U-blox's new 150 Mbps 4G LTE voice/data machine

     U-blox, a global leader in wireless and positioning modules and chips, announced the launch of the TOBY-L280, the first LTE Category 4 robust module available in an LGA package with support for the Band 28 FDD-LTE standard. Band28 is now commercially available in Taiwan, Australia and New Zealand, and will be further deployed throughout the Asia Pacific region, as well as Brazil and Argentina. With download speeds of up to 150Mb/s, the TOBY-L280 is the fastest and smallest computer of its kind in the world. In addition to FDD-LTE support, the module is backward compatible with HSPA+ and GSM/GPRS standards for truly global operation.

     The TOBY-L280 is available as a Professional Grade product with an operating temperature range of -40 °C to +85 °C, making it ideal for applications ranging from automotive infotainment and navigation systems to rugged handheld devices. The platform is also available in Standard Grade (operating temperature -20°C to +65°C) in mPCI form for applications such as laptops, tablets and cartridges. The product also provides reliable cellular communication for video monitoring, medical, digital signage, and transportation systems. The TOBY-L280 is compatible with u-blox's HSPA/HSPA+ and GSM/GPRS module layouts, enabling easy system upgrades and reduced development time.

     The TOBY-L280 modules are manufactured in an ISO/TS 16949 automotive certified production plant to ensure the highest quality and reliability. "Based on customer-driven innovation, u-blox has once again demonstrated our competitive edge to our customers by being the first to launch the ultra-compact Band 28 and LTE Category 4 modules," said Ezra Stein, product manager for Cellular modules at u-blox.

     Andreas Thiel, Executive Vice President of Cellular product Development at u-blox, said: "Our customers are looking for a fast, reliable way to bring the highest performance to their new products, and they want a simple path to upgrade from 2G/3G to 4G LTE. Our product development is focused on helping them achieve these goals. The TOBY-L280 has expanded its capabilities for the booming markets of Asia Pacific and South America. Support for the Band 28 Band allows customers' products to roam freely between many countries in the Asian region. Band 28's low carrier frequency provides excellent coverage, especially in rural areas. The TOBY Cellular radio module's common footprint design and tight integration with u-blox GNSS products means customers don't have to worry about cellular performance and can spend more time differentiating their products for competitive advantage."