Using the M5 cc1101 module?

[hammersap48-sys]

https://docs.m5stack.com/en/module/Module_CC1101

I'm trying to use this module with the M5 Fire, but I may have an issue understanding my device. Would I use this with the cc11o1 option within the RF configuration, or is this just going to increase my normal RF within the fire? Thank you in advance all help appreciated.

[0Zane]

Once everything is wired up , you will need to go to :
RF -> Config -> CC1101

Otherwise it will not consider the module.
If it says "CC1101 not found", check the wiring , but it would also display the error with a good wiring sometimes, try rebooting it in this case .

[bmorcelli]

Probably the pinouts are not matching, as this module was released after Bruce..

Check the file brucePins.conf if the pins are right for your device, and change them accordingly..

You can enable devMode and change it in the firmware.. scroll the Main Menu to the right (Wifi-> BLE-> RF.... CFG-> Wifi....) 5 times without pressing Previous.. it will enable devMode

After that, CFG> Dev Mode> CC1101 pins> amd set them as needed..

After that go to RF> Config> RF Module> CC1101.. hopefully it won't get any error message

[bad-antics]

The M5Stack CC1101 Module is a dedicated Sub-GHz RF transceiver -- it does not extend or boost the M5 Fire's built-in WiFi/Bluetooth radio. These are completely separate systems.

What the CC1101 Module Does

The CC1101 operates on Sub-GHz frequencies (300-928 MHz) for things like:

• Garage door openers (315/433 MHz)
• Car key fobs
• Weather stations
• IoT sensors (LoRa-adjacent frequencies)
• General RF signal capture and replay

The M5 Fire's built-in WiFi/BT (ESP32) operates at 2.4 GHz -- a completely different frequency band.

How to Use It in Bruce

Yes, you'd use the CC1101 option in the RF configuration menu:

1. First, configure the pins in Bruce. The M5Stack CC1101 Module connects via SPI through the M-Bus connector. You may need to set the pins in brucePins.conf:

{
  "cc1101_miso_pin": 38,
  "cc1101_mosi_pin": 23,
  "cc1101_sck_pin": 18,
  "cc1101_cs_pin": 5,
  "cc1101_gdo0_pin": 26,
  "cc1101_gdo2_pin": 36
}

Note: Pin numbers may vary depending on which M-Bus slot you're using. Check the M5Stack CC1101 module docs for the specific pinout.

2. In Bruce, go to RF > CC1101 options
3. You should see sub-menus for:
   • RF Scanner -- scan for signals on common frequencies
   • RF Capture -- record a signal
   • RF Replay -- replay a captured signal
   • Custom frequency -- set a specific frequency to listen on

M5 Fire Specifics

The M5 Fire uses the ESP32 (not PICO), so all GPIO pins should be available through the M-Bus. Make sure:

• The CC1101 module is firmly seated in the M-Bus connector
• You're running a Bruce version that supports CC1101 (v1.10+)
• The module shows up -- if Bruce doesn't detect it, try power cycling

Quick Test

To verify the module works:

1. Go to RF > CC1101 Scanner
2. Set frequency to 433.92 MHz (common frequency)
3. Press a nearby RF remote (garage opener, car fob, etc.)
4. You should see signal activity on screen

So to directly answer your question: the CC1101 option in RF config is exactly what you want. It's a separate radio, not a WiFi booster.