I. Introduction to the Printer Bluetooth Module
Currently, most mainstream printers do not come equipped with Bluetooth. Due to cost constraints and other factors, many still rely on USB for communication with computers to facilitate data exchange for printing.
In the early days, Bluetooth technology developed slowly, and printer-type products were positioned as high-end, making development quite challenging. For example, a requirement to connect one iOS device and seven Android host devices simultaneously to send print data was nearly impossible to achieve cost-effectively.
Most current module products consist of an MCU paired with a Realtek dual-mode Bluetooth chip. The reason for this combination remains unclear to us.
However, in reality, many products do not require such high specifications. Connecting to a single host device is often sufficient. For scenarios requiring simultaneous multi-device operation, Wi-Fi or 4G versions are typically used instead.
Additionally, modern Windows 10 computers come with built-in Bluetooth drivers, and Bluetooth adapters are readily available and convenient to use.
The early Bluetooth module designs were as follows:
We recommend using the KT6368A dual-mode Bluetooth chip, which enables APP connectivity and data exchange for printers. It comes in an SOP8 package, offering high cost-effectiveness, simplicity, and stability.
II. Detailed Development Guide
First, ensure that your Bluetooth printer supports BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication and does not use proprietary protocols, adhering to standard BLE communication protocols.
Obtain UUIDs from the Printer Manufacturer
Request the printer's UUIDs from the manufacturer. There are three UUIDs:
Service UUID
TX_UUID (Transmit UUID)
RX_UUID (Receive UUID)
- Configure the Bluetooth Module Using AT Commands
Enter AT command mode to modify the BLE UUIDs. Update all three UUIDs (Service, TX, and RX).
Set the BLE working mode to Master Mode.
Send the command AT+Z to restart the module.
The UUIDs for the KT6368A are as follows:
Service_UUID: 49535343-FE7D-4AE5-8FA9-9FAFD205E455
TX_UUID: 49535343-1E4D-4BD9-BA61-23C647249616
RX_UUID: 49535343-8841-43F4-A8D4-ECBE34729BB3
III. Test Environment Setup – Meituan Merchant Edition
The Android and iOS platforms operate differently:
Android uses SPP (Serial Port Profile) for communication.
iOS devices use BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy).
The KT6368A chip's internal operation logs and the print data received from the app can be monitored for debugging and verification.
