Dev kit brings satellite connectivity to IoT

Nordic Semiconductor’s nRF9151 SMA Development Kit (DK) helps engineers build cellular IoT, DECT NR+, and non-terrestrial network (NTN) applications. The kit’s onboard nRF9152 SiP module now features updated modem firmware that enables direct-to-satellite IoT connectivity, adding support for NB-IoT NTN in 3GPP Release 17. The firmware also supports terrestrial LTE-M and NB-IoT networks, along with GNSS.

By replacing internal antennas with SMA connectors, the development board allows direct connection to lab equipment or external antennas for precise RF characterization, power measurements, and field testing. Based on an Arduino Uno–compatible form factor, the board features four user-programmable LEDs, four user-programmable buttons, a Segger J-Link OB debugger, a UART interface via a VCOM port, and a USB connection for debugging, programming, and power.

To accelerate prototyping, the DK includes Taoglas antennas for LTE, NTN, and NR+, along with a Kyocera GNSS antenna. It also provides IoT SIM cards and trial data, enabling immediate terrestrial and satellite connectivity through Deutsche Telekom, Onomondo, and Monogoto.

The nRF9151 SMA DK is available now from Nordic’s distribution partners, including DigiKey, Braemac, and Rutronik. The alpha modem firmware can be downloaded free of charge from the product page linked below.

nRF9151 SMA DK product page 

Nordic Semiconductor 

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