External LTE antenna choice for nRF9160

[shubham.mane]

Team,

We are developing a product to transmit IOT data of our devices to the cloud database with LWM2M protocol. We are using nRF9160 as a modem of choice for LTE-M and NB-IOT connectivity. Since our device can also be used underground or secured remote premises within EU, it is preferred to use an external LTE antenna for better reception. As per the antenna guidelines from Nordic, the recommended antennae are mainly onboard ones. Therefore, with available choices in the market, we have following antenna as a choice.

Although the primary tests look okay with the antenna, we want to have an expert opinion on our antenna choice. Also, if there are preferred external antennae options as recommended, request you to let us know.

More details of the antenna are as below:

Jinchang JCG016L

Supplier: Digikey

Manufacturer: JIAXING JINCHANG ELECTRONIC TECHNOLOGY CO.,LTD

Datasheet:https://rnrorwxhqioplk5p.ldycdn.com/JCG016L-aidqrBpmKjiRljSlrirjklli.pdf 

Looking forward to a positive reply from you.

[Kaja]

Hi, 

we don't have many example antennas, that is correct.. as naming all possible antennas to use would be to many.

You know you product best, what frequency to use, performance parameters you want etc.. 

So the antenna you have chosen is probably fine. This can be connected with a connector on the pcb, to the antenna/LTE ant pin on the nRF9160.

See our WP: nRF9160 Antenna and RF Interface Guidelines 

Best regards,
Kaja

[Eau Du Puid]

Hi, I have the same question. Which connector exactly you are refering to ?

Is this J2 ? (see screenshot)

Kind regards

EdP

[Kaja]

To connect an external antenna for GPS to the thingy you can use the J2.. for LTE you use J1:

On custom board you need to add an connector. 

Best regards,
Kaja

[Eau Du Puid]

Hi Kaja

Thanks, so the connector named "LTE RF measurement connector" is in fact not only for measurements ? It can be used to connect an external antenna to improve signal strength ?

Kind regards

Peter

[Kaja]

Yes, that is correct. Because it disconnects the on board antenna, so you can do conducted measurements or connect an external 50 Ohm antenna. 

Best regards,
Kaja