U-blox, a leading global provider of positioning and wireless communication technologies, has introduced its smallest GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) module series to date: the MIA-M10. This groundbreaking module is set to revolutionize the market for compact, battery-powered tracking devices.
Built on the company's ultra-low-power M10 GNSS platform, the MIA-M10 offers an efficient solution for size-constrained devices. Its primary applications include trackers for people, pets, and livestock, as well as industrial sensors and consumer goods.
The module's standout feature is its incredibly small 4.5 x 4.5 mm form factor. This miniature size enables developers to create more attractive and comfortable designs, potentially accelerating the adoption of positioning technology across various consumer and industrial applications.
Despite its compact size, the MIA-M10 doesn't compromise on performance. It boasts ultra-low power consumption while maintaining high GNSS accuracy. The module's power-save modes can effectively double battery life by optimizing the balance between position accuracy and power usage.
One of the key strengths of the MIA-M10 is its ability to concurrently receive signals from four GNSS constellations: GPS, Galileo, BeiDou, and GLONASS. This multi-constellation support, combined with superior RF sensitivity, ensures robust positioning performance even in challenging environments such as urban canyons.
The module also supports u-blox's AssistNow service, which provides orbital data via the internet to reduce the time needed for initial positioning. For applications requiring extended power autonomy, u-blox offers the CloudLocate service, which offloads power-intensive position calculations to the cloud.
The MIA-M10 comes in two variants:
- MIA-M10Q: Targeted at highly size-constrained battery-powered tracking devices, wearables, and dynamic applications like small drones and bike computers.
- MIA-M10C: Designed for customers needing more flexibility to combine the module with active or custom antenna circuits.
As a chip-sized, ready-to-use module requiring no external components, the MIA-M10 promises to reduce engineering efforts, cut costs, and accelerate time-to-market for manufacturers.
U-blox plans to showcase the MIA-M10 at the Sensors Converge and Embedded Technologies trade show in San Jose, California. The first samples of this innovative GNSS module are expected to be available in July, marking a significant step forward in miniaturized positioning technology.