RedCap Rx255C Module Series

Quectel Wireless Solutions has launched the 5G RedCap (Reduced Capability, also known as NR-Light) modules, the Rx255C series. Based on the Snapdragon X35 5G Modem-RF System from Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., the module is designed to provide enhanced wireless performance and low latency communication with 5G while providing optimisation in size, energy savings and cost-effectiveness. The modules offer a balance between cost and performance and are designed to support the large-scale deployment of 5G into sectors where high bandwidth is not needed, but low cost and power consumption are critical.

Meeting the 3GPP Release 17 standards, the modules support 5G standalone (SA) mode and a maximum bandwidth of 20 MHz on the sub-6GHz frequency band. Targeting all markets worldwide, the 5G modules are backward compatible with LTE networks and cover nearly all the mainstream carriers worldwide. They provide a theoretical peak downlink data rate of around 220 Mbps and uplink data rate of around 100 Mbps, sufficient to meet the demand for data speeds in IoT applications such as robotics, DTU, drones, smart ports, smart grid, AR/VR wearables and educational laptops as well as other entry level mobile broadband devices.

RedCap technology allows the modules to optimise the number of antennas, reduce the transmitting and receiving bandwidth, and provide 64QAM/256QAM (optional) modulation to enhance the size. The high level of integration and architecture of Snapdragon X35 provides a low power consumption for the modules, which drives 5G adoption in an entirely new category of devices. The modules support L1+L5 dual frequency GNSS for improved positioning services. The modules also provide a range of interfaces such as PCIe 2.0, USB 2.0 and supplementary functions including VoLTE and DFOTA.

Quectel offers a variety of high-performance 5G antennas which boost wireless connectivity. IoT developers can bundle the Rx255C modules with Quectel’s antennas and pre-certification services, reducing time-to-market for their 5G devices.