NORA-W30 series - System integration manual
UBX-22021119 - R02
Module integration
Page 15 of 52
C1-Public
2.8
Antenna integration
Antenna interfaces are different for each module variant in the NORA-W30 series. The modules
support either an internal antenna (NORA-W306) or external antennas connected through a
dedicated antenna pin (NORA-W301).
2.8.1
External RF antenna interface
The NORA-W301 module is equipped with an antenna signal (
ANT
) pin. The pin has a nominal
characteristic impedance of 50
and must be connected to the antenna through a 50
transmission
line.
Choose an antenna with optimal radiating characteristics for the best electrical performance and
overall module functionality. An internal antenna, integrated on the application board or an external
antenna connected to the application board through a proper 50
connector, can be used.
When using an external antenna, the PCB-to-RF-cable transition must be implemented using either
a suitable 50
connector, or an RF-signal solder pad (including GND) that is optimized for 50
characteristic impedance.
2.8.1.1
Antenna matching
The antenna return loss should be as low as possible across both
bo
th
bands to provide optimal
performance. The enclosure, shields, other components, and surrounding environment might impact
the return loss that is seen at the antenna port. Matching components are often required to retune
the antenna to 50
characteristic impedance.
It is difficult to predict the actual matching values for the antenna in the final form factor. Therefore,
it is good practice to have a placeholder in the circuit
with a “pi” network, with two shunt components
and a series component in the middle. This allows maximum flexibility while tuning the matching to
the antenna feed.
2.8.1.2
Approved antenna designs
NORA-W301 modules come with a pre-certified design that utilizes a U.FL connector for an external
antenna. The certification can be used to save costs and time during the certification process. See
The designer integrating a u-blox reference design into an end-product is solely responsible for any
unintentional RF emission generated by the end product.
The module may be integrated with other antennas. In which case, the OEM installer must certify the
design with respective regulatory agencies.
2.8.2
Internal antenna
NORA-W306 modules have an internal antenna that is specifically designed and optimized for u-blox
Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth LE modules. With NORA-W306, designers only need to consider the module
placement and GND clearance in antenna area.
2.9
Data interfaces
NORA-W30 modules have 20 I/O pins. The pins can be assigned to the data interfaces listed below;
however, assignments cannot be in conflict. To visualize the available pin assignments for the
interfaces, see
