u-blox satellite 3GPP IoT-NTN cellular module

  • September 18, 2024
  • William Payne

Communications tech provider u-blox has launched a combined 3GPP-compliant terrestrial network (TN) and non-terrestrial network (NTN) IoT module, the SARA-S528NM10. The module supports standards-based global coverage with accurate, low-power and concurrent positioning. It supports use cases requiring continuous or cyclic asset tracking and monitoring. Other IoT use cases include aftermarket telematics, industrial monitoring and control, smart metering and utilities, and fleet management.

According to u-blox, current satellite connectivity solutions require proprietary hardware and software. This locks the terminal to a specific satellite operator. The u-blox solution is based on global 3GPP standards, and can be certified as interoperable with multiple satellite providers supporting the standard, maximising customer choice.

“The new u-blox satellite IoT-NTN cellular module is designed to maintain connectivity in areas without cellular coverage,” explained Stephan Zizala, u-blox CEO. “The integrated u-blox GNSS solution consumes less than 15mW of power in continuous tracking mode and has high RF sensitivity that reduces the time required to establish a position fix. It provides concurrent location data without interrupting the cellular or satellite connection, which further helps to minimise power consumption due to the shortened active time of the device.”

Powered by the u-blox UBX-S52 cellular/satellite chipset and GNSS M10 platform, the module complies with the 3GPP Rel 17 NB-NTN specification. It provides extended connectivity via LTE-M and NB-IoT on terrestrial cellular networks and NB-IoT on geostationary orbit (GEO) satellite constellations compliant with 3GPP Rel 17, including readiness for low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. The UBX-S52 cellular/satellite chipset is currently undergoing certification with Skylo, a global NTN service provider, for its satellite network. The certification enables support for both cellular and Skylo satellite connectivity.

The SARA-S528NM10 module supports all three new NTN bands – n23 (United States), n255 (L-band global), and n256 (S-band Europe). It is pin-compatible with other u-blox cellular-only modules in the SARA form factor, enabling engineers to easily scale up their IoT products using legacy technology without costly redesigns.