Three new Galileo-ready positioning modules feature embedded antenna

Telit Wireless Solutions has launched three new positioning modules with embedded smart antenna as part of its ongoing initiative to make adoption of IoT technology as simple as possible. The Jupiter SE868-A is the latest multi-constellation GNSS module with embedded SMT antenna, packaged in a 11mm x 11mm 'cavity like' PCB solution with embedded Flash memory and integrated LNA on one side and SMT antenna on the opposite side. It supports simultaneous tracking of GPS, QZSS and Glonass, and is Galileo ready. A companion module, the SE868-AS shares a form factor, but offers GPS-only coverage for cost savings for customers who do not require multi-constellation support. The two are interchangeable to support a choice of functionalities for a single custom design – saving both time and money in development and rollout across locations and over time. This sophisticated solution provides customers with an integrated antenna for an optimized RF path, and standard SMT mounting without constraints in terms of the host PCB. Unlike competitive solutions, SE868-A and -AS do not require a hole on the host PCB. The Jupiter SC872-A is a multi-constellation smart GNSS module packaged in a 21mm x 22mm double sided PCB with a GNSS antenna on one side and all the remaining components on the opposite side. The SC872-A is provided with embedded Flash memory, integrated LNA, battery backup and connector. This packaging solution provides customers with a completely integrated and top performing solution. The 20mm x 20mm antenna ensures better performance over the whole bands used by the different GNSS constellations. The embedded battery backup ensures top level TTFF performance and a 24/7 availability of a reliable time base, while the embedded connector ensures easy and fast mounting or replacement. In each case, geo-location data is delivered using NMEA protocol through a standard UART port. It supports ephemeris file injection (A-GPS) as well as Satellite Based Augmentation System (SBAS) to increase position accuracy. Its onboard software engine is able to locally predict ephemeris up to three days in advance, starting from ephemeris data broadcast by GNSS satellites, received by the module and stored in the internal Flash memory, says the company. “We are delighted that these designs can deliver benefits unavailable from other vendors including smaller ground plane requirements, better RF sensitivity and future upgradeability, thanks to their Flash-based memory – all in direct response to customer needs,” said Felix Marchal, chief product officer, Telit Wireless Solutions. “Moreover, as part of the Telit ONE STOP. ONE SHOP. value proposition, these new positioning modules can easily be bundled with complementary technologies including cellular modules and related services to provide a complete end-to-end solution for IoT adopters.”