What is Bluetooth Channel Sounding?

Bluetooth Channel Sounding is an innovative new feature in Bluetooth technology that utilizes Phase-based Ranging (PBR) to provide highly accurate distance estimation between Bluetooth connected devices.

Technical Overview

In channel sounding, two devices cooperate to measure distance by alternately sending and receiving signals. Specifically, the following techniques are used:

Multi-carrier phase-based distance estimation:

This technology estimates distance by comparing the received phase of unmodulated carrier transmissions across multiple frequencies. This method enables very accurate distance estimation.

Addition of ToF (Time of Flight) and RTT (Round Trip Time) packets:

In addition to the phase-based estimate, additional ToF and/or RTT packets are used to further improve the accuracy of the distance measurement and provide additional security, resulting in more reliable data.

Use cases and applications

Bluetooth channel sounding has the potential to greatly expand the use cases for next generation wireless access and proximity solutions, including:

-Keyless entry and proximity function

- Lock/unlock secure devices

・Low-cost, high-precision beacons for indoor positioning

・Keyless entry for vehicles

・Smart home settings

- Low-cost high-precision tracking (inventory management, pet location, etc.)

Through these application examples, Bluetooth channel sounding offers many conveniences and efficiencies in our daily lives and in industry, and many more use cases will likely be discovered in the future, with the possibilities expanding as the technology evolves.

Synaptics' Initiative

Synaptics provides wireless connectivity solutions for IoT applications, with a proven track record worldwide. These products offer low power consumption, long range, high reliability and interoperability. The latest Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.x, Zigbee/Thread, ULE, and L1+L5 dual-frequency GPS are included in the product lineup.

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If you are interested in Bluetooth channel sounding, please contact us.