Layers and Stackup

[MattHorton]

Is there any reason not to use a 2-layer board for the nRF9160? Is a 2-layer or 4-layer board recommended? My current board is just 2-layer and I haven't had any issues with it but I wanted to check to see if anyone else has any input.

[MattHorton]

Thanks guys! I've designed boards with Quectel, uBlox, and Telit modems before no problem. They all end up being 4-layer with dedicated signal/power/ground planes. The quick turnaround for the 2 layer is why I started with it this time. I'll revise it for the usual 4 layer and send in a copy for review.

It's a shame I didn't see any modules for the 9160 on the third-party modules page. We have the thingy91 and 9160 dev kit and have our application working fine on those and my first ed 9160 breakout. I've used Spinnaker as our CM in the past and done PTCRB certification so the process and overhead for making a module isn't too insane but if there's already an economical 9160 module I'd rather use that than design and certify a new board.

[Andreas]

Hi,

 

Unfortunately I do not know any details and anyway can not comment on what Nordic or our partners/customers might release in the future. I do recommend that you keep updated on the 3rd party module list though, any modules that become available will be added.

You could try contacting the Nordic Sales Manager who is responsible for your region, he or she would be more up to date on this and able to comment on the road ahead. Drop me a PM if you need a name and contact info for the manager handling your region.

 

Best regards,

Andreas