1. Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of the SIMcom 4G CAT.1 Core Board. These boards, powered by a Qualcomm chip, support data communication and optional GNSS functionality, making them suitable for various IoT applications.
Figure 1: SIMcom SIM7670E Core Board
Key Features:
- Qualcomm Chipset
- 4G CAT.1 Connectivity
- Support for Data Communication (TCP, HTTP, MQTT)
- Optional GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System)
- Standard AT Command Set with 4G and 2G compatibility
- Wide Voltage Power Supply (5-12V)
- Compact Size for Easy Embedding
Figure 2: Basic Characteristics of the Core Board, highlighting strong compatibility, wide voltage, abundant data, high integration, multi-frequency support, and FAE online support.
2. Setup Instructions
2.1. Component Overview
Figure 3: SIM7672NA Module Component Layout
- 1:7 PIN functional pin 2.54mm - Main connection pins.
- 2:Nano SIMcard - Slot for Nano SIM.
- 3:Audio Interface - For audio connections (if supported by specific model).
- 4:NB Module-GPS - GPS antenna connection for NB-IoT module.
- 5:4G Module-BT - Bluetooth antenna connection for 4G module.
- 6:4G Module-GPS - GPS antenna connection for 4G module.
- 7:4G/NB Module-Wireless Network - Main wireless network antenna connection.
2.2. Pin Description
Refer to the table below for the function of each pin on the core board:
Figure 4: Pin Description
| PIN | Description |
|---|---|
| VIN | Power input, input range 5V to 12V. |
| GND | Negative power input. |
| TX | 4G module serial port TX, connected to MCU RX pin. |
| RX | 4G module serial port RX, connected to MCU TX pin. |
| 3.8EN | Module 3.8V power switch enable control, high level on/low level off. |
| NET | Module network indication signal output. |
| DTR | Module sleep control pin, pull low to wake up the module, and keep low level normally. |
2.3. Wiring Diagram
Connect the core board to your microcontroller (MCU) or development board as per the following diagram:
Figure 5: Core Board Wiring Diagram and Pinout
2.4. SIM Card and Antenna Installation
- Insert Nano SIM Card: Carefully insert a Nano SIM card into the designated SIM card slot (refer to Figure 3, item 2). Ensure correct orientation.
- Connect Antenna: Attach the appropriate 4G LTE antenna to the IPEX 1 antenna interface (refer to Figure 3, item 7). If your module supports GNSS, connect the GNSS antenna to the corresponding interface (refer to Figure 3, item 6).
- Power Supply: Connect a stable power supply within the 5V to 12V range to the VIN and GND pins.
Figure 6: SIM7670E Module with LTE-4G Antenna
3. Operating Instructions
3.1. Powering On and Network Connection
- After connecting the power supply, the module will power on.
- Observe the NET pin output for network indication. A blinking LED typically indicates network registration status.
- The module supports standard AT commands for configuration and communication.
Figure 7: Standard AT Command Development with Compatibility
3.2. Data Transmission
The core board facilitates transparent data transmission using various IoT communication protocols. You can interact with the module via AT commands to establish connections and send/receive data.
Figure 8: Transparent Data Transmission Overview
Supported protocols include TCP, UDP, MQTT, HTTP, HTTPS, DNS, RNDIS, ECM, and PPP.
3.3. GNSS Functionality (Optional)
For models with GNSS support, ensure a GNSS antenna is connected. Use specific AT commands to enable and query GNSS data for location services.
3.4. Sleep Control
The DTR pin can be used to control the module's sleep mode. Pulling DTR low will wake up the module. Keep DTR low normally for standard operation.
4. Maintenance
- Keep the module in a dry, clean environment.
- Avoid exposing the module to extreme temperatures or humidity outside its operating range (-40°C to 85°C).
- Ensure all connections (power, antenna, SIM card) are secure and free from corrosion.
- Regularly check for firmware updates from the manufacturer to ensure optimal performance and security.
- Handle the board with care to prevent physical damage to components or connectors.
5. Troubleshooting
- No Power: Verify the power supply voltage is within 5-12V and connections to VIN/GND are correct.
- No Network Registration:
- Check if the SIM card is correctly inserted and active.
- Ensure the antenna is properly connected.
- Verify network coverage in your area.
- Check the NET pin status for network indication.
- Communication Issues:
- Confirm correct TX/RX connections between the module and MCU.
- Verify UART settings (baud rate, parity, data bits, stop bits).
- Ensure AT commands are sent correctly and responses are parsed properly.
- GNSS Not Working (if applicable):
- Ensure the GNSS antenna is connected and has a clear view of the sky.
- Verify GNSS functionality is enabled via AT commands.
6. Specifications
General Specifications:
| Project | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Name | 4G CAT1 Core Board |
| Power | VIN 5V-12V |
| UART | Yes |
| Antenna interface | IPEX 1 |
| SIM Card | Nano SIM |
| LED | Power/Network light |
| USB | Yes |
| SIZE | 28mm × 26mm × 6.98mm |
| Operating temperature | -40°C ~ 85°C |
| Network speed | LTE: 10Mbps (DL) / 5Mbps (UL) |
| Network protocol | TCP/IP/IPv4/IPv6/MultiPDP/FTP/FTPS/HTTP/HTTPS/DNS/RNDIS/ECM/PPP |
| Function | LTE CAT1 + 4G + GPS (optional) |
Model-Specific Network Bands:
Figure 9: Product Parameters for SIM7672NA
Figure 10: Product Parameters for SIM7670E
Figure 11: Product Parameters for SIM7672G
7. Warranty and Support
The manufacturer provides technical support and FAE (Field Application Engineer) online support to assist with product integration and troubleshooting.
Additional Resources:
For comprehensive documentation, including datasheets, drivers, firmware, and STM code, please refer to the following resources:
- User Manual (PDF): A detailed user manual is available for download. Reference: Item guides & documents (PDF)
- Antenna Information Series: Google Drive Link
- COSYS Introduction: Google Drive Link
- ESP32 Documentation: Google Drive Link
- Product Poster: Google Drive Link
- Core Board Datasheet Information Summary: Google Drive Link
- USB Dongle Series Documentation: Various models (EC2X, A7670X, A7672X, SIM7670X, SIM7672X) have dedicated documentation and video links available in the provided resources.
- SIMcom Coreboard Series Documentation: Various models (SIM800C, SIM7028, A7682E, A7608E-H, A7608SA-H, A7680C, A7672E, A7672SA, SIM7080G, SIM7070G, SIM7070E, SIM7000A, SIM7000E, SIM7000G, SIM7600X, SIM7600E, A7670E, A7670SA, A7672S, A7670G, SIM7670G, SIM7672X, SIM868/SIM868E, SIM7020E/SIM7020G) have dedicated documentation and video links available in the provided resources.
- Quectel Module/CoreBoard Series Documentation: Various models (EC21-xxxx, EC25-XXX, EG21-XXXX, EG25-XXXX, EC200A-XXXX, PH7 EG915/912/BG95, EG91/EG95, EG912/EG915, EC200U, EP06) have dedicated documentation and video links available in the provided resources.
- Net Port Development Board Documentation: Google Drive Link
For further assistance, you may contact the provider via email: Cosys@cosyswireless.com.
8. User Tips
No specific user tips were available from reviews or Q&A for this product. Always refer to the official documentation for the most accurate and up-to-date information.