Antenova is shipping its ultra-small GNSS active antenna module with LNA and SAW for better positioning from difficult locations

Antenova Ltd, manufacturer of antennas and RF antenna modules for connected devices and the Internet of Things, is now shipping its latest module for tiny positioning devices – the RADIONOVA M20047-1. This is an active antenna module for GNSS applications in the 1559-1609 MHz satellite bands using GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO or BeiDou.

The M20047-1 antenna module comprises an SMD antenna with built-in active components: an LNA filter and SAW to boost antenna performance – so designers will not need to add these – all contained in a compact FR4 part with low power consumption, measuring just 7.0mm x 7.0mm x 0.9mm, and weighing less than 2g.

The on-board LNA and filter act to boost the signal to the GNSS processor in environments where there is a restricted view of the sky or where line-of-sight to the horizon is difficult.

Antenova has also added an external matching feature to compensate for any de-tuning of the antenna caused by proximity to other components, such as a plastic case or a battery.

The clear-out area required by the antenna module is only 7.0mm x 5.0mm. This, with its tiny size makes the M20047-1 perfect for small positioning devices where space on the PCB is tight, for example in wearable devices, asset tracking, sports cameras and equipment and smart watches.

The M20047-1 is a useful alternative to Antenova’s existing “Sinica” antenna, part no SR4G008, which Antenova also recommends for accurate positioning.

This M20047-1 was first announced at CES in Las Vegas, earlier this year.

Antenova’s antennas are specifically designed for easy integration and the datasheet and evaluation kit for the M20047-1 are available from www.antenova.com. Antenova also provides full engineering support, antenna testing, tuning and integration for its customers.