Build Low-Cost Bluetooth BLE 5.1 Devices with HLK-B40 and Free PCBA Prototypes - NextPCB Accelerator #10

To empower engineers and streamline electronics innovation, we launched the NextPCB accelerator sponsorship program - a groundbreaking initiative to break down barriers to innovation, reduce development cycles and support smaller businesses in bringing their products to market faster.

Now, we are proud to partner with Hi-Link to bring high-performance and affordable Bluetooth modules as part of the program.

Why HLK-B40 from Hi-Link?

Shenzhen Hi-Link Electronics is a high-tech enterprise specializing in IoT communication, power and sensor modules. Serving more than 100,000 customers across 80+ countries, Hi-Link provides reliable and innovative solutions to power connected technologies worldwide.

The Hi-Link HLK-B40 is an ultra-compact, cost-efficient Bluetooth® 5.1 module delivering high-speed serial port transmission for less than $2. Engineered for IoT flexibility, it supports multi-master/multi-slave operation with up to 3 simultaneous connections, fast 921,600 bps UART throughput, and ultra-low power consumption (50μA active / 6μA sleep).

At just 14 x 9.5mm with a modular surface mount design, the HLK-B40 is among the smallest BLE modules available - perfect for space-critical smart home devices, wearables, and portable electronics. For EMI-sensitive deployments, an RF-shielded variant ensures maximum signal reliability in demanding environments.

Specification

HLK-B40 Real World Applications

HLK-B40 is ideal for a diverse range of IoT applications from smart and agriculture to industrial automation, automotive, consumer electronics and healthcare. Some examples of enterprise products with HLK-B40 enabled high-speed BLE connectivity include:

• BMS protection boards
• Charging piles
• Aroma diffusers
• Car accelerators
• Smart garages

Further Reading and Technical Resources

• Hi-Link - HLK-B40 BLE5.1 Bluetooth Module: Official Hi-Link HLK-B40 product page
• Hi-Link - HLK-B40 Datasheet/User Manual: Datasheet and user manual for HLK-B40 and HLK-B40-I
• Hi-Link - HLK-B40 Mobile Phone APP User Manual: User manual for connecting via the mobile phone app
• Hi-Link - HLK-B40 CE Mark Attestation of Conformity
• Hi-Link - HLK-B40 RoHS Test Report 
• Hi-Link - HLK-B40: HQ Online purchase link
• Hi-Link - HLK-B40-I: HQ Online purchase link
   
• Hi-Link - HLK-B40 Test Board Kit: Official product page for the Hi-Link HLK-B40 Test Board
• Hi-Link - HLK-B40 Test Board Design Files: Reference Design in Altium Designer format (schematic, layout and project files)

Enable high-speed BLE5.1 connectivity in your products with HLK-B40 today!

Now, it's even easier to validate designs with HLK-B40 with the NextPCB Accelerator program.

What's Included in the Program?

• Free Prototyping Support: Get 2 free PCBA units, including PCB fabrication, components, assembly, and worldwide shipping (valued up to USD $500). 
• Comprehensive Technical Support: Get expert assistance with manufacturing engineering, design guidance, certification, and production.
• Personalized Assistance: Receive dedicated one-on-one support throughout your manufacturing journey.

Who Can Participate?

While we prioritize business projects, we welcome hobbyist designs that contribute to the open-source community and showcase interesting applications using HLK-B40 or HLK-B40-I. All submissions must be original - publicly available designs are not eligible for sponsorship.

Campaign participants can only take advantage of one NextPCB Accelerator sponsorship per month.

Why NextPCB?

Manufacture your design with NextPCB to take advantage of these benefits:

• Professional Assembly: Our precision pick-and-place machines, advanced inspection equipment, and rigorous quality control ensure reliable, high-quality results.
• Prototype and Scale-up Assistance: From initial prototype to volume production, we provide seamless technical support—eliminating the need to coordinate multiple suppliers.
• Batch Programming and Testing: Access comprehensive IC programming, firmware burning, and functional testing services. NextPCB offers free functional testing for up to 10 units—perfect for this free PCBA campaign.

How to Get Started

1. Contact our support team (support@nextpcb.com) to register your project and specify its purpose. We can sign an NDA to protect your intellectual property.

2. Submit your PCBA inquiry through our quotation system and follow instructions to claim your 2 free PCBA units.

At NextPCB, we're committed to helping you scale your projects with confidence. Start your development journey today with our Accelerator program and comprehensive production support.

NextPCB Accelerator - Supporting You from Prototype to Mass Production

The NextPCB Accelerator campaign is an innovative initiative that empowers creators to bring their ideas to life. Whether you're an entrepreneur or enthusiast, we support your journey from concept to mass production.

RP2354: Get Early Access to Raspberry Pi RP2354 MCU with NextPCB - NextPCB Accelerator #11

HLK-B40: Build Low-Cost Bluetooth BLE 5.1 Devices with HLK-B40 and Free PCBA Prototypes - NextPCB Accelerator #10

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SIM7600: Deploy Smarter IoT solutions with SIM7600 4G LTE Modules and Free Prototypes - NextPCB Accelerator #7

Tang Nano 20K: Build Low-Cost FPGA Projects with Tang Nano 20K and Free PCBA Prototypes - NextPCB Accelerator #6

RAK3172: Developing world-class LoRaWAN solutions? Get preferential pricing & free prototypes on RAK3172 - NextPCB Accelerator #5

ESP32-S3: Explore Embedded AI with ESP32-S3 and Free PCBA Prototypes - NextPCB Accelerator #4

Beetle ESP32-C6: Develop your Matter Smart Home Device with Beetle ESP32-C6 for Free -NextPCB Accelerator #3

RP2350: Get Early Access to Raspberry Pi RP2350 with NextPCB - NextPCB Accelerator #2

RP2040: Jumpstart Innovation with RP2040 and Free PCBA Prototypes - NextPCB Accelerator #1

Stay tuned for more sponsorships from NextPCB.