Ultra-compact satellite communication module combines 5G & NTN support - Quectel

October 9, 2024

Quectel launched the Quectel BG770A-SN ultra-compact 5G-ready satellite communication module. Compliant with 3GPP releases 13, 14 and 17, the module supports the LTE NB1 and NB2 bands as well as non-terrestrial networks (NTN) over narrowband-IoT (NB-IoT). Ultra-low power consumption helps minimize energy usage and is achieved through enabling power saving mode (PSM) and extended idle mode discontinuous reception (e-I-DRX).

Ideal for a broad range of applications including transportation, energy, maritime, heavy industry and agricultural applications, the module is dual mode, supporting both NTN and TN and featuring GNSS for positioning functionality. The module also supports iSIM.

This module meets the needs of size-constrained, global use cases that demand the comprehensive coverage that satellite connectivity provides. Combining those attributes with low power consumption and robust security makes the module applicable to a wide range of use cases from POS to trackers and wearables. This module combines cutting edge 5G and NTN capability in a powerful, yet ultra-compact module.

With the highly compact SMT form factor of 14.9mm x 12.9mm x 1.9mm, the Quectel BG770A-SN is ideally suited for use cases such as wireless point of sale (POS) devices, smart metering, tracking and wearable devices. Designed for use in global markets, the module offers worldwide coverage utilizing the GEO satellite constellation. In addition, the module offers the integrated security elements (ISE) feature which supports comprehensive security. Robustness is assured with module operating in an extended temperature range from -40°C to +85°C.

Further benefits include the BG770A-SN’s super-slim profile in an LGA package and its rich set of interfaces. The module also supports download of firmware over the air (DFOTA) and offers rapid time to market thanks to a wide library of reference designs, evaluation tools and Quectel’s timely technical support. Combined, these help to minimize time and effort spent on device design and development.

In addition, the YECN028AA antenna is a dedicated antenna developed specifically for the BG770A-SN and is an external 5G/NTN antenna that covers 5G NR sub-6GHz frequency bands, compatible with 4G/3G/2G/LPWA bands and NTN bands. With its high efficiency and gain, this omni-directional antenna provides an ideal solution for ensuring reliable high-speed data transmission.
 

BG770A-SN satellite communication module

  • NTN and 5G-ready satellite communication module
  • LGA form factor
  • 14.9 mm ×12.9 mm ×1.9 mm
  • Extended temperature of -40 °C to +85 °C

BG770A-SN is a 5G-ready ultra-compact satellite communication module compliant with 3GPP E-UTRA release 13/ 14/ 17. The module supports LTE Cat M1, LTE Cat NB1/ NB2 bands, and NTN over NB-IoT. Additionally, it features ultra-low power consumption implemented by an MIPS 5150 processor and integrated RAM and flash, which help reduce current consumption to low levels in various modes, including PSM, e-I-DRX, etc. It is further integrated with a GNSS engine that supports GPS and GLONASS systems.

BG770A-SN boasts a comprehensive hardware-based security feature – integrated security elements (ISE). With an ultra-compact SMT form factor of 14.9 mm × 12.9 mm ×1.9 mm and a high integration level, the module enables integrators and developers to design applications easily, leveraging its low power consumption and compact structure design. The BG770A-SN’s advanced LGA package allows for the fully automated manufacturing required for large-scale applications.

A rich set of internet protocols, industry-standard interfaces and abundant functionalities extend the applicability of the module to a wide range of M2M applications, such as wireless POS, smart metering, tracking, wearable devices, and many more.

Key features

  • Extremely compact LTE Cat M1/ NB1/ NB2/ NB-IoT NTN module with ultra-low power consumption
  • Global coverage over the GEO constellation
  • Super slim profile in LGA package
  • Embedded with abundant internet service protocols
  • Supports DFOTA
  • A rich set of external interfaces (including RF control interfaces) that ensure convenient applications
  • Fast time-to-market: reference designs, evaluation tools and timely technical support minimize time and efforts in design and development

YECN028AA 5G/NTN terminal mount rubber monopole external antenna

  • Frequency: 410–470MHz, 617–960MHz, 1427–6000MHz
  • Dimensions: 225mm × 54.5mm × 13mm
  • Efficiency: up to 82.24% (5G)
  • RoHS and REACH compliant

This external 5G/NTN antenna covers 5G NR Sub-6GHz frequency bands and is compatible with 4G/3G/2G/LPWA bands and NTN bands. Featuring high efficiency and gain, it is an ideal omni-directional antenna solution to ensure high-speed data transmission, which can be widely used in a diversity of wireless communication devices such as AP, routers, outdoor equipment, real-time monitoring equipment, and many more. The antenna is designed to work with any ground plane size or in free space for ease of integration. Quectel also offers flexible installation with custom cable length and connector options.

Key features

  • Terminal mount antenna
  • Optimized for 5G/NTN
  • SMA (male) connector
  • Durable PC casing
  • IP66

 

 

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