SparkFun LTE CAT M1/NB-IoT Shield - SARA-R4

The SparkFun LTE CAT M1/NB-IoT Shield is a powerful tool that provides your Arduino or Arduino-compatible microcontroller with access to data networks worldwide. This shield enhances your IoT project by offering wireless, high-bandwidth cellular functionality while maintaining low power consumption and a compact design. It is designed based on the Arduino R3's footprint, making it easy to integrate with your favorite Arduino-based device.

The shield is powered by a u-blox SARA-R410M-02B LTE Cat M1/NB-IoT modem. Cat M1 (Category M1) and NB-IoT (Narrowband IoT) are both Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) technologies designed to provide cellular communication to small IoT devices. They operate on the same LTE network bands as most smartphones and are compatible with most cellular network carriers. The u-blox SARA-R4 module communicates via a UART using a simple AT command set. A library is provided to help you get started with everything from sending SMS text messages to communicating with servers over a TCP/IP connection. The module and library also support an I²C GPS interface via a Qwiic connector, allowing you to plug in a u-blox GPS module and start tracking your project remotely.

The SparkFun LTE CAT M1/NB-IoT Shield comes with a ceramic, Molex 1462000001 SMD antenna. The antenna has a gain of 3.8dBi in the 1.7GHz to 2.7GHz range. If you prefer using an external antenna, a U.FL connector is provided, which can be accessed by simply slicing through a jumper with a hobby knife.

Be aware that this shield requires additional parts to function fully. Apart from an Arduino-based device, you need to provide your own SIM card and headers, which need to be soldered on.

It's important to check the Hardware Overview section in the Hookup Guide for compatible GPS modules. The onboard Qwiic connector is designed to support only u-blox-based GPS modules. It does not support any other GPS modules or sensors. SparkFun continues to add more modules, so be sure to check back regularly for updates!

Start your IoT project with the SparkFun LTE CAT M1/NB-IoT Shield and enjoy a world of wireless possibilities!