An ultra-low-power tracker based on u-blox SARA-R422M10S LTE/NB-IoT module with integrated low-power GNSS receiver – targeted to livestock tracking. The module utilizes the u-blox’s module low power capabilities and also aiding services from ThingStream platform for minimizing the power needs and also the time that is spent for both position fixes and communication with the network. A secondary ultra-low power CPU is used for organizing the MODEM functionality and also handling Inertial sensors.
By using the GNSS adding service we can achieve position fix in few seconds, so the time that is required for the module to be powered-up is minimized. Aiding services provides a ‘snapshot’ of all satellites information, so receive only requires to process a very short frame of satellite signal for providing accurate position information. In addition, data intervals can be adjusted based on activity by using the input from the Acceleration sensors that are mounted on the board.
Depending on the signal condition – ie LTE services and signal strength – and the activity, battery endurance can be extended to more than six months using a single-cell Lithium battery.
