Press releases

|

03 Sep 2015

u-blox introduces a portfolio of cost-efficient LTE Cat. 1 modules for M2M and automotive applications

TOBY-R2 and LARA-R2 series support applications requiring longevity on LTE at low cost

 
The TOBY-R201 & the LARA-R2 module

Thalwil, Switzerland – September 3, 2015 – u-blox, a global leader in wireless and positioning modules and chips, announces a portfolio of new LTE low data-rate cellular modules supporting LTE Cat. 1 for IoT and M2M applications in the industrial and automotive markets. Major carriers are rolling out LTE networks worldwide at an accelerated pace, considering the sunset of their existing 2G and 3G networks. Devices that are expected to operate for years to come need to incorporate LTE technology in order to ensure longevity.

 

The portfolio consists of multi-mode, multi-carrier and of LTE-only modules specific for large North American carriers. All modules provide long-term LTE technology at lower speeds, ideal for industrial and connected-car applications (10Mb/s download, 5Mb/s upload), at a significantly lower cost than typical LTE Cat. 4 modules. All modules operate from -40°C to +85°C, making them suitable for demanding industrial and automotive devices. The unique combination of performance and versatility makes these modules ideally suited for M2M applications, such as telematics and smart metering,as well as security and surveillance systems with the need for Voice-over-LTE (VoLTE).

 

“Building on our philosophy of customer-driven innovation, u-blox is once again delivering a competitive advantage with cost-effective and long-term solutions for IoT and M2M applications. The new Cat.1 modules will enable our customers to develop devices supporting LTE technology at an acceptable cost, because LTE Cat. 1 delivers lower speed at a lower cost,” explains Stefano Moioli, Director Product Management Cellular at u-blox. “We expect LTE Cat. 1 technology to become the future norm for M2M applications,” he adds.

 

The u-blox LTE Cat. 1 module portfolio includes the following variants:

  • TOBY-R201 (LTE bands 2, 4, 13, 17 and HSPA bands 2, 5) is a multi-mode, multi-carrier LTE Cat. 1 module with HSPA fallback for North America. Its form factor in a 24.8 x 35.6 mm2 LGA package is the same as the TOBY-L2 Cat. 4 modules designed for applications requiring high data rates. The first samples will be available in October 2015.
  • LARA-R200 (LTE bands 4, 13) and LARA-R202 (LTE bands 2, 4, 17) are LTE Cat. 1 modules for the largest North American carriers, available in a compact 22.0 x 27.5 mm2 LGA form factor, and fit on the nested design pads compatible with other u-blox form factors. The first samples will be available in early 2016.

Additional variants for Europe and APAC are planned.

 

The modules also follow the u-blox “nested design” philosophy to maintain form factor and software continuity. This allows customers to easily upgrade their products with each new generation of u-blox wireless modules without having to change the PCB designs. It allows for easy migration contributing to maximized investment, simplified logistics and drastically reduced time-to-market.

 

All the modules are expected to be certified soon by major US and Canadian mobile carriers.

About u‑blox

u‑blox (SIX:UBXN) is a global technology leader in positioning and wireless communication in automotive, industrial, and consumer markets. Their smart and reliable solutions, services and products let people, vehicles, and machines determine their precise position and communicate wirelessly over cellular and short range networks. With a broad portfolio of chips, modules, and secure data services and connectivity, u‑blox is uniquely positioned to empower its customers to develop innovative and reliable solutions for the Internet of Things, quickly and cost‑effectively. With headquarters in Thalwil, Switzerland, the company is globally present with offices in Europe, Asia, and the USA. (www.u‑blox.com) Find us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter @ublox and YouTube

 

u‑blox media contact:

Natacha Seitz

Senior Manager PR and Content Marketing

Mobile +41 76 436 0788

natacha.seitz@u-blox.com