The CC33xx family of devices are the next generation of the Simplelink™ embedded solutions. Their main role is to meet the requirements of the new emerging Internet of Things (IoT) use cases while being compatible with the latest cutting-edge technologies like Wi-Fi® 6 and Bluetooth® Low Energy 5.3.
These next generation devices enable affordable, reliable and secure connectivity in embedded applications with a host processor running Linux® or an MCU host running RTOS. In order to allow interfacing with various host processors, the host interface design needs to be robust and offer the designer with flexible configuration to choose from.
Simplelink™ is a trademark of Texas Instruments.
Wi-Fi® is a registered trademark of Wi-Fi Alliance.
Bluetooth® is a registered trademark of Bluetooth Sig, Inc.
Linux® is a registered trademark of Linux Foundation.
is a registered trademark of Linus Torvalds in the U.S. and other countries.
All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
The purpose of this document is to describe the host interface between the host processor and the CC33xx companion IC and provide the system designer with all the required technical information for easy integration.
The most common host processor that connects to the CC33xx companion IC is a high-level processor, typically running high OS such as Linux. In addition, a mid-end or high-end microcontroller can also be used, usually communicating through an SPI interface, providing full scalability and flexibility. Host driver implementation on Linux OS (and on selected MCU) is also delivered as part of the solution, making it easier on the system designer side that does not have to dive into all the technical details.
The following sections describe the main features, the various interface options and the host-device communication flow and protocols.