Multi-sensor module from Sfera Labs uses Raspberry Pi 4 computing
Edge-based hardware features in the Exo Sense Pi multi-sensor module from Sfera Labs. The compact wall-mount unit features a 64-bit quad core Arm Cortex-A72 processor running at up to 1.5GHz. According to Sfera Labs, this is “way beyond what other sensor modules on the market can deliver”.
The module is in four version and with up to 8Gbyte of RAM and 32Gbyte of embedded multimedia controller (eMMC) flash memory reserves. There are also different connectivity options, for example, Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11b/g/n/ac), Bluetooth 5.0 and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) wireless interfaces, an RS-485 serial bus and dedicated I/O lines. All of these options enable data transfer across standard protocols (like Modbus, I2C, 1-Wire, Wiegand) for system integration. There is a micro USB port for flashing the Raspberry Pi eMMC and a microSD card slot for attaching an external flash memory.
Sensors in the module include temperature, humidity, air quality and light intensity measurement, as well as PIR-based motion detection. A microphone is also incorporated for audio processing and voice control. Other custom sensors can be added as required, for example CO2 monitoring, seismic monitoring (earthquake detection) and vibration measurement.
The Exo Sense Pi are CE- and FCC-compliant and can be used for both residential and commercial use. Typical application are home or building automation, environmental monitoring, Bluetooth Low Energy positioning, people counting, room management, asset tracking, alarm reporting and access control. Other key functionality integrated into the module includes a Microchip ATECC608A secure element chip, a GPIO-controlled LED indicator, a piezoelectric buzzer and a real time clock (RTC) with replaceable back-up battery.
Internal temperature sensors allow heat compensation to be undertaken, there are also surge and reverse polarity protection mechanisms. The modules run from a standard 9.0 to 28V DC supply.
The Exo Sense Pi is supplied in an 80 x 80mm form factor for installation in space restricted locations.
Using the Raspberry Pi development ecosystem, engineers will be able to use Exo Sense Pi as the basis for creating sensor-driven edge computing applications, says Sfera Labs. Software libraries for this module are all open source and may be freely accessed via Github. To support OEM requirements, Sfera Labs can provide custom casing and logo printing services.
