Alpha Micro introduces u-blox 7, the world's lowest-power multi-GNSS platform
IC supports GPS / GLONASS / QZSS and is Galileo and Compass-ready
Alpha Micro, an independent design-based distributor of M2M electronic components, has introduced the u-blox 7 next generation core positioning technology platform designed to support all Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) - US, Russian, Chinese, Japanese - and EU satellite positioning systems, as well as all Satellite-Based Augmentation Systems (SBAS). Based on the UBX-G7020 multi-GNSS receiver IC, u-blox 7 has the lowest power consumption of any such device on the market today by a factor of three compared to other stand-alone solutions.
With only 7 mW power consumption during continuous navigation, the u-blox UBX-G7020 is perfect for small portable and power-sensitive devices requiring long battery life, high sensitivity, small size and fast positioning.
“As satellite systems expand beyond GPS, u-blox 7 is an important development for our customers keen to design systems that work with all available global navigation standards, particularly GLONASS which is now fully operational. The u-blox multi-GNSS UBX-G7020 integrated circuit does exactly that while fulfilling two of the most important features that our customers demand: minimum power consumption and small size”, said Maxine Hewitt, Director of Marketing, Alpha Micro Components.
The chip has been designed to support the lowest cost stand-alone solution via minimum eBOM; only 8 external components are required resulting in a receiver occupying only 30mm2 on a 2-layer PCB. Standard crystal and TCXO are supported. The chip also provides low-power, autonomous log data output of position, velocity, and time. Support for A-GPS and u-blox' unique CellLocateTM hybrid GNSS/cellular positioning technology is embedded to facilitate advanced telematics applications including indoor positioning. Standard and automotive grades are supported.
First samples of the multi-GNSS receiver chip UBX-G7020 are available for customer evaluation. Thereafter, the MAX, NEO, and LEA, u-blox' popular module series, will all be upgraded to the new u-blox 7 platform.
u-blox 7 maintains software compatibility with u-blox 5 and u-blox 6, and modules provide drop-in compatibility and both previous generation platforms remain fully supported. u-blox' capability of delivering GNSS technology in both integrated circuit and module form provides maximum design flexibility for a wide variety of applications. To evaluate the performance of the u-blox 7 multi-GNSS platform, evaluation kits supporting all u-blox 7 based chips and modules can be ordered.
For further information please visit www.alphamicro.net
About Alpha Micro Components
Founded in 1995, Alpha Micro is a successful independent specialist franchised distributor of components for telematics and m2m. It is one of the companies pioneering the concept of “design based” distribution, using its in-house software and hardware capabilities as a platform to sell its franchised components. Alpha Micro’s design group offers a comprehensive technical support package ranging from application support, through to complete turnkey designs. The company services the machine to machine (m2m), telematics, medical, energy monitoring, security and automotive sectors with components from world leading manufacturers. The franchised line up includes EnOcean, FTDI, GainSpan, Lantronix and u-blox – Alpha Micro has built an enviable reputation for product knowledge, customer service and innovation. For further information please visit www.alphamicro.net
About u-blox
u-blox is a leading fabless semiconductor provider of embedded positioning and wireless communication solutions for the consumer, industrial and automotive markets. Its solutions enable people, devices, vehicles and machines to locate their exact position and wirelessly communicate via voice, text or video. With a broad portfolio of GPS modules, chips, and software solutions together with wireless modules and solutions, u-blox is uniquely positioned to enable OEMs to develop innovative solutions quickly and cost-effectively. Headquartered in Switzerland and with global presence in Europe, Asia and the Americas, u-blox employs over 200 people. Founded in 1997, u-blox is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange. (www.u-blox.com)
