u-blox launches EVA-7M, smallest stand-alone GNSS module

THALWIL, SWITZERLAND: Swiss-based, u-blox, a global leader in cellular and positioning modules and integrated circuits, introduces the smallest stand alone GNSS positioning module on the market, the EVA-7M.

Designed for cost and space sensitive applications, the highly integrated 7 x 7 x 1.1 mm LGA module comprises all necessary components, including crystal and passives.

The module supports US GPS, Russian GLONASS, Japanese QZSS, plus all SBAS augmentation systems. Based on u-blox' advanced GNSS technology u-blox 7, the module achieves -160 dBm sensitivity when tracking GPS satellites, fast acquisition time and the lowest power of any u-blox 7 module thanks to an innovative high-efficiency power converter.

The EVA-7M eases implementation in end-products because RF and digital domains are kept well separated, and the LGA pads are configured in single rows.

Unlike other GNSS receivers on the market, EVA is a standalone GNSS receiver which provides a position without the need for host integration or extra RF components. It is optimized for keeping eBOM and system costs to an absolute minimum.

"The EVA-7M brings embedded satellite positioning to the next level of portability," said Thomas Nigg, VP product marketing at u-blox. "The module has been developed with ease-of-manufacturing as a high priority. Its QFN-like footprint with connections along four sides and high-level of component integration makes it a perfect solution for medium and high volume production runs. This ensures high first-pass production yield, crucial criteria especially for cost-sensitive, high-volume industrial and consumer applications."

A UART and I2C interface provide flexible connections to a host processor. EVA-7M can also communicate directly with u-blox' SARA 2G, LISA 3G and TOBY LTE cellular modules to support advanced tracking and location-aware applications.