As of December 2019, all Pycom cellular developer boards and OEM modules will feature an upgraded calibration. This is the result of enhanced and optimised manufacturing and testing processes we have put in place with our manufacturing and technology partners.
As you know, we have a number of devices capable of cellular networking. These include the GPy, the FiPy and the G01 which support both CAT- NB1 (Narrowband-IoT) and M1.
Every one of those cellular devices that we will be shipping out now, has been recalibrated and screened on all 17 bands with a vastly improved RF test system at our factory in China. This is not something that can be done at home or in a lab as you can imagine. We have also ensured that all of our partner stocks has been upgraded, namely that of Digi-Key, Farnell, RS Components, Mouser and Arrow.
We’ve used specialised equipment and software from our technology partners Rhode & Schwarz at the factory to enable greater measuring precision during calibration and enhanced tRF sensitivity… in other words greater signal quality.
Pycom’s cellular range supports 17 bands including
| TX Frequencies | RX Frequencies | |
| Low Bands 5, 8, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 26, 28 |
699 to 915 MHz | 729 to 960 MHz |
| Mid Bands 1, 2, 3, 4 |
1710 to 1980 MHz | 1805 to 2170 MHz |
The link below will give you more information about the bands.
http://niviuk.free.fr/lte_band.php
The results of these new calibrations are particularly good for areas with poor cellular coverage, even while reducing output power during transmit to improve battery performance. The net results of this is are the following:
- greater connectivity stability
- lower power consumption
- faster network attachment
By way of reminder the Sequans Monarch chip which is on all our cellular hardware range has already been validated by Verizon Wireless, AT&T Wireless, NTT Docomo, SoftBank, Orange, and Telstra.
We know it works on a load of additional networks too, but if in doubt do check the bands below to see if it’s compatible with your operator of choice and of course feel free to get in touch.
New year, new calibration!
We think you’ll all like the results 🙂