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Ublox SARA-R4 Series System Integration Manual

Ublox SARA-R4 Series System Integration Manual

Multi-band lte-m / nb-iot / egprs modules
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SARA-R4 series
Multi-band LTE-M / NB-IoT / EGPRS modules
System integration manual
Abstract
This document describes the features and the integration of the size-optimized SARA-R4 series
cellular modules. These modules are a complete, cost efficient, performance optimized, multi-mode
and multi band LTE-M / NB-IoT / EGPRS solution in the compact SARA form factor.
UBX-16029218 - R20
C1-Public
SARA-R4
www.u-blox.com

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  • Page 1 SARA-R4 Abstract This document describes the features and the integration of the size-optimized SARA-R4 series cellular modules. These modules are a complete, cost efficient, performance optimized, multi-mode and multi band LTE-M / NB-IoT / EGPRS solution in the compact SARA form factor.

  • Page 2: Document Information

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Document information Title SARA-R4 series Subtitle Multi-band LTE-M / NB-IoT / EGPRS modules Document type System integration manual Document number UBX-16029218 Revision and date 02-Apr-2021 Disclosure restriction C1-Public Product status Corresponding content status Functional sample Draft For functional testing.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Contents Document information ..........................2 Contents ................................3 System description ..........................6 1.1 Overview ................................ 6 1.2 Architecture ...............................10 1.3 Pin-out .................................13 1.4 Operating modes ............................18 1.5 Supply interfaces ............................21 1.5.1 Module supply input (VCC) ......................21 1.5.2 Generic digital interfaces supply output (V_INT) ...............27...
  • Page 4 2.11 Module placement ............................96 2.12 Module footprint and paste mask ......................97 2.13 Thermal guidelines ...........................98 2.14 Schematic for SARA-R4 series module integration ................99 2.14.1 Schematic for SARA-R4 series modules ..................99 2.15 Design-in checklist ..........................100 2.15.1 Schematic checklist ........................100 2.15.2 Layout checklist ..........................
  • Page 5 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 3.3.8 Rework ............................. 105 3.3.9 Conformal coating ......................... 105 3.3.10 Casting ............................. 105 3.3.11 Grounding metal covers ....................... 106 3.3.12 Use of ultrasonic processes ......................106 Approvals ............................. 107 4.1 Product certification approval overview .................... 107 4.2 US Federal Communications Commission notice ................

  • Page 6: System Description

    LWM2M, a light and compact protocol ideal for IoT. SARA-R4 series modules will also support VoLTE over Cat M1 and CSFB over 2G RAT. The flexibility extends further through dynamic mode selection as M1-only/preferred or NB-IoT-only/preferred.
  • Page 7 RATs and bands included in each certification approval of the SARA-R4 series modules product versions. ☞ Table 50 for the model / marketing name of each product variant of the SARA-R4 series modules, as identified by various certification bodies. UBX-16029218 - R20 System description...
  • Page 8 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual SARA-R4 series modules include the following variants / product versions: • SARA-R410M-01B LTE Cat M1 module, mainly designed for operation in LTE bands 2, 4, 5, 12 • SARA-R410M-02B LTE Cat M1 / NB1 module, mainly designed for operation in LTE bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28 •...
  • Page 9 QZSS L1C/A, QZSS L1-SAIF, GLONASS L10F, BeiDou B1I, Galileo E1B/C Table 2: SARA-R4 series modules cellular and GNSS characteristics summary Not supported by the SARA-R410M-01B product version. Not supported by the SARA-R410M-02B-00 product version. Not supported by the SARA-R410M-52B-00 product version.

  • Page 10: Architecture

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 1.2 Architecture Figure 1 summarizes the internal architecture of SARA-R410M and SARA-R412M modules. Filters Switch transceiver SIM card detection Filters UART Cellular DDC (I2C) BaseBand Processor SDIO SPI / Digital audio Memory 1 9.2 MHz...
  • Page 11 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Figure 2 summarizes the internal architecture of SARA-R422 and SARA-R422S modules. Filters Switch transceiver SIM card detection Filters UARTs Cellular BaseBand DDC (I2C) Processor Digital audio Memory 1 9.2 MHz GPIOs Antenna detection VCC (Supply)
  • Page 12 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual SARA-R4 series modules internally consist of the following sections described herein with more details than the simplified block diagrams of Figure Figure 2 Figure RF section The RF section is composed of the following main elements: •...

  • Page 13: Pin-Out

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 1.3 Pin-out Table 3 lists the pin-out of the SARA-R4 series modules, with pins grouped by function. Function Pin Name Pin No Description Remarks Power 51,52,53 I Module supply VCC supply circuit affects the RF performance and...
  • Page 14 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Function Pin Name Pin No Description Remarks VSIM SIM supply output Supply output for external SIM / UICC. See section for functional description. See section for external circuit design-in. SIM_IO SIM data Data input/output for external SIM / UICC.
  • Page 15 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Function Pin Name Pin No Description Remarks VUSB_DET USB detect input VBUS (5 V typ.) sense input pin to enable the USB interface. Test-Point for diagnostic / FW update strongly recommended. See section 1.9.2 for functional description.
  • Page 16 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Function Pin Name Pin No Description Remarks SDIO SDIO_D0 SDIO serial data SDIO interface is not supported by current product versions. See section 1.9.4 for functional description. See section 2.6.4 for external circuit design-in.
  • Page 17 Reserved pin Internally not connected. 46,47 See sections 1.13 2.10 Table 3: SARA-R4 series modules pin definition, grouped by function SARA-R422M8S modules only SARA-R410M, SARA-R412M modules only SARA-R410M, SARA-R412M, SARA-R422, SARA-R422S modules only SARA-R422, SARA-R422S, SARA-R422M8S modules only SARA-R422 modules only...

  • Page 18: Operating Modes

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 1.4 Operating modes SARA-R4 series modules have several operating modes. The operating modes are defined in Table 4 and described in detail in Table 5, providing general guidelines for operation. General status Operating mode...
  • Page 19 DTR set to OFF (with AT+UPSV=3 setting), if low power reduce the current consumption (see configuration is enabled (see the SARA-R4 series AT commands section 1.5.1.5). manual [2], +UPSV AT command). When in low power idle mode, the module switches to the active...
  • Page 20 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual The initial operating mode of SARA-R4 series modules is the one with VCC supply not present or below the operating range: the modules are switched off in not-powered mode. Once a valid VCC supply is applied to the SARA-R4 series modules, they remain switched off in the power-off mode.

  • Page 21: Supply Interfaces

    Tx / Rx call at maximum RF power level (see the SARA-R4 series data sheet [1]). SARA-R412M, SARA-R422, SARA-R422S, SARA-R422M8S modules, supporting 2G radio access technology, provide separate supply inputs over the three VCC pins: •...
  • Page 22 VCC supply circuit compliant with the requirements listed in Table ⚠ The supply circuit affects the RF compliance of the device integrating SARA-R4 series modules with applicable required certification schemes as well as antenna circuit design. Compliance is guaranteed if the requirements summarized in the Table 6 are fulfilled.
  • Page 23 (approximately 2 W or 33 dBm in the Tx slot/burst), then the current consumption can reach a high peak / pulse (see the SARA-R4 series data sheet [1]) for 576.9 µs (width of the transmit slot/burst) with a periodicity of 4.615 ms (width of 1 frame = 8 slots/burst), that is, with a 1/8 duty cycle according to GSM TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access).
  • Page 24 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Figure 8 shows an example of the module current consumption profile versus time in 2G single-slot. Current [A] 1 900 mA 1 .5 Peak current depends on TX power and 1 .0 actual antenna load...
  • Page 25 The use of the User Equipment Power Saving Mode defined in 3GPP Rel.13 is by default disabled, but it can be enabled using the +CPSMS AT command (see the SARA-R4 series AT commands manual the application development guide [4]). When the use of the PSM is enabled, the module automatically enters the PSM and the ultra low power deep sleep mode whenever possible.
  • Page 26 (DRX) mode. Detailed current consumption values can be found in the SARA-R4 series data sheet [1]. Current [mA]...

  • Page 27: Generic Digital Interfaces Supply Output (V_Int)

    Generic digital interfaces supply output (V_INT) The V_INT output pin of the SARA-R4 series modules is generated by the module internal power management circuitry when the module is switched on and it is not in the deep sleep power saving mode.

  • Page 28: System Function Interfaces

    PWR_ON / PWR_CTRL input pin for a valid time. When the SARA-R4 series modules are in the power-off mode (i.e. switched off) or in the Power Saving Mode (PSM), with a valid VCC supply applied, they can be switched on as follows: •...

  • Page 29: Module Power-Off

    If this occurs, it is not possible to perform the storing of the current parameter settings in the module’s non-volatile memory or to perform the clean network detach. ☞ It is highly recommended to avoid an abrupt removal of the VCC supply during SARA-R4 series modules normal operations. ⚠...
  • Page 30 • When the +CPWROFF AT command is sent, or when a low pulse with appropriate time duration (see the SARA-R4 series data sheet [1]) is applied at the PWR_ON / PWR_CTRL input pin, the module starts the switch-off routine. •...

  • Page 31: Module Reset

    An abrupt hardware reset (reboot) occurs on SARA-R422, SARA-R422S, SARA-R422M8S modules when a low level is applied on PWR_CTRL input pin for a long time period (see the SARA-R4 series data sheet [1]). In this case, the current parameter settings are not saved in the module’s non-volatile memory and a clean network detach is not performed.

  • Page 32: Antenna Interfaces

    1.7.1 Cellular antenna RF interface (ANT) SARA-R4 series modules provide an RF interface for connecting the external cellular antenna. The ANT pin represents the primary RF input/output for transmission and reception of cellular RF signals. The ANT pin has a nominal characteristic impedance of 50  and must be connected to the cellular Tx / Rx antenna system through a 50 ...

  • Page 33: Gnss Antenna Rf Interface (Ant_Gnss)

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 1.7.2 GNSS antenna RF interface (ANT_GNSS) ☞ The GNSS antenna RF interface is supported by SARA-R422M8S modules only. ☞ For additional information and guidelines regarding the GNSS system, see the u-blox SARA-R4 / SARA-R5 positioning implementation application note [21].

  • Page 34: Antenna Detection Interface (Ant_Det)

    Low logic level at GPIO5 input pin is recognized as SIM card not present • High logic level at GPIO5 input pin is recognized as SIM card present For more details, see the SARA-R4 series AT commands manual [2], +UGPIOC, +CIND and +CMER AT commands. UBX-16029218 - R20...

  • Page 35: Data Communication Interfaces

    1.9.1.1 UART features SARA-R4 series modules include a primary main UART interface (UART) for communication with an application host processor, supporting AT commands, data communication, multiplexer protocol functionality (see 1.9.1.3), FW update by means of FOAT, with settings configurable by dedicated AT commands (for more details, see the SARA-R4 series AT commands manual [2]): •...
  • Page 36 The default frame format is 8N1 (8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit) SARA-R4 series modules’ UART interface is by default configured in AT command mode, if the USB interface is not enabled as AT command / data communication interface (UART and USB cannot be concurrently used for this purpose): the module waits for AT command instructions and interprets all the characters received as commands to execute.

  • Page 37: Usb Interface

    SARA-R412M modules and an external host processor, available for AT / data communication, FW upgrade by means of the FOAT feature. The USB is the interface of SARA-R4 series modules available for FW upgrade by means of the u-blox dedicated tool and for diagnostic purposes.

  • Page 38: Spi Interface

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual The SARA-R4 series module itself acts as a USB device and can be connected to a USB host such as a Personal Computer or an embedded application microprocessor equipped with compatible drivers. The USB_D+/USB_D- lines carry USB serial bus data and signaling according to the Universal Serial Bus revision 2.0 specification [6], while the VUSB_DET input pin senses the VBUS USB supply...

  • Page 39: Audio

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual the SARA-R4 series module acts as an I2C host which can communicate with I2C devices in accordance with the I2C bus specifications [11]. The SDA and SCL pins have internal pull-up to V_INT, so there is no need of additional pull-up resistors on the external application board.

  • Page 40: Gnss Peripheral Input Output

    1.13 Reserved pins (RSVD) SARA-R4 series modules have pins reserved for future use, marked as RSVD. All the RSVD pins are to be left unconnected on the application board, except for the RSVD pin number 33 that can be externally connected to ground by 0 ...

  • Page 41: Design-In

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Design-in 2.1 Overview For an optimal integration of the SARA-R4 series modules in the final application board, follow the design guidelines stated in this section. Every application circuit must be suitably designed to guarantee the correct functionality of the relative interface, but a number of points require particular attention during the design of the application device.

  • Page 42: Supply Interfaces

    (low impedance) connection to external ground can minimize power loss and improve RF and thermal performance. SARA-R4 series modules must be sourced through the VCC pins with a suitable DC power supply that should meet the following prerequisites to comply with the modules’ VCC requirements summarized...
  • Page 43 The selected regulator or battery must be able to support with adequate margin the highest averaged current consumption value specified in the SARA-R4 series data sheet [1]. The following sections highlight some design aspects for each of the supplies listed above providing...
  • Page 44 SARA-R4 series modules that support 2G radio access technology. This circuit is also suitable for the other SARA-R4 series modules, where the module VCC input is supplied by a step- down switching regulator capable of delivering the highest peak / pulse current specified for the 2G use-case, with low output ripple and with fixed switching frequency in PWM mode operation greater than 1 MHz.
  • Page 45 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Figure 21 and the components listed in Table 11 show an example of a high reliability power supply circuit for SARA-R410M modules, which do not support the 2G radio access technology. In this example, the module VCC is supplied by a step-down switching regulator capable of delivering the maximum peak / pulse current specified for the LTE use-case, with low output ripple and with fixed switching frequency in PWM mode operation greater than 1 MHz.
  • Page 46 12 V supply input. SARA-R4 series SYNC COMP Figure 22: Example of low cost VCC supply circuit for SARA-R4 series modules, using a step-down regulator Reference Description Part Number - Manufacturer 22 µF Capacitor Ceramic X5R 1210 10% 25 V...
  • Page 47 14). This reduces the power on the linear regulator and improves the whole thermal design of the supply circuit. SARA-R4 series SHDN Figure 23: Example of high reliability VCC supply circuit for SARA-R4 series modules, using an LDO linear regulator Reference Description Part Number - Manufacturer 10 µF Capacitor Ceramic X5R 0603 20% 6.3 V...
  • Page 48 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Figure 24 and the components listed in Table 14 show an example of a high reliability power supply circuit for SARA-R410M modules, which do not support the 2G radio access technology, where the module VCC is supplied by an LDO linear regulator capable of delivering maximum peak / pulse current specified for LTE use-case, with suitable power handling capability.
  • Page 49 15). This reduces the power on the linear regulator and improves the whole thermal design of the supply circuit. SARA-R4 series Figure 25: Example of low cost VCC supply circuit for SARA-R4 series modules, using an LDO linear regulator Reference Description Part Number - Manufacturer 10 µF Capacitor Ceramic X5R 0603 20% 6.3 V...
  • Page 50 VCC pins must be capable of delivering the maximum current occurring during a transmission at maximum Tx power, as specified in the SARA-R4 series data sheet [1]. The maximum discharge current is not always reported in the data sheets of batteries, but the maximum DC discharge current is typically almost equal to the battery capacity in Amp-hours divided by 1 hour.
  • Page 51 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual The Battery Charger IC, as linear charger, is more suitable for applications where the charging source has a relatively low nominal voltage (~5 V), so that a switching charger is suggested for applications where the charging source has a relatively high nominal voltage (e.g. ~12 V, see section 2.2.1.7...
  • Page 52 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual A power management IC should meet the following prerequisites to comply with the module VCC requirements summarized in Table • High efficiency internal step down converter, with characteristics as indicated in section 2.2.1.2 •...
  • Page 53 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Using a battery pack with an internal NTC resistor, the MP2617H can monitor the battery temperature to protect the battery from operating under unsafe thermal conditions. Several parameters as the charging current, the charging timings, the input current limit, the input...
  • Page 54 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 2.2.1.8 Guidelines for particular VCC supply circuit design for SARA-R4x2 The SARA-R412M, SARA-R422, SARA-R422S and SARA-R422M8S modules, supporting 2G radio access technology, have separate supply inputs over the VCC pins (see Figure • VCC pins #52 and #53: supply input for the internal RF Power Amplifier, demanding most of the total current drawn of the module when RF transmission is enabled during a call •...
  • Page 55 Table 19: Components for VCC supply removal application circuit ☞ It is highly recommended to avoid an abrupt removal of the VCC supply during SARA-R4 series normal operations: the VCC supply can be removed only after V_INT goes low, indicating that the module has entered Deep-Sleep Power Saving Mode or Power-Off Mode.
  • Page 56 100 µF low ESR capacitor (e.g Kemet T520B107M006ATE015), for SARA-R412M supporting 2G • 10 µF capacitor (or greater), for the other SARA-R4 series modules that do not support 2G An additional series ferrite bead is recommended for additional RF noise filtering, in particular if the application device integrates an internal antenna: •...
  • Page 57 RF signal. This is more likely to happen with switching DC-DC converters, in which case it is better to select the highest operating frequency for the switcher and add a large L-C filter before connecting to the SARA-R4 series modules in the worst case •...

  • Page 58: Generic Digital Interfaces Supply Output (V_Int)

    Generic digital interfaces supply output (V_INT) 2.2.2.1 Guidelines for V_INT circuit design SARA-R4 series modules provide the V_INT generic digital interfaces 1.8 V supply output, which can be mainly used to: • Indicate when the module is switched on and it is not in the deep sleep power saving mode (as described in sections 1.6.1, 1.6.2)

  • Page 59: System Functions Interfaces

    The PWR_ON / PWR_CTRL circuit requires careful layout since it is the sensitive input available to switch on and switch off the SARA-R4 series modules. It is required to ensure that the voltage level is well defined during operation and no transient noise is coupled on this line, otherwise the module might detect a spurious power-on request.

  • Page 60: Module Reset_N Input

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 2.3.2 Module RESET_N input 2.3.2.1 Guidelines for RESET_N circuit design The RESET_N input line of the SARA-R410M and SARA-R412M modules is equipped with an internal pull-up; an external pull-up resistor is not required. If connecting the RESET_N input to a push button, the pin will be externally accessible on the application device.

  • Page 61: Antenna Interfaces

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 2.4 Antenna interfaces SARA-R4 series modules provide an RF interface for connecting the external antenna: the ANT pin represents the RF input/output for RF signals transmission and reception. SARA-R422M8S modules provide also a GNSS RF interface for connecting the external GNSS antenna: the ANT_GNSS pin represents the GNSS RF input for GNSS signals reception.
  • Page 62 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 2.4.1.2 Guidelines for RF transmission lines design ☞ The GNSS antenna RF interface is supported by SARA-R422M8S modules only. Any RF transmission line, such as the ones from the ANT and ANT_GNSS pads up to the related antenna connector or up to the related internal antenna pad, must be designed so that the characteristic impedance is as close as possible to 50 .
  • Page 63 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual If the distance between the transmission line and the adjacent GND area (on the same layer) does not exceed 5 times the width of the line, use the “Coplanar Waveguide” model for the 50  calculation.
  • Page 64 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 2.4.1.3 Guidelines for RF termination design ☞ The GNSS antenna RF interface is supported by SARA-R422M8S modules only. The RF termination must provide a characteristic impedance of 50  as well as the RF transmission line up to the RF termination, to match the characteristic impedance of ANT and ANT_GNSS ports.

  • Page 65: Cellular Antenna Rf Interface (Ant)

    RF compliance of the device integrating SARA-R4 series modules with all the applicable required certification schemes depends on antenna’s radiating performance.
  • Page 66 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual In both of cases, selecting external or internal antennas, these recommendations should be observed: • Select an antenna providing optimal return loss / VSWR / efficiency figure over all the operating cellular frequencies. •...
  • Page 67 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Table 24 lists some examples of possible internal off-board PCB-type antennas with cable and connector. Manufacturer Part number Product name Description PulseLarsen W3929B0100 LTE FPC antenna with coax feed Antennas 617..960 MHz, 1710..2690 MHz, 3400..3900 MHz 115.8 x 30.4 mm...

  • Page 68: Gnss Antenna Rf Interface (Ant_Gnss)

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 2.4.3 GNSS antenna RF interface (ANT_GNSS) ☞ The GNSS antenna RF interface is supported by SARA-R422M8S modules only. ☞ For additional information and guidelines regarding the GNSS design, see the u-blox SARA-R4 / SARA-R5 positioning implementation application note [21].
  • Page 69 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual SARA-R422M8S ANT_GNSS ANT_ON Figure 41: Typical circuit for best performance and improved jamming immunity with GNSS passive antenna The external LNA can be selected to deliver the performance needed by the application in terms of: •...
  • Page 70 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Table 27 lists examples of LNA suitable for the GNSS RF input of SARA-R422M8S modules. Manufacturer Part number Comments Maxim MAX2659ELT+ Low noise figure, up to 10 dBm RF input power JRC New Japan Radio NJG1143UA2...
  • Page 71 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual To avoid damaging the bias-T series inductor in the case of a short circuit at the antenna connector, it is recommended to implement a proper over-current protection circuit, which may consist in a series...

  • Page 72: Cellular And Gnss Rf Coexistence

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Table 32 lists examples of active antennas to be used with SARA-R422M8S modules. Manufacturer Part number Product name Description Tallysman TW3400 Active antenna– 2.5 - 16 V GPS / SBAS / QZSS / GLONASS...
  • Page 73 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual In-band interference In-band interference signals are typically caused by harmonics from displays, switching converters, micro-controllers and bus systems. Moreover, considering for example the LTE band 13 high channel transmission frequency (787 MHz) and the GPS operating band (1575.42 MHz ± 1.023 MHz), the second harmonic of the cellular signal is exactly within the GPS operating band.
  • Page 74 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual • selecting a cellular antenna providing the worst possible return loss / VSWR / efficiency figure in the GNSS frequency band: the lower is the cellular antenna efficiency between 1575 MHz and 1610 MHz, the higher is the isolation between the cellular and the GNSS systems •...

  • Page 75: Antenna Detection Interface (Ant_Det)

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 2.4.5 Antenna detection interface (ANT_DET) 2.4.5.1 Guidelines for ANT_DET circuit design Figure 46 Table 34 describe the recommended schematic / components for the antenna detection circuit that must be provided on the application board and for the diagnostic circuit that must be provided on the antenna’s assembly to achieve antenna detection functionality.
  • Page 76 • Values close to the measurement range maximum limit (approximately 50 k) or an open-circuit “over range” report (see the SARA-R4 series AT commands manual [2]) means that that the antenna is not connected or the RF cable is broken.
  • Page 77 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 2.4.5.2 Guidelines for ANT_DET layout design Figure 47 describes the recommended layout for the antenna detection circuit to be provided on the application board to achieve antenna detection functionality, implementing the recommended schematic described in the previous...

  • Page 78: Sim Interface

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 2.5 SIM interface 2.5.1 Guidelines for SIM circuit design 2.5.1.1 Guidelines for SIM cards, SIM connectors and SIM chips selection The ISO/IEC 7816, the ETSI TS 102 221 and the ETSI TS 102 671 specifications define the physical,...
  • Page 79 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 2.5.1.2 Guidelines for single SIM card connection without detection A removable SIM card placed in a SIM card holder must be connected to the SIM card interface of SARA-R4 series modules as described in...
  • Page 80 Guidelines for single SIM chip connection A Surface-Mounted SIM chip (M2M UICC Form Factor) must be connected the SIM card interface of the SARA-R4 series modules as described in Figure Follow these guidelines to connect the module to a Surface-Mounted SIM chip without SIM presence detection: •...
  • Page 81 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual • Connect one pin of the normally-open mechanical switch integrated in the SIM connector (as the SW2 pin in Figure 50) to the GPIO5 input pin, providing a weak pull-down resistor (e.g. 470 k, as...

  • Page 82: Guidelines For Sim Layout Design

    The layout of the SIM card interface lines (VSIM, SIM_CLK, SIM_IO, SIM_RST may be critical if the SIM card is placed far away from the SARA-R4 series modules or in close proximity to the RF antenna: these two cases should be avoided or at least mitigated as described below.

  • Page 83: Data Communication Interfaces

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 2.6 Data communication interfaces 2.6.1 UART interface 2.6.1.1 Guidelines for UART circuit design Providing the full RS-232 functionality (using the complete V.24 link) If RS-232 compatible signal levels are needed, two different external voltage translators can be used to provide full RS-232 (9 lines) functionality: e.g.
  • Page 84 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Providing the TXD, RXD, RTS, CTS and DTR lines only If the functionality of the DSR, DCD and RI lines is not required, or the lines are not available: • Leave DSR, DCD and RI lines of the module floating If RS-232 compatible signal levels are needed, two different external voltage translators (e.g.
  • Page 85 Connect the module DTR input to GND using a 0  series resistor, since it may be useful to set DTR active if not specifically handled, in particular to have URCs presented over the UART interface (see the SARA-R4 series AT commands manual for the &D, S0, +CNMI AT commands) •...
  • Page 86 Connect the DTR input line to GND using a 0  series resistor, because it is useful to set DTR active if not specifically handled, in particular to have URCs presented over the UART interface (see SARA-R4 series AT commands manual [2], &D, S0, +CNMI AT commands) •...
  • Page 87 The TXD data input line of the module has an internal active pull-down enabled on the “00B” and on the SARA-R410M-02B product versions, and it has an internal active pull-up enabled on the other product versions of SARA-R4 series modules. ☞...

  • Page 88: Usb Interface

    The USB interface of SARA-R410M and SARA-R412M modules is enabled only if a valid voltage is detected by the VUSB_DET input (see the SARA-R4 series data sheet [1]). Neither the USB interface nor the whole module is supplied by the VUSB_DET input: the VUSB_DET senses the USB supply voltage and absorbs few microamperes.
  • Page 89 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual The SARA-R422-00B, SARA-R422S-00B and SARA-R422M8S-00B modules product versions do not support AT command / data communication over USB interface: the USB interface is available on these modules product versions for FW upgrade by means of the dedicated u-blox EasyFlash tool and for diagnostic purposes only.
  • Page 90 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 2.6.2.2 Guidelines for USB layout design The USB_D+ / USB_D- lines require accurate layout design to achieve reliable signaling at the high speed data rate (up to 480 Mb/s) supported by the USB serial interface.

  • Page 91: Spi Interface

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 2.6.3 SPI interface 2.6.3.1 Guidelines for SPI circuit design ☞ The SPI interface is not available on SARA-R422, SARA-R422S or SARA-R422M8S modules, and it is not supported by current product versions of SARA-R410M or SARA-R412M modules: the SPI interface pins should not be driven by any external device.
  • Page 92 GNSS supply enabled GPIO2 SHDN GNSS data ready GPIO3 Figure 63: Application circuit for connecting SARA-R4 series modules to u-blox 1.8 V GNSS receivers Reference Description Part Number - Manufacturer 47 kΩ Resistor 0402 5% 0.1 W RC0402JR-0747KL - Yageo Phycomp...
  • Page 93 VCCA VCCB DIR1 GNSS data ready GPIO3 DIR2 Figure 64: Application circuit for connecting SARA-R4 series modules to u-blox 3.0 V GNSS receivers Reference Description Part Number - Manufacturer R1, R2 4.7 kΩ Resistor 0402 5% 0.1 W RC0402JR-074K7L - Yageo Phycomp 47 kΩ...

  • Page 94: Audio

    2.8 General Purpose Input/Output 2.8.1 Guidelines for GPIO circuit design A typical usage of SARA-R4 series modules’ GPIOs can be the following: • Network indication provided over GPIO1 pin (see Figure 65 Table 46 below) •...

  • Page 95: Guidelines For General Purpose Input/Output Layout Design

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual ☞ ESD sensitivity rating of the GPIO pins is 1 kV (HBM according to JESD22-A114). Higher protection level could be required if the lines are externally accessible and it can be achieved by mounting an ESD protection (e.g. EPCOS CA05P4S14THSG varistor) close to accessible points.

  • Page 96: Reserved Pins (Rsvd)

    ☞ The heat dissipation during continuous transmission at maximum power can significantly raise the temperature of the application base-board below the SARA-R4 series modules: avoid placing temperature sensitive devices close to the module. UBX-16029218 - R20...

  • Page 97: Module Footprint And Paste Mask

    Stencil: 1 50 H’ H’’ µm J’ J’’ F’ F’’ F’ F’’ Figure 67: SARA-R4 series modules suggested footprint and paste mask (application board top view) Parameter Value Parameter Value Parameter Value 26.0 mm 1.10 mm 2.75 mm 16.0 mm H’...

  • Page 98: Thermal Guidelines

    2.13 Thermal guidelines ☞ The module operating temperature range is specified in the SARA-R4 series data sheet [1]. The most critical condition concerning module thermal performance is the uplink transmission at maximum power (data upload in connected mode), when the baseband processor runs at full speed, radio circuits are all active and the RF power amplifier is driven to higher output RF power.

  • Page 99: Schematic For Sara-R4 Series Module Integration

    2.14 Schematic for SARA-R4 series module integration 2.14.1 Schematic for SARA-R4 series modules Figure 68 is an example of a schematic diagram where a SARA-R4 series module is integrated into an application board using almost all available interfaces and functions. SARA-R4 series...

  • Page 100: Design-In Checklist

    Provide adequate precautions for EMC / ESD immunity as required on the application board.  Do not apply voltage to any generic digital interface pin of SARA-R4 series modules before the switch-on of the generic digital interface supply source (V_INT).

  • Page 101: Antenna Checklist

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual  The VCC bypass capacitors in the picoFarad range should be placed as close as possible to the VCC pins, in particular if the application device integrates an internal antenna.  Ensure an optimal grounding connecting each GND pin with application board solid ground layer.

  • Page 102: Handling And Soldering

    The term is usually used in the electronics and other industries to describe momentary unwanted currents that may cause damage to electronic equipment. The ESD sensitivity for each pin of SARA-R4 series modules (as Human Body Model according to JESD22-A114F) is specified in the SARA-R4 series data sheet [1].

  • Page 103: Soldering

    3.3 Soldering 3.3.1 Soldering paste "No Clean" soldering paste is strongly recommended for SARA-R4 series modules, as it does not require cleaning after the soldering process has taken place. The paste listed in the example below meets these criteria. Soldering Paste: OM338 SAC405 / Nr.143714 (Cookson Electronics)

  • Page 104: Optical Inspection

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Cooling phase A controlled cooling avoids negative metallurgical effects (solder becomes more brittle) of the solder and possible mechanical tensions in the products. Controlled cooling helps to achieve bright solder fillets with a good shape and low contact angle.

  • Page 105: Repeated Reflow Soldering

    Boards with combined through-hole technology (THT) components and surface-mount technology (SMT) devices require wave soldering to solder the THT components. No more than one wave soldering process is allowed for a board with a SARA-R4 series module already populated on it. ⚠...

  • Page 106: Grounding Metal Covers

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 3.3.11 Grounding metal covers Attempts to improve grounding by soldering ground cables, wick or other forms of metal strips directly onto the EMI covers is done at the customer's own risk. The numerous ground pins should be sufficient to provide optimum immunity to interference and noise.

  • Page 107: Approvals

    Verizon Wireless network operator in United States ▪ The manufacturer of the end-device that integrates a SARA-R4 series module must take care of all certification approvals required by the specific integrating device to be deployed in the market. The required certification scheme approvals and relative testing specifications applicable to the...
  • Page 108 LTE-M, NB1 bands 3,8,20 LTE-M, NB1 bands 3,8,20 Telekom 2G bands 900,1800 Table 48: Summary of certification approvals achieved for the SARA-R4 series modules, with related RAT and bands ☞ The certification approvals listed in Table 48 might not be available for all the different product type numbers. Please contact the u-blox office or sales representative nearest you for the full comprehensive list of approvals and for further specific info about all country, conformance and network operators’...
  • Page 109 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Table 49 summarizes the main approvals planned for SARA-R422, SARA-R422S and SARA-R422M8S modules. Certification SARA-R422 / SARA-R422S / SARA-R422M8S PTCRB LTE-M bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 12, 13, 20, 25, 26, 28, 66; NB-IoT bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 12, 13, 20, 28, 66, 85; 2G bands 850, 900, 1800, 1900 LTE-M bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 12, 13, 20, 25, 26, 28, 66;...
  • Page 110 Verizon Model Name SARA-R410M-02B SARA-R410M-52B Sprint Model Name SARA-R410M Deutsche Telekom Model Name SARA-R410M-02B SARA-R412M-02B Telstra Model Name SARA-R410M-02B Table 50: Summary of some SARA-R4 series modules’ identification by various bodies UBX-16029218 - R20 Approvals Page 110 of 128 C1-Public...

  • Page 111: Federal Communications Commission Notice

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual The SARA-R4 series modules include the capability to configure the device by selecting the operating mobile network operator profile, radio access technology, and bands. In the SARA-R4 series AT commands manual [2], see the +UMNOPROF, +URAT, and +UBANDMASK AT commands.

  • Page 112: Declaration Of Conformity

    ⚠ The gain of the system antenna(s) used for the SARA-R4 series modules (i.e. the combined transmission line, connector, cable losses and radiating element gain) must not exceed the value specified in the FCC Grant for mobile and fixed or mobile operating configurations: •...

  • Page 113: Modifications

    ⚠ Manufacturers of mobile or fixed devices incorporating the SARA-R4 series modules are authorized to use the FCC Grants of the SARA-R4 series modules for their own final products according to the conditions referenced in the certificates. ⚠...

  • Page 114: Innovation, Science, Economic Development Canada Notice

    ⚠ The gain of the system antenna(s) used for the SARA-R4 series modules (i.e. the combined transmission line, connector, cable losses and radiating element gain) must not exceed the value stated in the ISED Canada Grant for mobile and fixed or mobile operating configurations: •...

  • Page 115: Modifications

    ⚠ Manufacturers of mobile or fixed devices incorporating the SARA-R4 series modules are authorized to use the ISED Canada Certificates of the SARA-R4 series modules for their own final products according to the conditions referenced in the certificates. ⚠...

  • Page 116: European Conformance Ce Mark

    ⚠ IMPORTANT: les fabricants d'applications portables contenant les modules de la SARA-R4 series doivent faire certifier leur produit final et déposer directement leur candidature pour une certification FCC ainsi que pour un certificat ISDE Canada délivré par l'organisme chargé de ce type d'appareil portable.

  • Page 117: National Communication Commission Taiwan

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual ⚠ Radiofrequency radiation exposure Information: this equipment complies with radiation exposure limits prescribed for an uncontrolled environment for fixed and mobile use conditions. This equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20 cm between the radiator and the body of the user or nearby persons.

  • Page 118: Anatel Brazil

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual 4.6 ANATEL Brazil • SARA-R410M-02B modules ANATEL Homologation No. 07889-19-05903 07889-19-05903 • SARA-R412M-02B modules ANATEL Homologation No. 07927-19-05903 07927-19-05903 4.7 Australian Conformance The u-blox SARA-R410M-02B, SARA-R410M-83B and SARA-R412M-02B modules are compliant with the applicable standards made by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).

  • Page 119: Product Testing

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Product testing 5.1 u-blox in-series production test u-blox focuses on high quality for its products. All units produced are fully tested automatically on the production line. Stringent quality control processes have been implemented in the production line.

  • Page 120: Test Parameters For Oem Manufacturers

    This test should be performed after the data connection has been established. AT+CSQ is the typical AT command used to check signal quality in term of RSSI. See the SARA-R4 series AT commands manual for detail usage of the AT command.
  • Page 121 Application board Cellular Wideband antenna Application antenna SARA-R4 processor commands Signal generator Application board Figure 71: Setup with spectrum analyzer or power meter and signal generator for SARA-R4 series RF measurements UBX-16029218 - R20 Product testing Page 121 of 128 C1-Public...

  • Page 122: Appendix

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Appendix Migration between SARA modules ☞ Detailed and updated guidelines to migrate between the u-blox SARA-G3, SARA-G4, SARA-U2, SARA-N2, SARA-N3, SARA-R4 and SARA-R5 series modules are available in the u-blox SARA modules migration guidelines application note [20].
  • Page 123 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Abbreviation Definition GITEKI Gijutsu kijun tekigō shōmei - technical standard conformity certification (Japan) GLONASS GLObal NAvigation Satellite System (Russian satellite navigation system) GMSK Gaussian Minimum-Shift Keying modulation Ground GNSS Global Navigation Satellite System GPIO...
  • Page 124 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Abbreviation Definition Sub-Miniature version A Surface Mounting Device Short Message Service Serial Peripheral Interface Self-Resonant Frequency Secure Socket Layer To Be Defined Transmission Control Protocol Time Division Duplex TDMA Time Division Multiple Access Total Isotropic Sensitivity...

  • Page 125: Related Documentation

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Related documentation u-blox SARA-R4 series data sheet, UBX-16024152 u-blox SARA-R4 series AT commands Manual, UBX-17003787 u-blox SARA-R41 series application development guide application note, UBX-18019856 u-blox SARA-R42 series application development guide application note, UBX-20050829 u-blox EVK-R4 user guide, UBX-16029216 Universal Serial Bus revision 2.0 specification,...

  • Page 126: Revision History

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Revision history Revision Date Name Comments 31-Jan-2017 sfal Initial release 05-May-2017 sfal / sses Updated supported features and characteristics Extended document applicability to SARA-R410M-01B product version 24-May-2017 sses Updated supported features and electrical characteristics...
  • Page 127 SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Revision Date Name Comments 09-Dec-2020 sses Extended document applicability to SARA-R410M-63B-01 23-Feb-2021 sses Extended document applicability to product versions SARA-R410M-02B-03, SARA-R412M-02B-03 02-Apr-2021 sses Extended document applicability to product versions SARA-R422-00B, SARA-R422M8S-00B, SARA-R422S-00B Minor other corrections and clarifications.

  • Page 128: Contact

    SARA-R4 series - System integration manual Contact For complete contact information, visit us at www.u-blox.com. u-blox Offices North, Central and South America Headquarters Asia, Australia, Pacific Europe, Middle East, Africa u-blox America, Inc. u-blox Singapore Pte. Ltd. u-blox AG Phone:...

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