XYGStudy SIM7080G Cat-M/NB-IoT GNSS HAT for Raspberry Pi User Manual

1. Introduction

This document provides comprehensive instructions for the XYGStudy SIM7080G Cat-M/NB-IoT GNSS HAT. This telecommunication HAT offers multi-communication functionalities including NarrowBand-Internet of Things (NB-IoT), enhanced Machine Type Communication (Cat-M/eMTC), and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). Designed for integration with Raspberry Pi series boards, it supports global bands for NB-IoT and Cat-M, alongside precise positioning capabilities. Its compact size, low latency, and wide coverage make it suitable for various IoT applications such as intelligent instruments, asset tracking, remote monitoring, and e-health.

Key Features

• Standard Raspberry Pi 40PIN GPIO extension header, compatible with Raspberry Pi series boards.
• Supports communication protocols: TCP/UDP/HTTP/HTTPS/TLS/DTLS/PING/LWM2M/COAP/MQTT.
• Integrated GNSS positioning: GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, and Galileo.
• Onboard USB interface for AT command testing and GPS data acquisition.
• Breakout UART control pins for connection with external host boards like Arduino/STM32.
• Onboard voltage translator, configurable for 3.3V (default) or 5V via jumper.
• SIM card slot, exclusively supports 1.8V SIM cards.
• Three LED indicators for monitoring operational status.
• Adjustable baudrate: 300~3686400 bps, with common baudrate auto-negotiation (9600/19200/38400/57600/115200 bps).

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are included in your package:

• SIM7080G Cat-M/NB-IoT HAT x1
• LTE antenna x1
• GPS External Antenna (B) x1
• USB type A plug to micro plug cable x1
• 2×20PIN female header x1
• RPi screws pack (2pcs) x1

Figure 1: Package Contents. This image displays the SIM7080G HAT board, LTE antenna, GPS external antenna, USB cable, 2x20PIN female header, and RPi screw pack.

3. Product Overview

The SIM7080G HAT is a compact board designed for robust IoT connectivity. It integrates the SIM7080G module, providing NB-IoT, Cat-M, and GNSS capabilities. The board features various interfaces for flexible integration and control.

Figure 2: Top view of the SIM7080G HAT. Key components visible include the SIM7080G module (P/N: S2-108HB, SN: P10619506FB4482, IMEI: 860016040031812, SW: 1951B01V09SIM7080), USB port, 40-pin GPIO header, PWRKEY button, and connectors for GNSS and LTE antennas.

Figure 3: Bottom view of the SIM7080G HAT. This view highlights the SIM card slot, which supports 1.8V SIM cards.

4. Setup

4.1 SIM Card Installation

1. Locate the SIM card slot on the bottom side of the HAT (refer to Figure 3).
2. Ensure your SIM card is a 1.8V type. Note: 3V SIM cards are not supported.
3. Carefully insert the SIM card into the slot until it clicks into place.

4.2 Antenna Connection

1. Connect the provided LTE antenna to the 'LTE' connector on the HAT.
2. Connect the GPS External Antenna (B) to the 'GNSS' connector on the HAT.
3. Ensure both antennas are securely fastened.

Figure 4: SIM7080G HAT with antennas connected. The LTE antenna is connected to the right, and the GPS antenna to the left connector.

4.3 Connecting to Raspberry Pi

1. Align the 40-pin female header of the HAT with the 40-pin GPIO header on your Raspberry Pi.
2. Gently press the HAT onto the Raspberry Pi, ensuring all pins are correctly seated.
3. The onboard voltage translator is set to 3.3V by default. If your application requires 5V logic, adjust the jumper accordingly.

Figure 5: SIM7080G HAT mounted on a Raspberry Pi. Note that the Raspberry Pi board is not included with the HAT.

4.4 Power Supply

The HAT draws power directly from the Raspberry Pi's GPIO header. Ensure your Raspberry Pi is powered by a stable and sufficient power supply.

5. Operating Instructions

The SIM7080G HAT is primarily controlled via AT commands, which can be sent through either the USB interface or the UART pins.

5.1 Communication via USB Interface

Connect the HAT to your computer using the provided USB type A to micro plug cable. This interface allows you to send AT commands to the SIM7080G module and receive responses, including GPS positioning data, using a serial terminal program.

5.2 Communication via UART

The HAT provides breakout UART control pins, enabling connection to other host boards such as Arduino or STM32. Ensure proper wiring and voltage level compatibility when using this interface.

5.3 AT Commands

The SIM7080G module is controlled by a comprehensive set of AT commands. For a complete list and detailed descriptions, refer to the official SIMCOM SIM7080G AT Command Manual. Below are some common AT commands:

• AT: Checks if the module is responsive. Expected response: OK.
• ATI: Retrieves module identification information.
• AT+CPIN?: Checks the SIM card status. Expected response: READY if the SIM is detected and unlocked.
• AT+CREG?: Checks the network registration status.
• AT+COPS?: Queries the currently selected operator.
• AT+CGNSPWR=1: Powers on the GNSS function.
• AT+CGNSINF: Retrieves GNSS information (location data).
• AT+SGNSCMD=1,0: An alternative command for a single GPS shot, which may be useful if standard GNSS commands do not yield data.

5.4 LED Indicators

The HAT features three LED indicators to provide visual feedback on its operational status. Consult the detailed product documentation or SIMCOM module specifications for specific LED behavior (e.g., network activity, power status).

6. Specifications

6.1 Communications Specifications

6.2 GNSS Specifications

• Receiver type: 16-channel
• C/A code: Yes
• Bands:
  • GPS L1: 1575.42±1.023MHz
  • GLONASS: 1597.5~1605.8 MHz
  • BeiDou: 1559.05~1563.14 MHz
  • Galileo L1: 1575.42±1.023MHz
• Update frequency: 1 Hz (default)
• Data format: NMEA-0183
• Antenna: Active antenna

6.3 Other Specifications

• Power supply voltage: 5V
• Logic level: 3.3V / 5V (configured via jumper)
• Overall current (idle mode): 39mA
• Module sole current (VBAT=3.8V):
  • Idle mode: 10mA
  • Sleep mode: 1.2mA
  • PSM mode: 3.2uA
  • eDRX mode: 0.59mA (eDRX=81.92s)
• Operating temperature: -40°C ~ 85°C
• Storage temperature: -45°C ~ 90°C
• Dimension: 30.2mm × 65mm

6.4 Physical Dimensions

The physical dimensions of the SIM7080G HAT are approximately 65mm in length and 30.5mm in width, as detailed in the diagram below.

Figure 6: Dimensions of the SIM7080G HAT. All measurements are in millimeters.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with the SIM7080G HAT, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• No Network Registration (LTE/NB-IoT/Cat-M):
  • Ensure your SIM card is a 1.8V type and correctly inserted.
  • Verify the LTE antenna is securely connected to the 'LTE' port.
  • Check network coverage in your area for NB-IoT/Cat-M.
  • Use AT commands like AT+CPIN? to confirm SIM detection and AT+CREG? or AT+COPS? to check network registration status.
• No GPS Data:
  • Ensure the GPS External Antenna is securely connected to the 'GNSS' port.
  • Verify that the GNSS function is powered on using AT+CGNSPWR=1.
  • Try retrieving data with AT+CGNSINF. If no data, consider using AT+SGNSCMD=1,0 for a single GPS shot, as some users have found this effective.
  • Ensure the module has a clear view of the sky for satellite reception.
• Module Not Responding to AT Commands:
  • Confirm the USB cable is properly connected or UART wiring is correct.
  • Check the baud rate settings in your serial terminal.
  • Ensure the Raspberry Pi is powered on and the HAT is correctly seated on the GPIO pins.
  • Verify the module is powered by checking the LED indicators.
• General Issues:
  • Refer to the official SIMCOM SIM7080G documentation for detailed AT command specifications and module behavior.
  • Check online forums or community resources for Raspberry Pi and SIM7080G for common solutions and examples.

8. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your SIM7080G HAT, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Keep the HAT clean and free from dust and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Avoid liquid cleaners.
• Environmental Conditions: Avoid exposing the HAT to extreme temperatures, high humidity, or direct sunlight. Operate within the specified operating temperature range (-40°C to 85°C).
• Handling: Handle the board with care to prevent physical damage to components, connectors, or the PCB. Avoid static discharge by grounding yourself before handling.
• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation around the HAT and Raspberry Pi during operation to prevent overheating.
• Storage: When not in use, store the HAT in a dry, cool place, preferably in anti-static packaging.

9. Warranty and Support

For technical assistance, warranty claims, or further inquiries regarding your XYGStudy SIM7080G Cat-M/NB-IoT GNSS HAT, please contact XYGStudy directly through their official support channels or the platform where the product was purchased. Please have your product model number (SIM7080G Cat-M HAT (EN)) and any relevant purchase information ready when contacting support.

Additional development resources and example code for Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and STM32 are available and can be provided upon request to assist with your projects.