BlueICE (BlueCore Input Connection Enhancement), Bluetooth Connection Software for Embedded Computer

CSR launched BlueICE (BlueCore Input Connection Enhancement) that allow Bluetooth keyboards and mice using BlueCore silicon, to connect with the host PC simply by adding batteries. It will also allow them to be used during boot-up, before the operating system has loaded, negating the need for a reserve wired keyboard. This feature means that wireless peripherals can now be bundled as standard with PC shipments.

David McCall, VP of the PC strategic business unit at CSR said:

Simplicity of connection and the difficulty in using them to change BIOS settings were previously major barriers to the bundling of wireless peripherals with new PCs…

…Consumers would need to keep a wired keyboard in reserve if they needed to boot from a CD or change the BIOS as the wireless devices needed to wait for the OS to load the Bluetooth software stack before they could connect. BlueICE circumvents this issue meaning that a BlueICE keyboard and mouse are as simple and straightforward to use as one with a wire

BlueICE is developed specifically to work with BlueCore4-EXT in wireless keyboards, mice and the host interface. Using BlueICE for all three components of the desktop PC system allows advanced features of the software, such as Auto-Connect, to be utilised. The user simply adds the batteries to the mouse and keyboard.

At start up, BlueICE switches the host module to HID proxy mode allowing the BlueCore host module to present itself on the USB bus as a USB composite device containing a keyboard and mouse. In this mode, the BlueICE firmware implements the HID profile internally allowing the keyboard and mouse to work without the Bluetooth software stack being accessible. Once the operating system has fully loaded, HCI (Host Controller Interface) mode is enabled and the BlueCore host module presents the HCI interface on the USB bus.

About CSR
CSR is the leading global provider of personal wireless technology and its product portfolio covers Bluetooth, FM receivers and WiFi (IEEE802.11). CSR offers developed hardware/software solutions, based around its silicon platforms, that incorporate fully integrated radio, baseband and microcontroller elements.

CSR’s customers include industry leaders such as Apple, Dell, LG, Motorola, NEC, Nokia, Panasonic, RIM, Samsung, Sharp, Sony, TomTom and Toshiba.