1. Product Overview
The Sierra Wireless EM7430 is an advanced LTE Cat6 M.2 module designed to provide high-speed 4G WWAN connectivity and integrated GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) capabilities. This module is ideal for integration into various devices such as PCs, laptops, and routers, offering reliable mobile broadband access and location services.
Key Features
- LTE Cat6 for high-speed data transfer (up to 300 Mbps downlink, 50 Mbps uplink)
- Integrated GNSS receiver supporting GPS, Glonass, Beidou, and Galileo
- M.2 form factor for compact integration
- Support for FDD-LTE and TDD-LTE bands
- Compatible with Windows 7, 8.1, 10, Linux, and Android RIL drivers
- USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 interfaces
- SIM Interface (1.8V/3V)
2. Specifications
General Parameters
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Application | M2M, IoT |
| Wireless Technology | 4G/LTE, 3G, HSPA+, UMTS, TD-SCDMA |
| Region | Asia Pacific |
| Carrier | docomo, Telstra, KDDI, Softbank |
| Fallback | Yes |
| Fallback Standard | 3G |
| GNSS Integrated | Yes |
| GNSS Standard | GPS, Glonass, Beidou, Galileo |
| LTE/4G Category | Cat-6 |
| LTE/4G Band | B1, B3, B5, B7, B8, B18, B19, B21, B28, B38-B41 |
| UMTS/HSPA/3G/WCDMA Band | B1, B5, B6, B8, B9, B19, B39 |
| IoT | Yes |
| MIMO | Yes |
| Antenna | Yes |
| Certification | CE, GCF, JRF/JPA, NCC |
| Drivers | Windows®7, Windows® 8.1, 10, Linux, Android RIL |
| Security | FOTA |
| Interface | USB 3.0, USB 2.0, SIM Interface 1.8V/3V |
| Datarate Download Link | 300 Mbps |
| Datarate Uplink | 50 Mbps |
| Voltage | 1.8 to 3 V |
| Size | 42 x 30 x 2.3 mm |
LTE Frequency Bands
| Band | Frequency (Tx) | Frequency (Rx) |
|---|---|---|
| Band 1 | 1920–1980 MHz | 2110–2170 MHz |
| Band 3 | 1710–1785 MHz | 1805–1880 MHz |
| Band 5 | 824–849 MHz | 869–894 MHz |
| Band 7 | 2500–2570 MHz | 2620–2690 MHz |
| Band 8 | 880–915 MHz | 925–960 MHz |
| Band 18 | 815–830 MHz | 860–875 MHz |
| Band 19 | 830–845 MHz | 875–890 MHz |
| Band 21 | 1447.9–1462.9 MHz | 1495.9–1510.9 MHz |
| Band 28 | 703–748 MHz | 758–803 MHz |
| Band 38 | 2570–2620 MHz (TDD) | |
| Band 39 | 1880–1920 MHz (TDD) | |
| Band 40 | 2300–2400 MHz (TDD) | |
| Band 41 | 2496–2690 MHz (TDD) |
Physical Dimensions
The EM7430 module measures 42 x 30 x 2.3 mm. It features two RF connectors for main and auxiliary antennas, and a standard M.2 connector for integration.
3. Installation and Setup
Before You Begin
- Ensure your host device (PC, laptop, router) has a compatible M.2 slot (Key B or Key B+M, typically for WWAN modules).
- Obtain a compatible SIM card from your mobile network provider.
- Prepare appropriate antennas for LTE/4G connectivity and potentially GNSS.
- Download the latest drivers for the EM7430 module from the Sierra Wireless support website or your device manufacturer's website.
Hardware Installation
- Power Off: Completely power off your device and disconnect it from any power sources.
- Access M.2 Slot: Open your device's casing to access the internal M.2 slot. Refer to your device's manual for specific instructions on how to do this.
- Insert SIM Card: Locate the SIM card slot on the EM7430 module. Carefully insert your activated SIM card into the slot until it clicks into place.
- Insert Module: Align the EM7430 module with the M.2 slot. Gently push the module into the slot at an angle until it is fully seated.
- Secure Module: Press the module down and secure it with the retaining screw provided by your device manufacturer.
- Connect Antennas: Connect the main and auxiliary LTE/4G antennas to the corresponding RF connectors on the module (labeled MAIN and AUX). If using GNSS, connect the GNSS antenna to its dedicated connector if available.
- Close Casing: Carefully close your device's casing and secure it.
Driver Installation
After hardware installation, power on your device. The operating system may automatically detect the new hardware and attempt to install generic drivers. For optimal performance and full functionality, it is recommended to install the official Sierra Wireless drivers:
- Windows: Run the downloaded driver installer package and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Linux/Android: Consult the Sierra Wireless documentation or your device manufacturer's support for specific instructions on installing and configuring drivers for these operating systems. This often involves command-line tools or specific firmware updates.
4. Operation
Connecting to a Mobile Network
Once the module is installed and drivers are in place, your operating system should recognize the WWAN card. You can then:
- Open your network settings (e.g., Windows Network & Internet settings, Linux Network Manager).
- Locate the mobile broadband or cellular connection option.
- Configure the Access Point Name (APN) settings provided by your mobile network operator.
- Select your mobile network and initiate a connection.
GNSS Functionality
The integrated GNSS receiver allows for location tracking. Depending on your operating system and applications, you may need specific software or APIs to access the GPS, Glonass, Beidou, or Galileo data. Ensure that location services are enabled in your system settings.
5. Troubleshooting
- Module Not Detected:
- Ensure the module is correctly seated in the M.2 slot and secured.
- Verify that the M.2 slot is enabled in the device's BIOS/UEFI settings.
- Check device manager (Windows) or `lsusb`/`lspci` (Linux) to see if the module is recognized.
- No Network Connection:
- Confirm the SIM card is correctly inserted and activated.
- Check APN settings for accuracy.
- Ensure antennas are securely connected to the MAIN and AUX ports.
- Verify that the correct drivers are installed.
- Check for network coverage in your area.
- GNSS Not Working:
- Ensure a GNSS antenna is connected (if required by your setup).
- Verify that location services are enabled in your operating system.
- Check for any specific GNSS software or driver requirements.
- Ensure clear line of sight to the sky for satellite reception.
- Slow Speeds:
- Check network signal strength.
- Ensure you are within LTE Cat6 coverage.
- Verify that the correct drivers are installed and updated.
6. User Tips
- Antenna Placement: For optimal signal strength, ensure your LTE antennas are positioned away from metal obstructions and ideally have a clear path to the outside.
- Driver Updates: Regularly check the Sierra Wireless support website for updated drivers to ensure compatibility and performance improvements.
- Power Management: Configure your device's power management settings to prevent the WWAN module from being disabled during sleep or low-power states if continuous connectivity is desired.
- Firmware Updates: Periodically check for firmware updates for the EM7430 module, as these can improve stability and add new features.
7. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the documentation provided by your device manufacturer or contact the seller directly. Keep your purchase receipt and module serial number (IMEI) handy when seeking support.
