MCU development kits connect wirelessly with cloud services without a gateway

Two new cloud development kits, CK-RA6M5 and CK-RX65N from Renesas, provide a complete connectivity solution for the RA and RX Families of 32-bit microcontrollers (MCUs). The cloud kits are the first to be equipped with Renesas’ RYZ014A Cat-M1 module, a certified LTE cellular module that offers the ability to establish wireless connection between MCUs and cloud services quickly and securely without a gateway. Armed with these cloud kits, users can rapidly develop IoT cloud products and solutions without having to design their own complex circuitry and software stacks. The kits include the RYZ014A Cat-M1 Pmod module, multiple sensors, a high-performance MCU, hardware-based security, and a reliable software stack.

The cloud kits are ready to connect to global cloud service providers such as AWS Cloud and IoT services. Both kits are designed to run on AWS (Amazon Web Services) FreeRTOS for CK-RA6M5 using FSP (Flexible Software Package) and CK-RX65N using RDP (RX Driver Package). Once connected to AWS IoT Core, the kits have access to many Cloud and IoT services from AWS for data analytics and IoT device management.

The cloud kits are the first to support the Renesas’ RA6M5 and RX65N MCU groups under a unified development platform, ensuring a consistent user experience. The CK-RA6M5 and CK-RX65N both have identical hardware and software features and a common dashboard user interface to access real-time cloud data.

In addition to the Cat-M1 RYZ014A wireless module, the kits also provide an option to use Ethernet to securely connect to cloud when the Cat-M1 network is not available. Renesas plans to offer more wireless connectivity options in the future. These kits will also be offered as part of Renesas’ Quick-Connect IoT Platform, which combines standard hardware and software building blocks to enable rapid prototyping of IoT systems.

The CK-RA6M5 and CK-RX65N kits are available from Renesas worldwide distributors and will include a $10 AWS credit and 30 days of free Cat-M1 data for a hassle-free cloud connection experience.