Quectel’s new 5G RedCap modules bring multi-constellation GNSS support to mid-range IoT devices

Quectel has officially launched the RM255C-GL and RG255C-NA to expand its 5G Reduced Capability (RedCap) portfolio wher the RM255C-GL is designed for global use and features an M.2 interface for connectivity. It measures 30.0 x 42.0 x 2.3 mm and weighs approximately 6 grams. The RG255C-NA, on the other hand, is designed for North America, comes in an LGA package, measures 32.0 x 29.0 x 2.4 mm, and weighs roughly 5.2 grams. Both modules support 5G Reduced Capability (RedCap) with 3GPP Rel-17 technology for mid-tier industrial and commercial IoT applications.

In terms of connectivity, the modules support 5G Sub-6 GHz SA mode and LTE Cat 4 fallback, and are backward compatible with Rel-15 and Rel-16 networks. The RG255C-NA specifically supports 5G LAN, URLLC, and Slicing features. The company also mentions that power consumption has been optimized for mid-tier use cases, with the RM255C-GL drawing approximately 2.83 mA in sleep mode and 21.97 mA in an idle state. The RG255C-NA, on the other hand, consumes a typical 2.5 mA at sleep and 27 mA while idle. For global deployments, the RM255C-GL holds regulatory certifications including CE, RCM, FCC, IC, GCF, and PTCRB, while the RG255C-NA has secured PTCRB, FCC, and IC approvals.

Both modules support standard interfaces, including USB 2.0 and PCIe 2.0. The RG255C-NA also adds support for PCM, UART, SGMII, and SPI. The company also notes that the modules are pin-to-pin compatible with Quectel's older 4G modules and are partially compatible with Quectel's smaller 4G EG2x series, making it easy to upgrade.

Other than that, both modules include an integrated GNSS/location engine based on Qualcomm’s IZat Gen 9VT technology, which supports multi-constellation GNSS (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BDS, QZSS, NavIC) with faster and more accurate positioning than single-constellation GPS alone.

At the time of writing, the RM255C-GL global variant is available from Mouser at around $143.85 with a minimum order quantity of 150. The RG255C-NA variant is not available at this time of writing.