u-blox ZOE-M8 Series User Manual

ZOE-M8 series - Hardware Integration Manual
UBX-16030136 - R07 Production Information Hardware description
Page 6 of 32
1 Hardware description
1.1 Overview
u-blox ZOE-M8 standard precision GNSS SiP (System in Package) modules feature the high performance u-blox M8
GNSS engine. ZOE-M8’s ultra-miniature form factor integrates a complete GNSS receiver including SAW filter, LNA
and TCXO.
The ZOE-M8 SiPs are targeted for applications that require a small size without compromising the performance.
For RF optimization, the ZOE-M8 SiPs integrate a front-end SAW filter and an additional front-end LNA for
increased jamming immunity and easier antenna integration. A passive antenna can be used to provide a highly
integrated system solution with a minimal eBOM.
The ZOE-M8 SiPs can be easily integrated in manufacturing thanks to the advanced S-LGA (Soldered Land Grid
Array) packaging technology, which enables easier and more reliable soldering processes compared to a normal
LGA (Land Grid Array) package.
For product features, see the ZOE-M8 Data Sheet [1].
To determine which u-blox product best meets your needs, see the product selector tables on the u-blox
website www.u-blox.com
.
2 Design-in
In order to obtain good performance with ZOE-M8 GNSS receiver SiPs, there are a number of issues requiring
careful attention during the design-in. These include:
• Power Supply: Good performance requires a clean and stable power supply.
• Interfaces: Ensure correct wiring, rate and message setup on the SiP and your host system.
• Antenna interface: For optimal performance, seek short routing, matched impedance and no stubs.
2.1 Power management
The ZOE-M8G is a 1.8 V variant, while the ZOE-M8Q is a 3.0 V variant and has an option to make use of the built-
in DC/DC converter to reduce the power consumption.
The ZOE-M8 GNSS SiPs provide two supply pins: VCC and V_BCKP. They can be supplied independently or tied
together depending on the intended application.
Additionally, ZOE-M8Q has the option to make use of a built-in DC/DC converter and thus comes with two
additional supply pins, V_CORE and V_DCDC_OUT. The supply voltages are explained in the following
subsections.
2.1.1 Main supply voltage (VCC)
During operation, the ZOE-M8 GNSS SiPs are supplied through the VCC pin. Built-in LDOs generate stabilized
voltages for the Core and RF domains of the chip respectively. The current at VCC depends heavily on the current
state of the system and is in general very dynamic.
Do not add any series resistance (< 0.1 Ω) to the VCC supply, as it will generate input voltage noise due to
the dynamic current conditions.
The digital I/Os of the ZOE-M8 GNSS SiPs are also referred and supplied to the VCC voltage.
2.1.2 V_CORE (only on ZOE-M8Q)
V_CORE draws the main current of the ZOE-M8Q. The current at V_CORE depends heavily on the current system
state and in general exhibits very dynamic behavior. It can be supplied either by main supply or with the built-in
DC/DC converter, see section 2.1.3.

u-blox ZOE-M8 Series Specifications

General

Brand	u-blox
Model	ZOE-M8 Series
Category	Control Unit
Language	English