Sierra Wireless introduces embedded 5G module

     5G networks bring about a change in the demand for mobile phones, and over time, many devices will be connected to 5G networks, starting with routers and other network equipment. While you can design a 5G connection with a chipset, you can skip some engineering and design a module in your system. Sierra's product is the first embedded 5G module.

     The EM919x 5G NR module allows you to add 5G FR1 (below 6 GHz) and FR2 (millimeter wave connectivity) to your design. EM9190 supports FR1 and FR2 (n257, n258, n260 and n261), EM9191 only supports FR1 (n1, n2, n3, n5, n7, n8, n12, n20, n25, n28, n38, n40, n41, n48, n66, n71, n77, n78, n79) frequencies.

     Due to the short wavelength of FR2, the module includes a 4×4 beamforming antenna. For FR1, you can provide your own antenna. The modules are factory calibrated for all supported frequency bands and have been functionally tested in the RF room. "We have to test whether the module meets FCC and carrier requirements," said Larry Zibrik, vice president of 5G and embedded broadband at Sierra Wireless. . These modules support AT&T (FirstNet), docomo, LGU+, Telstra, and Verizon networks. These modules not only support 5G, but can also fall back to 4G LTE or even 3G depending on the service available, supporting millimeter wave frequencies.

     Integrating 5G connectivity into devices other than phones isn't something everyone can do, at least not yet. That's our conclusion based on our conversation with Zibrik. "We work closely with customers on integration issues, such as power, heat dissipation and interference, which can compromise a module's SIM card. These modules handle 90% of compliance issues, with the rest being handled by the engineers of the final product. This includes band shielding, power supply, thermal issues and software issues." To solve the thermal problem, the module can operate at industrial temperatures, but you still need to solve the thermal problem of the entire system."

     The EM919x module provides USB 3.1 or PCIe Gen 2 or 3 (single channel) ports. "We are already seeing customers integrate our LTE modules with Raspberry Pi microcontroller boards." "Zibrik said. One day, engineers will add 5G to Raspberry Pi and other open source processor boards, but that's still a few years away.