u-blox introduces GNSS antenna module that supports all satellites, concurrent operation

THALWIL, Switzerland, Feb. 20, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Swiss-based u‑blox, a global leader in cellular and positioning modules and integrated circuits, introduces the CAM-M8Q GPS/GLONASS/BeiDou/QZSS antenna module. The module integrates a u-blox M8 satellite receiver IC plus SAW filter, LNA, TCXO, RTC, passives and a pre-tuned GNSS chip antenna in an ultra-small 9.6 x 14.0 x 1.95 mm package. The new module requires only a power source for reliable and accurate satellite positioning anywhere in the world.

Combining low power consumption with high-sensitivity, high jamming immunity and concurrent GNSS operation (GPS/GLONASS, GPS/BeiDou, or GLONASS/BeiDou) the surface-mount CAM-M8Q provides a drop-in solution for satellite positioning in an ultra-small form factor.

"Our u-blox CAM-M8Q is perfect for customers designing highly compact products who want to speed up product development while freeing resources for core activities," explains Thomas Nigg, vp of product marketing at u-blox. "The CAM-M8Q is a pre-tuned, performance and cost optimized module providing satellite positioning on an extremely small footprint. It is literally an 'instant' positioning solution."

The u-blox CAM-M8Q module is ideal for a wide range of applications such as personal locators, handheld navigators, and wearable electronics as well as vehicle telematics systems used for emergency call, anti-theft, insurance and road pricing. Consistent omni-directional antenna performance helps ensure excellent performance regardless of module orientation.

In addition, the CAM-M8Q allows the internal chip antenna to be used as a backup antenna if the design incorporates an external antenna. This benefits companies where there is a risk that the primary external antenna may malfunction or suffer damage, for example in vehicle tracking systems where damage is possible to the external antenna.

The CAM-M8Q module uses the latest u-blox M8 GNSS receiver chip qualified according to AEC-Q100 and is manufactured in ISO/TS 16949 certified sites. Qualification tests are performed as stipulated in the ISO16750 standard: "Road vehicles – Environmental conditions and testing for electrical and electronic equipment".

The CAM‑M8Q is form-factor compatible to predecessor modules UC530 and UC530M, allowing the upgrade of existing designs with minimal effort.

Information about the u-blox CAM-M8Q module and evaluation kit EVK-M8CAM can be found on the u‑blox website. For samples and evaluation information contact the u-blox office nearest you.

About u-blox
Swiss-based u-blox (SIX:UBXN) is the global leader in positioning and wireless semiconductors for the consumer, industrial and automotive markets. Our solutions enable people, vehicles and machines to locate their exact position and wirelessly communicate via voice, text or video. With a broad portfolio of chips, modules and software solutions, u-blox is uniquely positioned to enable OEMs to develop innovative personal, professional and M2M solutions quickly and cost-effectively. With headquarters in Thalwil, Switzerland, u-blox is globally present with offices in Europe, Asia-Pacific and the USA.
(www.u-blox.com)

SOURCE u-blox