Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Blue Charm Beacons BC-U1-USB MultiBeacon. This USB-powered Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) iBeacon is designed for long-range BLE 5.0 applications, offering versatile broadcasting capabilities.
Important Note:
This device is an iBeacon or Eddystone Beacon and is NOT a USB dongle for connecting Bluetooth keyboards, speakers, or other devices to your computer. Please ensure this is the product you intend to use for beacon-specific applications.
Product Overview
Figure 1: Blue Charm BC-U1-USB MultiBeacon shown next to a US quarter, illustrating its compact size.
Figure 2: Front view of the BC-U1-USB MultiBeacon, highlighting its USB-A connector.
Figure 3: Back view of the BC-U1-USB MultiBeacon, showing a QR code for identification.
Figure 4: Side view of the BC-U1-USB MultiBeacon, showing its slim profile.
Figure 5: The packaging box for Blue Charm Beacons, featuring the brand logo.
Setup
1. Powering On
The BC-U1-USB MultiBeacon is USB-powered. Simply plug the beacon into any standard USB-A 5V wall charger, a USB-A port on a computer, or a USB-A port inside a vehicle. There are no batteries to install or replace, ensuring continuous operation as long as it's powered.
2. App Installation
To configure your beacon, download the free configuration app for your smartphone:
- For iPhone: Search for "Blue Charm Beacons" or "KBeacon" in the Apple App Store.
- For Android: Search for "Blue Charm Beacons" or "KBeacon" in the Google Play Store.
Once installed, open the app to begin the configuration process.
3. Initial Connection
- Open the configuration app on your smartphone.
- The app will scan for nearby beacons. Locate your BC-U1-USB MultiBeacon in the list. You may need to refresh the scan results by sliding your finger down the app screen.
- Tap on your beacon's entry in the list to connect to it.
- Once connected, you will see the current configuration settings of the beacon.
Operating Instructions
The Blue Charm Beacons app allows you to customize various parameters of your BC-U1-USB MultiBeacon. Below are common settings you can adjust:
1. Configuring Beacon Name
- From the main settings screen, tap on "Beacon Name".
- Enter your desired name (up to 17 ASCII characters).
- Tap "Save" and then "Details" to return to the main screen.
Figure 6: Screenshot of the general settings within the configuration app.
2. Adjusting Broadcast Interval
The broadcast interval determines how frequently the beacon transmits its signal. A shorter interval allows for quicker detection but may increase power consumption (though less critical for USB-powered devices).
- Tap on "Adv Interval" (Advertising Interval).
- Select a preselected interval (e.g., 100ms, 500ms) or type in a custom value between 100-10,000 milliseconds.
- Tap "Save" and then "Details" to return.
3. Setting TX Power
TX Power (Transmit Power) affects the beacon's signal strength and range.
- Selectable TX levels: -40, -20, -16, -12, -8, -4, 0, +4dBm.
- A higher dBm value results in a stronger signal and longer range.
- Tap on "Tx Power", select your desired level, tap "Save", then "Details".
4. Understanding Measured Power
Measured Power is used for calibration. The -59dBm figure indicates that the beacon's signal strength on a scanner will be approximately -59dBm when it is 1 meter from the scanner. It is generally recommended not to adjust this default value unless you have specific calibration requirements.
5. Selecting Broadcast Protocol
The BC-U1-USB MultiBeacon supports iBeacon, Eddystone TLM, Eddystone URL, and Eddystone UID formats.
- Tap on "Beacon Type".
- Select your preferred protocol (e.g., iBeacon, URL, UID, TLM).
- Tap "Save" and then "Details".
Figure 7: Screenshot of iBeacon-specific settings within the configuration app.
6. Modifying UUID, Major, and Minor ID
These identifiers are crucial for distinguishing your beacons in an iBeacon deployment.
- Tap on "iBeacon UUID", "iBeacon MajorID", or "iBeacon MinorID" to modify.
- Enter your desired values.
- Tap "Save" and then "Details".
Note: iPhones may not display the full UUID on the main scan page, only Major and Minor IDs. The UUID is stored in the beacon and broadcast correctly.
7. Uploading Settings
After making all desired changes, tap the "Upload" button (usually in the upper right corner of the app) to send the new configuration to the beacon. Wait for a "Success" message.
8. Refreshing Scan Results
To see the updated broadcast information on the main scan screen, slide your finger down the screen to refresh the scan. The smartphone will then display the new broadcast details from the beacon.
Maintenance
- Power Source: As a USB-powered device, the BC-U1-USB MultiBeacon does not require battery replacement. Ensure a stable 5V USB-A power source for continuous operation.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the beacon. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
- Waterproofing: This device is not waterproof. Avoid exposure to liquids or high humidity to prevent damage.
Troubleshooting
- Beacon Not Detected:
- Ensure the beacon is properly plugged into a functioning USB-A port and receiving power.
- Verify Bluetooth is enabled on your smartphone.
- Refresh the scan in the configuration app by pulling down on the screen.
- Ensure you are within the beacon's transmission range (up to 60 meters for BLE 5.0).
- Configuration Changes Not Applying:
- After making changes, always tap "Save" and then "Upload" in the app.
- Confirm you received a "Success" message after uploading.
- Refresh the scan results on the main screen to see updated broadcast information.
- App Connection Issues:
- Close and reopen the configuration app.
- Restart your smartphone's Bluetooth.
- Ensure the app has necessary permissions (e.g., location services).
For more detailed troubleshooting guides and FAQs, please visit the official Blue Charm Beacons website.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | BC-U1 |
| Power Source | USB-A powered (5V) |
| Bluetooth Version | BLE 5.0 (backward compatible with BLE 4.0) |
| Broadcast Formats | iBeacon, Eddystone TLM, Eddystone URL, Eddystone UID |
| Transmit Distance | 0.2-60 meters (BLE 5.0) |
| Selectable TX Levels | -40, -20, -16, -12, -8, -4, 0, +4dBm |
| Broadcast Interval | Adjustable from 100-10,000 milliseconds |
| Dimensions | 0.79 x 0.39 x 0.2 inches (approx. 22mm x 16mm x 6mm) |
| Weight | 1.5 grams |
| Waterproofing | No |
| Compatible Devices | Bluetooth-capable smartphones, Blue Charm BLE beacon scanning gateway (BCG04), Home Assistant |
| UPC | 612637579196 |
Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, and additional resources, please visit the official Blue Charm Beacons website. The website also provides detailed step-by-step instructions with multiple screenshots under the "Quick Start Guide" menu and sample projects under "Usage Cases".
Manufacturer: Blue Charm Beacons
Online Resources: www.bluecharmbeacons.com
