Ultra compact standalone LoRa module

A compact wide area network (LPWAN) wireless module that supports the LoRaWAN long range wireless protocol has been introduced by Murata.

This low power standalone module comprises a Semtech SX1276 spread spectrum wireless transceiver and an STMicro STM32L0 MCU. The RF transceiver has a clock source provided by an integrated TCXO with low drift thermal characteristics.

The CMWX1ZZABZ-078 module communicates via UART, SPI, or I2C peripheral interfaces. An A/D converter and up to 18 GPIOs provide flexibility for connecting sensors, switches and status LEDs. The module is powered from a 2.2 to 3.6V DC supply. The normal output power is 14dBm but a PA boost function can be selected to increase RF output to 20dBm for long range applications or in poor signal locations indoors. The CMWX1ZZABZ-078 has pre-certified radio regulatory approvals for operating in the 868 and 915MHz industrial, scientific and medical spectrum.

The MCU includes 192kB flash and 20kB RAM, and has enough memory to embed customer applications and host other modulation stacks. In addition, an optional STSAFE secure element can be incorporated into the MCU to enhance the network security capabilities.

Typical applications for this module include smart metering, wearables, tracking, M2M and IoT edge nodes. The module can operate in temperatures ranging from – 40 to 85°C. It measures 12.5 x 11.6 x 1.76mm and comes in a metal shielded package.