EnOcean adds secure update support to its next sensor transceiver

EnOcean has introduced STM 600, a programmable wireless sensor transceiver with hardware support for secure communication and firmware updates. The company is targeting sensors that use harvested energy, including occupancy, environmental and devices monitoring contact status. ^[1]

The transceiver offers more processing resources and application memory than previous generations, with a smaller PCB footprint comparable to that of EnOcean's TCM 615. EnOcean also claims higher transmit power and lower energy consumption during transmission and reception, although the announcement does not provide numerical comparisons or a production availability date. ^[1]

STM 600 is intended to let manufacturers combine their own sensing functions with EnOcean's wireless technology. Its hardware acceleration supports the latest EnOcean Alliance security specifications, extending the processing budget available for application functions as well as secure operation. The accompanying developer information also identifies headroom for secure firmware updates. ^[1][4]

EnOcean's existing harvesting technology uses small solar cells for indoor light, electromechanical converters for movement and thermal converters where a temperature difference is available. Different sources suit different applications: a switch can harvest energy when it is pressed, while a sensor expected to report without human interaction needs another source and enough stored energy between opportunities to recharge. ^[2]

Transmitting measurements, listening for commands and carrying out an update all draw on that harvested supply, connecting the radio and processor efficiency with the harvester and energy storage available to a sensor. A higher transmitter setting can improve a link while changing that balance; the full application determines the resulting reporting behaviour and operating range. ^[1][2]

The EnOcean Alliance defines communication profiles alongside network security, commissioning and specifications for remote management. Those profiles give devices a common way to describe sensor information, while the separate management functions cover configuration and interaction after installation. The Alliance also maintains certification programmes for radio performance and energy harvesting. ^[3]