UG564: SiWx91x Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth LE SoC 8 MB Flash + 8 MB ext PSRAM Radio Board User's Guide

Published by: Silicon Laboratories

1. Introduction

The SiWG917 Wireless SoC is featured on a radio board that plugs directly into a Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard. The mainboards offer tools for evaluating and developing wireless applications. An on-board J-Link debugger enables programming and debugging via USB or Ethernet. The Advanced Energy Monitor (AEM) provides real-time current and voltage monitoring. A virtual COM port (VCOM) offers a serial port connection over USB or Ethernet. Debug functionality, including AEM, VCOM, and PTI, can also be used with external target hardware.

The mainboard includes sensors and peripherals to demonstrate the SiWG917's capabilities. It also features a 20-pin EXP header for connecting EXP boards or accessing I/Os on the radio board's target IC.

This document details how to use the BRD4342A Radio Board with a Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard.

1.1 Radio Boards

A Wireless Pro Kit comprises one or more mainboards and radio boards. Different radio boards are available, each featuring Silicon Labs devices with varying frequency bands. The mainboards are designed to work with various radio boards, with pin mapping handled by the radio board itself. This means each radio board has its own pin mapping to Wireless Pro Kit features like buttons, LEDs, the display, the EXP header, and breakout pads. Consult the correct document for specific pin mappings.

1.2 Mainboards

The SiWx91x Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth LE SoC 8 MB Flash + 8 MB ext PSRAM Radio Board (BRD4342A) is compatible with the Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard (BRD4002A). The mainboard includes features such as AEM measurement, variable VMCU voltage, a joystick, a logic analyzer, and a Mini Simplicity Connector. Kit features like the Si7021 sensor and EXP header are consistent across mainboards, but breakout pad pinouts may differ. The combination of the radio board and mainboard is referred to as a Wireless Pro Kit.

Diagram Description: Figure 1.1 shows a combination of the Radio Board (BRD4342A) and the Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard (BRD4002A) forming a complete Wireless Pro Kit.

Note: This document focuses on using the Wireless Pro Kit with the SiWx91x Radio Board (BRD4342A) and the Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard (BRD4002A). Consult specific documentation for mainboard-dependent functionality.

1.3 Ordering Information

The BRD4342A is available as the SiWx91x-RB4342A radio board.

Part NumberDescriptionContents
SiWx91x-RB4342ASiWx91x Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth LE SoC 8 MB Flash + 8 MB ext PSRAM Radio Board1x BRD4342A SiWx91x Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth LE SoC 8 MB Flash + 8 MB ext PSRAM Radio Board

1.4 Getting Started

Detailed instructions for getting started are available on the Silicon Labs web pages: http://www.silabs.com/dev-tools.

2. Hardware Overview

2.1 Hardware Layout

The layout of the SiWx91x Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth LE SoC 8 MB Flash + 8 MB ext PSRAM Wireless Pro Kit, when the radio board is combined with a Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard (BRD4002A), is illustrated below.

Diagram Description: Figure 2.1 shows an annotated image of the Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard (BRD4002A) with the SiWG917 radio board plugged in. Key components and connectors are labeled: Radio Board Breakout Pads, On-board USB and Ethernet, J-Link Debugger (Virtual COM Port, Advanced Energy Monitoring), Battery or USB power, Ultra-low-power 128x128 pixel memory LCD, buttons, LEDs and joystick (note: joystick not available with BRD4342A), Reset Button, Mini Simplicity Connector, ARM Coresight 19-pin trace/debug header, Simplicity Connector, Plug-in Radio Board, Logic Analyzer, EXP-header for expansion boards, and Si7021 Humidity and Temperature Sensor.

2.2 Block Diagram

A block diagram of the SiWx91x Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth LE SoC 8 MB Flash + 8 MB ext PSRAM Wireless Pro Kit is shown below.

Diagram Description: Figure 2.2 illustrates the kit's block diagram. It shows the SiWG917 Wireless SoC connected to various peripherals and interfaces including: RJ-45 Ethernet Connector, USB Connector, Board Controller, Simplicity Connector, Debug Connector, Mini Simplicity Connector, EXP Header, User Button & LED, ISP Mode Button, Chip Antenna, 64 Mbit QSPI PSRAM Memory, 128x128 pixel Memory LCD, and Si7021 Temperature & Humidity Sensor. The Board Controller manages interfaces like UART, AEM, Packet Trace, and Debug.

3. Connectors

This chapter provides an overview of the mainboard connectivity, detailing the placement of connectors on the Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard (BRD4002A).

Diagram Description: Figure 3.1 shows the connector layout on the Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard (BRD4002A). It indicates the positions of the Ethernet Connector, J-Link USB Connector, Radio Board Connectors, Logic Analyzer Connector, EXP Header (P0 - P14), Mini Simplicity Connector, and Debug Connector. Pin numbering for various headers is also shown.

3.1 J-Link USB Connector

The J-Link USB connector is on the left side of the mainboard. It provides access to kit features via the USB interface and serves as the primary power source for the board controller and AEM, as described in Section 4.

3.2 Ethernet Connector

The Ethernet connector is on the left side of the mainboard, providing access to kit features via TCP/IP. The J-Link USB connector must remain connected to power the kit, as power is not supplied via Ethernet.

3.3 Breakout Pads

Most SiWG917 pins are routed to breakout pads on the top and bottom edges of the mainboard. A 2.54 mm pitch pin header can be soldered for access. The figures show the mapping of SiWG917 pins to the breakout pad numbers on the Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard (BRD4002A). Refer to the SiWG917M111MGTBA datasheet for pin functions. Pinout depends on the mainboard used.

Diagram Description: Figure 3.2 illustrates the breakout pad pin mapping for the Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard (BRD4002A). It shows the pin assignments for both the BOTTOM EDGE and TOP EDGE breakout pads, detailing their connections to VMCU, GND, various GPIOs, debug signals (SWDIO, TCK, TDO, TDI), and other functions like VCOM, DISP, PTI, and sensor interfaces.

3.4 EXP Header

The EXP header is a 20-pin connector on the right side of the mainboard for connecting peripherals or plugin boards. It exposes I/O pins for SiWG917 features, along with VMCU, 3V3, and 5V power rails. The pin-out is standardized for common peripherals like SPI, UART, and I2C, with remaining pins for general-purpose I/O.

Diagram Description: Figure 3.3 shows the pin assignment of the EXP header. It lists the pin numbers (1-20) and their corresponding connections to the SiWG917 I/O Pin, Power, Ground, or Reserved (Board Identification) signals.

3.4.1 EXP Header Pinout

The SiWG917 pin-routing is flexible, allowing peripherals to be routed to any pin. Many pins are shared with mainboard functions. Table 3.1 details the mainboard features that share pins with the EXP header.

PinSiWG917 RB ConnectionEXP Header Function
203V3Board controller supply
185VBoard USB voltage
16ULP_GPIO_6SENSOR_SDA
14NC-
12NC-
10NCSPI_CS
8NCSPI_SCLK
6NCSPI_MISO
4NCSPI_MOSI
2VMCUSiWG917 voltage domain, included in AEM measurements.
19BOARD_ID_SDAConnected to board controller for identification of add-on boards.
17BOARD_ID_SCLConnected to board controller for identification of add-on boards.
15ULP_GPIO_7SENSOR_SCL
13NCGPIO
11NCGPIO
9NCGPIO
7NCGPIO
5NCGPIO
3NCGPIO
1GNDGround

Note: An on-board Voltage Regulator with a maximum current rating of 800 mA is present.

3.5 Logic Analyzer Connector

The Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard includes an eight-channel logic analyzer for sampling digital signals and displaying them in Simplicity Studio. It can correlate events with AEM energy profiles and packet trace data. The sampling rate is 100 kHz, limiting its use for high-speed digital protocols like I2C or SPI.

The connector is on the top right of the mainboard. Four signals (channels 0-3) can be connected using test probes. Connected signals must be digital, with voltages referenced to ground and VMCU.

Note: The logic analyzer is exclusive to the Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard (BRD4002A). External signals require test probes available via the "Si-DA001A Pro Kit Mainboard Accessory Kit".

TypeChannelDescription
External signal0Connector (ch0)
1Connector (ch1)
2Connector (ch2)
3Connector (ch3)
Internal signal4LED0
5LED1
6BTN0
7BTN1

3.6 Debug Connector

The debug connector supports multiple purposes based on the "debug mode" setting in Simplicity Studio. In "Debug IN" mode, it connects an external debugger to the SiWG917. In "Debug OUT" mode, the kit acts as a debugger for an external target. In "Debug MCU" (default) mode, it isolates the connector from the on-board debugger and target device.

This connector is electronically switched and requires the board controller to be powered (J-Link USB cable connected). For debug access when the board controller is unpowered, connect directly to breakout pins.

The pinout follows the standard ARM Cortex Debug+ETM 19-pin connector. While it supports JTAG and ETM Trace, the kit or target device may not support these features.

Diagram Description: Figure 3.4 shows the pinout of the Debug Connector. It lists pins 1-20 with their functions such as VTARGET, TMS/SWDIO/C2D, TCK/SWCLK/C2CK, TDO/SWO, TDI/C2Dps, RESET/C2CKps, TRACECLK, TRACED0-3, Cable detect, NC, and GND.

Pin Number(s)FunctionDescription
1VTARGETTarget reference voltage for shifting logical signal levels.
2TMS / SDWIO / C2DJTAG test mode select, Serial Wire data, or C2 data.
4TCK / SWCLK / C2CKJTAG test clock, Serial Wire clock, or C2 clock.
6TDO/SWOJTAG test data out or Serial Wire Output.
8TDI / C2DpsJTAG test data in or C2D "pin sharing" function.
10RESET / C2CKpsTarget device reset or C2CK "pin sharing" function.
12TRACECLKNot connected (Can be connected to GPIO_11).
14TRACED0Not connected
16TRACED1Not connected
18TRACED2Not connected
20TRACED3Not connected
9Cable detectConnect to ground.
7, 11, 13NCNot connected.
3, 5, 15, 17, 19GNDGround.

Note: Pin 7 is physically removed from the standard Cortex Debug+ETM connector. Some cables may have a plug that prevents use; remove it or use a standard 2x10 1.27 mm cable.

3.7 Simplicity Connector

The Simplicity Connector enables advanced debugging features like AEM, virtual COM port, and Packet Trace Interface for external targets. The pinout is shown below.

Diagram Description: Figure 3.5 shows the pinout of the Simplicity Connector. It lists pins 1-20 and their functions: VMCU, 3V3, 5V, VCOM_TX, VCOM_RX, VCOM_CTS, VCOM_RTS, PTI0_SYNC, PTI0_DATA, PTI0_CLK, PTI1_SYNC, PTI1_DATA, PTI1_CLK, BOARD_ID_SCL, BOARD_ID_SDA, and GND.

Pin Number(s)FunctionDescription
1VMCUVMCU power rail, monitored by the AEM.
33V33V3 power rail.
55V5V power rail.
2VCOM_TXVirtual COM Tx.
4VCOM_RXVirtual COM Rx.
6VCOM_CTSVirtual COM CTS.
8VCOM_RTSVirtual COM RTS.
10PTI0_SYNCPacket Trace 0 Sync.
12PTI0_DATAPacket Trace 0 Data.
14PTI0_CLKPacket Trace 0 Clock.
16PTI1_SYNCPacket Trace 1 Sync.
18PTI1_DATAPacket Trace 1 Data.
20PTI1_CLKPacket Trace 1 Clock.
17BOARD_ID_SCLBoard ID SCL.
19BOARD_ID_SDABoard ID SDA.
7, 9, 11, 13, 15GNDGround.

Note: Current from VMCU is measured by AEM; 3V3 and 5V are not. To measure external target current, unplug the radio board.

3.8 Mini Simplicity Connector

The Mini Simplicity Connector offers advanced debugging features on a 10-pin connector for external targets. Features include Serial Wire Debug (SWD) with SWO, Packet Trace Interface (PTI), Virtual COM port (VCOM), and AEM monitored voltage rail.

Diagram Description: Figure 3.6 shows the pinout of the Mini Simplicity Connector. It lists pins 1-10 and their functions: VMCU, GND, RST, VCOM_RX, VCOM_TX, SWO, SWDIO, SWCLK, PTI_FRAME, and PTI_DATA.

Pin Number(s)FunctionDescription
1VMCUTarget voltage, supplied and monitored by AEM when in "AEM" position.
2GNDGround.
3RSTTarget device reset.
4VCOM_RXVirtual COM Rx.
5VCOM_TXVirtual COM Tx.
6SWOSerial Wire Output.
7SWDIOSerial Wire Data.
8SWCLKSerial Wire Clock.
9PTI_FRAMEPacket Trace Frame Signal.
10PTI_DATAPacket Trace Data Signal.

Note: Mini Simplicity Connector pin-out is referenced from the device target (SiWG917) side.

4. Power Supply and Reset

4.1 Radio Board Power Selection

The SiWG917 on a Wireless Pro Kit can be powered by the debug USB cable, a 3 V coin cell battery, or a USB regulator on the radio board (if supported).

The power source is selected via a slide switch on the Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard. The switch positions are BAT, SELF (USB), and AEM.

Diagram Description: Figure 4.1 illustrates the power switch and its connections. It shows the USB Connector, LDO, VOUT, Advanced Energy Monitor, and the SiWG917. The switch selects between BAT (3 V Lithium Battery), SELF (USB), and AEM power sources, with VMCU being the output to the SiWG917.

Note: The middle position is labeled "SELF".

Note: AEM can only measure SiWG917 current consumption when the switch is in the AEM position.

  • AEM position: Powers the radio board via a low-noise LDO, which is powered by the debug USB cable. The AEM is in series for accurate current measurements and energy profiling.
  • USB position: Powers radio boards with USB support via an on-board regulator. The BRD4342A lacks a USB regulator, so this position will unpower the SiWG917.
  • BAT position: Powers the device using a CR2032 coin cell battery. Current measurements are inactive. This position is for external power sources. The mainboard also has a 2-pin JST connector for external power (1.8 V to 3.6 V) as an alternative to the coin cell. Remove the coin cell if using external power to prevent reverse current.

Note: Coin cell battery current sourcing may be insufficient for some wireless applications.

4.2 Kit Power

Power consumption from the mainboard USB connector has two main paths: one monitored by AEM to the target power domain (VMCU), and one to the board controller power domain. The board controller's consumption is stable, while VMCU consumption varies. The board controller typically draws 250 mA. The mainboards use linear regulators, recommending an input voltage of 4.4 - 5.25 V. Use a USB host or power supply capable of delivering the required current.

The 5V net on breakout pads, EXP header, and radio board is sourced from the mainboard USB connector when the switch is in the AEM position. The 3V3 net is always sourced from the mainboard USB connector. These consumptions must be included in the total kit current.

4.2.1 Board Controller Power

The board controller, responsible for features like the debugger and AEM, is powered exclusively via the USB port. It resides on a separate power domain, allowing different power sources for the target device while maintaining debugging. This domain is isolated to prevent current leakage when board controller power is removed.

The board controller power domain is independent of the power switch position. The kit is designed to keep these domains isolated, ensuring the SiWG917 continues to operate in BAT mode even if the board controller powers down.

4.2.2 AEM Power

The VMCU power supply uses a linear regulator integrated with the AEM when the power select switch is in the AEM position. The output voltage can be adjusted between 1.8 V and 3.6 V via the admin console. Output current is limited by an overcurrent protection (OCP) function (OCP (A) ≈ VMCUSET (V) x 0.2 (A/V)). Exceeding the OCP limit can cause voltage drop and loss of function.

4.3 Target Reset

The SiWG917 SoC can be reset by:

  • Pressing the RESET button.
  • The on-board debugger pulling the RESET pin low.
  • An external debugger pulling the RESET pin low.

A reset also occurs during board controller boot-up. Disconnecting the J-Link USB cable does not reset the SiWG917, but reconnecting it will trigger a reset as the board controller boots.

5. Peripherals

The Wireless Pro Kit includes peripherals demonstrating SiWG917 features. Most SiWG917 I/Os connected to peripherals are also routed to breakout pads or the EXP header, which should be considered when using these I/Os.

5.1 Push Button and LED

The kit has one user push button (BTN0) connected to a SiWG917 GPIO (UULP_VBAT_GPIO_2). It is debounced by an RC filter (1 ms time constant). The button state is high when not pressed, and low when pressed.

A yellow LED (LED0) is controlled by a SiWG917 GPIO (ULP_GPIO_2) in an active-high configuration.

Diagram Description: Figure 5.1 shows the connection of a User Button & LED to the SiWG917. ULP_GPIO_2 is connected to UIF_LED0, and UULP_VBAT_GPIO_2 is connected to UIF_BUTTON0.

5.2 Memory LCD-TFT Display

A 1.28-inch SHARP Memory LCD-TFT display is available for interactive applications. It offers a 128 x 128 pixel resolution and low power consumption. This reflective monochrome display only requires light or dark pixels, needing no backlight in daylight. Data is stored in pixels, eliminating the need for continuous refreshing for static images.

The display uses a SPI-compatible serial interface and control signals. Pixels are not individually addressable; data is sent line by line (128 bits). The display is shared with the board controller, allowing it to display information when the user application is not using it. The user application controls display ownership via the DISP_ENABLE signal (LOW: Board Controller, HIGH: User Application).

Power is sourced from the target application domain when the SiWG917 controls the display, and from the board controller domain when DISP_ENABLE is low. Data is clocked on DISP_SI when DISP_CS is high, with the clock on DISP_SCLK. The maximum supported clock speed is 1.1 MHz.

DISP_EXTCOMIN is the "COM Inversion" line, which must be pulsed periodically to prevent static build-up. Refer to the LS013B7DH03 documentation for details.

Diagram Description: Figure 5.2 illustrates the interface between the Board Controller and the SiWG917 to the 128x128 Pixel Memory LCD. It shows signals like SCLK, SI, SCS, EXTCOMIN, and ENABLE connecting to the SiWG917 and the LCD. It also indicates the control logic for DISP_ENABLE.

5.3 Si7021 Relative Humidity and Temperature Sensor

The Si7021 is an I2C relative humidity and temperature sensor IC. It integrates humidity and temperature sensors, an ADC, signal processing, and calibration data. Its patented low-K polymeric dielectrics ensure low-power, stable CMOS sensor ICs with low drift and hysteresis.

The sensors are factory-calibrated, with data stored in non-volatile memory, ensuring interchangeability. The Si7021 is available in a 3x3 mm DFN package and is reflow solderable. It offers a drop-in upgrade for existing sensors, providing precision sensing over a wider range and lower power consumption. An optional cover protects the sensor during assembly and use.

The Si7021 provides an accurate, low-power, factory-calibrated digital solution for measuring humidity, dew point, and temperature in applications like HVAC/R, asset tracking, and consumer platforms.

The I2C bus for the Si7021 is shared with the EXP header. The sensor is normally isolated from the I2C line; SENSOR_ENABLE must be set high to use it. When enabled, its current consumption is included in AEM measurements.

Diagram Description: Figure 5.3 shows the interface between the SiWG917 and the Si7021 Temperature & Humidity Sensor via I2C. It shows signals like SENSOR_I2C_SCL, SENSOR_I2C_SDA, and SENSOR_ENABLE connecting to the SiWG917 and the sensor. VMCU and VDD are also shown.

For more information, visit http://www.silabs.com/humidity-sensors.

5.4 QSPI PSRAM Memory

The kit features a 64 Mbit QSPI PSRAM connected to the SiWG917's Quad SPI (QSPI) peripheral. The PSRAM is memory-mapped for code space and user space, usable for data storage or executing code directly from PSRAM due to QSPI's execute-in-place (XIP) support.

Diagram Description: Figure 5.4 illustrates the connection between the SiWG917 and the 64 Mbit QSPI PSRAM Memory. It shows QSPI signals (CS, SCLK, SIO0, SIO1, SIO2, SIO3) connecting the SiWG917 to the PSRAM module, powered by VMCU and VDD.

5.5 Virtual COM Port

An asynchronous serial connection to the board controller provides application data transfer between a host PC and the SiWG917, eliminating the need for an external serial port adapter.

Diagram Description: Figure 5.5 depicts the Virtual COM Port Interface. It shows the SiWG917's UART signals (TX, RX, UART1_TX, UART1_RX) connecting through an Isolation & Level Shift block to the Board Controller, which then interfaces with a Host PC via USB or Ethernet. VCOM_ENABLE is also shown.

The virtual COM port uses a physical UART between the target device and the board controller, with a logical function in the board controller making the serial port available over USB or Ethernet. The UART interface has four pins.

SignalDescription
UART_TXTransmit data from the SiWG917 to the board controller.
UART_RXReceive data from the board controller to the SiWG917.
UART1_RXReceive data from the board controller to the SiWG917.
UART1_TXTransmit data from the SiWG917 to the board controller.

Serial port parameters like baud rate can be configured using the admin console. Default settings vary by radio board.

Note: The VCOM port is only available when the board controller is powered (J-Link USB cable inserted).

5.5.1 Host Interfaces

Data exchange between the board controller and target device occurs via the VCOM interface, available as a Virtual COM port using a standard USB-CDC driver. Upon USB connection, the device typically appears as a COM port. Device names vary by OS (e.g., "JLink CDC UART Port (COM5)" on Windows, "/dev/cu.usbmodem1411" on macOS, "/dev/ttyACM0" on Linux).

Data sent by the target device via VCOM can be read from the COM port. Data written to the COM port is transmitted to the target device.

5.5.2 Serial Configuration

By default, the VCOM serial port is configured to 115200 8N1 (115.2 kbit/s, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit) with flow control disabled/ignored. Configuration can be changed using the admin console command: serial vcom config.

The baud rate can be set between 9600 and 921600 bit/s, and hardware handshake can be enabled or disabled.

6. Board Controller

6.1 Introduction

The Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard features a dedicated microcontroller, the board controller, for advanced kit functions. It is not user-programmable and acts as an interface between the host PC and the radio board, managing housekeeping functions.

Note: This chapter covers the board controller on the Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard.

Key features managed by the board controller include:

  • On-board debugger for flashing and debugging targets.
  • Advanced Energy Monitor for real-time energy profiling.
  • Logic analyzer for capturing digital signals synchronized with energy profiling and packet trace data.
  • Virtual COM Port and interfaces for application data transfer.
  • Admin console for configuring board features.

Silicon Labs releases board controller firmware updates to enable new features or fix issues. Refer to Section 9.1 Firmware Upgrades.

6.2 Admin Console

The admin console is a command-line interface to the board controller, used for configuring kit behavior and retrieving parameters.

6.2.1 Connecting

The admin console is accessible when the Wireless Pro Kit is connected to Ethernet via the mainboard's Ethernet connector. See Section 8.1.2 Ethernet Interface for details. Connect via telnet to the kit's IP address on port 4902. A "WPK>" prompt indicates a successful connection.

6.2.2 Built-in Help

The admin console provides a built-in help system accessed by the help command, which lists top-level commands:

  • aem: AEM Configuration and Information Commands.
  • boardid: Commands for board ID probe.
  • dbg: Debug interface status and control.
  • dch: Datachannel control and info commands.
  • discovery: Discovery service commands.
  • net: Network commands.
  • pti: Packet trace interface status and control.
  • quit: Exit from shell.
  • serial: Serial channel commands.
  • sys: System commands.
  • target: Target commands.
  • time: Time Sync Service commands.
  • user: User management functions.

Using help with a top-level command (e.g., pti help) lists sub-commands and descriptions.

6.2.3 Command Examples

PTI Configuration:

pti config 0 efruart 1600000 configures PTI for "EFRUART" mode at 1.6 Mb/s.

Serial Port Configuration:

serial config vcom handshake enable enables hardware handshake on the VCOM UART connection.

7. Advanced Energy Monitor

7.1 Introduction

The Simplicity Energy Profiler helps developers identify and reduce energy consumption in embedded applications. It graphs and logs real-time current usage, correlating it with application code running on the SiWG917. The Energy Profiler is available through Simplicity Studio.

7.2 Code Correlation

The Energy Profiler measures current and voltage, linking them to the SiWG917's real-time code execution. It uses data from the board controller's Advanced Energy Monitor (AEM) and the target processor's Program Counter (PC) sampling via ARM CoreSight debug architecture. The Instrumentation Trace Macrocell (ITM) samples the MCU's PC and outputs it over the SWO pin. Fusing these data streams with the application's memory map provides an accurate statistical profile of the running application's energy usage.

7.3 AEM Circuit

The AEM circuit on the Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard (BRD4002A) measures current through a sense resistor in the feedback loop of a low-dropout regulator (LDO). This LDO powers the SiWG917 when the power slide switch is in the AEM position.

Diagram Description: Figure 7.1 illustrates the Advanced Energy Monitor circuit on the Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard. It shows a 5V input to an LDO, which powers the SiWG917 and Peripherals via VMCU. The LDO's feedback loop includes sense resistors (10.5 Ω and 0.5 Ω) connected to an AEM Processing block with a Current Sense Amplifier and Multiple Gain Stages. A Power Select Switch controls the AEM position.

Note: The VMCU regulator feedback is after the sense resistor to maintain constant VMCU voltage, though series resistances may cause IR drop.

Note: The AEM circuit functions only when the kit is powered and the switch is in the AEM position.

7.3.1 AEM Details

The AEM is summarized below:

ParameterBRD4002A
Voltage1.8 - 3.6 V
Sample Rate100 kHz
Sense Resistor10.5 Ω / 0.5 Ω
Measurement Range¹0 - 495 mA

Note: ¹ Current sourcing capabilities of the LDO may differ from the measurement range.

Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard (BRD4002A) AEM Design Details

The AEM circuitry measures currents from approximately 0.1 μA to 495 mA using a current sense amplifier, multiple sense resistors, gain stages, and board controller signal processing. A 100 kHz sample rate is used for display and storage. Averaging may be required for accuracy at low currents, trading bandwidth for precision. High current applications need sufficient regulator current as per Section 4.2 Kit Power.

At low currents, a 10.5 Ω resistive path is used. The gain stage amplifies this voltage. A transition between ranges occurs around 150 μA. When current exceeds 10-30 mA, a 0.5 Ω resistor is used for measurements up to 495 mA. The circuit reverts to the 10.5 Ω path and gain stages when current drops below the threshold.

Typical accuracy is within 1%, except for low microamp currents where offset errors dominate (hundreds of nanoamps). Automatic AEM calibration at power-up compensates for offset errors. Averaging in Energy Profiler can reduce noise for low currents. The analog bandwidth depends on output current and VMCU capacitance; higher current and lower capacitance yield higher bandwidth.

8. On-Board Debugger

The Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard has an integrated debugger for downloading code and debugging the SiWG917. It can also program and debug external Silicon Labs EFM32, EFM8, EZR32, and EFR32 devices via the debug connector.

The debugger supports three interfaces: Serial Wire Debug (SWD), JTAG (for EFR32 and some EFM32), and C2 Debug (for EFM8). Ensure the selected interface is supported by the target device. The debug connector supports all three modes.

8.1 Host Interfaces

The Wireless Pro Kit connects to the debugger via Ethernet or USB. USB connection identifies the kit by its J-Link serial number. Ethernet connection typically uses the IP address, though serial number discovery is possible on the same subnet.

8.1.1 USB Interface

The USB interface is available when the USB connector on the mainboard's left side is connected to a computer.

8.1.2 Ethernet Interface

The Ethernet interface is available when the mainboard Ethernet connector is connected to a network. The kit usually obtains an IP address from a DHCP server, displayed on the LCD. If no DHCP server is present, connect via USB to manually set the IP address using Simplicity Studio, Simplicity Commander, or J-Link Configurator.

Ethernet connectivity requires the mainboard USB connector to be powered.

8.1.3 Serial Number Identification

All Silicon Labs kits have a unique 9-digit J-Link serial number (e.g., 44xxxxxxx) for PC application identification, usually printed on the kit's LCD display.

8.2 Debug Modes

The kit supports various debug modes. The on-board debugger can debug the SiWG917 on the radio board or external targets via the debug connector or Mini Simplicity Connector. An external debugger can also debug the SiWG917 via the debug connector. Debug mode is selected in Simplicity Studio.

  • Debug MCU: On-board debugger connected to the SiWG917 on the kit. Set debug mode to [MCU].

    Diagram Description: Figure 8.1 shows the Debug MCU mode. It depicts a Host USB Computer connected to a Board Controller, which is connected to the SiWG917 on the RADIO BOARD via a DEBUG HEADER.

  • Debug OUT: On-board debugger used to debug external Silicon Labs devices on a custom board via the debug connector. Set debug mode to [Out].

    Diagram Description: Figure 8.2 shows the Debug OUT mode. It depicts a Host USB Computer connected to a Board Controller, which is connected to External Hardware via a DEBUG HEADER. The SiWG917 on the RADIO BOARD is also shown.

  • Debug IN: On-board debugger disconnected; an external debugger used to debug the SiWG917 via the debug connector. Set debug mode to [In].

    Diagram Description: Figure 8.3 shows the Debug IN mode. It depicts a Host USB Computer connected to a Board Controller, which is connected to an External Debug Probe via a DEBUG HEADER. The SiWG917 on the RADIO BOARD is also shown.

Note: For "Debug IN" to function, the kit board controller must be powered via the Debug USB connector.

  • Debug MINI: The Wireless Pro Kit mainboard features a Mini Simplicity Connector. In this mode, the on-board debugger debugs external Silicon Labs devices on a custom board via Serial Wire Debug. Virtual COM port is also available. Set debug mode to [Mini].

    Diagram Description: Figure 8.4 shows the Debug MINI mode. It depicts a Host USB Computer connected to a Board Controller, which is connected to the SiWG917 on the RADIO BOARD via a MINI SIMPLICITY CONNECTOR, which then connects to External Hardware.

8.3 Debugging During Battery Operation

When the SiWG917 is battery-powered and the J-Link USB is connected, on-board debug functionality is available. If USB power is disconnected, Debug IN mode stops working.

For debug access when the target runs on battery and the board controller is powered down, make direct connections to the debugging GPIOs exposed on the breakout pads.

9. Kit Configuration and Upgrades

The kit configuration dialog in Simplicity Studio allows changing the J-Link adapter debug mode, upgrading firmware, and modifying other settings. Download Simplicity Studio from silabs.com/simplicity.

The Simplicity Studio Launcher shows the debug mode and firmware version of the selected J-Link adapter. Click the [Change] link to open the kit configuration dialog.

Diagram Description: Figure 9.1 shows the Simplicity Studio Kit Information window, displaying details about the SiWG917 radio board and the Wireless Pro Kit Mainboard, including connected status, debug mode, adapter firmware, and preferred SDK.

Diagram Description: Figure 9.2 shows the Kit Configuration Dialog within Simplicity Studio, allowing configuration of the J-Link adapter, including debug mode, application images, scratchpad, packet trace, and adapter configuration.

9.1 Firmware Upgrades

Kit firmware can be upgraded via Simplicity Studio, which checks for updates on startup. Manual upgrades can be performed using the kit configuration dialog. Click [Browse] in the [Update Adapter] section to select the firmware file (.emz) and then click [Install Package].

10. Schematics, Assembly Drawings, and BOM

Schematics, assembly drawings, and Bill of Materials (BOM) are available through Simplicity Studio after installing the kit documentation package. They are also accessible on the Silicon Labs website at silabs.com.

11. Kit Revision History

The kit revision is printed on the kit packaging label. The revision history provided may not list every revision and may omit minor changes.

Diagram Description: Figure 11.1 shows an example of a kit label, displaying information such as the product name (SiWx91x Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth LE SoC 8 MB Flash + 8 MB ext PSRAM Radio Board), Part number (SiWx91x-RB4342A), Serial Number, Date, Quantity, and Revision (Rev.A00).

11.1 SiWx91x-RB4342A Revision History

Kit RevisionReleasedDescription
A0028 June 2024Initial kit release.

12. Document Revision History

  • Revision 1.20 (September 2024): Kit details updated.
  • Revision 1.10 (July 2024): Radio Board image updated.
  • Revision 1.00 (December 2023): Initial document release.

Simplicity Studio

Simplicity Studio provides one-click access to MCU and wireless tools, documentation, software, and source code libraries. It is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux.

Links:

Disclaimer

Silicon Labs provides the latest, accurate, and in-depth documentation for its products. Characterization data, modules, peripherals, memory sizes, and addresses refer to specific devices, and typical parameters may vary. Application examples are for illustrative purposes only. Silicon Labs reserves the right to make changes without notice to product information, specifications, and descriptions, and does not warrant accuracy or completeness. Firmware updates may occur for security or reliability reasons without altering specifications or performance. Silicon Labs is not liable for consequences of using the information herein. This document does not grant any license to design or fabricate integrated circuits. Products are not authorized for FDA Class III devices, applications requiring FDA premarket approval, or Life Support Systems without written consent. "Life Support System" is defined as any product or system intended to support life/health, which, if failed, could cause injury or death. Silicon Labs products are not authorized for military applications or use in weapons of mass destruction. Silicon Labs disclaims all warranties and is not liable for injuries or damages related to unauthorized product use.

Trademark Information

Silicon Laboratories Inc.®, Silicon Laboratories®, Silicon Labs®, SiLabs®, and the Silicon Labs logo® are trademarks of Silicon Labs. Other trademarks mentioned include Bluegiga®, EFM®, EFM32®, EFR, Ember®, Energy Micro, Gecko®, Gecko OS, Simplicity Studio®, Telegesis®, USBXpress®, Zentri®, Z-Wave®, and others. ARM, CORTEX, Cortex-M3, and THUMB are trademarks of ARM Holdings. Keil is a registered trademark of ARM Limited. Wi-Fi is a registered trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance. All other product or brand names are trademarks of their respective holders.

Silicon Laboratories Inc.
400 West Cesar Chavez
Austin, TX 78701
USA
www.silabs.com

Models: SiWx91x, BRD4342A, BRD4002A, SiWx91x Wise Connect 3, SiWx91x, Wise Connect 3, Connect 3

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