Nordic Semiconductor ASA, a leading expert in ultra-low-power (ULP) radio frequency (RF) technology, has partnered with Scosche, a U.S.-based development company, to integrate the Nordic nRF51422 system-on-chip (SoC) into the Scosche RHYTHM+ armband heart rate monitor. This device enables seamless connectivity between the armband and smartphones, as well as other fitness equipment, supporting both ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart (formerly known as Bluetooth Low Energy) wireless communication standards.
The RHYTHM+ is designed to be worn on the forearm, just below the elbow, and uses an optical sensor to measure blood flow, allowing it to calculate heart rate and calories burned. According to Scosche, this wrist-worn design offers greater accuracy and comfort compared to traditional chest-based heart rate monitors. Additionally, the RHYTHM+ doesn't require any additional conductive gels or moisture—such as electrode gel, saliva, water, or sweat—to deliver reliable readings, making it more user-friendly than conventional heart rate belts.
Scosche highlights that the RHYTHM+ is compatible with both ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart technologies, ensuring it can connect with a wide range of third-party fitness devices and apps. The device is powered by a 3.7V lithium polymer rechargeable battery and provides up to 8 hours of continuous use on a single charge. It has a wireless range of up to 100 feet (30 meters), and its durable, breathable design includes a sweat-resistant, waterproof Lycra armband rated at IP67, meaning it can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter deep.
Joshua Duffy, Scosche’s electrical engineering manager, explained that many people avoid heart rate monitoring due to the discomfort and high cost of chest straps. The RHYTHM+ was developed to be affordable, comfortable, and versatile, working with most ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart-enabled fitness gear. He noted that while ANT+ remains dominant in large-scale sports training environments, Bluetooth Smart is widely supported by modern smartphones and tablets, making it a crucial technology for the future of wearable fitness devices.
Duffy emphasized that the Nordic nRF51422 stands out as the only SoC on the market that supports both ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart simultaneously. Its ultra-low-power architecture and separation of application code from the wireless protocol stack make it faster and simpler to program than competing solutions.
He concluded by praising Nordic’s leadership in ULP wireless technology and their deep expertise in ANT and ANT+ protocols. Scosche has been impressed with the technical support provided by Nordic, and during field tests in Southern California, they successfully demonstrated HR transmission over 400 feet (121 meters) using the RHYTHM+ and an iPhone 5.
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