Quectel Wireless has unveiled two “All-in-One” multimode LTE Cat 1 modules, EG21-G and a Mini PCIe variant. Both modules support global 4G, 3G and 2G radio access on up to 30 bands with a single SKU. These products can significantly enhance the efficiency of global IoT deployment and reduce costs. The modules were released at the CES 2020 event in Las Vegas earlier this month.
Based on Qualcomm's MDM9x07 modem, the two Cat 1 modules are compliant with 3GPP Rel. 11 specifications and deliver maximum data rates of 10 Mbps downlink and 5 Mbps uplink. Both are well suited for diversified IoT applications, which require medium data rates and stable connections, such as smart metering, wearable devices, environmental monitoring, security and alarm systems. The modules integrate optional multi-constellation GNSS receiver (GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou/Compass, Galileo and QZSS) in order to provide faster and more accurate positioning for asset tracking and fleet management applications.
They can work on FDD-LTE bands of B1/B2/B3/B4/B5/B7/B8/B12/B13/B18/ B19/B20/B25/B26/B28 and TDD-LTE bands of B38/B39/B40/B41. 3G-fallback is available on bands B1/B2/B4/B5/B6/B8/B19 and 2G-fallback on bands B2/B3/B5/B8. Offering up to 30 bands allows IoT integrators and developers to operate their devices on the networks of major global carriers, which include but are not limited to AT&T, Verizon and Deutsche Telekom. Both modules support a multi-carrier switch by detecting (U)SIM cards.
Adopting the LGA form factor, the EG21-G module is pin-compatible with Quectel's broad LTE EC2X/EG25-G modules and 3G UC20/UC200T modules. This allows existing customers to migrate or update their devices with a simple drop-in replacement. The Mini PCIe variant offers a built-in sim card holder, which will bring better plug-and-play experiences.
The modules' ‘all-in-one’ feature will allow customers to deploy their IoT devices globally with a single hardware design. This will significantly simplify design and testing, and save distribution costs for those partners expecting to tap global businesses. The EG21-G and EG21-G Mini PCIe series have gained global carrier, regulatory and conformance certifications from Deutsche Telekom, GCF, CE, FCC, IC, Anatel, IFETEL, NCC, JATE, TELEC and RCM.
