u-blox M8 GNSS chip and UBX-R5
Based on LTE-M/NB-IoT chipset platform
ALEX-R5 module improves location tracking capabilities


On the 27th, u-blox announced the launch of 'ALEX-R5', a cellular module that integrates low-power wide area (LPWA) connectivity technology and GNSS technology in a 14×14mm system-in-package (SiP) form factor.

The ALEX-R5 is based on the u-blox M8 GNSS chip, which provides high positioning accuracy and out-of-the-box Secure Cloud capabilities, and the UBX-R5 LTE-M/NB-IoT chipset platform with enhanced security.

A cellular transmission signal strength of 23 dBm allows the end device to operate effectively even in harsh environments. A dedicated GNSS antenna interface allows the M8 GNSS chip to operate fully independently and concurrently, delivering performance similar to that of a standalone u-blox M8 module.

Additionally, u-blox's IoT Location as a Service (IoT LaaS), which builds on u-blox's CellLocate® cellular positioning technology and AssistNow A-GNSS (assisted GNSS) service, further enhances positioning performance.

The ALEX-R5 is optimized for power-sensitive, battery-powered applications, addressing common weaknesses in size-constrained applications such as wearables and connected medical devices.

This is made possible by leveraging the low-power modes and GNSS Super-E mode of the u-blox UBX-R5 and UBX-M8 chips, allowing users to balance power consumption and performance.

It features a robust SiP packaging structure and a moisture sensitivity level 3 (MSL3) rating, enabling it to operate in harsh operating environments with high humidity and frequent vibration, unlike conventional modules.

◇ Extending the lifespan of IoT devices and continuing to support 5G compatibility

u-blox has developed all the necessary features in-house and owns the entire hardware and software. This ensures long-term availability of the device and support throughout the entire product lifecycle, from the chipset level to the entire platform.

Cloud security capabilities that support IoT Security as a Service (IoT-SaaS) based on built-in hardware-based security technologies enable a pre-shared key management system specialized for LPWA devices.

The ALEX-R5 allows customers to upgrade their existing devices' software to be compatible with 5G networks, ensuring a smooth transition to the next-generation cellular technology as mobile operators launch 5G networks.

ALEX-R5 SiP engineering samples are expected to be available in Q1 2021.