How to test iso_connected_benchmark with Zephyr Host-only build and NXP prebuilt controller firmware?

[Sohan-kr]

Hi Zephyr team,
I’m working with the iso_connected_benchmark sample and trying to test it using a Zephyr host-only build. I’m using NXP’s IW612 Bluetooth SoC with prebuilt controller firmware that supports ISO features.

I’ve manually enabled the following configs in the Kconfig file to allow Zephyr to send ISO-related HCI commands:

CONFIG_HAS_BT_CTLR
CONFIG_BT_CTLR_CENTRAL_ISO
CONFIG_BT_CTLR_PERIPHERAL_ISO

However, I’m unsure about the correct procedure to test this sample in a host-only setup.

What I’ve observed so far:

• With the default application, after ACL connection, the Supported Features exchange does not happen, which results in failure during ISO channel establishment and CIS setup.
• When I enable the above configs, the Supported Features exchange occurs, and ISO channel establishment and CIS setup succeed.
• Other samples like broadcast and unicast work fine, but iso_connected_benchmark fails unless ISO setup is correctly triggered.

My Questions:

1. What is the recommended way to test iso_connected_benchmark when building only the Zephyr host?
2. Is there a reference setup or board configuration that demonstrates host-only ISO testing with an external controller like NXP’s IW612?
3. What is the significance of following configs in host-only builds when using an external controller that supports ISO?

CONFIG_HAS_BT_CTLR
CONFIG_BT_CTLR_CENTRAL_ISO
CONFIG_BT_CTLR_PERIPHERAL_ISO

Environment:
Host: Zephyr
Board: NXP IMXRT1060-EVKC
Controller: NXP IW612