As carriers begin rolling out service that features Long-Term Evolution (LTE), new modules from Sierra Wireless are making the speedy technology—which provides download peak rates of at least 100 Mbits/s and uplink rates of at least 50 Mbits/s—more accessible throughout the cellular world. The modules support all major network technologies, while offering compatibility with existing 2G and 3G services as well as national and international roaming support.

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Expanding Sierra’s lineup of AirPrime MC series of intelligent embedded modules, the AirPrime MC7750, MC7700, and MC7710 offer different network technology and frequency band combinations, along with support for both Linux and Windows, allowing manufacturers to develop products and repurpose them for other regions and customers (see the figure). The MC7750 supports LTE, EV-DO, and HSPA+ networks, while the MC7700 and MC7710 support LTE and HSPA+ in different frequency bands.

The MC7700 module covers LTE in the 700-MHz (B17)/AWS band, UMTS WCDMA and HSPA+ in the 850/1900/2100-MHz bands, and GSM/GPRS/EDGE in the 850/900/1800/1900-MHz bands. The LTE version implements diversity reception and 2-by-2 multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO). The location solution is gpsOne. Also, this unit uses the Qualcomm MDM9200 chipset. Other features include a USB 2.0 port and six general-purpose I/Os (GPIOs). AT commands are used to monitor and control the module.

The AirPrime MC series modules target the mobile computing and machine-to-machine (M2M) markets and would allow manufacturers to take advantage of the latest generation of high-speed mobile networks. Compatibility with existing 2G and 3G networks ensures that users remain connected in places where LTE may not yet be available.

The modules also support Qualcomm’s GOBI application programming interface (API), which helps streamline integration efforts, spurs application development among third-party developers, and delivers greater flexibility to manufacturers of devices such as notebooks, netbooks, tablet computers, consumer electronics including personal navigation devices, and home or enterprise-class routers.

In addition to the modules, Sierra Wireless plans to introduce, in the first half 2011, AirCard USB modems and mobile hotspots that would support LTE technologies and data rates. As with the embedded modules, the AirCard products will be backward-compatible with existing 2G and 3G networks.

Measuring 51 by 30 by 4.5 mm, the Sierra Wireless MC7710 features the LTE/HSPA+ air interface. The form factor and connector are PCI Express MIniCard F1. Note the three U.FL coax antenna connectors at the top.

Samples of the MC7750 and MC7700 are available for testing. The MC7710 module is expected to be available for testing during the first half of 2011. Samples of the AirCard products are expected to be available to operators and network infrastructure partners by end of 2010.

Sierra Wireless