Microchip Technology RN41 User manual

2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc. DS50002280C-page 1
RN41/RN41N
Features
• Fully qualified Bluetooth®version 2.1 module,
supports version 2.1 + Enhanced Data Rate
(EDR)
• ASCII command interface over UART
• Postage-stamp sized form factor:
- RN41: 13.4 mm x 25.8 mm x 2 mm
- RN41N: 13.4 mm x 20 mm x 2 mm
• Low-power (30 mA connected, < 10 mA sniff
mode)
• UART (SPP or HCI) and USB (HCI only) data
connection interfaces
• Sustained SPP data rates: 240 Kbps (Peripheral
mode), 300 Kbps (Central mode)
• HCI data rates: 1.5 Mbps sustained, 3.0 Mbps
burst in HCI mode
• Embedded Bluetooth stack profiles include: GAP,
SDP, RFCOMM, L2CAP protocols, with SPP, HID
and DUN profile support (does not require any
host stack).
• Bluetooth SIG qualified, end product listing
• Castellated SMT pads for easy and reliable PCB
mounting
• Class 1 high-power amplifier with on-board
ceramic chip antenna (RN41) or external antenna
(RN41N)
• Compliance:
- Modular Certified for the United States (FCC)
and Canada (ISED)
- European RED Assessed Radio Module
- Australia/New Zealand/Korea/Taiwan/Japan
- Bluetooth SIG QDID
• Integrated Crystal, Internal Voltage Regulator,
Matching Circuitry, Power Amplifier, Low Noise,
Memory Amplifier and PCB Antenna
• Easy Integration into Final Product - Minimize
Product Development, Quicker Time to Market
• Compatible with Microchip Microcontroller Fami-
lies (PIC16F, PIC18F, PIC24F/H, dsPIC33 and
PIC32)
• Up to 100 meter range
Applications
• Cable replacement
• Barcode scanners
• Measurement and monitoring systems
• Industrial sensors and controls
• Medical devices
Class 1 Bluetooth®Module with EDR Support

RN41/RN41N
DS50002280C-page 2 2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc.
Note: See Section 4.0 “Ordering Information” for customer part numbers. Information on firmware versions can
be found on the RN41/RN41N product web page and the “Bluetooth Data Module Command Reference and
Advanced Information User’s Guide”.
RN41/RN41 MODULE VARIANTS(1)
Model Antenna Firmware Description
RN41 Ceramic Chip 4.77, 6.15 Class 1, 2.1+EDR, SPP profile
RN41HCI Ceramic Chip N/A Class 1, 2.0+EDR, HCI over UART
RN41U Ceramic Chip N/A Class 1, 2.0+EDR, HCI over USB
RN41HID Ceramic Chip 6.11 Class 1, 2.1+EDR, HID and SPP profiles
RN41APL Ceramic Chip 5.36, 5.43, 5.45 Class 1, 2.1+EDR, SPP & MFi profiles
RN41N External 4.77, 6.15 Class 1, 2.1+EDR, SPP profile
RN41NAPL External 5.36, 5.43, 5.45 Class 1, 2.1+EDR, SPP and MFi profiles

2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc. DS50002280C-page 3
RN41/RN41N
TO OUR VALUED CUSTOMERS
It is our intention to provide our valued customers with the best documentation possible to ensure successful use of your Microchip
products. To this end, we will continue to improve our publications to better suit your needs. Our publications will be refined and
enhanced as new volumes and updates are introduced.
If you have any questions or comments regarding this publication, please contact the Marketing Communications Department via
E-mail at [email protected]. We welcome your feedback.
Most Current Data Sheet
To obtain the most up-to-date version of this data sheet, please register at our website at:
http://www.microchip.com
You can determine the version of a data sheet by examining its literature number found on the bottom outside corner of any page.
The last character of the literature number is the version number, (e.g., DS30000000A is version A of document DS30000000).
Errata
An errata sheet, describing minor operational differences from the data sheet and recommended workarounds, may exist for current
devices. As device/documentation issues become known to us, we will publish an errata sheet. The errata will specify the revision
of silicon and revision of document to which it applies.
To determine if an errata sheet exists for a particular device, please check with one of the following:
• Microchip’s Worldwide Web site: http://www.microchip.com
• Your local Microchip sales office (see last page)
When contacting a sales office, please specify which device, revision of silicon and data sheet (include literature number) you are
using.
Customer Notification System
Register on our web site at www.microchip.com to receive the most current information on all of our products.
Table of Contents
1.0 Device Overview............................................................................................................................................................................... 4
2.0 Application Information ..................................................................................................................................................................... 8
3.0 Regulatory Approval ....................................................................................................................................................................... 13
4.0 Ordering Information....................................................................................................................................................................... 19
Appendix A: Revision History ............................................................................................................................................................... 21
Product Identification System ............................................................................................................................................................... 23
The Microchip Web Site........................................................................................................................................................................ 25
Customer Change Notification Service................................................................................................................................................. 25
Customer Support ................................................................................................................................................................................ 25

RN41/RN41N
DS50002280C-page 4 2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc.
1.0 DEVICE OVERVIEW
The RN41/RN41N module is a small form factor, low-
power, class 1 Bluetooth radio that is ideal for
designers who want to add wireless capability to their
products without spending significant time and money
developing Bluetooth-specific hardware and software.
The RN41/RN41N supports multiple interface
protocols, is simple to design in and is fully certified,
making it a complete embedded Bluetooth solution.
With its high-performance, chip antenna (RN41) or
external antenna (RN41N) and support for Bluetooth
EDR, the RN41/RN41N delivers up to a 3-Mbps data
rate for distances up to 100 meters.
1.1 MCU Interface
The RN41/RN41N module is managed through ASCII
commands via the UART and/or PIO signals. A MCU
(micro-controller-unit) or host processor sends com-
mands to module to configure features, read status and
manage Bluetooth data connections.
As shown in Figure 1-1, the UART TX and RX are
required to communicate with module and transfer data
across Bluetooth SPP connection.
Connecting the hardware flow control lines CTS and
RTS is highly recommended for applications that
transmits a continuous stream of data.
The module can be configured locally via the UART or
over-the-air. To support instant cable replacement,
auto-discovery/pairing does not require software con-
figuration. Additionally, the module supports auto-con-
nect central, I/O pin (DTR) and character-based trigger
modes.
FIGURE 1-1: RN41/RN41N TO MCU
INTERFACE
Table 1-1, Ta b l e 1-2 , Table 1-3, Tabl e 1 - 4 and Table 1-
5provide the module’s environmental conditions, elec-
trical characteristics, dimensions, radio characteristics
and digital I/O characteristics.
1.2 ASCII Command and Data
Interface
The “Bluetooth Data Module Command Reference and
Advanced Information User’s Guide” provides a com-
plete description of the ASCII command and data inter-
face for the RN41/RN41N module.
TABLE 1-1: ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Parameter Value
Temperature Range (Operating) -40o C ~ 85oC
Temperature Range (Storage) -40oC ~ 85oC
Relative Humidity (Operating) 90%
Relative Humidity (Storage) 90%
Moisture Sensitivity Level 3
TABLE 1-2: ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Parameter Min. Typ. Max. Units
Supply Voltage (DC) 3.0 3.3 3.6 V
RX Supply Current — 35 60 mA
TX Supply Current — 65 100 mA
Average Power Consumption
Standby/Idle (Default Settings) — 25 — mA
Connected (Normal Mode) — 30 — mA
Connected (Low-Power Sniff) — 8 — mA
Standby/Idle (Deep Sleep Enabled) 250 2.5 — mA

2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc. DS50002280C-page 5
RN41/RN41N
TABLE 1-3: MODULE DIMENSIONS
Parameter RN41 RN41N Units
Size 13.4 x 25.8 x 2 13.4 x 20 x 2 mm
Weight 0.045 0.040 oz.
TABLE 1-4: RADIO CHARACTERISTICS
Parameter Frequency
(GHz) Min. Typ. Max. Bluetooth
Specification Units
Sensitivity at 0.1% BER 2.402 — -80 -86 ≤-70 dBm
2.441 — -80 -86 dBm
2.480 — -80 -86 dBm
RF Transmit Power(1)
RN41
2.402 — 16.3 — — dBm
2.441 — 17.0 — dBm
2.480 — 18.4 — dBm
RF Transmit Power(1)
RN41N
2.402 — 11.9 — — dBm
2.441 — 10.9 — dBm
2.480 — 9.9 — dBm
Initial Carrier Frequency Tolerance 2.402 — 5 75 75 kHz
2.441 — 5 75 kHz
2.480 — 5 75 kHz
20-dB Bandwidth for Modulated Carrier — — 900 1000 ≤1000 kHz
Drift (Five Slots Packet) — — 15 — 40 kHz
Drift Rate — — 13 — 20 kHz
∆f1avg Maximum Modulation 2.402 140 165 175 > 140 kHz
2.441 140 165 175 kHz
2.480 140 165 175 kHz
∆f2avg Minimum Modulation 2.402 140 190 — 115 kHz
2.441 140 190 — kHz
2.480 140 190 — kHz
TABLE 1-5: DIGITAL I/O CHARACTERISTICS
3.0 V ≤VDD ≤3.3 V Min. Typ. Max. Units
Input Logic Level Low -0.4 — +0.8 V
Input Logic Level High 0.7 VDD — VDD + 0.4 V
Output Logic Level Low — — 0.2 V
Output Logic Level High VDD - 0.2 — — V
All I/O pins (Except reset) Default to Weak Pull Down +0.2 +1.0 +5.0 A

RN41/RN41N
DS50002280C-page 6 2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc.
The following figures show the modules’ dimensions.
FIGURE 1-2: RN41 MODULE
DIMENSIONS
FIGURE 1-3: RN41N MODULE
DIMENSIONS
The following figures show the pinout and
The following table describes the module’s pins.
FIGURE 1-4: RN41 PIN DIAGRAM
FIGURE 1-5: RN41N PIN DIAGRAM
PP
  















3&%2XWOLQHPP
3&%7KLFNQHVVPP
7ROHUDQFHV
'LPHQVLRQVDUHLQPLOOLPHWHUV
  


    


  




7RS9LHZ 6LGH9LHZ
PP















3&%2XWOLQHPP
3&%7KLFNQHVVPP
7ROHUDQFHV
7RS9LHZ
'LPHQVLRQVDUHLQPLOOLPHWHUV
  
  

6LGH9LHZ
 

    

GND
SPI_MOSI
GPIO6
GPIO7
RESET
SPI_CLOCK
PCM_CLK
PCM_SYNC
PCM_IN
PCM_OUT
VDD
GND
SPI_MISO
SPI_CSB
GPIO4
GPIO5
GPIO3
GPIO2
USB_D-
USB_D+
UART_CTS
UART_RTS
UART_TX
UART_RX
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
24
23
22
21
20
19
18
17
16
15
14
13
AIO1
GND
GPIO11
GPIO10
GPIO9 GPIO8
GND
AIO0
35 29 34 33 32 31 28 30
RN41
Top View
GND
SPI_MOSI
GPIO6
GPIO7
RESET
SPI_CLOCK
PCM_CLK
PCM_SYNC
PCM_IN
PCM_OUT
VDD
GND
SPI_MISO
SPI_CSB
GPIO4
GPIO5
GPIO3
GPIO2
USB_D-
USB_D+
UART_CTS
UART_RTS
UART_TX
UART_RX
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
24
23
22
21
20
19
18
17
16
15
14
13
AIO1
GND
GPIO11
GPIO10
GPIO9 GPIO8
GND
AIO0
35 29 34 33 32 31 28 30
RN41N
Top View
GND RF ANT GND
27 26 25

2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc. DS50002280C-page 7
RN41/RN41N
TABLE 1-6: PIN DESCRIPTION
Note 1: Pin numbers 7 through 10 are reserved for future use.
Pin Symbol Type Description
1GND Power Ground reference
2SPI_MOSI DI (Optional) Factory diagnostic and test. See Section 2.8 “SPI Interface”.
3GPIO6 DIO Set Bluetooth central (high = auto-central mode)
4GPIO7 DIO Set baud rate (high = force 9,600, low = 115K or firmware setting)
5RESET DI Active-low Reset
6SPI_CLK DI (Optional) Factory diagnostic and test. See Section 2.8 “SPI Interface”.
7PCM_CLK DIO (Do not connect) PCM interface(1)
8PCM_SYNC DIO (Do not connect) PCM interface(1)
9PCM_IN DI (Do not connect) PCM interface(1)
10 PCM_OUT DO (Do not connect) PCM interface(1)
11 VDD Power Positive Supply
12 GND Power Ground reference
13 UART_RX DI UART receive input
14 UART_TX DO UART transmit output
15 UART_RTS DO UART RTS, goes high to disable host transmitter
16 UART_CTS DI UART CTS, if set high, it disables transmitter
17 USB_D+ DIO USB port. 1.5K pullup activated when USB port is ready (~500 ms after reset).
18 USB_D- DIO USB port
19 GPIO2 DIO Status, high when connected, low otherwise. See Section 2.3 “Connection
Status”.
20 GPIO3 DIO Auto discovery = high
21 GPIO5 DIO Status, toggles based on state, low on connect. See Section 2.3 “Connection
Status”.
22 GPIO4 DIO Set factory defaults. See Section 2.2 “Factory Reset Using GPIO4”.
23 SPI_CSB DI (Optional) Factory diagnostic and test. See Section 2.8 “SPI Interface”.
24 SPI_MISO DO (Optional) Factory diagnostic and test. See Section 2.8 “SPI Interface”.
25 GND Power Ground reference (RN41N only)
26 RF ANT AIO Antenna, 50-Ohm impedance (RN41N only)
27 GND Power Ground reference (RN41N only)
28 GND Power Ground reference
29 GND Power Ground reference
30 AIO0 AIO (Not used) Optional analog input.
31 GPIO8 DIO UART TX/RX data activity
32 GPIO9 DIO I/O
33 GPIO10 DIO I/O (remote DTR signal)
34 GPIO11 DIO I/O (remote RTS signal)
35 AIO1 AIO (Not used) Optional analog input

RN41/RN41N
DS50002280C-page 8 2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc.
2.0 APPLICATION INFORMATION
The following sections provide information on design-
ing with the RN41/RN41N module, including radio
interference, factory reset, solder reflow profile, con-
nection status and so on.
2.1 Reset Circuit
The RN41/RN41N contains a weak internal pull-up to
VCC, and the reset polarity is active low. The module’s
reset pin has an optional Power-on Reset circuit with a
delay, which is only required if the input power supply
has a very slow ramp or tends to bounce or have insta-
bility on power-up. Often a microcontroller or embed-
ded CPU I/O is available to generate the reset once
power is stable. If not, designers can use one of the
many low-cost power supervisor chips available, such
as the MCP809 or MCP102/121.
2.2 Factory Reset Using GPIO4
It is recommended to connect the GPIO4 pin to a
switch, jumper, or resistor so it can be accessed. This
pin can be used to reset the module to its factory
default settings, which is critical in situations where the
module has been misconfigured. To reset the module
to the factory defaults, GPIO4 should be high on
power-up and then toggle between low and high twice
with a 1 second wait between the low-high transitions.
2.3 Connection Status
GPIO5 is available to drive an LED, and it blinks at var-
ious speeds to indicate status, see Ta ble 2 - 1 . GPIO2 is
an output that directly reflects the connection state as
shown in Ta b l e 2 - 2 .
2.4 Module Mounting Details
Figure 2-1 and Figure 2-2 show the recommended
PCB footprint for the RN41 and RN41N, respectively.
When laying out the carrier board for the RN41 module,
the areas under the antenna and shielding connections
should not have surface traces, ground planes, or
exposed vias.
Figure 2-3 and Figure 2-4 show the recommended
mounting details for the RN41 and RN41N, respec-
tively. For optimal radio performance, the RN41 mod-
ule’s antenna end should protrude at least 31 mm
beyond any metal enclosure.
Figure 2-5 shows examples of good, bad and accept-
able positioning of the RN41 on the host PCB.
FIGURE 2-1: RN41 RECOMMENDED
PCB FOOTPRINT
TABLE 2-1: GPIO5 STATUS
GPIO5 Status Description
Toggle at 1 Hz The module is discoverable and
waiting for a connection.
Toggle at 10 Hz The module is in command mode.
High The module is connected to
another device over Bluetooth.
TABLE 2-2: GPIO2 STATUS
GPIO5 Status Description
High The module is connected to
another device over Bluetooth.
Low The module is not connected over
Bluetooth.
Host PCB
Ground Plane
Edge
Shield Pads X4
0.8 mm x 1.3 mm
Do not locate vias
or signal traces
under Shield Pads
PP
PP
PP
  

    




















7RS9LHZ
'LPHQVLRQVDUHLQPLOOLPHWHUV

2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc. DS50002280C-page 9
RN41/RN41N
FIGURE 2-2: RN41N RECOMMENDED
PCB FOOTPRINT
FIGURE 2-3: RN41 MODULE
MOUNTING DETAILS
FIGURE 2-4: RN41N MODULE
MOUNTING DETAILS
PP
PP
PP
PP PP
  

    



















'LPHQVLRQVDUHLQPLOOLPHWHUV
7RS9LHZ
  
Top Layer Signal
Trace Keep-Out Area
Shield Pads X4
0.8 mm x 1.3 mm
Do not locate vias
or signal traces
under Shield Pads
Edge of
Ground
Plane
Keep area around antenna
(approximately 31 mm) clear
of metallic structures for
best performance.
PP
PP
7RS9LHZ
'LPHQVLRQVDUHLQPLOOLPHWHUV
PP
FP
7RS9LHZ
Note: Example U.FL connector layout

RN41/RN41N
DS50002280C-page 10 2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc.
FIGURE 2-5: RN41 HOST PCB EXAMPLE LAYOUT
2.5 External Antenna Types (RN41N)
The RN41N module’s antenna pin (pin 25) provides a
50-ohm impedance to external antennas. Pin 25 can
connect directly to a coaxial cable or to an antenna
connector such as a U.FL or reverse polarity SMA.
The PCB trace from pin 25 to the coaxial cable or con-
nector should be less than 0.2 inches (5 mm) for mini-
mum loss and the best impedance match. If the PCB
trace is longer, it should be a 50-ohm impedance
microstrip trace. Connect adjacent ground pins 24 and
26 to a low-impedance ground on the host PCB and the
antenna connection. Figure 2-4 gives example host
PCB layout to a U.FL connector.
Modular certification of the RN41N module was per-
formed with the external antenna types listed in the fol-
lowing table. Refer to Section 3.0 “Regulatory
Approval” for specific regulatory requirements by
country.
2.6 HCI Mode
Microchip offers the Host Controller Interface (HCI)
mode in addition to the standard operational mode of its
Bluetooth modules (standard mode refers to the on-
board stack running on the module).
In HCI mode, the on-board stack is bypassed and the
module is put in a state that runs the Bluetooth base-
band. The HCI provides a command reference inter-
face to the baseband controller and the link manager,
and provides access to the hardware status and control
registers. This interface provides a uniform method for
accessing the Bluetooth baseband capabilities.
In this mode, the Bluetooth stack is no longer on-board
the module. It is offloaded to the interfacing host pro-
cessor. The Bluetooth module is used as a radio, per-
forming the lower level MAC functionalities, while the
application stack runs on the host processor.
Using the module in HCI mode enables designers to
implement profiles that are not natively supported on
the Bluetooth module.
No Copper
In these Areas
RN-41
Okay
RN-41
Best RN-41
Okay
RN-41
Okay
TABLE 2-3: TESTED EXTERNAL
ANTENNA TYPES
Type Gain (dBi)
Monopole 0.56
Whip 8
Yagi 15
Note: HCI mode is only available by ordering
part RN41HCI for UART interface; or
RN41U for USB interface.

2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc. DS50002280C-page 11
RN41/RN41N
Microchip offers HCI mode in two hardware interfaces:
• HCI over UART (RN41HCI-I/RM)
• HCI over USB (RN41U-I/RM)
2.6.1 HCI OVER UART
In this mode, the hardware interface between the host
processor and the Bluetooth module is the UART con-
figured at 115.2 Kbps. You must interface the flow con-
trol signals between the host processor and the
Bluetooth module for the HCI interface to work. Failure
to do so can cause the host processor and the Blue-
tooth module to become out of sync and break the
Bluetooth link.
2.6.2 HCI OVER USB
In this mode, the hardware interface between the host
processor and the Bluetooth module is the USB. In this
architecture, the Bluetooth module is the USB client
and the host processor is the USB host.
Using the USB interface offers the advantage of a
faster data link between the Bluetooth module and the
host processor. With this architecture, it is possible to
achieve Bluetooth’s theoretical maximum throughput of
3 Mpbs.
2.7 Soldering Recommendations
The RN41/RN41N wireless module was assembled
using standard lead-free reflow profile IPC/JEDEC J-
STD-020.
The module can be soldered to the host PCB using
standard leaded and lead-free solder reflow profiles.
To avoid damaging the module, the following recom-
mendations are given:
• Microchip Technology Application Note,” AN233
Solder Reflow Recommendation” (DS00233) pro-
vides solder reflow recommendations
• Do not exceed peak temperature (Tp) of 250 C°
• Refer to the solder paste data sheet for specific
reflow profile recommendations
• Use no-clean flux solder paste
• Do not wash as moisture can be trapped under
the shield
• Use only one flow. If the PCB requires multiple
flows, apply the module on the final flow.
2.8 SPI Interface
The SPI Interface is primarily used for factory test and
diagnostics. Although not required, the SPI interface is
useful for restoring a corrupted flash image or enabling
test modes required for certification testing.
When module is installed in a final product that requires
European type approval, see Section 3.3 “Europe”, it
is recommended that the SPI interface should be
accessible via 6-pin header as shown in the following
figure.
FIGURE 2-6: OPTIONAL SPI
INTERFACE
2.9 Bluetooth SIG QDID
The RN41 has a QDID registered with the Bluetooth
SIG. The manufacturer using the RN41 module in their
end product can reference this QDID when filing an
EPL (end product listing) to use the Bluetooth®brand
and logo. Please visit the Bluetooth SIG at
www.bluetooth.org for more information.
Declaration ID: B013180
QDID: 7786

RN41/RN41N
DS50002280C-page 12 2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc.
2.10 Application Schematic
The following figure shows a example application circuit. This schematic is for the RN-41-EK development tool. Refer
to Section 1.1 “MCU Interface” for details on how to connect RN41/RN41N to a microcontroller.
FIGURE 2-7: TYPICAL APPLICATION CIRCUIT
TX D
RX D
GND
1
SPI _MOSI
2
PI O6
3
PI O7
4
RESET
5
SPI _SCK
6
PCM_CL K
7
PCM_SYNC
8
PCM_I N
9
PCM_OUT
10
VDD
11
GND
12 UART_RX 13
UART_TX 14
UART_RTS 15
UART_CTS 16
USB_D+ 17
USB_D- 18
PI O2 19
PI O3 20
PI O5 21
PI O4 22
SPI _CS# 23
SPI _MI SO 24
GND
28
GND
29
AIO0
30
PIO8
31
PIO9
32
PIO10
33
PIO11
34
AIO1
35
SHIELD
0
M1 RN41 Module
SPI _MI SO
SPI _MOSI
SPI _SCK
SPI _SS
RT S
CT S
RESET _N
PI O6
PI O7
PI O4
PI O5
PI O3
PI O2
AIO1 AIO0 PIO11 PIO10 PIO9 PIO8
3.3V
PCM_CL K
PCM_SYNC
PCM_OUT
PCM_I N
100k
R17
300k
R18
100k
R16
300k
R15
VB1
VB2
AIO0 AIO1
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
J1
HEADER 1
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
J2
HEADER 2
PI O6
PI O7
RESET _N
RX D
TX D
RT S
CT S
PI O4
PI O3
PI O2
PIO11
PIO10
PI O9
PI O8
3.3V VB1
VB2
SHDN
D_N
D_P
TXD
RXD
RTS
CTS
VBUS
RESET 18
3V 3OU T 16
USBDP 14
USBDM 15
GND
17
CBUS2
10 CBUS1
21
VCCIO1
CBUS3
11
CBUS4
9
CBUS0
22
GND
20
RI
3DCD
7DSR
6DTR
31 CTS
8RTS
32 RXD
2TXD
30
VCC 19
OSCI 27
OSCO 28
AGND
24
TEST
26
GND
4
THPAD
33
FT232RQ
U3
100nF
C6
100nF
C5
100nF
C4
GND
5
D+
3D-
2VBUS
1
MTAB 6
USB Mini B
J4
3k3R12
3k3
R13
3k3
R11
3k3
R14
VBUS
3.3V VBUS
VI N 1
GND
2
SHDN 3 BYP
4
VOUT
5
U1 TC1185
1uF
C2
1uF
C1
SHDN
3k3
R1
1
2
3
4
S1
3k3R10
3k3
R9
3k3
R8
3k3
R7
3.3V
PI O4
PI O3
PI O6
PI O7
Red LEDD2
Activity
PI O5
3.3V
PI O8
Green LED
D1
Connection Status
470
R2
470
R3

2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc. DS50002280C-page 13
RN41/RN41N
3.0 REGULATORY APPROVAL
This section outlines the regulatory information for the
RN41/RN41N module for the following countries:
• United States
• Canada
• Europe
• Australia
• New Zealand
3.1 United States
The RN41/RN41N module has received Federal Com-
munications Commission (FCC) CFR47 Telecommuni-
cations, Part 15 Subpart C “Intentional Radiators”
modular approval in accordance with Part 15.212 Mod-
ular Transmitter approval. Modular approval allows the
end user to integrate the RN41/RN41N module into a
finished product without obtaining subsequent and sep-
arate FCC approvals for intentional radiation, provided
no changes or modifications are made to the module
circuitry. Changes or modifications could void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment. The end
user must comply with all of the instructions provided
by the Grantee, which indicate installation and/or oper-
ating conditions necessary for compliance.
The finished product is required to comply with all appli-
cable FCC equipment authorizations regulations,
requirements and equipment functions not associated
with the transmitter module portion. For example, com-
pliance must be demonstrated to regulations for other
transmitter components within the host product; to
requirements for unintentional radiators (Part 15 Sub-
part B “Unintentional Radiators”), such as digital
devices, computer peripherals, radio receivers, etc.;
and to additional authorization requirements for the
non-transmitter functions on the transmitter module
(i.e., Verification, or Declaration of Conformity) (e.g.,
transmitter modules may also contain digital logic func-
tions) as appropriate.
3.1.1 LABELING AND USER
INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS
The RN41/RN41N module has been labeled with its
own FCC ID number and if the FCC ID is not visible
when the module is installed inside another device,
then the outside of the finished product into which the
module is installed must also display a label referring to
the enclosed module. This exterior label can use word-
ing as follows:
RN41:
Contains Transmitter Module FCC ID: T9JRN41-3
or
Contains FCC ID: T9JRN41-3
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference
and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation
RN41N:
Contains Transmitter Module FCC ID: OA3-RN41N
or
Contains FCC ID: OA3-RN41N
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference
and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation

RN41/RN41N
DS50002280C-page 14 2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc.
A user’s manual for the product should include the fol-
lowing statement:
Additional information on labeling and user information
requirements for Part 15 devices can be found in KDB
Publication 784748 available at the FCC Office of Engi-
neering and Technology (OET) Laboratory Division
Knowledge Database (KDB) https://apps.fcc.gov/oetcf/
kdb/index.cfm.
3.1.2 RF EXPOSURE
All transmitters regulated by FCC must comply with RF
exposure requirements. KDB 447498 General RF
Exposure Guidance provides guidance in determining
whether proposed or existing transmitting facilities,
operations or devices comply with limits for human
exposure to Radio Frequency (RF) fields adopted by
the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
From the RN41 FCC Grant: Modular Approval. Power
Output listed is conducted. The antenna(s) used for this
device must be installed to provide a separation dis-
tance of at least 20 cm from all persons and must not
be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other
antenna or transmitter. This grant is valid only when the
device is sold to OEM integrators and the OEM integra-
tors are instructed to ensure that the end user has no
manual instructions to remove or install the device. End
users and installers must be provided with antenna
installation instructions and transmitter operating con-
ditions for satisfying RF Exposure compliance.
From the RN41N FCC Grant: Modular Approval. Power
Output listed is conducted. The antenna(s) used for this
device must be installed to provide a separation dis-
tance of at least 20 cm from all persons and must not
be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other
antenna or transmitter. This grant is valid only when the
device is sold to OEM integrators and the OEM integra-
tors are instructed to ensure that the end user has no
manual instructions to remove or install the device. End
users and installers must be provided with antenna
installation instructions and transmitter operating con-
ditions for satisfying RF Exposure compliance.
If the RN41/RN41N module is used in a portable appli-
cation (i.e., the antenna is less than 20 cm from per-
sons during operation), the integrator is responsible for
performing Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) testing in
accordance with the guidance in KDB 447498.
3.1.3 APPROVED EXTERNAL ANTENNA
TYPES
To maintain modular approval in the United States, only
the antenna types that have been tested shall be used.
It is permissible to use different antenna manufacturer
provided the same antenna type and antenna gain
(equal to or less than) is used.
Testing of the RN41N module was performed with the
antenna types listed in Ta b l e 2-3.
3.1.4 HELPFUL WEB SITES
Federal Communications Commission (FCC): http://
www.fcc.gov
FCC Office of Engineering and Technology (OET) Lab-
oratory Division Knowledge Database (KDB): https://
apps.fcc.gov/oetcf/kdb/index.cfm.
3.2 Canada
The RN41/RN41N module has been certified for use in
Canada under Innovation, Science and Economic
Development Canada (ISED, formerly Industry Can-
ada) Radio Standards Specification (RSS) RSS-210
and RSSGen. Modular approval permits the installation
of a module in a host device without the need to recer-
tify the device.
3.2.1 LABELING AND USER
INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS
Labeling Requirements for the Host Device (from RSP-
100, Issue 12, Section 5): The host device shall be
properly labeled to identify the module within the host
device.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply
with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to
part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed
to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation. This equip-
ment generates, uses and can radiate radio fre-
quency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur
in a particular installation. If this equipment does
cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to
correct the interference by one or more of the follow-
ing measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment
and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit
different from that to which the receiver is con-
nected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.

2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc. DS50002280C-page 15
RN41/RN41N
The Industry Canada certification label of a module
shall be clearly visible at all times when installed in the
host device, otherwise the host device must be labeled
to display the Industry Canada certification number of
the module, preceded by the words “Contains transmit-
ter module”, or the word “Contains”, or similar wording
expressing the same meaning, as follows:
User Manual Notice for License-Exempt Radio Appara-
tus (from Section 8.4 RSS-Gen, Issue 5, March 2019):
User manuals for license-exempt radio apparatus shall
contain the following or equivalent notice in a conspic-
uous location in the user manual or alternatively on the
device or both:
Transmitter Antenna (From Section 6.8 RSS-GEN,
Issue 5, March 2019): User manuals, for transmitters
shall display the following notice in a conspicuous loca-
tion:
Immediately following the above notice, the manufac-
turer shall provide a list of all antenna types approved
for use with the transmitter, indicating the maximum
permissible antenna gain (in dBi) and required imped-
ance for each.
3.2.2 RF EXPOSURE
All transmitters regulated by ISED must comply with RF
exposure requirements listed in RSS-102 - Radio Fre-
quency (RF) Exposure Compliance of Radiocommuni-
cation Apparatus (All Frequency Bands).
3.2.3 APPROVED EXTERNAL ANTENNA
TYPES
Transmitter Antenna (from Section 7.1.2 RSS-Gen,
Issue 3, December 2010):
The RN41N module can only be sold or operated with
antennas with which it was approved. Transmitter may
be approved with multiple antenna types. An antenna
type comprises antennas having similar in-band and
out-of-band radiation patterns. Testing shall be per-
formed using the highest gain antenna of each combi-
nation of transmitter and antenna type for which
approval is being sought, with the transmitter output
power set at the maximum level. Any antenna of the
same type having equal or lesser gain as an antenna
that had been successfully tested with the transmitter,
will also be considered approved with the transmitter,
and may be used and marketed with the transmitter.
When a measurement at the antenna connector is
used to determine RF output power, the effective gain
of the device's antenna shall be stated, based on mea-
surement or on data from the antenna manufacturer.
For transmitters of output power greater than 10 milli-
watts, the total antenna gain shall be added to the mea-
sured RF output power to demonstrate compliance to
the specified radiated power limits.
RN-41:
Contains transmitter module IC: 6514A-RN413
RN-41N:
Contains transmitter module IC: 7693A-RN41N
This device contains license-exempt transmitter(s)/
receiver(s) that comply with Innovation, Science
and Economic Development Canada’s license-
exempt RSS(s). Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:
1. This device may not cause interference;
2. This device must accept any interference,
including interference that may cause undesired
operation of the device.
L’émetteur/récepteur exempt de licence contenu
dans le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR
d’Innovation, Sciences et Développement
économique Canada applicables aux appareils radio
exempts de licence. L’exploitation est autorisée
aux deux conditions suivantes:
1. L’appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage;
2. L’appareil doit accepter tout brouillage
radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est sus-
ceptible d’en compromettre le fonctionnement.
This radio transmitter [IC: 6514A-RN413 and IC:
7693A-RN41N] has been approved by Innovation,
Science and Economic Development Canada to
operate with the antenna types listed below, with the
maximum permissible gain indicated. Antenna types
not included in this list that have a gain greater than
the maximum gain indicated for any type listed are
strictly prohibited for use with this device.
Le présent émetteur radio [IC: 6514A-RN413 and IC:
7693A-RN41N] a été approuvé par Innovation, Sci-
ences et Développement économique Canadapour
fonctionner avec les types d'antenne énumérés
cidessous et ayant un gain admissible maximal. Les
types d'antenne non inclus dans cette liste, et
dont le gain est supérieur au gain maximal indiqué
pour tout type figurant sur la liste, sont strictement
interdits pour l'exploitation de l'émetteur.

RN41/RN41N
DS50002280C-page 16 2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc.
Approved external antenna types for the RN41N mod-
ule are listed in Table 2-3.
3.2.4 HELPFUL WEB SITES
Industry Canada: http://www.ic.gc.ca/
3.3 Europe
The RN41/41N module is Radio Equipment Directive
(RED) assessed, CE marked and have been manufac-
tured and tested with the intention of being integrated
into a final product.
The RN41/41N module has been tested to RED 2014/
53/EU Essential Requirements mentioned in the follow-
ing European Compliance table.
The ETSI provides guidance on modular devices in
“Guide to the application of harmonised standards cov-
ering Article 3.1b and Article 3.2 of the Directive 2014/
53/EU RED to multi-radio and combined radio and non-
radio equipment” document available at http://
www.etsi.org/deliver/etsi_eg/203300_203399/203367/
01.01.01_60/eg_203367v010101p.pdf.
3.3.1 LABELING AND USER
INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS
The label on the final product which contains the RN41/
41N module must follow CE marking requirements.
3.3.2 CONFORMITY ASSESSMENT
From ETSI Guidance Note EG 203367, section 6.1
Non-radio products are combined with a radio product:
If the manufacturer of the combined equipment installs
the radio product in a host non-radio product in equiva-
lent assessment conditions (i.e. host equivalent to the
one used for the assessment of the radio product) and
according to the installation instructions for the radio
product, then no additional assessment of the com-
bined equipment against article 3.2 of the RED is
required.
3.3.2.1 SIMPLIFIED EU DECLARATION OF
CONFORMITY
Hereby, Microchip Technology Inc. declares that the
radio equipment type RN41/41N is in compliance with
Directive 2014/53/EU.
The full text of the EU declaration of conformity for this
product is available at
https://www.microchip.com/wwwproducts/en/RN41
(available under Documents > Certifications).
3.3.3 APPROVED EXTERNAL ANTENNAS
For RN41N, the approval is received using the antenna
shown in Table 2-3.
3.3.4 HELPFUL WEB SITES
A document that can be used as a starting point in
understanding the use of Short Range Devices (SRD)
in Europe is the European Radio Communications
Committee (ERC) Recommendation 70-03 E, which
can be downloaded from the European Radio Commu-
nications Committee (ECC) at: http://www.ecodo-
cdb.dk/.
Additional helpful web sites are:
• Radio Equipment Directive (2014/53/EU): https://
ec.europa.eu/growth/single-market/european-
standards/harmonised-standards/red_en
• European Conference of Postal and Telecommu-
nications Administrations (CEPT):
http://www.cept.org
• European Telecommunications Standards Insti-
tute (ETSI): http://www.etsi.org
The Radio Equipment Directive Compliance Associa-
tion (REDCA): http://www.redca.eu/
TABLE 3-1: EUROPEAN COMPLIANCE
Certification Standards Article
Safety EN 62368 3.1a
Health EN 62311
Electro Magnetic
Compatibility
(EMC)
EN 301 489-1 3.1b
EN 301 489-17
Radio EN300 328 3.2
Note: To maintain conformance to the standards
listed in the preceding European Compli-
ance table, the module shall be installed in
accordance with the installation instruc-
tions in this data sheet and shall not be
modified. When integrating a radio mod-
ule into a completed product, the integra-
tor becomes the manufacturer of the final
product and is therefore responsible for
demonstrating compliance of the final
product with the essential requirements
against the RED.

2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc. DS50002280C-page 17
RN41/RN41N
3.4 Australia
The Australia radio regulations do not provide a modu-
lar approval policy similar to the United States (FCC)
and Canada (ISED). However, RN41/RN41N module
RF transmitter test reports can be used in part to
demonstrate compliance in accordance with ACMA
Radio communications “Short Range Devices” Stan-
dard 2004 (The Short Range Devices standard calls up
the AS/NZS 4268:2008 industry standard). The RN41/
RN41N module test reports can be used as part of the
product certification and compliance folder. For more
information on the RF transmitter test reports, contact
Microchip Technology Australia sales office.
To meet overall Australian final product compliance, the
developer must construct a compliance folder contain-
ing all relevant compliance test reports e.g. RF, EMC,
electrical safety and DoC (Declaration of Conformity)
etc. It is the responsibility of the integrator to know what
is required in the compliance folder for ACMA compli-
ance. All test reports are available on the RN41/RN41N
product web page at http://www.microchip.com. For
more information on Australia compliance, refer to the
Australian Communications and Media Authority web
site http://www.acma.gov.au/.
3.4.1 EXTERNAL ANTENNA
REQUIREMENTS
The compliance testing listed in Ta b le 3- 1 was per-
formed using the antenna types listed in Ta b le 2- 3 .
3.4.2 HELPFUL WEB SITES
The Australian Communications and Media Authority:
www.acma.gov.au/.
3.5 New Zealand
The New Zealand radio regulations do not provide a
modular approval policy similar to the United States
(FCC) and Canada (ISED). However, RN41/RN41N
module RF transmitter test reports can be used in part
to demonstrate compliance against the New Zealand
“General User Radio License for Short Range
Devices”. New Zealand Radio communications (Radio
Standards) Notice 2010 calls up the AS / NZS
4268:2008 industry standard. The RN41/RN41N mod-
ule test reports can be used as part of the product cer-
tification and compliance folder. All test reports are
available on the RN41/RN41N product web page at
http://www.microchip.com. For more information on the
RF transmitter test reports, contact Microchip Technol-
ogy sales office.
Information on the New Zealand short range devices
license can be found in the following web links:
http://www.rsm.govt.nz/cms/licensees/types-oflicence/
general-user-licences/short-range-devices
and
http://www.rsm.govt.nz/cms/policy-and-planning/spec-
trum-policy-overview/legislation/gazette-notices/prod-
uct-compliance/radiocommunications-radiostandards-
notice-2010.
To meet overall New Zealand final product compliance,
the developer must construct a compliance folder con-
taining all relevant compliance test reports e.g. RF,
EMC, electrical safety and DoC (Declaration of Confor-
mity) etc. It is the responsibility of the developer to
know what is required in the compliance folder for New
Zealand Radio communications. For more information
on New Zealand compliance, refer to the web site http:/
/www.rsm.govt.nz/.
3.5.1 EXTERNAL ANTENNA
REQUIREMENTS
The compliance testing listed in Tab l e 3 - 1 was per-
formed using the antenna types listed in Ta b le 2-3 .
3.5.2 HELPFUL WEB SITES
Radio Spectrum Ministry of Economic Development:
http://www.rsm.govt.nz/.
3.6 UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed)
The RN41/RN41N module is a UK conformity
assessed radio module that meets all the essential
requirements according to CE RED requirements.
3.6.1 LABELING REQUIREMENTS FOR
MODULE AND USER’S
REQUIREMENTS
The label on the final product that contains the RN41/
RN41N module must follow the UKCA marking require-
ments.
The UKCA mark above is printed on the module itself
or on the packing label.

RN41/RN41N
DS50002280C-page 18 2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc.
Additional details for the label requirement are avail-
able at:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/using-the-ukca-mark-
ing#check-whether-you-need-to-use-the-new-ukca-
marking.
3.6.2 UKCA DECLARATION OF
CONFORMITY
Hereby, Microchip Technology Inc. declares that the
radio equipment type RN41/RN41N is in compliance
with the Radio Equipment Regulations 2017.
The full text of the UKCA declaration of conformity for
this product is available (under Documents > Certifica-
tions) at:
•https://www.microchip.com/en-us/product/RN41
3.6.3 APPROVED ANTENNAS
The testing of the RN41N module was performed with
the antennas listed in Table 2-3.
3.6.4 HELPFUL WEB SITES
For more information on the UKCA regulatory approv-
als, refer to the https://www.gov.uk/guidance/placing-
manufactured-goods-on-the-market-in-great-britain.

2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc. DS50002280C-page 19
RN41/RN41N
4.0 ORDERING INFORMATION
Table 4-1 provides ordering information for the RN41/RN41N module.
Note 1: For other configurations, contact Microchip drectly.
2: When ordering the standard part number (customer part number without firmware version), the customer
will receive the latest firmware version depending on production date and availability. It is highly recom-
mended to order part number by specific firmware version to ensure receiving consistent firmware version.
Information on firmware versions can be found on the RN41/RN41N product web page and the “Bluetooth
Data Module Command Reference and Advanced Information User’s Guide”.
Go to http://www.microchip.com for current pricing and a list of distributors carrying Microchip products.
TABLE 4-1: ORDERING INFORMATION
Part Number (1) Firmware (2) Description
RN41-I/RM Latest Production Class 1, 2.1+EDR, SPP profile
RN41-I/RM615 6.15 Class 1, 2.1+EDR, SPP profile
RN41-I/RM477 4.77 Class 1, 2.1+EDR, SPP profile
RN41HCI-I/RM N/A Class 1, 2.0+EDR, HCI over UART
RN41U-I/RM N/A Class 1, 2.0+EDR, HCI over USB
RN41HID-I/RM 6.11 Class 1, 2.1+EDR, HID and SPP profiles
RN41APL-I/RM Latest Production Class 1, 2.1+EDR, SPP and MFi profiles
RN41APL-I/RM545 5.45 Class 1, 2.1+EDR, SPP and MFi profiles
RN41APL-I/RM543 5.43 Class 1, 2.1+EDR, SPP and MFi profiles
RN41N-I/RM Latest Production Class 1, 2.1+EDR, SPP profile
RN41N-I/RM615 6.15 Class 1, 2.1+EDR, SPP profile
RN41N-I/RM477 4.77 Class 1, 2.1+EDR, SPP profile
RN41NAPL-I/RM Latest Production Class 1, 2.1+EDR, SPP and MFi profiles
RN41NAPL-I/RM545 5.45 Class 1, 2.1+EDR, SPP and MFi profiles
RN41NAPL-I/RM543 5.43 Class 1, 2.1+EDR, SPP and MFi profiles

RN41/RN41N
DS50002280C-page 20 2014-2022 Microchip Technology Inc.
NOTES: