Fibocom’s MQ771-GL Cat M module, built for asset tracking applications, has entered the engineering sampling stage.

With its compact size, low power consumption, global frequency coverage and stable network compatibility, the module offers a cost-effective IoT option for asset tracking, enabling long battery life, reliability and precise positioning for large-scale LPWA deployments.

The module supports 3GPP Release 14 Cat M1 and NB-IoT standards and is compatible with mainstream frequency bands worldwide, making it suitable for LPWA network deployments across North America, Europe, Asia and beyond. This global compatibility ensures reliable connectivity for asset tracking devices and enables flexible operation even in complex or challenging environments.

Leveraging power management technologies, it supports PSM (power saving mode) and eDRX (extended discontinuous reception), extending device battery life. In PSM mode, standby current drops to the microamp (μA) level, cutting power consumption by 75% compared with the previous generation, making it suitable for smart water meters. In eDRX mode, power usage is reduced by 90%, making it suitable for gas meters, asset trackers and other long-term outdoor devices, enabling multi-year operation.

The module’s 17.7 by 15.8mm LGA package is compatible with the pin layout of Fibocom’s Cat 1 modules, supporting flexible product iteration. Its compact form factor suits space-constrained tracking devices, simplifying integration and deployment.

The module supports MQTT, CoAP, LwM2M and standard interfaces such as uart, I²C and I²S, making it adaptable for diverse asset-tracking terminals. It integrates Soft GPS for precise real-time positioning and features a hardware-level security engine for encrypted, secure communications, protecting against unauthorised access.

“With the MQ771-GL now entering the engineering sample stage, its ultra-compact, ultra-low-power design is set to lower development barriers for asset tracking terminals and accelerate large-scale IoT connectivity,” said Liu Sunzhi, general manager at Fibocom (www.fibocom.com). “Moving forward, we will continue to strengthen collaborative innovation with vertical industries, driving the rapid commercialisation of low-power, wide connectivity for asset tracking and other IoT applications.”