waveshare SIM7070G Cat-M/NB-IoT/GPRS HAT
waveshare SIM7070G NB-IoT/Cat-M/GPRS HAT for Raspberry Pi User Manual
Model: SIM7070G Cat-M/NB-IoT/GPRS HAT
1. Introduction
The waveshare SIM7070G NB-IoT/Cat-M/GPRS HAT is a versatile telecommunication module designed for Raspberry Pi series boards. It provides global band support for NB-IoT, Cat-M, and GPRS communication protocols, enabling low-power, wide-area network connectivity. Additionally, it integrates GNSS positioning capabilities, supporting GPS, BeiDou, GLONASS, and Galileo satellite systems. This HAT is suitable for various IoT applications requiring reliable cellular communication and accurate location tracking.
2. Package Contents
Verify that all items listed below are included in your package:
Image: The waveshare SIM7070G HAT module, an LTE antenna, a GPS external antenna, a USB-A to Micro-B cable, and a pack of standoffs.
- SIM7070G Cat-M/NB-IoT/GPRS HAT
- LTE Antenna
- GPS External Antenna
- USB-A to Micro-B cable
- Standoffs pack
3. Features
Image: The SIM7070G HAT module with text highlighting its core functionalities like NB-IoT, Cat-M, GPRS, and GNSS support.
- Standard Raspberry Pi 40PIN GPIO extension header, compatible with Raspberry Pi series boards.
- Supports communication protocols including TCP/UDP/HTTP/HTTPS/TLS/DTLS/PING/LWM2M/COAP/MQTT.
- Integrated GNSS positioning (GPS, BeiDou, GLONASS, Galileo).
- Onboard USB interface for AT command testing and GPS data acquisition.
- Breakout UART control pins for connection with external host boards like STM32.
- SIM card slot, exclusively supports 1.8V SIM cards. 3V SIM cards are not compatible.
- Two LED indicators for monitoring working status.
- Adjustable baud rate: 300 to 3686400 bps.
- Common baud rate auto-negotiation: 9600/19200/38400/57600/115200 bps.
- Includes development resources and manuals for Raspberry Pi/Arduino/STM32.
4. Product Overview (What's On Board)
This section details the main components and interfaces of the SIM7070G HAT.
Image: Labeled diagram of the SIM7070G HAT, showing key components such as the SIM7070G module, USB interface, GPIO header, SIM card slot, and antenna connectors.
- SIM7070G module
- MP1482 power chip
- R19193-33 power chip
- Raspberry Pi 40PIN GPIO header: For connecting with Raspberry Pi
- USB interface: For testing AT Commands and acquiring GPS positioning data
- SIM7070G control interface: For connecting with host boards like Arduino/STM32
- SIM card slot: Supports 1.8V SIM card ONLY
- GNSS antenna connector
- LTE antenna connector
- Module power key
- Network status indicator
- Power indicator
- Operating voltage selection: A: set IO level as 5V; B: set IO level as 3.3V (default)
- DTR selection: A: DTR is connected to P26; B: DTR is disconnected (default)
- PWR selection: A: PWR is connected to P4 (default); B: PWR is connected to power supply
5. Specifications
Key technical specifications for the SIM7070G HAT are provided below:
Image: A table detailing various specifications including band support, data rates, SIM card compatibility, GNSS features, power supply, operating voltage, current consumption, temperature ranges, and dimensions.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| NB-IoT/Cat-M/2G | |
| NB-IoT Band | B1/B2/B3/B4/B5/B8/B12/B13/B18/B19/B20/B25/B26/B28/B66/B71/B85 |
| Cat-M Band | B1/B2/B3/B4/B5/B8/B12/B13/B14/B18/B19/B20/B25/B26/B27/B28/B66/B85 |
| GSM/GPRS/EDGE Band | 850/900/1800/1900MHz |
| NB-IoT Data Rate | 136Kbps(DL)/150Kbps(UL) |
| Cat-M Data Rate | 589Kbps(DL)/1119Kbps(UL) |
| GPRS Data Rate | 85.6Kbps(DL)/85.6Kbps(UL) |
| EDGE Data Rate | 236.8Kbps(DL)/236.8Kbps(UL) |
| SIM Card Support | NB-IoT/Cat-M/2G card (1.8V SIM card ONLY) |
| Applicable Region | Global |
| GNSS | |
| Satellite Systems | GPS, BeiDou, GLONASS, Galileo |
| Receiver Type | 16-channel, C/A Code |
| GPS L1 | 1575.42 ± 1.023MHz |
| GLONASS L1 | 1598.0625 ~ 1605.375MHz |
| BDS B1 | 1559.052 ~ 1591.788MHz |
| Galileo L1 | 1575.42 ± 1.023MHz |
| Data Format | NMEA-0183 |
| Antenna | Active antenna |
| OTHER | |
| Power Supply | 5V |
| Operating Voltage | 5V / 3.3V (configured via 0Ω resistor) |
| Current Consumption | About 41mA (idle mode) |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C ~ 85°C |
| Storage Temperature | -45°C ~ 90°C |
| Dimensions | 30.50mm × 65.00mm |
6. Setup and Installation
Follow these steps to properly set up your SIM7070G HAT with a Raspberry Pi:
- Prepare the SIM Card: Ensure you have a 1.8V SIM card. Insert it into the SIM card slot (7) on the HAT. Note: 3V SIM cards are not supported.
- Attach Antennas: Connect the LTE antenna to the LTE antenna connector (9) and the GPS external antenna to the GNSS antenna connector (8). Ensure they are securely fastened.
- Connect to Raspberry Pi: Align the 40PIN GPIO header of the SIM7070G HAT with the corresponding GPIO pins on your Raspberry Pi board. Gently press down to ensure a firm connection.
- Power On: Once connected, power on your Raspberry Pi. The HAT will draw power from the Raspberry Pi's GPIO header.
- Software Configuration: Refer to the official Waveshare documentation and development resources for specific software setup, driver installation, and AT command examples for your operating system.
Image: Examples of the SIM7070G HAT connected to a Raspberry Pi 4 and a Raspberry Pi Zero WH, demonstrating the physical installation.
7. Operating Instructions
The SIM7070G HAT can be operated through various interfaces and commands.
7.1 Communication Modes
Image: A diagram illustrating two communication paths: Raspberry Pi/PC to NB-IoT/Cat-M/2G module via USB (AT Command), and Raspberry Pi/Arduino/STM32 to NB-IoT/Cat-M/2G module via UART (AT Command), both connecting to the Internet.
- USB Interface: Connect the HAT to your Raspberry Pi or PC via the USB-A to Micro-B cable. This interface allows for sending AT commands to the SIM7070G module and receiving data, including GNSS positioning information.
- UART Interface: The breakout UART control pins (6) enable communication with other host boards such as Arduino or STM32 using AT commands.
7.2 LED Indicators
- Network Status Indicator (11): Provides visual feedback on the module's network connection status. Refer to the module's datasheet for specific blink patterns and their meanings.
- Power Indicator (12): Illuminates when the module is receiving power.
7.3 GNSS Positioning
Image: An illustration depicting GNSS positioning with example AT commands like AT+CGPSINFO and AT+CGPS=1, indicating satellite communication.
The SIM7070G HAT supports GPS, BeiDou, GLONASS, and Galileo. To obtain positioning data, use the appropriate AT commands via the USB or UART interface. Ensure the GPS external antenna is connected and has a clear view of the sky for optimal performance.
8. Pinout Definition
Understanding the pinout is crucial for advanced integration and custom applications.
Image: A detailed pinout diagram showing the 40-pin header with labels for 5V Power, GND, Module UART RX/TX, Module on/off control pin (P4), and Module sleep mode control pin (P26).
| Pin Function | Description |
|---|---|
| 5V Power | 5V power supply input |
| GND | Ground connection |
| Module UART RX | Module's UART Receive pin |
| Module UART TX | Module's UART Transmit pin |
| P4 (Module on/off control) | Keep high level for 2s to turn on/off, keep low level when idle. |
| P26 (Module sleep mode control) | NC by default, configurable via jumper DTR. |
9. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your SIM7070G HAT, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:
- No Power Indicator:
- Ensure the HAT is correctly seated on the Raspberry Pi's GPIO header.
- Verify the Raspberry Pi is powered on and receiving adequate power.
- No Network Connection:
- Check if the 1.8V SIM card is correctly inserted and active.
- Ensure the LTE antenna is securely connected.
- Verify that the network status indicator (11) is showing expected activity.
- Confirm that your region supports the NB-IoT/Cat-M/GPRS bands used by the module.
- No GPS Data:
- Ensure the GPS external antenna is connected and placed in an open area with a clear view of the sky.
- Verify that the correct AT commands are being sent to request GPS data.
- Communication Issues (USB/UART):
- Check cable connections for USB and UART.
- Ensure correct baud rates are configured in your software.
- Verify that the IO level selection (13) matches your Raspberry Pi's or host board's voltage (3.3V or 5V).
- Module Not Responding:
- Try cycling power to the Raspberry Pi.
- Ensure the module power key (10) is in the correct position or activated as needed.
10. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your SIM7070G HAT, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Cleaning: Keep the module free from dust and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Avoid using liquids or abrasive cleaners.
- Environmental Conditions: Operate and store the HAT within the specified temperature and humidity ranges (-40°C to 85°C operating, -45°C to 90°C storage). Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or high moisture.
- Physical Handling: Handle the module with care to prevent physical damage to components or connectors. Avoid applying excessive force when connecting or disconnecting antennas and cables.
- Firmware Updates: Periodically check the Waveshare official website for any available firmware updates for the SIM7070G module, which may improve performance or add new features.
11. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, and additional resources, please refer to the official Waveshare website or contact your point of purchase.
You can also visit the Waveshare Store on Amazon for product details and support options.