Antenova Ltd. is now shipping its latest module for tiny positioning devices–the RADIONOVA M20047-1. This is an active antenna  module for GNSS applications in the 1559 to 1609 MHz satellite bands using GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO or BeiDou.

The M20047-1 antenna module comprises an SMD antenna with built-in active components: an LNA filter and SAW to boost antenna performance–so designers will not need to add these–all contained in a compact FR4 part with low power consumption, measuring just 7.0 mm x 7.0 mm x 0.9 mm and weighing less than 2 g.

The on-board LNA and filter act to boost the signal to the GNSS processor in environments where there is a restricted view of the sky or where line-of-sight to the horizon is difficult.

Antenova has also added an external matching feature to compensate for any de-tuning of the antenna caused by proximity to other components, such as a plastic case or a battery.

The clear-out area required by the antenna module is only 7 mm x 5 mm. This, with its tiny size makes the M20047-1 perfect for small positioning devices where space on the PCB is tight, for example in wearable devices, asset tracking, sports cameras and equipment and smart watches.

The M20047-1 is a useful alternative to Antenova’s existing “Sinica” antenna, part no SR4G008, which Antenova also recommends for accurate positioning.

This M20047-1 was first announced at CES in Las Vegas, earlier this year.

Antenova’s antennas are specifically designed for easy integration and the datasheet and evaluation kit for the M20047-1 are available from their website.