u-blox GNSS Timing Modules Designed for Upgrades

Photo: u-blox

u‑blox has announced the NEO-M8T and LEA-M8T precision timing modules, which are able to generate a precise reference clock with <20 ns accuracy. The receivers offer high sensitivity (-157 dBm signal acquisition with assisted GNSS) that allows quick start-up inside structures with limited sky view. The precise reference clock is derived from multi-GNSS including GPS, GLONASS, and BeiDou.

The LEA-M8T module is footprint compatible with existing LEA-5T/6T designs, facilitating easy upgrade. The NEO-M8T is optimized for timing applications requiring low power consumption and long battery life such as geophones used for seismic field measurements. Both compact, surface-mount modules meet stringent requirements for reliability, accuracy and low power consumption.

“These new modules are the industry’s highest performance GNSS timing modules in terms of accuracy, reliability and power consumption,” said Thomas Nigg, Vice President of Product Marketing at u-blox, “The new modules are perfect solutions for mission-critical infrastructure systems including mobile communication networks, power generation and distribution systems and seismic measurements.”

The NEO and LEA-M8T modules are multi-GNSS, pin-compatible successors to u-blox’ existing PPS timing modules and complements the previously announced GNSS disciplined frequency reference module, LEA‑M8F.

Measuring 12.2 x 16.0 mm (NEO-M8T) and 17.0 x 22.4 mm (LEA-M8T), the modules deliver high integrity and reliability with RAIM (Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring) and alarms, which are crucial features for extremely reliable operation. Two time-pulse outputs are available, configurable from once per minute up to 10 MHz. The modules also output multi-GNSS RAW data including carrier phase, code phase and pseudo-ranges.

The modules can deliver time according to any international standard including calibration of inter-constellation offsets. Survey-in and single satellite timing features increase timing accuracy and timing availability with as few as one single satellite in view. Support for low duty cycle operation reduces power consumption for battery-powered applications which results in cost savings as smaller batteries can be used.

The M8T timing modules are delivered in u-blox’ established LEA and NEO form-factors with standardized pin-out, allowing ready migration from previous product generations. u-blox timing products can make optional use of u-blox AssistNow or industry standard aiding data. This reduces the time to first fix and delivers exceptional acquisition sensitivity, even on first installation before precise location or time is known.