SparkFun MicroMod Cellular Function Board - Blues Wireless Notecarrier

The SparkFun Notecarrier Cellular Function Board is a unique addition to the MicroMod ecosystem, providing a cellular modem powered by the Notecard - NOTE-NBGL-500 from Blues Wireless. What sets this cellular module apart is its built-in SIM card and an inclusive 10-year subscription with 500MB of data.

The Notecard module is not just a cellular modem, it also features an integrated SIM, onboard GPS, 3-axis accelerometer, and an on-chip temperature sensor. Moreover, the Notecard offers outboard device firmware updates (DFU), allowing remote reprogramming of a connected Processor through Blues' Notehub service. However, this functionality is limited to specific MicroMod Processors, so users are encouraged to refer to the Hookup Guide and Blues' documentation for detailed information.

The Function Board is designed for easy integration of the Notecard into a MicroMod assembly. All that's required is to connect an LTE antenna and a GNSS antenna (if location data is needed) to the U.FL connectors on the Notecard. Once connected, you can start transferring data to a cloud service of your choice.

One of the standout features of this product is the comprehensive documentation provided by Blues. All API calls come with extensive C, Python, and JSON examples. The Function Board supports communication to the Notecard over I²C, UART, USB, and Serial, with the USB option being particularly useful for immediate gratification and command debugging using the Notecard CLI.

The built-in SIM card in the Notecard provides cellular service coverage in over 140 countries, with the possibility of extending this coverage to another 33 countries with an external SIM card installed in the onboard nano-SIM socket.

Please note that Antennas, MicroMod Processor, and Main Board are not included with this MicroMod Cellular Function Board. A Single Main Board v2.1 or Double v2.2 are required for use and will need to be purchased separately. Refer to the Hookup Guide for Antenna specifics.

The MicroMod is a modular interface ecosystem that connects a microcontroller “processor board” to various “carrier board” peripherals. Utilizing the M.2 standard, the MicroMod standard is designed to easily swap out processors and function boards on the fly. Pair a specialized carrier board for the project you need with your choice of compatible processor!

Features of the Notecard NOTE-NBGL-500 Cellular Module include an integrated GNSS module and 3-axis accelerometer, built-in SIM card, compatibility with over 140 countries cellular networks (signal quality varies), a 10-year data plan with 500MB (used over the life of the device) included with the price of hardware, u.FL connectors for Cellular and GPS antennas, and LEDs for modem and user activity.

The Cellular Function Board features an empty Nano-SIM socket for external SIM card addition, PTH Header, configurable User Button, LEDs for various status indicators, solder jumpers, and connectors and ports including 1x M.2 MicroMod connector and 1x USB Type C - Direct serial interface with the Notecard.