Add Cellular Connectivity to Your WisBlock IoT Design

Support LTE Cat M1, LTE Cat NB2 and optional GNSS connectivity within a compact modular IoT platform.

The RAK5860 WisBlock NB-IoT Interface Module is designed to add cellular communication to applications built within the RAKwireless WisBlock ecosystem.

Powered by the Quectel BG77 platform, the module supports LTE Cat M1 and LTE Cat NB2 communication, with optional GNSS functionality for applications that may also require location data.

The RAK5860 works with a WisBlock Core and WisBlock Base, providing developers with a modular approach to cellular-connected IoT design. It also includes external antenna connections, SIM options and a Micro-USB interface for debugging and communication.

With a compact 35 × 25 mm form factor, the module can support IoT systems that need to transmit data through supported LTE-M or NB-IoT networks without relying on a nearby Wi-Fi connection.

Key Features

• Quectel BG77 cellular platform
• LTE Cat M1 and LTE Cat NB2 support
• LTE-FDD network support
• Optional GNSS functionality
• GPS and GLONASS positioning support
• iPEX connectors for LTE and GNSS antennas
• Nano SIM and eSIM options
• Micro-USB interface for debugging and communication
• Status indication LEDs
• Recommended supply range of 2.6–4.2 V
• Typical supply voltage of 3.3 V
• Compact 35 × 25 mm module size
• Designed for use with a compatible WisBlock Core and Base module

Applications and Target Markets

The RAK5860 is suitable for modular IoT applications that require cellular data transmission, remote deployment or optional positioning functionality.

Potential application areas include:

• Remote equipment monitoring
• Asset and fleet tracking
• Smart metering systems
• Environmental monitoring
• Agricultural sensing
• Distributed infrastructure monitoring
• Cellular-connected industrial IoT devices
• Remote data acquisition systems

The module may be particularly useful for developers, system integrators and product designers building connected devices for locations where Wi-Fi or wired communication is unavailable or impractical.

Final suitability depends on factors such as local LTE-M or NB-IoT network support, antenna selection, power design and the requirements of the completed system.

The RAK5860 requires a WisBlock Base and WisBlock Core for operation. A battery connected to the WisBlock Base is required, as USB power alone is not sufficient for reliable module operation.

Deployment also requires LTE-M or NB-IoT service availability in the intended location and the appropriate LTE/GNSS antenna connections.

Explore the RAK5860 Technical Details

Download the RAK5860 datasheet to review its cellular architecture, electrical characteristics, interface connections, mechanical dimensions and antenna configuration.

Download the RAK5860 Datasheet

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Summary

The RAK5860 provides LTE Cat M1, LTE Cat NB2 and optional GNSS functionality for modular IoT systems built within the WisBlock ecosystem.

With flexible SIM options, external antenna connections and a compact 35 × 25 mm form factor, it provides developers with a cellular interface option for remote monitoring, tracking and other connected-device applications.

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