Beddit Sleep Monitor

Beddit Sleep Monitor

The latest version of Beddit products, the sleep trackers that monitor our sleep, has a Bluetooth connection so it can be connected to you smart phone overnight. The brand is primary focus on Apple devices but it also has an app on the Google play.  Recently the software was updated to add an iWatch connection.  The iWatch application has all the same functions as the phone app, plus some additional features.  The screen is adjusted to the smaller view, so it requires 3-4 swipes to see the information normally on a smart phone display.

Both iPhone and iWatch have an easy process to install the apps from the iTunes site.  The Google Play app for Android is also easy to find and install.  Once installed, the app has a single start button to operate, so it is very easy to use as well. The information are collected overnight and can be simple to understand and analyze.

As everyone with the sleeping problems knows it is difficult to fall asleep again after waking up during the night. The Beddit sleep monitor helps you figure out your sleep cycles and the product does not need any uncomfortable straps on the person being monitored that can affect their sleeping. The unit has a band that goes under the sheets and attaches with adhesive to the edge of the mattress while the sensor goes under the sleeping person about chest height.

The Beddit sleep monitor is currently available at on-line and retail outlets.  For the holidays, they have a bundle with an anti-snore pillow that is highly recommended for the people with mild sleep apnea. The sleep monitor with an anti-snore pillow are available at Brookstone.

 

Ambiq Micro brings low power to ARM TechCon

Ambiq Micro brings low power to ARM TechCon

At the ARM TechCon in Santa Clara, Texas based Ambiq Micro announced the capabilities of their latest MCU for the IoT market.  In an overview dinner with CEO Mike Noonen, VP of Marketing and Strategy Mike Salas, CTO Scott Hanson and VP Sales Vince Murdica they discussed the release of their new 32 bit MCU for the wearables and IoT market that is based on the ARM Cortex Core.  The design uses the Ambiq Micro Sub-threshold technology to produce a processor that can be benchmarked at the lowest power in its class.

The product has recently moved to volume production, and is being used in a currently available sleep monitor and fitness monitor.  To support the design, which is an ARM M4 core with FLASH memory and FPU, is a software development kit, a Free RTOS and a full development board.  Wireless development products, supporting a Bluetooth Low Energy connection, from their partner Dialog Semiconductor, were on display at the show.  All of these development products are currently available.

The system can be operated at voltages down to 2 volts which allows the system to have extended operation between charges, bringing new lifestyle applications to the IoT and wearables marketplace.

Ambiq Micro ULPBench2015