MSC Technologies is presenting the L80 module from Quectel, an ultra-compact POT GPS module measuring just 16 mm x 16 mm x 6.45 mm including integrated patch antenna.
Based on the MTK3339 platform from Mediatek it is supporting 66 acquisition and 22 tracking channels. The module is characterized not only by its compact design, but also by an extremely consumption of only 20 mA in tracking mode. A highlight is the very high input sensitivity of -165 dB in tracking mode and -148 dBm acquisition mode. It is fitting for industrial applications due to wide working temperature of -40 to +85 °C.
The Assisted GPS technology EASY™ available on L80 enables a first rapid localisation and high positioning accuracy even at indoor signal level. Satellite data can be automatically calculated with the ephemeris data from the past 3 days, which are stored in the internal flash memory. In order to achieve an optimal balance between positioning accuracy and energy consumption, the ON-/OFF-Time can also be adjusted adaptively by Always Locate™ technology. In addition, the L80 module supports auto-switch functionality between the internal patch antenna and active external antennas. The positioning is maintained even during the switching process.
Due to the extremely low power consumption, the rapid and accurate position detection, the compact form factor incl. the antenna and an extended temperature range of -40 to +85 °C, the L80 module is recommended for the use in a wide variety of M2M applications such as personal tracker, container tracking, and other particularly compact battery-powered applications.