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 where 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 upgrades easier.

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.

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 the time of writing.