Motorola Introduces Ground-Breaking Miniature A-GPS Module
CHICAGO, Sept. 10 -- Motorola, Inc. , today launched FS Oncore(TM), a breakthrough miniature Global Positioning System (GPS) product. The FS Oncore module, smaller than a dime at 200 Sq. mm, is used for adding accurate location sensing to virtually any portable electronics product. The GPS receiver, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, high performance applications is capable of supporting autonomous and assisted-GPS functionality, with applications ranging from cellular handsets and accessories to asset tracking and Personal Digital Assistants (PDA).
Based around Motorola's Instant GPS single-chip solution, the FS Oncore module is expected to lead a new generation of location and time-aware portable electronic products. This product offers more features and convenience for the user. Features include cameras that will time- and location-stamp photos, PDAs with maps which will offer real time navigation and E-911 compliant cellular phones that can find friends, family members, restaurants and nearby shops with goods on sale.
"The FS Oncore module demonstrates Motorola's clear understanding of the GPS market place," said Tim McCarthy, director of positioning systems for Motorola Automotive. "By design, this product is optimized for low cost production, high performance and simple use."
"By utilizing our tiny module solution, manufacturers of portable electronic products are able to minimize risk and time to market without re- engineering current product designs," added Dave Huntingford, Motorola GPS product manager. "The FS Oncore solution is simple to use, smaller, consumes less power than previous solutions and is easily integrated. Its reflowable design allows for further cost reductions to be realized by eliminating unnecessary RF and power connectors."
About the Technology
Continuing Motorola's tradition of high quality reliable Oncore GPS solutions, the FS Oncore module sets the standard for innovation and ease of use. Other features include:
Integration Simplicity
The interface between the FS Oncore module and the host processor is kept simple, allowing customers to separate the host microprocessor and GPS designs. Eliminating interrupt structures found in embedded GPS receivers provides a more flexible approach to base-band processor choices and software structures. Benefits of this approach include faster time to market for hardware and software flexibility to satisfy dynamic market demands. With a serial protocol supporting industry standard 3GPP A-GPS messages, achieving position fixes in weak signal environments could not be easier. Physical communications are via software configurable UART or SPI.
High Performance
Capable of signal detection to -152dBm, the FS Oncore module offers leading edge GPS performance in both autonomous and assisted operation modes.
Autonomous or Assisted Operation
The FS Oncore module can be used with non-proprietary GPS-assistance standards for compatibility with almost any cellular network. By completing its position calculation locally, the device eliminates network overhead and potential issues associated with network centric GPS systems, and is suitable for fully autonomous operation.
Low Power Consumption
The FS Oncore module consumes an average of 70mW while providing one position fix per second. Power consumption is minimized by the on-board power management features, which will only power on the TCXO while GPS measurements are active. This module also can be placed in standby via software commands, thus reducing current consumption to less than 15uA.
Reflowable LGA Package
Manufactured using high temperature solder, the 24 pad LGA package reflows onto the customer's PCB, eliminating the need for RF and power connectors.
Low Production Costs
Supplied in tape and reel format ready for automated pick and place, the FS Oncore module removes the need for manual assembly, greatly reducing the cost of manufacturing. Since the module reflows directly into the customer's product, GPS specific RF and data connectors are also eliminated, increasing reliability and reducing costs.
Automotive or Commercial Temperature Range
Recognizing the demand for cost effectiveness, the FS Oncore module is available in either commercial temperature range or the more demanding automotive temperature range. The automotive version, slightly larger at 14.5x18x2.7 millimeters, is supplied with a fully shielding can and is suitable for operation from -40 to 85 degrees Celsius. The smaller unshielded commercial version is suitable for operation from -20 to 75 degrees Celsius.
Firmware Boot-Load
The FS Oncore module optimizes cost structure by utilizing host memory space to store the GPS firmware. At power-up, a simple AT command handshake is all that's required before S-Record boot-loading occurs. Once the code is loaded and executed, the module becomes an autonomous or assisted GPS unit depending on firmware type.
Availability
Together with sample quantities of FS Oncore modules, low cost evaluation kits will be available in September 2003 from Synergy-GPS at www.synergy-gps.com .
Full production parts and software support for autonomous and self-aiding operation will be available in first quarter 2004. Visit www.motorola.com/gps for more details.
About Motorola
Motorola, Inc. is a global leader in providing integrated communications and embedded electronic solutions. Sales in 2002 were $27.3 billion. Motorola is a global corporate citizen dedicated to ethical business practices and pioneering important technologies that make things smarter and live better for people, honored traditions that began when the company was founded 75 years ago this year. For more information, please visit www.motorola.com . For more information on Motorola's GPS products, please visit www.motorola.com/gps .
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