Swiss firm U-Blox has announced a compact dual-band timing module that offers nanosecond-level timing accuracy, thereby meeting the timing requirements for 5G communications.

The Neo-F10T is compliant with the firm’s Neo 12.2 by 16mm form factor, allowing space-constrained designs to be realised without the need to compromise on size.

The Neo-F10T is the successor to the popular Neo-M8T module, providing an upgrade path to dual-band timing technology. This allows Neo-M8T users to access nanosecond-level timing accuracy and enhanced security.

The firm’s dual-band technology mitigates ionospheric errors and reduces timing error, without the need for an external GNSS correction service. Additionally, when within the operational area of an SBAS satellite-based augmentation system, it can improve the timing performance by using the ionospheric corrections provided by the SBAS. As it supports all four global satellite constellations and L1, L5 and E5a configuration, it simplifies global deployments as the same device can be used universally.

Security features include secure boot, secure interfaces, configuration lock and T-Raim to provide high-level timing integrity. This ensures that reliable, uninterrupted service is delivered as any attempt to interfere with the receiver is unlikely to be successful. Additionally, anti-jamming and anti-spoofing algorithms are included to enhance security further.

The module has a single RF input for all the GNSS bands and dual saw filters for signal selectivity and out-of-band attenuation. It is compatible with the firm’s Ann-MB1 L1 and L5 multi-band antenna, making it simple to evaluate the performance of the timing modules. The devices operate from a single 2.7 to 3.6V supply and draw 19mA at 3.0V during continuous operation.

“Neo-F10T is designed to meet the timing synchronisation requirements in 5G small cells and private networks on a global scale,” said Samuli Pietila, director of product line management at U-Blox. “By significantly reducing the time error of cellular network synchronisation, the Neo‑F10T module will help operators maximise the performance of their networks and so optimise the return on their investment in 5G communications.

With headquarters in Thalwil, Switzerland, U-Blox is globally present with offices in Europe, Asia and the USA.