Ublox PAM-7Q Hardware Integration Manual

Abstract

This document provides the necessary information to successfully design in and configure the PAM-7Q u-blox 7 GPS antenna module featuring the u-blox 7 positioning engine. This module has the exceptional performance of the u-blox 7 receiver and delivers high sensitivity and minimal acquisition times.

Incorporating the PAM‑7Q into customer designs is simple and straightforward, thanks to the embedded antenna, low power consumption, simple interface, and sophisticated interference suppression that ensures maximum performance even in GPS-hostile environments.

www.u-blox.com

UBX-13003143 - R06

PAM-7Q

u-blox 7 GPS Antenna Module

Hardware Integration Manual

PAM-7Q - Hardware Integration Manual

Document Information

Title

PAM-7Q

Subtitle

u-blox 7 GPS Antenna Module

Document type

Hardware Integration Manual

Document number

UBX-13003143

Revision, date

R06

06-Oct-2017

Document status

Early Production Information

Document status explanation

Objective Specification

Document contains target values. Revised and supplementary data will be published later.

Advance Information

Document contains data based on early testing. Revised and supplementary data will be published later.

Early Production Information

Document contains data from product verification. Revised and supplementary data may be published later.

Production Information

Document contains the final product specification.

European Union regulatory compliance

Product name

Type number

ROM/FLASH version

PCN reference

PAM-7Q

PAM-7Q-0-000

ROM1.00

N/A

u-blox reserves all rights to this document and the information contained herein. Products, names, logos and designs described herein may in whole or in part be subject to intellectual property rights. Reproduction, use, modification or disclosure to third parties of this document or any part thereof without the express permission of u-blox is strictly prohibited. The information contained herein is provided “as is” and u-blox assumes no liability for the use of the information. No warranty, either express or implied, is given, including but not limited, with respect to the accuracy, correctness, reliability and fitness for a particular purpose of the information. This document may be revised by u-blox at any time. For most recent documents, visit www.u-blox.com. Copyright © 2017, u-blox AG.

u-blox is a registered trademark of u-blox Holding AG in the EU and other countries.

PAM-7Q complies with all relevant requirements for RED 2014/53/EU. The PAM-7Q Declaration of Conformity (DoC) is available at www.u-blox.com within Support > Product resources > Conformity Declaration.

This document applies to the following products:

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Preface

u-blox Technical Documentation

As part of our commitment to customer support, u-blox maintains an extensive volume of technical documentation for our products. In addition to our product-specific technical data sheets, the following manuals are available to assist u-blox customers in product design and development.

 GPS Compendium: This document, also known as the GPS book, provides a wealth of information

regarding generic questions about GPS system functionalities and technology.

 Receiver Description including Protocol Specification: This document describes messages, configuration

and functionalities of the u-blox 7 software releases and receivers.

 Hardware Integration Manuals: These manuals provide hardware design instructions and information on

how to set up production and final product tests.

 Application Notes: These documents provide general design instructions and information that applies to all

u-blox GNSS positioning modules.

How to use this Manual

This manual has a modular structure. It is not necessary to read it from the beginning to the end. The following symbols are used to highlight important information within the manual:

An index finger points out key information pertaining to module integration and performance.

A warning symbol indicates actions that could negatively influence or damage the module.

Questions

If you have any questions about PAM-7Q Hardware Integration, please:

 Read this manual carefully.  Contact our information service on the homepage http://www.u-blox.com  Read the questions and answers on our FAQ database on the homepage http://www.u-blox.com

Technical Support

Worldwide Web

Our website (www.u-blox.com) is a rich pool of information. Product information, technical documents and helpful FAQ can be accessed 24h a day.

By E-mail

If you have technical problems or cannot find the required information in the provided documents, contact the closest Technical Support office. To ensure that we process your request as soon as possible, use our service pool email addresses rather than personal staff email addresses. Contact details are at the end of the document.

Helpful Information when Contacting Technical Support

When contacting Technical Support please have the following information ready:

 Receiver type (e.g. PAM-7Q-0-000), Datacode (e.g. 172100.0100.000) and firmware version (e.g. ROM1.00)  Receiver configuration  Clear description of your question or the problem together with a u-center logfile  A short description of the application  Your complete contact details

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Contents

Preface ................................................................................................................................ 3

Contents .............................................................................................................................. 4

1 Quick reference ............................................................................................................ 6

2 Hardware description .................................................................................................. 6

2.1 Overview .............................................................................................................................................. 6

2.2 Architecture .......................................................................................................................................... 6

2.3 Operating modes .................................................................................................................................. 6

2.3.1 Continuous Mode ......................................................................................................................... 6

2.3.2 Power Save Mode ......................................................................................................................... 7

2.4 Configuration ....................................................................................................................................... 7

2.4.1 Electrical Programmable Fuse (eFuse) ............................................................................................. 7

2.5 Connecting power ................................................................................................................................ 7

2.5.1 VCC: Main Supply Voltage ............................................................................................................ 7

2.5.2 V_BCKP: Backup Supply Voltage ................................................................................................... 8

2.6 Interfaces .............................................................................................................................................. 8

2.6.1 UART ............................................................................................................................................. 8

2.6.2 Display Data Channel (DDC) .......................................................................................................... 8

2.7 I/O pins ................................................................................................................................................. 9

2.7.1 TIMEPULSE .................................................................................................................................... 9

3 Design ......................................................................................................................... 10

3.1 Design checklist .................................................................................................................................. 10

3.1.1 Schematic checklist ..................................................................................................................... 10

3.1.2 Layout checklist ........................................................................................................................... 11

3.1.3 Antenna checklist ........................................................................................................................ 11

3.2 Design considerations for minimal designs .......................................................................................... 11

3.2.1 Minimal design ............................................................................................................................ 11

3.3 Layout ................................................................................................................................................ 12

3.3.1 PCB mounting ............................................................................................................................. 12

3.3.2 Placement ................................................................................................................................... 14

4 Migration to PAM-7Q module ................................................................................... 15

4.1 Hardware migration............................................................................................................................ 15

4.2 Software migration ............................................................................................................................. 15

5 Product handling ........................................................................................................ 16

5.1 Packaging, shipping and storage ........................................................................................................ 16

5.2 Soldering ............................................................................................................................................ 16

5.2.1 Hand soldering ............................................................................................................................ 16

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5.2.2 Optical inspection ........................................................................................................................ 16

5.2.3 Cleaning ...................................................................................................................................... 16

5.2.4 Rework ........................................................................................................................................ 16

5.2.5 Conformal coating ...................................................................................................................... 16

5.2.6 Casting ........................................................................................................................................ 17

5.2.7 Grounding metal covers .............................................................................................................. 17

5.2.8 Use of ultrasonic processes .......................................................................................................... 17

5.3 EOS/ESD/EMI precautions ................................................................................................................... 17

5.3.1 Electrostatic discharge (ESD) ........................................................................................................ 17

5.3.2 ESD handling precautions ............................................................................................................ 17

5.3.3 ESD protection measures ............................................................................................................. 18

5.3.4 Electromagnetic interference (EMI) .............................................................................................. 18

5.3.5 Applications with cellular modules .............................................................................................. 19

6 Product testing ........................................................................................................... 21

6.1 u-blox in-series production test ........................................................................................................... 21

6.2 Test parameters for OEM manufacturer .............................................................................................. 21

6.3 System sensitivity test ......................................................................................................................... 22

6.3.1 Guidelines for sensitivity tests ...................................................................................................... 22

6.3.2 ‘Go/No go’ tests for integrated devices ........................................................................................ 22

Appendix .......................................................................................................................... 23

A Abbreviations ............................................................................................................. 23

A.1 Design-in recommendations in combination with cellular operation ................................................... 24

Related documents........................................................................................................... 25

Revision history ................................................................................................................ 25

Contact .............................................................................................................................. 26

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1 Quick reference

When using this manual for a design, make sure you also have the corresponding data sheet for the specific positioning module (see the Related documents section).

2 Hardware description

2.1 Overview

PAM-7Q module is standalone GPS positioning receiver featuring the high performance u-blox 7 positioning engine. They are easy to integrate and combine exceptional positioning performance with highly flexible power, design, and connectivity options.

For product features see the PAM-7Q Data Sheet [1]. To determine which u-blox product best meets your needs, see the product selector tables on the u-blox

website (www.u-blox.com).

2.2 Architecture

PAM-7Q module consists of two functional parts - the RF block and the digital block (see Figure 1). The RF block includes the input matching elements, the SAW band pass filter, the integrated LNA and the

oscillator, while the digital block contains the u-blox 7 GNSS engine, the RTC crystal and additional elements such as the optional FLASH Memory for enhanced programmability and flexibility.

Figure 1: PAM-7Q block diagram

2.3 Operating modes

u-blox receivers support different power modes. These modes represent strategies of how to control the acquisition and tracking engines in order to achieve either the best possible performance or good performance with reduced power consumption.

2.3.1 Continuous Mode

During a cold start, a receiver in Continuous Mode continuously deploys the acquisition engine to search for all satellites. Once the receiver can calculate a position and track a sufficient number of satellites, the acquisition engine powers off, resulting in significant power savings. The tracking engine continuously tracks acquired

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Baud Rate

String

UART Baud Rate 1200

B5 62 06 41 09 00 01 01 30 81 00 00 00 00 FE 01 22

UART Baud Rate 2400

B5 62 06 41 09 00 01 01 30 81 00 00 00 00 FD 00 21

UART Baud Rate 4800

B5 62 06 41 09 00 01 01 30 81 00 00 00 00 FC FF 20

UART Baud Rate 19200

B5 62 06 41 09 00 01 01 30 81 00 00 00 00 FB FE 1F

UART Baud Rate 38400

B5 62 06 41 09 00 01 01 30 81 00 00 00 00 FA FD 1E

UART Baud Rate 57600

B5 62 06 41 09 00 01 01 30 81 00 00 00 00 F9 FC 1D

UART Baud Rate 115200

B5 62 06 41 09 00 01 01 30 81 00 00 00 00 F8 FB 1C

satellites and acquires other available or emerging satellites. Whenever the receiver can no longer calculate a position or the number of satellites tracked is below the sufficient number, the acquisition engine powers on again to guarantee a quick reacquisition. Even if the acquisition engine powers off, the tracking engine continues to acquire satellites.

For best performance, use continuous mode.

2.3.2 Power Save Mode

Two Power Save Mode (PSM) operations called ON/OFF and Cyclic tracking are available. These use different ways to reduce the average current consumption in order to match the needs of the specific application. PSM operations are set and configured using serial commands. For more information, see the u-blox 7 Receiver Description Including Protocol Specification [2].

2.4 Configuration

The configuration settings can be modified using UBX protocol configuration messages. The modified settings remain effective until power-down or reset. If these settings have been stored in BBR (Battery Backed RAM), then the modified configuration will be retained, as long as the backup battery supply is not interrupted.

2.4.1 Electrical Programmable Fuse (eFuse)

PAM-7Q includes an integrated eFuse memory for permanently saving configuration settings. The eFuse memory can also be used to store the configuration. The customer can program the eFuse.

eFuse is One-Time-Programmable; it cannot be changed if it has been programmed once.

String to change the default Baud rate:

Table 1: Strings to change baud rate

2.5 Connecting power

The PAM-7Q positioning module has two power supply pins: VCC and V_BCKP.

2.5.1 VCC: Main Supply Voltage

The VCC pin provides the main supply voltage. During operation, the current drawn by the module can vary by some orders of magnitude, especially if enabling low-power operation modes. For this reason, it is important that the supply circuitry be able to support the peak power (see datasheet for specification) for a short time.

PAM-7Q module integrates a DC/DC converter. This allows reduced power consumption, especially when using a main supply voltage above 2.5 V.

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When switching from backup mode to normal operation or at start-up, PAM-7Q module must charge

the internal capacitors in the core domain. In certain situations, this can result in a significant current draw. For low power applications using Power Save and backup modes, it is important that the power supply or low ESR capacitors at the module input can deliver this current.

2.5.2 V_BCKP: Backup Supply Voltage

If the module supply has a power failure, then V_BCKP will supply the real-time clock (RTC) and battery backed RAM (BBR). Use of valid time and the GNSS orbit data at start-up will improve the GNSS performance, as with hot starts, warm starts, AssistNow Autonomous and AssistNow Offline. If no backup battery is connected, the module performs a cold start at power up.

Avoid high resistance on the V_BCKP line: During the switch from main supply to backup supply, a short

current adjustment peak can cause high voltage drop on the pin with possible malfunctions.

As long as the PAM-7Q module is supplied to VCC, the backup battery is disconnected from the RTC

and the BBR to avoid unnecessary battery drain (see Figure 2). In this case, VCC supplies power to the RTC and BBR.

Figure 2: Backup battery and voltage (for exact pin orientation, see data sheet)

2.6 Interfaces

2.6.1 UART

PAM-7Q positioning module includes a Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter (UART) serial interface

RxD/TxD supporting configurable baud rates. The baud rates supported are specified in the u-blox 7 Receiver Description Including Protocol Specification [2].

The signal output and input levels are 0 V to VCC. An interface based on RS232 standard levels (+/- 12 V) can be implemented using level shifters such as Maxim MAX3232. Hardware handshake signals and synchronous operation are not supported.

2.6.2 Display Data Channel (DDC)

An I2C compatible Display Data Channel (DDC) interface is available for serial communication with an external host CPU. The interface only supports operation in slave mode (master mode is not supported). The DDC protocol and electrical interface are fully compatible with the Fast-Mode of the I2C industry standard. DDC pins SDA and SCL have internal pull-up resistors.

For more information about the DDC implementation, see the u-blox 7 Receiver Description Including Protocol

Specification [2]. For bandwidth information, see the Data Sheet. For timing, parameters consult the I 2C-bus specification [7].

The u-blox 7 DDC interface supports serial communication with u-blox cellular modules. See the

specification of the applicable cellular module to confirm compatibility.

With u-blox 7, when reading the DDC internal register at address 0xFF (messages transmit buffer), the

master must not set the reading address before every byte is accessed, as this could cause faulty behavior.

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After every byte is read from register 0xFF, the internal address counter is incremented by one, saturating at 0xFF. Therefore, subsequent reads can be performed continuously.

2.7 I/O pins

2.7.1 TIMEPULSE

A configurable time pulse signal is available with the PAM-7Q module. By default, the time pulse signal is configured to 1 pulse per second. For more information see the u-blox 7 Receiver Description including Protocol Specification [2].

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3 Design

3.1 Design checklist

Designing-in a PAM-7Q module is easy, especially when based on a u-blox reference design. This section lists the most important items for a simple design check. The design checklist can also help to avoid an unnecessary PCB respin and achieve the best possible performance. Follow the design checklists when developing PAM-7Q GPS applications. This can significantly reduce development time and costs.

3.1.1 Schematic checklist

Power supply requirements

 GNSS positioning modules require a stable power supply. In selecting a strategy to achieve a clean and

stable power supply, any resistance in the VCC supply line can negatively influence performance. Consider the following points:

o Wide power lines or even power planes are preferred. o Avoid resistive components in the power line (e.g. narrow power lines, coils, resistors, etc.). o Placing a filter or other source of resistance at VCC can create significantly longer acquisition

times.

 Is the power supply (VCC) within the specified range? (see the PAM-7Q Data Sheet [1])  Compare the peak supply current consumption of your PAM-7Q module with the specification of the

power supply. (See the PAM-7Q Data Sheet [1] for more information.)

 At the module input, use low ESR capacitors that can deliver the required current/charge for switching

from backup mode to normal operation.

Backup battery

 Use of valid time and the GNSS orbit data at startup will improve the GNSS performance i.e. enables hot

starts, warm starts and the AssistNow Autonomous process as well as AssistNow Offline. To make use of these features connect a battery to V_BCKP to continue supplying the backup domain in case of power failure at VCC.

If no backup supply voltage is available, connect the V_BCKP pin to VCC).

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3.1.2 Layout checklist

See section 3.3.

 Is the GNSS module located according to the recommendation?  Has the grounding concept been followed?  Add a ground plane underneath the GNSS module to reduce interference.  For improved shielding, add as many vias as possible around the serial communication lines, underneath

the GNSS module etc.

 Have appropriate EOS/ESD/EMI protection measures been included? This is especially important for

designs including cellular modules.

3.1.3 Antenna checklist

 Make sure the antenna is not placed close to noisy parts of the circuitry. (E.g. micro-controller, display,

etc.)

3.2 Design considerations for minimal designs

For a minimal design with a PAM-7Q GPS module, the following functions and pins need consideration:

 Connect the Power supply to VCC.  Assure an optimal ground connection to all ground pins of the module.  Choose the required serial communication interface (UART or DDC) and connect the appropriate pins to

your application.

 If you need improved start-up or use AssistNow Autonomous in your application, connect a backup supply

voltage to V_BCKP.

3.2.1 Minimal design

This is a minimal setup for a GNSS receiver with a PAM-7Q module:

Figure 3: PAM-7Q passive antenna design

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Function

I/O

Description

Remarks

Power

VCC 4 I

Supply Voltage

Provide clean and stable supply.

GND 3 I

Ground

Assure a good GND connection to GND pin of the module, preferably with a large ground plane.

V_BCKP

5 I Backup Supply Voltage

It is recommended to connect a backup supply voltage to V_BCKP in order to enable warm and hot start features on the positioning modules. Otherwise, connect to VCC.

UART

TxD

2 O Serial Port

Communication interface

RxD 1 I

Serial

Serial input. Internal pull-up resistor to VCC. Leave open if not used.

System

TIMEPULSE

6 O Time pulse Signal

Configurable Time pulse signal (one pulse per second by default). Leave open if not used.

SDA 7 I/O

DDC Data

SCL 8 I

DDC Clock

DDC Clock.

Table 2: Pinout PAM-7Q

3.3 Layout

This section provides important information for designing a robust GNSS system. GNSS signals at the surface of the Earth are about 15 dB below the thermal noise floor. When defining a GNSS

receiver layout, the placement of the PAM-7Q, as well as grounding, shielding and jamming from other digital devices, are crucial issues requiring careful consideration.

3.3.1 PCB mounting

The PAM-7Q can be mounted on a customer PCB (“motherboard” in the instructions below) by using standard

2.54 mm pitch 1x8 pin header (for example Samtec TLW-108-06-G-S). Two dummy pads are used to solder the module metal shield on the motherboard. Reference pad layout is shown in Figure 4.

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Figure 4: Pad layout of mounting side for PAM-7Q module.

There are some rules that need to be followed in order to maintain good performance for the on-board patch antenna of the PAM-7Q:

 Solder the pin header to the module in such way that the pins are as short as possible on the antenna

side of the PAM-7Q module (see Figure 5).

 Place any active circuitry (processors, memory busses, switching regulators, etc.) on the motherboard as

far away as possible from the PAM-7Q module.

 Design a solid VDD source for the PAM-7Q module (VDD supply voltage ripple should be <50 mVp-p).  If there is no need for the PPS and DDC signal, a 4-pin header (for example Samtec TLW-104-06-G-S)

can be used to contact pins #1 through #4. However, the 8-pin header is recommended since it is mechanically more robust. In this case, pins #5 to #8 may be left floating on the motherboard.

Figure 5: Side view of the pin header assembly for the PAM-7Q module.

Figure 6 describes the footprint for PAM-7Q module.

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Figure 6: PAM-7Q footprint

3.3.2 Placement

A very important factor in achieving maximum performance is the placement of the receiver on the PCB. Make sure that the PAM-7Q is separated from any other digital circuits on the system board. To achieve this, position the module’s digital part towards the digital section on the system PCB. Exercise care if placing the receiver in proximity to heat-emitting circuitry. The RF part of the receiver is very sensitive to temperature, and sudden changes can have an adverse impact on performance.

The RF part of the receiver is a temperature sensitive component. Avoid high temperature

drift and air vents near the receiver.

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4 Migration to PAM-7Q module

Fastrax UP501

PAM-7Q

RXD

RxD 2 TXD

TxD 3 GND

GND 4 VDD 3.0 to 4.2 V

VCC 2.7 to 3.6 V

VDD_B 2.0 to 4.2 V

V_BCKP 1.4 to 3.6 V

PPS

TIMEPULSE

7 - SDA

8 - SCL

4.1 Hardware migration

The PAM-7Q is form-factor compatible with the UP501.

Table 3: Pins for UP501 to PAM-7Q migration

PAM-7Q - Hardware Integration Manual

4.2 Software migration

Fastrax UP501 is based on MTK chipset, while PAM-7Q has u-blox 7 GNSS engine. For functionality aspects, protocol porting, and software interface considerations when migrating from the Fastrax UP501 to the u-blox PAM-7Q, see the NMEA manual for Fastrax IT500 Series GPS/GNSS receivers [6] and the u-blox 7 Receiver Description including Protocol Specification [2].

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5 Product handling

5.1 Packaging, shipping and storage

For information pertaining to reels and tapes, shipment and storage information, as well as drying for preconditioning, see the specific PAM-7Q Data Sheet [1].

5.2 Soldering

5.2.1 Hand soldering

Use a soldering iron temperature setting equivalent to 350 °C.

5.2.2 Optical inspection

After soldering the PAM-7Q module, consider an optical inspection step to check whether:

 The module is properly aligned  All pads are properly soldered  No excess solder has created contacts to neighboring pads, or possibly to pad stacks and vias nearby

5.2.3 Cleaning

In general, cleaning the populated modules is strongly discouraged. Residues underneath the modules cannot be easily removed with a washing process.

 Cleaning with water will lead to capillary effects where water is absorbed in the gap between the baseboard

and the module. The combination of residues of soldering flux and encapsulated water leads to short circuits or resistor-like interconnections between neighboring pads.

 Cleaning with alcohol or other organic solvents can result in soldering flux residues flooding into the two

housings, areas that are not accessible for post-wash inspections. The solvent will also damage the sticker and the ink-jet printed text.

 Ultrasonic cleaning will permanently damage the module, in particular the quartz oscillators.

The best approach is to use a "no clean" soldering paste and eliminate the cleaning step after the soldering.

5.2.4 Rework

The PAM-7Q module can be unsoldered from the baseboard using a hot air gun or a soldering iron. Use a wide iron tip to unsolder all the pins at the same time. In general, we do not recommend using a hot air gun because this is an uncontrolled process and might damage the module.

Attention: use of a hot air gun can lead to overheating and severely damage the module.

Always avoid overheating the module.

After the module is removed, clean the pads before placing and hand soldering a new module.

Never attempt a rework on the module itself, e.g. replacing individual components. Such

actions immediately terminate the warranty.

In addition, manual rework on particular pins by using a soldering iron is allowed. Manual rework steps on the module can be done several times.

5.2.5 Conformal coating

Certain applications employ a conformal coating of the PCB using HumiSeal® or other related coating products. These materials affect the HF properties of the GNSS module, and it is important to prevent them from flowing into the module. The RF shields do not provide 100% protection for the module from coating liquids with low viscosity; therefore, care is required in applying the coating.

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Conformal Coating of the module will void the warranty.

5.2.6 Casting

Casting is not allowed. The OEM is strongly advised to qualify such processes in combination with the PAM-7Q module before implementing this in the production.

Antenna element of PAM-7Q must have free space at least 1mm for any plastic case or radome.

5.2.7 Grounding metal covers

Attempts to improve grounding by soldering ground cables, wick or other forms of metal strips directly onto the EMI covers is done at the customer's own risk. The numerous ground pins should be sufficient to provide optimum immunity to interferences and noise.

u-blox makes no warranty for damages to the PAM-7Q module caused by soldering metal cables or any

other forms of metal strips directly onto the EMI covers.

5.2.8 Use of ultrasonic processes

Some components on the PAM-7Q module are sensitive to Ultrasonic Waves. Use of any Ultrasonic Processes (cleaning, welding etc.) may cause damage to the GNSS Receiver.

u-blox offers no warranty against damages to the PAM-7Q module caused by any Ultrasonic Processes.

5.3 EOS/ESD/EMI precautions

When integrating GNSS positioning modules into wireless systems, careful consideration must be given to electromagnetic and voltage susceptibility issues. Wireless systems include components, which can produce Electrical Overstress (EOS) and Electro-Magnetic Interference (EMI). CMOS devices are more sensitive to such influences because their failure mechanism is defined by the applied voltage, whereas bipolar semiconductors are more susceptible to thermal overstress. The following design guidelines are provided to help in designing robust yet cost effective solutions.

To avoid overstress damage during production or in the field it is essential to observe strict

EOS/ESD/EMI handling and protection measures.

To prevent overstress damage at the RF_IN of your receiver, never exceed the maximum input

power (see the PAM-7Q Data Sheet [1]).

5.3.1 Electrostatic discharge (ESD)

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is the sudden and momentary electric current that flows between two objects at different electrical potentials caused by direct contact or induced by an electrostatic field. The term is usually used in the electronics and other industries to describe momentary unwanted currents that may cause damage to electronic equipment.

5.3.2 ESD handling precautions

ESD prevention is based on establishing an Electrostatic Protective Area (EPA). The EPA can be a small working station or a large manufacturing area. The main principle of an EPA is that there are no highly charging materials near ESD sensitive electronics, all conductive materials are grounded, workers are grounded, and charge build-up on ESD sensitive electronics is prevented. International standards are used to define typical EPA and can be obtained for example from International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) or American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

GNSS positioning modules are sensitive to ESD and require special precautions when handling. Particular care must be exercised when handling patch antennas, due to the risk of electrostatic charges. In addition to standard ESD safety practices, the following measures should be taken into account whenever handling the receiver.

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 Unless there is a galvanic coupling between the local GND (i.e. the

work table) and the PCB GND, then the first point of contact when handling the PCB must always be between the local GND and PCB GND.

 Before mounting an antenna patch, connect ground of the device

 When handling the RF pin, do not come into contact with any

charged capacitors and be careful when contacting materials that can develop charges (e.g. patch antenna ~10 pF, coax cable ~50 80 pF/m, soldering iron, …)

 To prevent electrostatic discharge through the RF input, do not

touch any exposed antenna area. If there is any risk that such exposed antenna area is touched in non ESD protected work area, implement proper ESD protection measures in the design.

 When soldering RF connectors and patch antennas to the receiver’s

RF pin, make sure to use an ESD safe soldering iron (tip).

Failure to observe these precautions can result in severe damage to the GNSS module!

5.3.3 ESD protection measures

GNSS positioning modules are sensitive to Electrostatic Discharge (ESD). Special precautions

are required when handling.

5.3.4 Electromagnetic interference (EMI)

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) is the addition or coupling of energy originating from any RF emitting device. This can cause a spontaneous reset of the GNSS receiver or result in unstable performance. Any unshielded line or segment (>3mm) connected to the GNSS receiver can effectively act as antenna and lead to EMI disturbances or damage.

The following elements are critical regarding EMI:

 Unshielded connectors (e.g. pin rows etc.)  Weakly shielded lines on PCB (e.g. on top or bottom layer and especially at the border of a PCB)  Weak GND concept (e.g. small and/or long ground line connections)

EMI protection measures are recommended when RF emitting devices are near the GNSS receiver. To minimize the effect of EMI a robust grounding concept is essential. To achieve electromagnetic robustness follow the standard EMI suppression techniques.

http://www.murata.com/products/emc/knowhow/index.html http://www.murata.com/products/emc/knowhow/pdf/4to5e.pdf

Improved EMI protection can be achieved by inserting a resistor (e.g. R>20 ) or better yet a ferrite bead (BLM15HD102SN1) or an inductor (LQG15HS47NJ02) into any unshielded PCB lines connected to the GNSS receiver. Place the resistor as close as possible to the GNSS receiver pin.

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GPS

Receiver

BLM15HD102SN1

>10mm

1525 1550 1625

GPS input filter characteristics

1575 1600

-110

Jammin g signal

1525 1550 1625

Frequency [MHz]

Power [dBm]

GPS input filter characteristics

1575 1600

Jamming

signal

GPS

signals

GPS Carrier

1575.4 MHz

Example of EMI protection measures on the RX/TX line using a ferrite bead:

Figure 7: EMI Precautions

VCC can be protected using a feed thru capacitor.

Intended use

In order to mitigate any performance degradation of a radio equipment under EMC disturbance, system

integration shall adopt appropriate EMC design practice and not contain cables over three meters on signal and supply ports.

5.3.5 Applications with cellular modules

GSM uses power levels up to 2 W (+33 dBm). Consult the Data Sheet for the absolute maximum power input at the GNSS receiver.

5.3.5.1 Isolation between GPS and GSM antenna

In a handheld type design, an isolation of approximately 20 dB can be reached with careful placement of the antennas relative to the GPS receiver.

5.3.5.2 Increasing jamming immunity

Jamming signals come from in-band and out-band frequency sources.

5.3.5.3 In-band jamming

With in-band jamming the signal frequency is very close to the GPS frequency of 1575 MHz (see Figure 8). Such jamming signals are typically caused by harmonics from displays, micro-controller, bus systems, etc.

Figure 8: In-band jamming signals

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Figure 9: In-band jamming sources

Measures against in-band jamming include:

 Maintaining a good grounding concept in the design  Shielding  Layout optimization  Filtering  Placement of the GPS antenna

5.3.5.4 Out-band jamming

Out-band jamming is caused by signal frequencies that are different from the GPS carrier (see Figure 10). The main sources are wireless communication systems such as GSM, CDMA, WCDMA, Wi-Fi, BT, etc.

Figure 10: Out-band jamming signals

Measures against out-band jamming include maintaining a good grounding concept in the design.

For design-in recommendations in combination to Cellular operation see Appendix (Appendix A.1). See the GPS Implementation and Aiding Features in u-blox wireless modules [5].

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Figure 11: Automatic Test Equipment for Module Tests

Figure 12: X-Ray Inspection

6 Product testing

6.1 u-blox in-series production test

u-blox focuses on high quality for its products. To achieve a high standard it is our philosophy to supply fully tested units. Therefore, at the end of the production process, every unit is tested. Defective units are analyzed in detail to improve the production quality.

This is achieved with automatic test equipment, which delivers a detailed test report for each unit. The following measurements are done:

 Digital self-test (Software Download, verification of FLASH firmware, etc.)  Measurement of voltages and currents  Measurement of RF characteristics (e.g. C/No)  Traceability down to component level  X-Ray and Automated Optical Inspection (AOI)  Ongoing Reliability Tests

6.2 Test parameters for OEM manufacturer

Because of the testing done by u-blox (with 100% coverage), it is obvious that an OEM manufacturer does not need to repeat firmware tests or measurements of the GNSS parameters/characteristics (e.g. TTFF) in their production test.

An OEM manufacturer should focus on:

 Overall sensitivity of the device (including antenna, if applicable)  Communication to a host controller

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6.3 System sensitivity test

The best way to test the sensitivity of a GNSS device is with the use of a 1-channel GNSS simulator. It assures reliable and constant signals at every measurement.

Figure 13: 1-channel GNSS simulator

u-blox recommends the following Single-Channel GNSS Simulator:

 Spirent GSS6100 (GPS)  Spirent GSS6300 (GPS/GLONASS)

Spirent Communications Positioning Technology www.spirent.com

6.3.1 Guidelines for sensitivity tests

1. Connect a 1-channel GNSS simulator to the OEM product via an antenna.

2. Choose the power level in a way that the “Golden Device” would report a C/No ratio of 38-40 dBHz

3. Power up the DUT (Device Under Test) and allow enough time for the acquisition

4. Read the C/No value from the NMEA GSV or the UBX-NAV-SVINFO message (e.g. with u-center)

5. Compare the results to a “Golden Device” or a PAM-7Q Evaluation Kit.

6.3.2 ‘Go/No go’ tests for integrated devices

The best test is to bring the device to an outdoor position with excellent sky view (HDOP < 3.0). Let the

receiver acquire satellites and compare the signal strength with a “Golden Device”.

As the electro-magnetic field of a redistribution antenna is not homogenous, indoor tests are in most

cases not reliable. These kind of tests may be useful as a ‘go/no go’ test but not for sensitivity measurements.

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Appendix

Abbreviation

Definition

ANSI

American National Standards Institute

CDMA

Code Division Multiple Access

EMC

Electromagnetic compatibility

EMI

Electromagnetic interference

EOS

Electrical Overstress

EPA

Electrostatic Protective Area

ESD

Electrostatic discharge

GLONASS

Russian satellite system

GND

Ground

GNSS

Global Navigation Satellite System (general term for any system, GPS, GLONASS, etc.)

GPS

Global Positioning System

GSM

Global System for Mobile Communications

IEC

International Electrotechnical Commission

PCB

Printed circuit board

QZSS

Quasi-Zenith Satellite System

A Abbreviations

PAM-7Q - Hardware Integration Manual

Table 4: Explanation of abbreviations used

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Product Receiver Chain

Cellular and GNSS

Simultaneous operation

Family

Variant

Antenna

SAW LNA On-chip LNA

SAW

Passive GNSS

Antenna

Active GNSS

Antenna

SAW

2G cellular

3G/4G cellular

2G/3G/4G

cellular

MAX-6

Any

•

• 



NEO-6

Any

•

• 



LEA-6

Any

•

• 



EVA-7

•



MAX-7

•



•



•



NEO-7

•

  



•



•

  



PAM-7

•

  



A.1 Design-in recommendations in combination with cellular operation

• = integrated  = optimal performance

Table 5: Combinations of u-blox GNSS modules with different cellular technologies (2G/3G/4G).

See the GPS Implementation and Aiding Features in u-blox wireless modules [5].

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Revision

Date

Name

Status / Comments

R01

07-Nov-2013

jfur

Objective Specification

R02

23-Jan-2014

jfur

Advance Information. Updated product picture (patch antenna side) in cover page. Updated section 5.2 Soldering.

R03

05-Mar-2014

jfur

Early Production Information

R04

12-May-2014

jfur

Added • = integrated

 = optimal performance

Table 5: Blocking dependence on different cellular technology (2G/3G/4G).

R05

05-Dec-2014

jfur

Removed section wave soldering and ground plane related contents.

R06

06-Oct-2017

msul

Added information on RED DoC in European Union regulatory compliance (page 2), added Intended use statement in section 5.3.4 Electromagnetic interference (EMI), updated legal statement in cover page and added Documentation feedback e-mail address in contacts page.

Ublox PAM-7Q Hardware Integration Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual