SparkFun BlueSMiRF v2

Jargon buster

Plain-language definitions for the technical terms used above.

2.4GHz WiFi

2.4GHz WiFi is the common wireless network band used by many routers and embedded devices. It matters here because the module can use WiFi for firmware updates, separate from its Bluetooth serial function.

AP2112K

AP2112K is a small voltage regulator chip that provides a stable 3.3V supply for electronics on the board. The regulator rating matters when checking input voltage range and how much current the board can supply or use.

AT command set

An AT command set is a text-based control language sent over a serial terminal to configure a device. It matters because you can change settings such as baud rate and flow control without writing custom firmware.

baud

Baud is the signalling rate of a serial connection, often used as the speed setting for UART communication. Matching the baud rate matters because both connected devices must use the same setting for readable data.

BLE

BLE stands for Bluetooth Low Energy, a Bluetooth mode designed for lower power use and modern phone compatibility. It matters because BLE support can make the module easier to use with Apple devices and battery-powered projects, though it may behave differently from classic serial Bluetooth.

breakout

A breakout is a small circuit board that makes a tiny or hard-to-solder component easier to connect to with standard pins. It matters because this OLED module can be wired into a microcontroller project without needing to solder directly to the display’s fine contacts.

CTS

CTS stands for Clear To Send, a serial flow-control signal that tells the other device it may transmit. It matters for reliable high-speed serial communication where buffers could otherwise overflow.

ESP32

ESP32 is a family of microcontroller modules with built-in wireless features such as Bluetooth and WiFi. Knowing this product uses an ESP32-based module helps explain how it provides wireless serial communication and firmware update features.

ESP32-PICO-MINI-02

ESP32-PICO-MINI-02 is the specific Espressif wireless microcontroller module used on this board. The exact module matters for checking datasheets, wireless capabilities, antenna details and long-term compatibility.

GNSS

GNSS stands for Global Navigation Satellite System, covering positioning systems such as GPS and similar satellite networks. It matters here because high-precision GNSS modules can output lots of serial position data that this product can send wirelessly to a computer or phone.

LED

A light-emitting diode is a small electronic component that lights up when current flows through it in the correct direction. In this kit, LEDs create the flashing effect, so polarity and correct soldering matter for the project to work.

OTA

OTA means over-the-air updating, where firmware is updated wirelessly instead of through a programming cable. It matters because you may be able to update or maintain the module after it is installed in a project.

PCB antenna

A PCB antenna is an antenna pattern built directly into the circuit board rather than a separate metal antenna. It matters because placement, nearby metal and enclosure design can affect wireless range.

PTH

Plated through-hole means the pin holes are metal-lined so solder connects the pad on both sides of the board. It is useful for connectors and headers that need a strong mechanical and electrical connection.

RTS

RTS stands for Request To Send, a serial flow-control signal used to manage when a device is ready to receive data. It matters when moving fast serial streams because flow control can help prevent lost data.

UART

UART is a simple serial connection that sends data over separate transmit and receive wires, often labelled TX and RX. It matters because this module is designed to replace a wired UART cable with a wireless link while keeping the same serial data format.

ZED-F9P

A u-blox GNSS receiver module designed for high-precision positioning, including RTK rover and base-station use. The exact module matters because it determines the supported satellite bands, update rates, correction formats and achievable accuracy.