra-low-power Bluetooth LE network coprocessors designed specifically for battery-operated edge devices where RF performance, certification assurance, and minimal host MCU overhead are critical.

FAQ

Is BLUENRG-234N pin-compatible with BLUENRG-2N?

Yes, BLUENRG-234N is the VFQFPN32 variant of the BlueNRG-2N family and shares identical pinout, electrical characteristics, and firmware compatibility per DS13280 Rev 6. The "234N" suffix denotes the VFQFPN32 package configuration, confirmed in Figure 6 and Table 3 of the datasheet.

Can the ARM Cortex-M0 core be used for custom application code?

No. The ARM Cortex-M0 core is reserved exclusively for running the ST-provided BLE stack stored in on-chip Flash. Customer application code must execute on an external host MCU; the BlueNRG-234N operates strictly as a network coprocessor with SPI/UART host interface.

What is the role of ANATEST1 pin in system design?

ANATEST1 asserts high ~18 µs before each BLE TX or RX event and de-asserts at completion. It is used to synchronize external components such as antenna switches or Wi-Fi/BLE coexistence circuits, ensuring zero RF collision during concurrent wireless operation.

Does BLUENRG-234N require external crystal load capacitors?

Yes. The 32 MHz FXTAL0/FXTAL1 pins require external load capacitors (typically 12 pF) per crystal manufacturer specifications. The 32.768 kHz SXTAL0/SXTAL1 pins also require load caps unless using the internal RO oscillator, which eliminates external components but sacrifices timing accuracy.