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SparkFun MicroMod Cellular Function Board - Blues Wireless Notecarrier
The SparkFun Notecarrier Cellular Function Board adds a cellular modem to the MicroMod ecosystem using the Notecard - NOTE-NBGL-500 from Blues Wireless. The Notecard is unique among cellular modules as it has a built-in SIM card and includes a 10-year subscription and 500MB of data included in the price.
The Notecard module also comes with integrated cellular, SIM, onboard GPS, 3-axis accelerometer with an on-chip temperature sensor. On top of that, the Notecard now features outboard device firmware updates (DFU) meaning you can reprogram a connected Processor remotely through Blues' Notehub service! This functionality is limited to specific MicroMod Processors so we highly encourage users to read through the Hookup Guide and documentation from Blues for detailed information on which Processors have this ability and how to perform this type of programming.
This Function Board comes with nearly everything you'll need to integrate the Notecard into a MicroMod assembly. Simply connect an LTE antenna and a GNSS antenna if you wish to use location data to the U.FL connectors on the Notecard and you're ready to start pumping data to a cloud service of your choice.
The Blues documentation is superb and extremely comprehensive. All API calls come with extensive C, Python, and JSON examples. The Function Board lets you choose your preferred method of communication to the Notecard over I2C, UART, or USB and Serial. We found USB handy for immediate gratification and command debugging using the Notecard CLI.
Blues' cellular service covers over 140 countries with another 33 countries covered with an external SIM card installed in the onboard nano-SIM socket. See the Covered Countries table for more information.
Note: Antennas, MicroMod Processor, and Main Board are not included with this MicroMod Cellular Function Board. A Single Main Board v2.1 or Double v2.2 are required for use. These boards will need to be purchased separately. Please refer to the Hookup Guide for Antenna specifics!
MicroMod is a modular interface ecosystem that connects a microcontroller “processor board” to various “carrier board” peripherals. Utilizing the M.2 standard, the MicroMod standard is designed to easily swap out processors and function boards on the fly. Pair a specialized carrier board for the project you need with your choice of compatible processor!
Notecard NOTE-NBGL-500 Cellular Module
- Integrated GNSS module and 3-axis accelerometer
- Built-in SIM card
- Compatible with over 140 countries cellular networks (signal quality varies)
- 10-year data plan with 500MB (used over the life of the device) included with price of hardware
- u.FL connectors for Cellular and GPS antennas
- LEDs
- Green LED - Modem activity
- Red LED - User activity
Cellular Function Board
- Empty Nano-SIM socket for external SIM card addition
- PTH Header
- AUX Enable
- AUX RX/MCU TX
- AUX TX/MCU RX
- Ground
- Configurable User Button
- LEDs
- VIO - 3.3V I/O voltage status
- VIN - Notecard power status
- AEN - Auxiliary UART status
- RGB - WS2812 LED connected to Notecard AUX2
- Solder Jumpers
- SHLD
- VIO_LED
- PWR_LED
- AUX_EN_LED
- RGB
- ANT_PWR
- WP
- MEAS
- Connectors and Ports
- 1x M.2 MicroMod connector
- 1x USB Type C - Direct serial interface with the Notecard
Cellular Function Board Resources:
Blues Wireless Resources:
- Notecard NOTE-NBGL-500 Datasheet
- Notecard CLI
- Notehub Walkthrough
- Blues Note Arduino Library
- Blues Note Python Library
MicroMod Resources:
SparkFun MicroMod Cellular Function Board - Blues Wireless Notecarrier Product Help and Resources
Getting Started with MicroMod
October 21, 2020
Dive into the world of MicroMod - a compact interface to connect a microcontroller to various peripherals via the M.2 Connector!
Designing with MicroMod
October 21, 2020
This tutorial will walk you through the specs of the MicroMod processor and carrier board as well as the basics of incorporating the MicroMod form factor into your own PCB designs!
Cellular Function Board - Blues Wireless Notecarrier
January 5, 2023
Add a global cellular module to your MicroMod project with the SparkFun Cellular Function Board - Blues Wireless Notecarrier. With this Function board you can not only send data to and from your MicroMod project, you can even update the firmware on the STM32 MicroMod Processor.
Core Skill: DIY
Whether it's for assembling a kit, hacking an enclosure, or creating your own parts; the DIY skill is all about knowing how to use tools and the techniques associated with them.
Skill Level: Noob - Basic assembly is required. You may need to provide your own basic tools like a screwdriver, hammer or scissors. Power tools or custom parts are not required. Instructions will be included and easy to follow. Sewing may be required, but only with included patterns.
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Core Skill: Programming
If a board needs code or communicates somehow, you're going to need to know how to program or interface with it. The programming skill is all about communication and code.
Skill Level: Rookie - You will need a better fundamental understand of what code is, and how it works. You will be using beginner-level software and development tools like Arduino. You will be dealing directly with code, but numerous examples and libraries are available. Sensors or shields will communicate with serial or TTL.
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Core Skill: Electrical Prototyping
If it requires power, you need to know how much, what all the pins do, and how to hook it up. You may need to reference datasheets, schematics, and know the ins and outs of electronics.
Skill Level: Rookie - You may be required to know a bit more about the component, such as orientation, or how to hook it up, in addition to power requirements. You will need to understand polarized components.
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Customer Reviews
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I already own some Notecards. Is there any chance you will sell just the carrier board alone?
To clarify the built in sim card data plan. It would allow for about 136bytes/Month for 10 years, correct?
Hi logictechs,
Just some quick back-of-the-napkin math since I've seen a few questions about this in a few places:
Assuming 500MB == 500,000,000 bytes
Thanks!