u-blox news Autumn 2012
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Contents Acquisition of Fastrax expands u-blox’ positioning market footprint u-blox introduces SARA, versatile ultra-small GSM module series for M2M
Dear Readers, 2012 has been a very exciting and eventful year for u-blox, with three new additions made to u-blox’ global organization: Finland-based GNSS module experts Fastrax, UK-based 4G chip design specialists Cognovo and 4G protocol stack developers 4M Wireless. We are glad to have added so many top notch
Acquisition of Cognovo and 4M Wireless gives u-blox own 4G chip and stack technology u-blox launches cost-effective UMTS/HSPA wireless modules Product Catalog 14 now available
experts to the u-blox team! These acquisitions are aimed at strengthening our leadership position in global positioning and embedded wireless communi-
Thomas Seiler, CEO u-blox
cations, while making sure we maintain our technology lead well into the future. All three companies bring industry-proven, cutting edge technologies, particularly in the areas of wireless core technology for mobile communications based on the LTE standard. As we move forward into a multi-GNSS world where GPS coexists with numerous other satellite navigation systems such as GLONASS, Compass, QZSS and Galileo, we are ready
Connected World selects u-blox
to meet the challenges and demands of our customers: multi-GNSS support, high-level of
u-blox wins prestigious Swiss Information and Communication Technology award (ICT)
On the wireless side of our business, we clearly see the looming dominance of 4G technol-
u-blox aids Philippines flood victims
integration with the world’s lowest power consumption in the smallest packages possible.
ogy. LTE is a huge step forwards for operators, providing the most efficient and cost-effective use of spectrum, while supporting the next generation of exciting new high-bandwidth applications and services. Our entry into the 4G modem business means we will meet this challenge head-on. We envisage a world where humans and computers are able to seamlessly communicate based on rich, ultra high-speed video, audio, and data. Combined with our positioning technologies, our products are dedicated to enabling compelling new
Case study Marine: Multifunction marine displays from Raymarine feature u-blox GPS Case study Industrial: Rosmerta vehicle tracking system based on u-blox GPS/GSM technology u-blox wireless modem certifications: update
Upcoming events
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products and services in the automotive, industrial and consumer markets. Ultimately it is you, our customers, who will be creating these new products. With u-blox as your partner for global positioning and embedded wireless communications, our goal is to make sure your products stay ahead of your competition! With kind regards,
Thomas Seiler, CEO
Acquisition of Fastrax expands u-blox’ positioning market footprint u-blox immediately gains new GPS/GLONASS modules, software GNSS, smart-antennas and profitable business IT530M, surface-mount, parallel GPS/GLONASS receiver Fastrax’ complementary products and IP will capitalize on u-blox’ advanced R&D, global sales and high-volume manufacturing
On October 30, u-blox announced the acquisition of privately owned, Finnish-based Fastrax Oy, a company that specializes in a broad range of GNSS positioning and antenna modules. The company brings additional products to u-blox’ portfolio, including software GNSS solutions used for consumer and industrial applications, and advanced GNSS modules that include integrated antenna. Over its 12 year history, Fastrax has established itself as a successful player in the global positioning markets worldwide. Their modules exploit the best features of four leading GNSS chip vendors and include advanced modules with integrated antenna. These products are an excellent complement to u-blox’ existing portfolio, and will benefit from u-blox’ economy of scale in terms of our advanced R&D capabilities, semiconductor technologies, global sales channels, established supply chain and high-volume manufacturing resources. As a direct result of the acquisition, two new parallel GPS/GLONASS receiver modules have been launched by u-blox:
UC530M, the world’s smallest parallel GPS/GLONASS module with built-in antenna
The new IT530M positioning module expands u-blox’ portfolio to include support for GPS and GLONASS navigation satellite systems in parallel. This is an important development for our customers, as it can enhance position availability in areas of adverse reception or at high latitudes such as in the polar regions of Russia.
compact devices, while time-to-market and price pressure call for minimal R&D effort and low cost. The new UC530M is built to address these requirements: a complete low-power, high performance multi-GNSS receiver with integrated chip antenna. The module is easy to integrate in a wide variety of devices cost-effectively.
The IT530M features a small foot print, low power consumption, and sophisticated interference suppression, ensuring maximum performance even in GPShostile environments. The 9.6 x 9.6 mm module is pin-compatible with Fastrax’ IT530 modules, which allows for easy upgrade from existing designs.
With high sensitivity, –165 dBm in tracking, and very low power consumption, typically only 66 mW average power consumption, the UC530M can be directly connected to a lithium battery, eliminating costly voltage regulators. Advanced low power modes are also supported along with 3 days selfassistance support. Additional functionality includes a logger function which stores location information in internal memory. With a typical log interval of 15 seconds, log capacity can be up to 16 hours.
The antenna module UC530M is easily embeddable in space-restricted environments thanks to its tiny footprint of only 9.6 x 14.0 x 1.95 mm. The highly integrated surface mount design reduces the need for external components and minimizes manufacturing costs. Location-aware functionality in ever-smaller consumer and industrial devices is a clear market trend. This presents an increasing challenge to OEMs; manufacturers are confronted with the difficult task of providing fast and accurate positioning in
The module is drop-in compatible with the UC530 GPS antenna module. Both modules will be available for sampling in Dec 2012.
u-blox introduces SARA, versatile ultra-small GSM module series for M2M Cost-effective modules work seamlessly with u-blox positioning products, migrates easily to UMTS/CDMA
u-blox‘ SARA line of GSM modules are designed to give M2M customers exactly the features they need
u-blox has launched SARA, a new line of versatile, low-power GSM/GPRS modules targeted at cost-sensitive applications. The new line of GSM modules is designed to give customers exactly the features they need. The interchangeable and fully cross-compatible SARA modules cover low to high-end features to give our M2M customers the precise cost/performance tradeoffs they need to develop the most cost-effective designs. Packaged in a compact 16 x 26 mm LGA module, SARA modules provide a perfect Page 2 | u-blox news
solution to a wide range of M2M applications requiring dual or quad-band GSM/ GPRS, voice and/or data, optional Internet suite (embedded TCP/IP, UDP/IP, HTTP and FTP), and in-band modem support for eCall and ERA GLONASS emergency call applications. Extremely low power consumption (less than 40 µA in power off mode and less than 0.9 mA in idle mode) makes SARA perfect for portable/battery powered applications.
integration, and supports simple migration to u-blox’ LISA UMTS and CDMA modules via PCB layout compatibility. Support for A-GPS and u-blox’ unique CellLocateTM positioning technology is embedded to facilitate advanced telematics applications including indoor positioning.
SARA modules are ideally suited for M2M and automotive applications such as Automatic Meter Reading (AMR), Remote Monitoring Automation and Control (RMAC), surveillance and security, road pricing, asset tracking, fleet management, anti-theft systems and Point of Sales (PoS) terminals.
RIL software for Android and Embedded Windows is available free of charge. SARA modules are manufactured in ISO/ TS 16949 certified sites. Each module is intensively inspected and tested during production. The modules are fully qualified according to ISO 16750 – Environmental conditions and electrical testing for electrical and electronic equipment for road vehicles to provide high durability and reliability.
The SARA Land Grid Array (LGA) form factor enables compact designs and easy
The first of the series, the SARA-G350, is sampling now with production in Q1 2013.
Acquisition of Cognovo and 4M Wireless gives u-blox own 4G chip and stack technology ARM spin-off Cognovo and 4G stack specialist 4M Wireless will enable u-blox to address new markets for high-speed LTE modems
Cognovo’s 4G baseband chip was successfully demonstrated at Mobile World Congress
In rapid succession, u-blox recently acquired two leading companies with advanced know-how in 4G mobile communications technology: Cognovo Ltd., a company specializing in “Software Defined Modem” (SDM) chip development technology, and 4M Wireless, a company that develops software stack and test solutions that are crucial for fourth generation LTE (4G) mobile wireless devices. “This is a very exciting acquisition for u-blox as it positions us as an agile and
cost-effective supplier of high-speed wireless modem products based on our own chip IP. This allows us to meet market demand for connected systems that require positioning, connectivity and application specific functionality on a single integrated circuit,” said Thomas Seiler, u-blox CEO. “This new foundation broadens our serviceable market, and will increase our margins in the automotive, consumer and industrial sectors.” Cognovo’s “Software Defined Modem” (SDM) technology and development tools quickly translate complex radio modem designs into fully characterized low-power semiconductor chips. The combination of technologies from Cognovo and 4M Wireless will result in a new wireless modem platform based
on IP owned by u-blox. Proven design Cognovo has already demonstrated their SDM baseband chip running highspeed 4G cellular functionality working with the LTE protocol stack from 4M Wireless at Mobile World Congress. With these acquisitions, u-blox lays the groundwork for establishing a leading position in 4G wireless modems similar to the strategy that u-blox followed to become the market leader in GPS/GNSS modules. The market for 4G modems used for machine-to-machine (M2M) applications is predicted to grow rapidly, surpassing 20 million units by 2016. u-blox is planning to launch its first 4G modem products in 2013.
u-blox launches cost-effective UMTS/HSPA wireless modules Dual-band LISA 3G modems support M2M devices operating in Europe, Asia and the Americas LISA-U260/U270 dual-band UMTS modules gives u-blox customers a wider choice of cost/feature options
u-blox has expanded its industry-standard LISA 3G module series with two new products: the LISA-U260 supporting frequency bands II and V used mainly in the Americas, and LISA-U270 supporting bands I and VIII used mainly in EMEA and most of Asia. The modems provide highspeed data and voice connectivity used in diverse M2M applications. The LISA-U260 and U270 expand the LISA modem series to allow customers to choose a module that precisely meets their cost/feature requirements while providing a low-cost option for UMTS connectivity for devices meant to function in specific regions and operator networks.
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These two new LISA modules complement u-blox’ current line of LISA-U200/ U230 universal UMTS modules which support all 6 global UMTS bands, and LISA-C200 CDMA modem dedicated for devices operating in the USA. The modems are targeted at machine-to machine solutions like security systems, fixed wireless terminals and metering, as well as automotive applications such as in-car infotainment, connected navigation, emergency call, fleet management, and anti-theft systems. Other applications include mobile Internet terminals, tablet computers and personal tracking devices. The LISA Leadless Chip Carrier (LCC) form factor enables easy manufacturing and quality control, and supports simple migration from u-blox’ LEON GSM/ GPRS modules. Support for A-GPS and
u-blox’ unique CellLocateTM positioning technology is embedded to facilitate advanced telematics applications including indoor positioning. Features include compatibility with quad-band GPRS/EDGE and operating temperature –40 to +85 deg. C. RIL software for Android and Embedded Windows is available free of charge. LISA modules are manufactured in ISO/ TS 16949 certified sites. Each module is intensively inspected and tested during production. The modules are fully qualified according to ISO 16750 – Environmental conditions and electrical testing for electrical and electronic equipment for road vehicles to provide high durability and reliability.
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Product Catalog 14 now available u-blox’ Product Catalog 14 describes all our products and services, including the latest generation of low-power positioning chips and modules, plus compact, cutting-edge wireless modules implementing GSM, UMTS and CDMA2000 mobile communication technologies.
• Contents / Introduction by u-blox CEO • Positioning modules • Positioning chips • Wireless modules • Services • Support: eval kits and tools • Our technologies and quality
Our Positioning and Wireless products support a wide range of embedded designs for automotive, consumer and industrial Machine-to-Machine (M2M) applications.
Or download our complete catalog as PDF or eBook. We look forward to supporting your new designs!
A summary of the contents is listed below. Click on the links below to go directly to a topic of interest:
Connected World selects u-blox Prestigious M2M magazine selects u-blox again as one of the most innovative providers of M2M and connected devices u-blox is pleased to have been included again in this elite list of vendors by Connected World magazine. Chosen by the editors, the list provides a guide to the top 100 companies truly making a
difference in connected devices and M2M during 2012.
space, and innovation in multiple markets served during the past 12 months.
Companies appearing on the list are chosen from hundreds of firms, both private and publicly traded. The criteria for the listing include: sales and earnings growth, contribution to the connected-devices
“It is an honor to receive this recognition for the third year in a row and we are especially pleased that our customers can immediately benefit from our innovation” said Thomas Seiler, u-blox CEO.
u-blox wins prestigious Swiss Information and Communication Technology award (ICT) On November 7, u-blox won top honors at the annual internationally recognized Swiss ICT Symposium in Lucerne, Switzerland. u-blox was presented with the “Champion” award for a clear, logical and sustainable business model and track record.
was determined by a jury of Swiss ICT industry experts with the goal of promoting entrepreneurial action and to motivate employees in the Swiss ICT industry. More details can be found at www.swissict-award.ch
u-blox was among 10 finalist companies selected from among hundreds of candidates in the Swiss ICT industry. The winner
u-blox aids Philippines flood victims storms and torrential monsoon rains, leaving much of the capital city Manila under water. Emergency appeal was launched by the Red Cross on August 9th to deliver urgent humanitarian assistance to tens of thousands of flood-affected families, many of whom were forced to flee to one of hundreds of evacuation centers. In August of this year, the Philippines experienced disastrous flooding due to tropical u-blox news | Page 4
u-blox, who has been a long-time partner of Philippines-based Amkor for semiconductor chip fabrication, immediately re-
sponded to the disaster by donating funds to the Red Cross to allow them to provide 1428 families with emergency food rations. Natural disaster relief is one part of u-blox’ Corporate Social Responsibility program which includes support for environmental sustainability in Ghana, and education for under-privileged children in Nepal. For more information, visit our website at: www.u-blox.com/en/sustainability.html
Case study Marine: Multifunction marine displays from Raymarine feature u-blox GPS Sleek displays include navigation, radar, sonar, cartography and thermal imaging
Raymarine e Series multifunction marine displays feature u-blox GPS module technology
Raymarine, an industry leader in Marine Electronics, recently launched its latest range of intelligent marine multifunction displays (MFDs); new e Series and c Series use u-blox’ compact AMY-6M GPS satellite receiver module to facilitate accurate positioning for marine applications such as navigation and cartography.
“Reliable GPS positioning is the basis for many core applications. After evaluating several options on the market, u-blox’ GPS module technology proved superior in terms of tracking sensitivity and accuracy. In particular, we found the AMY-6M to deliver excellent performance, making it ideal for our new range of MFDs.” said Chris Jones, Director of Product Management at Raymarine. “Raymarine’s latest multifunction displays leverage multiple features of our leading GPS module technology, including compact size, high-sensitivity, wide operating temperature range, and immunity to RF noise. These are all important criteria when navigating at sea, and we are pleased that Raymarine has decided to partner with u-blox as their
GNSS supplier,” said Armin Böshenz, u-blox VP of Sales, EMEA. Raymarine’s feature-rich new MFDs bring advanced power, expanded networking and wireless connectivity to boaters looking for the most technically innovative and intuitive way to access information and control onboard systems. The MFDs also network with other units including tablets and smartphones via Raymarine’s new apps; making navigation charts, thermal video, radar and sonar information more accessible and portable than ever before.
Case study Industrial: Rosmerta vehicle tracking system based on u-blox GPS/GSM technology “Multitrack” tracking system perfect for personal and corporate vehicles in India embedded wireless communications technology to provide a simple and useful way to keep an accurate overview of vehicles and assets” said Arvind Kumar, President of Rosmerta “It provides a simple, cost-effective way for businesses to keep track of their most valuable assets, as well as provide peace of mind to parents and students.” Multitrack relies on u-blox’ GPS satellite receiver and GSM/GPRS module technologies
u-blox has been selected for global positioning and GSM wireless module technology by Rosmerta, a leading manufacturer of transport and road safety devices in India. The device, Multitrack, integrates u-blox’ NEO GPS receiver and LEON GSM/GPRS modules. “Multitrack takes advantage of u-blox’ extremely sensitive GPS receiver and
The immense size and population of India, now over 1.2 billion people, means that tracking of assets and people is playing an ever-increasing role in supply chain and transportation efficiency, as well as for the safety and security of people.
school transport, government vehicles, and taxis. The system allows companies and organizations to efficiently track and locate their vehicles via mobile notifications and web interface, as well as keep parents informed when students board their school bus, and when they are approaching their drop-off point. Multitrack provides actual as well as historical record of an asset’s location. The data is available on maps, both in realtime and offline mode using customizable web-application software. For more information about the Multitrack, visit www.multispeedgears.com/ Vehicle_Tracking_System.html
Multitrack is an integrated high security vehicle tracking device used in personal and corporate vehicles in the logistics & transportation industries, public and u-blox news | Page 5
u-blox wireless modem certifications: update 2G and 3G modem families achieve worldwide approvals u-blox’ LISA 3G and LEON 2G wireless modem series continue to achieve approval for operation over many of the world’s largest mobile networks. As of November 2012, the following certifications have been awarded: LISA-U2 UMTS/HSPA(+) modem series: • Industry/regulatory: PTCRB, GCF, R&TTE/CE, FCC, IC (Canada), JATE/TELEC (Japan), A-tick (Australia), IDA (Singapore), Anatel (Brazil, Nov. 2012), NCC (Taiwan, Nov. 2012), CCC (China, Q1 2013), KCC (S. Korea, Q1 2013) • Operators: AT&T (USA), DoCoMo (Japan), Telstra (Australia), Vodafone (All Vodafone networks), Telecom NZ (New Zeland), Rogers (Canada, Dec. 2012), BellMobility (Canada, Q1 2013). LISA-C200 CDMA 1xRTT module: • Industry/regulatory: FCC, IC, CCF • Operators: Sprint, Verizon, Aeris FW75-C200 CDMA 1xRTT module: • Industry/regulatory: FCC, IC, CCF • Operators: Sprint, Verizon, Aeris FW2770p CDMA EV-DO PCI Express module: • Industry/regulatory: FCC, CDG1 and 2, CCF • Operators: Sprint, Verizon FW2763p CDMA 1xRTT PCI Express module: • Industry/regulatory: FCC, CDG1 and 2, CCF • Operators: Sprint LEON-G100, G200 GSM/GPRS 2.5G module series: • Industry/regulatory: GCF, PTCRB, RTTE/CE, FCC, IC, Anatel, GOST(Russia), ICASA (S. Africa), Ukraine, Israel, SRRC (China), NCC (Taiwan), A-tick (Australia), IdA (Singapore), Mexican TA • Operators: AT&T (USA), Rogers (Canada), Orange (Europe), Telefonica Moviles (Colombia), MTN (S. Africa) SARA-G3 2.5G module series: • Certifications in-progress
Please check the u-blox website for the latest certifications status.
Meet u-blox at the following events Telematics India 2012 Vehicle Tracking - Fleet Management Navigation Technologies Date: 29. - 30. November 2012 Place: The Lalit Ashok Bangalore, India Stand: u-blox To set up a meeting in advance, please contact: info_ap@u-blox.com
Telematics@China 2012 International forum for vehicle OEMs in China Date: 04. - 06. December 2012 Place: Shanghai, China Stand: u-blox To set up a meeting in advance, please contact: info_cn@u-blox.com
embeddedworld 2013 ... it’s a smarter world Date: 26. - 28. February 2013 Place: Nuremberg, Germany Stand: u-blox 4A-325 To set up a meeting in advance, please contact: info@u-blox.com Imprint: Publisher / Copyright: November 2012 u-blox AG, Thalwil, Switzerland.
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