DigiKey and Würth Elektronik – Simplifying IIoT

As the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) continues to make waves across various industries, the demand for seamless integration, reliable connectivity, and efficient deployment solutions only continues to grow.

To address these needs, DigiKey and Würth Elektronik have partnered to offer an extensive range of products and tools designed to simplify IIoT implementation. Focusing on connectivity, development resources, and efficiency, businesses will find the support they need to transform their operations with ease.

This article will explore some of the solutions for IoT connectivity and sensors, development and deployment tools, as well as strategies for enhancing IIoT efficiency. Whether it’s enabling Cloud connectivity or retrofitting legacy systems, DigiKey and Würth Elektronik have the building blocks for a connected future.

IoT connectivity & sensors

Robust connectivity and reliable sensor technology lies at the heart of any IoT ecosystem. DigiKey and Würth Elektronik provide a comprehensive suite of solutions tailored to meet these critical requirements. From Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) modules to advanced RF and multiprotocol modules, this portfolio enables seamless communications across diverse industrial applications.

Würth Elektronik's BLE range, dubbed ‘Bluetooth Smart,’ brings Bluetooth wireless connectivity to small, low-cost, battery devices that require longevity and reliability. This technology is key to enabling a wide range of critical applications such as healthcare sensors, remote controllers, watches, and more. For instance, the Proteus-I Bluetooth Smart 4.2 Module BLE from Würth Elektronik, featuring ultra-low peak, average, and idle power consumption alongside long multi-year battery life, low-costs, multi-vendor interoperability, and enhanced range capabilities.

Figure 1: Würth Elektronik's Proteus-I Bluetooth Smart 4.2 Module BLE (2608011024000). (Image source: Würth Elektronik)

If Wi-Fi connectivity is more essential, then look no further than Würth Elektronik's WLAN module, Calypso, a compact Wi-Fi module based on IEEE 802.11 b/g/n with a fully featured TCP/IP stack. Calypso is readily integrable to any embedded application owing to its Edge castellation, smart antenna configuration, and an easy-to-use AT-style command interface. The module also supports IPv4 and IPv6 whilst also implementing key network applications such as SNTP, DHPv4, DHCPv6, mDNS, HPPT(S), and MQTT off the shelf. Designed with industrial applications in mind, the Calypso Wi-Fi module offers advanced security features like six secure sockets, secure boot, storage, and OTA updates. It additionally suits serial cable replacement and low-power IoT applications with Cloud connectivity.

Figure 2: Würth Elektronik's Calypso Wi-Fi Radio Module (2610011025000). (Image source: Würth Elektronik)

If both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities are needed than Würth Elektronik's multi-protocol modules have are a good option. The WIRL-COMB: Stephano-I Radio Module from Würth Elektronik is a small form radio module designed for IoT applications which combines Wi-Fi and BLE capabilities into one low-power, smart package. Stephano-I is particularly ideal for embedded systems in need of wireless communication capabilities, easily integrable thanks to operating through a UART interface and controlled via AT commands.

Figure 3: WIRL-COMB: Stephano-I Radio Module (2617011025000). (Image source: Würth Elektronik)

While this range of products is great, sometimes a scenario calls for a more tailored approach. In this case, Würth Elektronik also offers firmware customizable solutions such as the Ophelia-III Radio Module. Würth Elektronik’s Ophelia-III modules are designed for wireless communication between devices such as control systems, remote controls, and sensors. Without pre-installed firmware, the Ophelia-III offers engineers the flexibility to integrate proprietary firmware or utilize the Nordic nRF Connect SDK for custom applications like BLE, Zigbee, or Thread. The module includes an integrated PCB antenna and provides the option to connect an external antenna for greater range. Powered by the nRF52840 chip, it combines high performance with low power consumption. The Ophelia-III radio module is equipped with extra pins for custom device or sensor connections, making it versatile and ready to be tailored to a user’s project.

Figure 4: Ophelia-III Radio Module (2611011022000). (Image source: Würth Elektronik)

Complementing these connectivity options are MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical System) sensors, designed to deliver precise data acquisition for monitoring and automation. Together, these technologies form the foundation of IIoT systems, empowering businesses to establish connected, data-driven operations with ease and scalability.

Figure 5: WSEN-ITDS 3-Axis Acceleration Sensor (2533020201601). (Image source: Würth Elektronik)

Würth Elektronik has a wide portfolio of MEMS sensors which you can find on the DigiKey site. Capable of measuring temperature, pressure, acceleration, and more, these MEMS sensors are fully supported by Würth Elektronik’s SDKs and evaluation boards off-the-shelf.

Development & deployment tools

Developing and deploying IIoT solutions can often be a complex and resource-intensive process. Würth Elektronik is streamlining this with a range of open-source SDKs and evaluation boards via its modular FeatherWing stackable boards. Würth Elektronik’s open-source SDKs, written in C, are fully customizable to suit specific requirements. These SDKs enable seamless integration of a wide range of sensors with IIoT systems, facilitating real-time insights and automated decision-making.

Additionally, Cloud connectivity design kits aid in simplifying integration into Cloud-based ecosystems, enabling faster, more efficient IoT deployments. These tools are designed to empower developers to bridge the gap from concept to implementation with ease.

Fully compatible with the Feather form factor, Würth Elektronik's FeatherWing development boards are open source and stackable, adding functionality and room for prototyping. The boards cover a wide range of applications including sensors, Wi-Fi, wireless, and power. These boards are also expandable with other FeatherWings from Würth Elektronik or Feather/QWIIC form factor devices.

Figure 6: Würth Elektronik's Sensor FeatherWing (2501000201291). (Image source: Würth Elektronik)

For instance, Würth Elektronik's Sensor FeatherWing can be utilized across its temperature, humidity, acceleration, and absolute pressure sensors, connected over a shared I2C bus.

Figure 7: Würth Elektronik's MagI³C power FeatherWing (2601157101001). (Image source: Würth Elektronik)

If power application is the focus, then Würth Elektronik's MagI³C power FeatherWing is a good solution. This board features operating input voltages of 9, 12, 15, 18, and 24 V industrial rails and a maximum 36 V input voltage with an additional USB connector for 5 V input voltage to select by switch.

Enhancing efficiency

Efficiency lies at the core of successful IoT implementation, whether that be with a newer system or unlocking the potential of legacy ones. Here, retrofitting is key and Würth Elektronik provides the tools required to retrofit older systems and optimize workflows to achieve the best outcomes with minimal disruption. By doing so, businesses can reduce costs, improve productivity, and maximize the benefits of connected technologies.

For instance, if a company had a 15-year-old CNC machine that features proprietary control software and an IoT incompatible control interface, a first reaction might be to replace the machine to keep up with the times – especially if said machine is incapable of being tampered with due to a service contract and causing common issues.

However, what if rather than forking out the big bucks for a new machine, the old machine could be retrofitted in a non-invasive way that still allows for the reaping of the benefits of IoT?

In this case, a CNC machine can be retrofitted with wireless connectivity to the Cloud utilizing the previously explored wireless modules which allow the collection of machine data from the existing control system in the Cloud as well as remote control of the machine.

Additionally, the aforementioned range of various sensors can be mounted and connected to improve the quality of range of data collected. This data can be visualized for improvements, understand the status of the machine, or used alongside artificial intelligence/ machine learning (AI/ML) applications to enable predicative maintenance and process optimization.

This approach allows older machines to get even more expected useful lifespan, aid in the digitization process, reduce the need for outdated training, have a more positive environmental impact, and improved efficiencies. Owing to these factors on top of new machine spendings, businesses can expect a return of investment within the first couple of years via retrofitting. Würth Elektronik’s wide portfolio for retrofitting or new designs can be found on the DigiKey website.

Conclusion

Würth Elektronik offers a comprehensive portfolio of connectivity solutions, development tools, and efficiency-enhancing technologies, to empower businesses in tackling the complexities of IIoT with confidence and precision.

Whether it’s integrating advanced sensors, deploying modular development boards, or retrofitting legacy systems for a connected future, their solutions provide a clear pathway to optimizing industrial operations. As IIoT continues to evolve, DigiKey and Würth Elektronik remain well-positioned to support businesses in achieving their goals, enabling smarter, more efficient, and sustainable industrial ecosystems.