N511DS-B CC1201 Narrowband Wireless Module
1. Product Overview
Industrial-Grade Reliability for Long-Range, Narrowband Communication
The N511DS-B is a high-performance, compact narrowband RF module built around Texas Instruments' CC1201 transceiver. Engineered for reliability and ease of integration, it features a high-stability 40 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 1500 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 N511DS‑B is an ideal solution for demanding IoT, industrial monitoring, and wireless meter reading applications.
[📊 Download Full Datasheet Now] | [🔧 View Hardware Design Guide]
2. Key Features & Benefits
3. Detailed Technical Specifications
Get All Technical Documentation:
[📘 Full Technical Specs] | [📐 3D Model Files] | [📋 Certification List]
| Category | Parameter | Specification | Notes / Conditions |
|---|
| RF & Performance | Frequency Bands | 169 MHz, 433 MHz, 868 MHz, 915 MHz | Covers 164‑192 MHz, 410‑480 MHz, 820‑960 MHz ranges. |
| Max. Output Power | +15 dBm (~32 mW) |
|
| Receiver Sensitivity | -121 dBm | @ 1.2 kbps data rate (2‑FSK). |
| Modulation | 2‑FSK, 4‑FSK, MSK, OOK |
|
| Programmable Data Rate | 0.3 – 600 kbps | Narrowband optimized. The CC1201 supports a wide range of configurable data rates. |
| Typical Range | Up to 1500 m | Line‑of‑sight, ideal conditions. |
| Hardware | Module Dimensions | 19.0 × 16.0 × 3.0 mm |
|
| Antenna Interface | RF Pad (50 Ω) | Requires external matching network/antenna. [🔗 Recommended Antenna List] |
| Host Interface | SPI (MOSI, MISO, SCK, NSS) + GPIOs | [💻 SPI Interface Protocol] |
| Oscillator | Integrated 40 MHz TCXO | Pin 6 (VTC) for power control. |
| Protection | ESD Protection on All Pins |
|
| Package | Surface Mount Device (SMD) | 4‑layer PCB. |
| Electrical | Supply Voltage (VCC) | 1.8 V – 3.6 V (3.3 V Typical) |
|
| Tx Current (Peak) | 53 mA (Typical @ +15 dBm) |
|
| Rx Current | 23 mA (Typical) |
|
| Sleep Current | 0.1 µA (Typical) |
|
| Operating Temperature | -40 °C to +80 °C | Industrial grade. |
4. Target Applications
Sigfox Network End Devices: Certified for use in global Sigfox low‑power wide‑area networks. [📡 View Sigfox Certification Details]
Industrial Monitoring & Control (IIoT): Wireless sensor networks for equipment monitoring, environmental sensing.
Wireless Metering (AMR/AMI): Smart water, gas, and electricity meters. [🛢️ Smart Metering Solutions]
Home & Building Automation: Security systems, HVAC control, smart lighting.
Arduino & Maker Projects: Easy‑to‑integrate wireless connectivity for educational kits and rapid prototyping. [🤖 Get Arduino Development Library]
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: Power TCXO (VTC), 2) Wait >2 ms, 3) Assert Reset (RST), 4) Configure via SPI.
| Pin | Name | Type | Description |
|---|
| 1 | RF | I/O | RF Input/Output. Connect to antenna matching network. [📡 Antenna Design Guide] |
| 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 | GPIO3, GPIO2, GPIO0 | I/O | General‑purpose I/O pins from CC1201. |
| 13 | VCC | P | Power Supply (1.8 V – 3.6 V). |
| 2, 3, 14 | GND | P | Ground. |
N511DS‑B pin diagram • N511DS‑B Package
6. Why Choose the N511DS‑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.
CC1201 Platform Advantage: Compared to the previous‑generation CC1120/CC1125, the CC1201 offers higher maximum data rates, improved range, and superior blocking performance, future‑proofing your design.
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. [💾 GitHub Code Repository]
Market‑Ready Compatibility: Direct compatibility with the Sigfox and Arduino ecosystems accelerates product development and certification.
Still Evaluating? [🔄 Compare N511DS‑B with Other Narrowband Modules]
7. Ordering Information
| Order Code | Core IC | Target Frequency Range | Output Power | Key Application |
|---|
| N511DS‑B‑169M | CC1201 | 160 – 175 MHz | +15 dBm | EU Utility Metering & Sigfox |
| N511DS‑B‑433M | CC1201 | 410 – 480 MHz | +15 dBm | Global ISM & Consumer IoT |
| N511DS‑B‑868M | CC1201 | 863 – 870 MHz (or regional variant) | +15 dBm | European Sigfox & LPWAN |
Unsure which frequency to choose? [🛠️ Consult an Engineer for Selection Advice]
Need Higher Power? Explore Our CC1201 High‑Performance Series
The N511DS‑B provides a balanced, cost‑effective foundation for most narrowband applications. If your project requires extended transmission range or higher output power for challenging environments, explore our enhanced, high‑power (G)FSK modules built on the same reliable CC1201 platform.
| Dimension | High‑Performance Module (+25 dBm) | Extended Range Module (+27 dBm) | Maximum Power Module (+33 dBm) |
|---|
| Product Model | N511CS Module | N516DS Module | N518DS Module |
| Core IC(s) | CC1200 | CC1201 + CC1190 Front‑End | CC1201 + Industrial‑Grade PA |
| Protocol Support | (G)FSK, MSK, OOK | (G)FSK, MSK, OOK | (G)FSK, MSK, OOK |
| Key Upgrade Highlights | +15 dBm (~0.03 W)
• Ideal for urban/suburban networks
• ~60% range improvement over +15 dBm
• Balanced power consumption | +27 dBm (~0.5 W)
• Designed for rural/rugged deployments
• Excellent penetration through dense vegetation & structures | +33 dBm (~2 W)
• Maximum legal power for industrial use
• Ultra‑long‑haul backbone links (>15 km) |
| Learn More | [View N511CS Details] | [View N516DS Details] | [View N518DS Details] |
How to Choose Within the CC1201 Series?
Choose the N511DS‑B if you are developing typical narrowband applications that require +15 dBm 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 N515DS 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 N516DS for rural, agricultural, or geographically challenging deployments where distance is critical. With +27 dBm output, it can cover large farms, forests, or uneven terrain where standard modules may struggle.
Select the N518DS 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.
Next Steps: Start Your Design
[🛒 Request a Sample or Evaluation Kit]
[💬 Contact Technical Support]
[📞 Schedule a 1‑on‑1 Technical Consultation]
Explore Our Complete CC1201‑Based Narrowband Family:
[📻 N511DS‑B Foundation – +15 dBm, Ultra‑Low Power, Cost‑Optimized]
[⚡ N515DS High‑Performance – +25 dBm, The Balanced Choice]
[🚀 N516DS Extended Range – +27 dBm, Complex Terrain]
[💎 N518DS Maximum Power – +33 dBm, Backbone Links]
[🔗 View CC1201 Full Series Comparison]
