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Version: 3.6.0

Hardware Design Guideline

This document should help users and manufacturers to implement the system on a chip (SOC) “Tributech OEM module”. The given information is tailored to allow an easy incorporation of the module on manufacturer printed circuit boards. The document includes a recommended footprint, mechanical dimensions, placement and soldering guidelines. For further information or ambiguities please contact us at Tributech.

Safety Information

To be able to work with the Tributech OEM module certain safety precautions must be adhered to throughout all phases of operation.

  • The user’s use case has to adhere to all local regulations and that the use case is allowed under these regulations. Also all local safety and environment regulations have to be upheld.
  • The Tributech OEM module cannot be used in explosive or flammable environments. The use in such hazardous environment may lead to fire or explosion accidents.
  • To ensure a proper operational state of the Tributech OEM module the product has to be powered by a stable voltage source and the wiring have to adhere to security precautions and fire regulations.
  • To avoid ESD damage to the module or other components proper ESD handling procedures must be followed throughout the handling of the product.

Pin Assignment

Tributech OEM module Pin Assignment

Pin Definition

Pin NamePin No.I/ODescriptionDC CharacteristicsComment
1VDDIMain Power SupplyVmax = 5.5V
Vmin = 3.0V
Vnom = 3.3V
2VDDIMain Power SupplyVmax = 5.5V
Vmin = 3.0V
Vnom = 3.3V
3VDDIMain Power SupplyVmax = 5.5V
Vmin = 3.0V
Vnom = 3.3V
4-6ReservedI/ODo not connect. Reserved for future use.
7GNDIGround
8VDD_GPIOIVmax = 3.9V
Vmin = 3.0V
Vnom = 3.3V
The voltage on this pin determines the logical voltage level of the I7O pins of the OEM module.
9-13ReservedI/ODo not connect. Reserved for future use.
14VDDIMain Power SupplyVmax = 5.5V
Vmin = 3.0V
Vnom = 3.3V
15VDDIMain Power SupplyVmax = 5.5V
Vmin = 3.0V
Vnom = 3.3V
16VDDIMain Power SupplyVmax = 5.5V
Vmin = 3.0V
Vnom = 3.3V
17-23ReservedI/ODo not connect. Reserved for future use.
24ResetIReset Pin of the Tributech OEM module.
25-30ReservedI/ODo not connect. Reserved for future use.
31-32GNDIGround
33SIM_RSTI/ODigital I/OExt. SIM card reset
34SIM_DETI/ODigital I/OExt. SIM card detection
35SIM_CLKI/ODigital I/OExt. SIM card clock signal
36SIM_IOI/ODigital I/OExt. SIM card data signal
37SIM_1V8I/ODigital I/OExt. SIM card power supply
38GNDIGround
39GNDIGround
40-43ReservedI/ODo not connect. Reserved for future use.
44-60GNDIGround
61-62ReservedI/ODo not connect. Reserved for future use.
63-64VDDIMain Power SupplyVmax = 5.5V
Vmin = 3.0V
Vnom = 3.3V
65GNDIGround
66-68ReservedI/ODo not connect. Reserved for future use.
69UART_RXIUART receive pin of the OEMThe logic level depends on the voltage supplied to VDD_GPIOUART_RX connect external TX here
70UART_TXOUART transmit pin of the OEMThe logic level depends on the voltage supplied to VDD_GPIOUART_TX connect external RX here
71ReservedI/ODo not connect. Reserved for future use.
72GNDIGround
73-74ReservedI/ODo not connect. Reserved for future use.
75GNDIGround

PCB Design Guide

Tributech OEM Module Placement

The Tributech OEM Module should, if possible, always be placed at the edge of the PCB. This is due to the antenna connection which has to be fastened to the Tributech OEM.

Dimensions

The dimensions are given in millimeters for the Tributech OEM module. Tributech OEM module dimensions

The dimensions are given in millimeters for the Tributech OEM module.

Tributech OEM module recommended footprint

The Footprint is also available as a KiCad V6.0.7 library and can be found via this Link (Tributech OEM module KiCad footprint.zip).

Manufacturing and Packaging

Packaging

The Tributech OEM module is provided in an ESD packaging with a self-sealing zipper. The recommended storage conditions for the module are: a temperature of 23±5 °C and a relative humidity of about 35%-60%.

Manufacturing and Soldering

The soldering temperature of the OEM depends on two parts: the solder paste and the nRF9160. The absolute maximum reflow temperature is 230°C to avoid damage to the components of the system on a chip. If the manufactured PCB has components on the bottom and top side it is strongly recommended to first manufacture the side without the Tributech OEM module in order to minimize the reflow cycles for the module.

Solder thermal Profile

Tributech OEM Module Reference Design

The following link (Tributech_OEM_Reference_Design_for_case.zip) leads to a reference design for the Tributech OEM module done in KiCad V6.0.7:

Tributech OEm module reference design

The reference design of the Tributech OEM module contains:

  • Tributech OEM module
  • SIM card socket
  • Micro-controller XMC1404 from Infineon
  • GNSS module L86 from Quectel
  • USB to UART controller
  • Power Supply 5V to 3.3V with 1A