Ultra-small multi-GNSS module for wearables, drones and asset trackers

U-blox has launched the ZOE-M8G, an ultra-compact GNSS receiver module, especially designed for markets where small size, minimal weight and high location precision are essential. The device offers exceptionally high location accuracy by concurrently connecting to GPS, Galileo and either GLONASS or BeiDou. It also provides industry-leading -167 dBm navigation sensitivity. This makes it ideal for wearable devices, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and asset tracker applications. The new device helps simplify product designs, because it is a fully integrated, complete GNSS solution with built-in SAW-filter and LNA. This means it can be used with passive antennas, without the need for additional components, and doesn’t compromise performance. The module measures only 4.5mm x 4.5mm x 1mm. Due to its very small size, a complete GNSS design using the module takes approximately 30% less PCB area compared to a conventional discrete chip design with a CSP chip GNSS receiver. Uffe Pless, product marketing, positioning product center at U-blox, said: “When you’re designing products such as smart watches, fitness trackers, asset trackers, UBI dongles and even drones, every square millimeter and every gram counts. The U-blox ZOE-M8G makes it significantly easier for product designers to achieve precise location tracking while keeping within their strict form factor and weight restrictions.”