Key Takeaways
1. Quectel has launched two new 5G Reduced Capability (RedCap) modules: RM255C-GL for global use and RG255C-NA for North America.
2. Both modules support 5G Sub-6 GHz SA mode, LTE Cat 4 fallback, and are optimized for mid-tier IoT applications with low power consumption.
3. The RM255C-GL measures 30.0 x 42.0 x 2.3 mm, while the RG255C-NA measures 32.0 x 29.0 x 2.4 mm, with weights of approximately 6 grams and 5.2 grams, respectively.
4. Both modules are compatible with standard interfaces like USB 2.0 and PCIe 2.0, and have partial compatibility with Quectel’s previous 4G modules.
5. The RM255C-GL is priced at $143.85 at Mouser, with a minimum order of 150 units, while the RG255C-NA is currently unavailable for purchase.
Quectel has just introduced the RM255C-GL and RG255C-NA, adding to its lineup of 5G Reduced Capability (RedCap) products. The RM255C-GL is tailored for worldwide use and comes with an M.2 interface for easy connectivity. It measures 30.0 x 42.0 x 2.3 mm and weighs about 6 grams. Conversely, the RG255C-NA is intended for the North American market, features an LGA package, measures 32.0 x 29.0 x 2.4 mm, and weighs roughly 5.2 grams. Both of these modules are equipped with 5G Reduced Capability (RedCap) technology, adhering to the 3GPP Rel-17 standard, targeting mid-tier industrial and commercial IoT applications.
Connectivity Features
When it comes to connectivity options, both modules are compatible with 5G Sub-6 GHz SA mode and offer LTE Cat 4 fallback, while also ensuring backward compatibility with Rel-15 and Rel-16 networks. The RG255C-NA further provides support for 5G LAN, URLLC, and Slicing features. The firm highlights that power efficiency is optimized for mid-tier applications, as the RM255C-GL consumes about 2.83 mA in sleep mode and 21.97 mA while idle. In contrast, the RG255C-NA typically uses 2.5 mA during sleep and 27 mA when idle. For global applications, the RM255C-GL boasts various regulatory certifications, including CE, RCM, FCC, IC, GCF, and PTCRB, while the RG255C-NA has received PTCRB, FCC, and IC approvals.
Interface and Compatibility
Both modules are designed to support standard interfaces like USB 2.0 and PCIe 2.0. The RG255C-NA adds additional support for PCM, UART, SGMII, and SPI. Additionally, the company mentions that these modules are pin-to-pin compatible with Quectel’s previous 4G modules, and they have partial compatibility with the smaller 4G EG2x series, facilitating an easy upgrade path.
In addition to their features, both modules come equipped with an integrated GNSS/location engine that utilizes Qualcomm’s IZat Gen 9VT technology. This technology supports multi-constellation GNSS (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BDS, QZSS, NavIC), providing quicker and more precise positioning compared to using a single-constellation GPS.
At the moment, the RM255C-GL global version can be found at Mouser for approximately $143.85, with a minimum order quantity of 150 units. Unfortunately, the RG255C-NA variant is unavailable for purchase as of this writing.
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