u-blox launches GNSS modules with 8th generation in-house chip technology

THALWIL, Switzerland, Jan. 28, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Swiss-based u‑blox, a global leader in cellular and positioning modules and integrated circuits, introduces its popular NEO, MAX and LEA GNSS modules in u‑blox' next-generation, multi-constellation positioning platform u‑blox M8.  

The new module series satisfy a wide range of requirements by providing a scalable range of features including antenna management, integrated filters, data logging, crystal or TXCO, and rich set of interfaces. They can acquire and track all visible GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, QZSS and SBAS satellites and can track any two GNSS systems simultaneously for increased reliability, accuracy and faster acquisition time.

"Our advanced u-blox M8 modules are the result of u-blox' in-house GNSS chip design expertise and end-to-end ownership of the entire IC and module manufacturing processes," said Thomas Seiler, u-blox CEO.  "This gives us full control over features, quality and production allowing us to react quickly to customer requirements. Being independent of third party GNSS chip suppliers means we offer our customers exactly the right feature set, chip and module options, smooth upgrade path and a clearly defined product roadmap extending years into the future."

u-blox' online Assisted-GNSS service, AssistNow, has also been radically improved to support an unbeatable level of global positioning performance. The free service is available in online and offline versions and supports both assisted GPS and GLONASS.

The NEO-M8, MAX-M8 and LEA-M8 modules provide cutting edge positioning performance and -167 dBm tracking sensitivity for a wide range of applications including vehicle and asset tracking, eCall / ERA-GLONASS emergency call systems, vehicle telematics for insurance, road pricing and anti-theft devices, navigation, security, and point-of-sales terminals.

u-blox continues to offer u-blox 7 based modules NEO, MAX and LEA-7 which remain optimal for low-power, cost-efficient, single-GNSS designs. The new u-blox M8 modules maintain hardware and software compatibility with u-blox 7 modules to allow easy upgrade or product variants utilizing the same PCB layout.

u‑blox' capability of delivering u-blox 7 and u-blox M8 GNSS technologies in both module and integrated circuit form-factors provides maximum design flexibility and protects customers' development investments over successive product generations.

First samples and evaluation kits for u-blox M8 modules are available for customer evaluation.

To evaluate the performance of the u-blox M8 multi-GNSS platform, contact the u-blox office nearest you.

Click here for high-resolution photos of u-blox' NEO, MAX and LEA GNSS module form factors.

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