Qorvo® Unveils Ultra-Small Low-Voltage Cellular IoT Module

October 10, 2023 – Qorvo® (NASDAQ: QRVO), a global leader in connectivity and power solutions, is pleased to introduce its latest product, the QM55011, as part of its expanding Cellular Internet of Things (C-IoT) transmission module portfolio. This new multi-band, multi-mode Radio Frequency Front-End (RFFE) module is specifically designed to optimize performance according to the NB-IoT1/2 and LTE Cat-M1/2 3GPP standards. With its compact 3 mm x 3 mm form factor, low 2.5V operating voltage, and comprehensive multi-band support, the QM55011 proves to be an excellent choice for a wide range of low-power applications, including but not limited to smart meters, asset tracking and monitoring, wearable devices, and smart infrastructure.

The QM55011 boasts support for extended NB-IoT and LTE-M standards, providing operational flexibility with voltage levels as low as 2.5V. This not only enables a broader selection of battery options but also eliminates the size and cost constraints typically associated with boost converters. Additionally, its low-power attributes significantly enhance battery life, making it an ideal solution for applications where charging facilities and primary power sources may not be readily available. In select NB-IoT/LTE-M use cases, this device can operate at even lower voltage levels. Moreover, the product extends its versatility by accommodating other air standards such as Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) and Wireless Smart Utility Networks (Wi-SUN).

Tony Testa, General Manager of Qorvo's Connectivity Components Business, remarked, "Customers aiming to introduce the next generation of battery-powered cellular IoT devices into the market have a pressing need to reduce solution size and power consumption. The QM55011 adeptly addresses both these requirements while providing extensive compatibility with a broad spectrum of cellular frequencies."

Notably, the QM55011 supports low-frequency bands (663 to 915 MHz) and mid-frequency bands (1695 to 2010 MHz) and introduces the B65 band compared to previous iterations. It features integrated TX harmonic suppression filters and an antenna switch equipped with auxiliary TX/RX pathways, facilitating 2G power handling and accommodating a wide frequency range of attached power amplifiers (PAs). Users can program its band selection and biasing conveniently through the Mobile Industry Processor Interface (MIPI).

Qorvo's growing C-IoT transmission module series now includes the following products: