Industrial-Grade Reliability for Long-Range, Narrowband Communication
The N511AS-B is a high-performance, compact narrowband RF module built around Texas Instruments' CC1120 transceiver. Engineered for reliability and ease of integration, it features a high-stability 32 MHz TCXO (Temperature Compensated Crystal Oscillator) and comprehensive ESD protection on every pin, including the RF interface. This module delivers +15 dBm output power and excellent -121 dBm receiver sensitivity at 1.2 kbps, enabling robust communication over distances up to 2000 meters. Its fully integrated design eliminates the need for external SAW or IF filters, while the 4-layer PCB ensures optimal RF performance. With support for major Sub-1GHz ISM bands and direct compatibility with Sigfox networks and Arduino platforms, the N511AS-B is an ideal solution for demanding IoT, industrial monitoring, and wireless meter reading applications.
+15 dBm TX power and -121 dBm RX sensitivity, combined with a 32 MHz TCXO, ensure stable, long-range communication for narrowband applications.
Robust ESD Protection
Every I/O pin and the RF interface feature enhanced ESD protection, significantly improving durability and reliability in real-world deployments.
Global Multi-Band Support
Operates on key narrowband frequencies: 169 MHz, 433 MHz, and 868 MHz (including regional variants like 470MHz for China), facilitating worldwide product development.
Ultra-Low Power Operation
Consumes only 23 mA in RX mode and a remarkable 0.1 µA in sleep mode, making it exceptionally suitable for battery-powered, long-life devices.
Compact & Easy Integration
Extremely small 19×16×3 mm SMD package simplifies PCB design. The simple SPI interface and integrated filters allow for rapid development without deep RF expertise.
Ecosystem Compatibility
Fully compatible with Arduino development platforms and ready for integration into Sigfox LPWAN networks.
Sigfox Network End Devices: Certified for use in global Sigfox low-power wide-area networks.
Industrial Monitoring & Control (IIoT): Wireless sensor networks for equipment monitoring, environmental sensing.
Wireless Metering (AMR/AMI): Smart water, gas, and electricity meters.
Home & Building Automation: Security systems, HVAC control, smart lighting.
Arduino & Maker Projects: Easy-to-integrate wireless connectivity for educational kits and rapid prototyping.
Asset Tracking & Logistics: Low-power tracking of vehicles, containers, or high-value assets.
5. Pin Configuration & Critical Functions
Design Note: For proper operation, especially when using TCXO sleep control, follow this power sequence: 1) Power TCXO (VTC), 2) Wait >2ms, 3) Assert Reset (RST), 4) Configure via SPI.
Pin
Name
Type
Description
1
RF
I/O
RF Input/Output. Connect to antenna matching network.
6
VTC
Power
TCXO Power Control. Connect to VCC (always on) or a GPIO for sleep control.
8-10, 12
MOSI, MISO, SCK, NSS
I/O
SPI Interface for chip configuration and data exchange.
5
RST
I
Active-low Reset input.
4, 7, 11
GDIO3, GPIO2, GPIO0
I/O
General-purpose I/O pins from CC1120.
13
VCC
P
Power Supply (1.8V - 3.6V).
2, 3, 14
GND
P
Ground.
6. Why Choose the N511AS-B?
Engineered for Reliability and Efficiency
Exceptional Reliability: The combination of a TCXO for frequency stability and full-pin ESD protection makes it one of the most robust narrowband modules available.
Power Efficiency Leader: An ultra-low 0.1 µA sleep current sets a high standard for battery-operated applications.
Developer-Friendly: The standard SPI interface and available code examples lower the barrier to entry for wireless development.
Market-Ready Compatibility: Direct compatibility with the Sigfox and Arduino ecosystems accelerates product development and certification.
The N511AS-B provides a balanced, cost-effective foundation for most narrowband applications. If your project requires extended transmission range, higher output power for challenging environments, or specialized form factors, explore our enhanced, high-power (G)FSK modules built on the same reliable CC112x platform.
Dimension
0.3-Watt Enhanced Module
0.5-Watt Extended Range Module
2-Watt Maximum Power Module
Product Model
N515AS-B Module
N516AS-B Module
N518AS Module
Core IC(s)
CC1120 + High-Efficiency PA
CC1120 + CC1190 Front-End
CC1120 + Industrial-Grade PA
Protocol Support
(G)FSK, MSK, OOK
(G)FSK, MSK, OOK
(G)FSK, MSK, OOK
Key Upgrade Highlights
+25 dBm (~0.3W) Output Power • Ideal for urban/suburban networks • ~60% range improvement over +15dBm modules • Balanced power consumption
+27 dBm (~0.5W) Output Power • Designed for rural/rugged deployments • Excellent penetration through dense vegetation and structures • Suitable for telemetry and remote monitoring
+33 dBm (~2W) Output Power • Maximum legal power for industrial use • Ultra-long-range telemetry (10km+) • Critical infrastructure and remote sensing
Ideal Use Case
Urban & Suburban Networks • Smart city deployments (lighting, parking) • Building automation and HVAC control • Medium-range agricultural monitoring
Rural & Challenging Environments • Agricultural automation over large farms • Forest fire detection and environmental monitoring • Mining and quarry equipment tracking
Industrial & Critical Infrastructure • Pipeline and utility monitoring • Offshore and maritime communications • Emergency response and disaster recovery
Choose the N511AS-B if you are developing typical narrowband applications that require +15dBm output, ultra-low power consumption, and optimal cost. It's perfect for smart meters, environmental sensors, and most battery-operated IoT devices.
Upgrade to the N515AS-B if your application operates in urban environments with obstructions or needs approximately 60% more range than the standard module. This is ideal for smart city infrastructure and building management systems that require a higher link budget.
Choose the N516AS-B for rural, agricultural, or geographically challenging deployments where distance is critical. With +27dBm output, it can cover large farms, forests, or uneven terrain where standard modules may struggle.
Select the N518AS only for mission-critical industrial applications that require the maximum possible communication range and can accommodate higher power consumption. This includes remote telemetry, critical infrastructure monitoring, and applications where communication reliability cannot be compromised.