Combining L1 and L5 reception capabilities significantly improves GNSS reception, especially in challenging RF environments. With the SE873K5-D, Telit provides this capability in the well-liked SE873 form factor.

In terms of supported GNSS services, the new module supports GPS L1, GLONASS L1, Galileo E1, BeiDou B1, and QZSS L1. Data is emitted to the process computer using the NMEA format, which all GNSS or GPS software libraries support.

Pin compatibility for easier upgrading

Telit's extremely compact form factor is shared with predecessor models. This means that an existing GNSS system can be upgraded via a simple BoM switch; electrical and logical signaling can remain untouched:

This new module maintains the same 7 x 7 mm footprint and pin-to-pin compatibility as the single-frequency SE873K5. OEMs can scale performance without changing hardware designs. 

The SE873K5-D supports multiconstellation GNSS across the L1 and L5 bands. Compared to single-frequency solutions, it improves accuracy and robustness against interference and multipath effects.  

In addition to standalone GNSS, the module can also be used for submeter accuracy positioning as per the following:

With DGNSS support via RTCM corrections, the module enables submeter accuracy. It is ideal for myriad use cases, from wearables to fleet management.

Finally, the low power consumption deserves an honorable mention. In the datasheet, the following energy budgets are announced:

Power Supply

Range from 1.75 up to 1.85 V

Power Consumption (@1.8V)

Acquisition (GGGB): 41 mW

Tracking / Navigation (GGGB): 42 mW

RTC mode: 31 uW

Get Started Quickly via a GNSS Starter Kit

Bringing up an SE873-based solution is clearly accelerated via the availability of the SE873K5 Multiconstellation GNSS Evaluation Kit. Commonly stocked under MPN 3990150720, it provides a MiniUSB attachable evaluation board with two antenna jacks. A Telit-provided GUI application can then be run to provide a spatial overview of the collected information.

Conclusion

If a design requires an extremely compact dual-band GNSS module, the Telit SE873K5 is ideally suited. Thanks to its small footprint and excellent ecosystem support, it is guaranteed to deliver a low-TCO solution.