New LTE-M module with 400MHz support from u-blox
u-blox has extended its SARA-R5 LTE-M and NB-IoT communications family with the introduction of a module that supports the 400-450 MHz LTE spectrum bands available in Europe, Asia, and Latin America.
The u-blox SARA-R540S can communicate on LTE bands 31, 72, 73, 87, and 88. These lower-frequency bands have good propagation characteristics, helping customers in the smart meter, public safety, smart grid, and smart cities markets meet strict indoor and outdoor coverage requirements that might otherwise be difficult to reach over standard cellular connectivity options.
Other hardware features include a high RF power output to further enhance the reach of the SARA-R540S in places, such as within buildings, where ensuring coverage can be challenging. The module supports Power Class 3 transmission over standard LTE bands and Power Class 2, at an enhanced 26 dBm maximum output power, in the 450 MHz spectrum.
SARA-R540S also supports the 3GPP bands 87 and 88 in the 410 MHz spectrum, as well as dynamic antenna tuning to help designers achieve maximum efficiency and coverage.
SARA-R540S draws less than 1 μA of current in power-saving mode and has a ‘last-gasp’ function to send a last message before it finally loses its power supply,