Quectel BG770A-SN 5G-ready satellite communication module

Quectel Wireless Solutions has announced the BG770A-SN ultra-compact 5G-ready satellite communication module. Compliant with 3GPP releases 13, 14 and 17, the product supports the LTE NB1 and NB2 bands as well as non-terrestrial networks (NTN) over narrowband IoT. Ultralow power consumption helps minimise energy usage and is achieved through enabling power-saving mode and extended idle mode discontinuous reception.

Suitable for a broad range of applications including transportation, energy, maritime, heavy industry and agricultural applications, the module is dual mode, supporting both NTN and TN and featuring GNSS for positioning functionality. It also supports iSIM.

The module meets the needs of size-constrained, global use cases that demand the comprehensive coverage that satellite connectivity provides. With a compact SMT form factor of 14.9 x 12.9 x 1.9 mm, suitable use cases include wireless point-of-sale (POS) devices, smart metering, tracking and wearable devices.

Designed for use in global markets, the module offers worldwide coverage utilising the GEO satellite constellation. In addition, it features integrated security elements to support comprehensive security. It also operates in an extended temperature range from -40 to +85°C.

The module features an ultra-slim profile in an LGA package and a rich set of interfaces. It supports download of firmware over the air and offers rapid time to market due to its wide library of reference designs, evaluation tools and Quectel’s timely technical support. These help to minimise time and effort spent on device design and development.

Quectel has developed a dedicated antenna for the module, dubbed the YECN028AA, which is an external 5G/NTN antenna that covers 5G NR sub-6 GHz frequency bands and is compatible with 4G/3G/2G/LPWA bands and NTN bands. With its high efficiency and gain, the omnidirectional antenna helps to provide ongoing high-speed data transmission.