Antenova Ltd, manufacturer of antennas and RF antenna modules for connected devices and the Internet of Things, is now shipping its latest module for tiny positioning devices – the RADIONOVA M20047-1. This is an active antenna module for GNSS applications in the 1559-1609 MHz satellite bands using GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO or BeiDou.
The M20047-1 antenna module comprises an SMD antenna with built-in active components: an LNA filter and SAW to boost antenna performance, so designers will not need to add these, all contained in a compact FR4 part with low power consumption, measuring just 7.0mm x 7.0mm x 0.9mm, and weighing less than 2g.
The on-board LNA and filter act to boost the signal to the GNSS processor in environments where there is a restricted view of the sky or where line-of-sight to the horizon is difficult.
Antenova has also added an external matching feature to compensate for any de-tuning of the antenna caused by proximity to other components, such as a plastic case or a battery.
The clear-out area required by the antenna module is only 7.0mm x 5.0mm. This, with its tiny size makes the M20047-1 perfect for small positioning devices where space on the PCB is tight, for example in wearable devices, asset tracking, sports cameras and equipment and smart watches.
The M20047-1 is a useful alternative to Antenova’s existing Sinica antenna, part no SR4G008, which Antenova also recommends for accurate positioning.
This M20047-1 was first announced at CES in Las Vegas, earlier this year. The antenna requires clearance of 7.0 x 5.0 mm on the PCB.
