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In the current wave of rapid automotive intelligence, reliable wireless connectivity modules have become a key enabler. The FSC-BT618V, an automotive-grade Bluetooth 5.2 Low Energy (BLE) wireless module, is redefining applications such as vehicle access and battery management systems.

 

Module Hardware Characteristics

The FSC-BT618V module serves as the hardware foundation for Bluetooth Passive Entry Passive Start (PEPS) systems. This module is based on the TI CC2642R-Q1 chip, which is AEC-Q100 qualified, meeting Automotive Grade Temperature Grade 2 standards, ensuring stable operation in harsh environmental temperatures from -40°C to +85°C. This is crucial for keyless systems requiring 24/7 responsiveness. With excellent RF performance (transmit power up to +5 dBm, receive sensitivity of -97 dBm @ 1Mbps) ,  the module ensures reliable communication range for the vehicle.

 

The module’s compact size (13mm x 26.9mm x 2.2mm) facilitates integration into door handles or other confined spaces within the vehicle. Its rich set of interfaces offers flexibility for system integration: the main control unit (ECU) communicates with the module via an UART interface (default baud rate 115200bps) to send commands and receive status updates. Additionally, the module provides up to 18 configurable GPIO pins, which can be used to connect external circuits, such as controlling LED status indicators or reading button signals.

 

System Working Principle and Communication Flow

A typical PEPS system based on the FSC-BT618V operates according to the following workflow:

Standby and Wake-up:  When the vehicle is locked, the FSC-BT618V module can enter a low-power standby mode. Its standby current is as low as 0.94μA, which is significant for preventing battery drain during extended vehicle parking. When the owner’s paired smartphone enters the detection range, the module can be awakened by periodic broadcast signals or specific trigger events (such as touching the door handle button).

Identity Authentication and Secure Connection:  A secure Bluetooth connection is established between the module and the user’s device. The Bluetooth 5.2 standard enhances security mechanisms, helping to prevent threats like relay attacks. After the connection is established, the vehicle ECU performs mutual authentication with the user device via the module, ensuring that only authorized devices can execute subsequent operations.

Distance Estimation and Command Execution:  After successful authentication, the system estimates the position of the user device by analyzing the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI). When the system detects the user near the driver’s side door, the ECU sends a signal via the module’s GPIO pins to actuate the door lock mechanism. Similarly, when the user enters the vehicle and the system detects the smart key inside, it can authorize the start button, enabling keyless start.

 

Technical Advantages for PEPS Implementation

 

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The following characteristics of the FSC-BT618V module make it particularly suitable for PEPS applications:

High Reliability:  TI CC2642R-Q1 chip with AEC-Q100 certification and a wide operating temperature range ensure system reliability under various climatic conditions.

Low Power Consumption:  Extremely low standby current meets stringent vehicle requirements for quiescent current, protecting battery life.

High Integration:  The module integrates an MCU, RF unit, and rich peripherals, reducing the number of external components, simplifying system design, and improving reliability.

Development Convenience:  The module provides a complete AT command set (refer to the separate AT command manual), allowing the host MCU to control complex Bluetooth connections and data transmission through simple UART commands, accelerating product development.

 

Conclusion

In summary, the FSC-BT618V Automotive Bluetooth module, with its high integration and reliability, contributes to the advancement of automotive intelligence. In the future, with support for OTA upgrades and custom AT commands, developers can flexibly adapt it to more scenarios. For manufacturers seeking efficient wireless solutions, this module is undoubtedly an ideal choice.