U-blox introduces the ALEX-R5 module in a micro-SIP package

U-blox announced the launch of the tiny cellular communications module ALEX-R5, which comes in an ultra-small SiP package with built-in low power Wide Area Network (LPWA) connectivity and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology. Using hardware components designed entirely in-house and based on the secure and reliable UBX-R5 LTE-M/NB-IoT chipset platform, the AliX-R5 not only has out-of-the-box secure cloud capabilities, but also delivers improved positioning accuracy with the u-blox M8 GNSS chip.

Thanks to the SiP package design, the ALEX-R5 measures only 14x14 mm, which is half the size of the equivalent SARA-R5 module, making it ideal for applications where size constraints apply.

Excellent cellular and GNSS performance

From the point of view of the equipped technology, the ALEX-R5 performance is more powerful. With cellular transmission power of up to 23 dBm, the terminal equipment can operate efficiently even in cell edge, underground or other harsh scenarios with poor signal. The dedicated GNSS antenna interface enables the u-blox M8 GNSS chip to operate completely independently, comparable to the performance of a separate u-blox M8 module. In addition, u-blox's IoT location-as-a-service with CellLocate® and AssistNow (online, offline, and autonomous) capabilities further enhances its location performance.

Optimized for battery-powered, power-sensitive applications The ALEX-R5 is optimized for battery-powered, power-sensitive applications to address common pain points in applications where size is limited, such as wearables and connected medical devices. With the low power mode of u-blox UBX-R5 and UBX-M8 chipsets, it also allows users to choose GNSS Super-E mode to further balance power consumption and performance.

The robust SiP construction makes it ideal for harsh environments, resistant to moisture or the effects of vibration. The ALEX-R5 has a humidity sensitivity rating of Level 3 (MSL 3), which reduces the complexity of product transportation and production.

Suitable for the entire iot life cycle and seamless transition to 5G

Using its own technology, u-blox has complete hardware and software ownership and can provide full lifecycle technical support for the entire platform, including the chipset, to ensure the long-term availability of the device. With a hardware-based internal Security unit, Secure cloud capabilities enable a lightweight pre-shared key management system designed for LPWA devices, enabling IoT security-as-a-service.

By allowing customers to perform software upgrades on deployed devices, enabling a seamless transition to the next generation of cellular communications technology when mobile operators roll out 5G networks in the future, ALEX-R5 ensures customers' iot devices and solutions are future-proof.