u-blox has introduced its SARA-S520M10L, a cellular and satellite IoT module with accurate, low-power positioning and ubiquitous connectivity. The module's communication and tracking capability is suitable for asset tracking, fleet management, maritime transportation, mining, utilities, and smart agriculture applications.
The u-blox SARA-S520M10L provides connectivity through terrestrial cellular networks and geostationary (GEO) satellites. Measuring approximately 400 mm2 with LTE-M/NB-IoT, L-band satellite connectivity, and embedded navigation capability, it is pin-compatible with other u-blox cellular-only modules in the SARA form factor. The module can provide location fixes using up to four satellite constellations.
Several factors have contributed to increasing demand for satellite communication to complement standard cellular connectivity within the IoT ecosystem. The need for global, ubiquitous connectivity has been rising steadily for years and has grown significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Critical goods in the supply chain must be tracked, although only a small proportion of the Earth’s surface is served by terrestrial cellular networks. In parallel, the IoT market has expanded at a steady pace, including use cases that need connectivity support in regions where cellular coverage is unreliable or absent.
