AWS IoT ExpressLink SARA-R5 Starter Kit

The Sparkfun AWS IoT ExpressLink SARA-R5 Starter Kit is a versatile and comprehensive kit designed to connect devices to the AWS IoT Core via a cellular LTE-M network. The SARA-R5 module on the board supports the AWS IoT ExpressLink AT command set, simplifying the process for app developers.

The Starter Kit is built around AWS IoT ExpressLink and offers access to AWS IoT Core through a pre-activated SIM card for global use. It comes with a SARA-R5 module mounted on a SparkFun MicroMod Asset Tracker Carrier Board. This board is designed to accommodate a SparkFun MicroMod processor board, allowing the module to be used with a variety of microprocessors. An ESP32 Processor Board is also included in the kit, which can be used to run examples or demo applications.

The Asset Tracker Carrier Board features an integrated ICM-20948 Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) that provides Nine Degree-Of-Freedom orientation and movement detection. This enables the Asset Tracker to send alerts when the asset is moved. The board also features a built-in digital microphone, allowing it to send an alert as soon as noise is detected.

The SparkFun Asset Tracker Carrier Board also includes a built-in micro-SD card socket for data logging, and a SIM card port with a pre-activated SIM card that provides 250MB of global data as well as an LTE antenna. Power options include both USB-C and LiPo battery (with built-in charging and battery fuel gauge), but power can also be provided via a breakout pin.

With the AWS IoT ExpressLink examples available on GitHub, users can run these on the MicroMod processor. The Asset Tracker is compatible with any MicroMod Processor Boards. However, given its extensive feature set and configurable nature, some Processor Boards may be more suitable for specific applications than others.

Note: The SARA-R5 module in the AWS IoT ExpressLink SARA-R5 Starter Kit only accepts AWS IoT ExpressLink AT commands. Regular u-blox SARA-R5 AT commands are not supported. The u-blox SARA-R510AWS module with the included SIM card provides LTE-M data communication for multi-regional use. Please ensure that your service provider offers LTE-M coverage for your area before purchasing.

Kit includes:

• 1x MicroMod Asset Tracker Carrier board
• 1x MicroMod Update Tool
• 1x ESP32 processor board
• 1x u-blox Thingstream eUICC SIM Card
• 1x LTE antenna

Features:

• u-blox SARA-R510-AWS module for secure multi-regional AWS IoT Core access
• Nano SIM socket
• ICM-20948 Inertial Measurement Unit for 9-Degree Of Freedom orientation and movement detection
• Digital microphone (SPH0641) for noise detection
• micro-SD socket for data logging
• Can be powered by a rechargeable LiPo battery
• Separate, robust SMA connections for LTE and GNSS antennas
• USB-C connectivity
• Qwiic (I²C) connector
• LED indicators for power, SARA-R5 on, network indicator, and GNSS timing pulse (1PPS)
• 3.3V breakout pins
• RTC backup battery