u-blox has added two new modules to its portfolio for global positioning applications.
GPS/QZSS antenna module
The PAM-7Q GPS/QZSS antenna module integrates a satellite receiver IC plus all passives and a pre-tuned GPS antenna in a compact 22 x 22 x 8 mm package. It combines low power consumption with high sensitivity, sophisticated noise suppression and I²C/UART interfaces.
For small and medium production runs, sourcing and tuning of an external GPS antenna can be expensive and logistically difficult. The PAM-7Q provides a drop-in solution to this problem, with instant, high-performance global positioning requiring no additional components.
The device can be easily integrated into pre-existing designs or soldered with a pin-header to a customised PCB. The 18 x 18 mm patch antenna is designed for optimal antenna performance independent of orientation. High immunity to jamming is achieved through integration of dual SAW filters.
PAM-7Q targets industrial and consumer applications that require a small, fast and cost-efficient solution to GPS/QZSS positioning. It uses GPS/QZSS chips qualified according to AEC-Q100 and is manufactured in ISO/TS 16949 certified sites. The module is form-factor compatible with its predecessor, the UP501.
Standalone GNSS module
Said to be the smallest standalone GNSS positioning module on the market, the EVA-7M is designed for cost- and space-sensitive applications. The highly integrated 7 x 7 x 1,1 mm LGA module comprises all necessary components, including crystal and passives; just an antenna is required for instant global positioning capability.
The module supports US GPS, Russian GLONASS, Japanese QZSS, plus all SBAS augmentation systems. Based on u-blox’s advanced GNSS technology u-blox 7, the module achieves -160 dBm sensitivity when tracking GPS satellites (-158 dBm with GLONASS satellites), fast acquisition time and just 16,5 mA current consumption at 3 V, thanks to a high-efficiency power converter.
The EVA-7M eases implementation in end-products because RF and digital domains are kept well separated, and the LGA pads are configured in single rows. Unlike other GNSS receivers on the market, it is a standalone GNSS receiver which provides a position without the need for host integration or extra RF components. It is optimised for keeping bill of materials and system costs to an absolute minimum.
The module was developed with ease of manufacturing as a high priority. Its QFN-like footprint with connections along four sides and high level of component integration make it well suited for medium- and high-volume production runs.
UART, USB, SPI and I2C interfaces provide flexible connections to a host processor. EVA-7M can also communicate directly with u blox’ SARA 2G, LISA 3G and TOBY LTE cellular modules to support advanced tracking and location-aware applications. The module is suitable for consumer, industrial and after-market vehicle applications.
For more information contact Andrew Hutton, RF Design, +27 (0)21 555 8400, [email protected], www.rfdesign.co.za
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