u-blox LEXI-R422, the smallest LTE-M / NB-IoT module with 2G fallback

Reimagine IoT applications with u-blox and Batenburg Applied Technologies

In today's world, the range of IoT applications utilizing wireless connectivity appears to be unlimited. These scenarios encompass not only asset trackers and smart home devices, but also extend to other domains, such as industrial monitoring systems, self-service vending machines and micro-mobility vehicles. Transitioning markets in this ever-changing industry aspire semiconductor manufacturers to design energy efficient wireless technologies with extraordinary performances in a small form factor.

With the recently announced LEXI-R4(22), our partner u-blox introduced its latest professional wireless module for multi-regional use, customized for size-constrained IoT applications. Albeit compact at just 16 × 16 millimetres, the module supports all LTE-M and NB-IoT bands with a radio frequency output power of 23 dBm. Additionally, it offers the capability to operate on a 2G network as a backup.

The feature-rich LEXI-R4 is u-blox’ answer for size-demanding designs that proved challenging for previous modules. The compact size results in a 40% footprint reduction in dimensions compared to the previous u-blox SARA-R4 module, while retaining the same high-end performances. IoT engineers and equipment designers can now use the gained space to potentially host larger antennas which further improve radio frequency performance, or use the space to accommodate larger-size batteries.

The convenience of 2G fallback capability and GNSS support

One of the prominent features of the LEXI-R422 module is its 2G fallback capability. This feature is highly convenient in areas where IoT connectivity networks are not yet fully deployed by telecom networks. Whenever LTE-M or NB-IoT coverage conditions are not optimal, the module and your application keep functioning on the widely available 2G network. This is also of added value in moving applications with overlapping network services or different telecom providers.

Also, u-blox natively designed the module to support GNSS AT commands and made the LEXI-R422 ready for GNSS bundling. A dedicated port enables easy integration with any u-blox M10-based GNSS module, for instance the u-blox MIA-M10, hence offering better performance and low-power consumption. Moreover, the module can also connect to additional positioning services.

A feature-rich module this size gives you the opportunity to excel in compact wireless and positioning solutions for automotive, industrial and consumer markets. Share your ideas with our experts and discuss the common passion for engineering the IoT capabilities of tomorrow.