Power Architecture for nRF9160

[Venugopal.K]

Hi Team,

We are working with nRF9160.

Below are my queries:

1. Can we use same voltage for VDD and VGPIO? If so, how can we control the VGPIO?

2. What would be the performance of modem when using a voltage of 3.3V as VDD?

3. How can we control VGPIO without an external MCU?

Suggest us Power Architecture based on the queries.

[Marjeris Romero]

Hi,

I am sorry for the late reply.

1. Can we use same voltage for VDD and VGPIO? If so, how can we control the VGPIO?

Yes, as long as VDD = VGPIO is between 3.3V and 3.6V (to meet the recommended operating conditions for both VDD and VGPIO in the PS)

2. What would be the performance of modem when using a voltage of 3.3V as VDD?

You will have to be more specific about what you mean with performance? The modem will work with no problems when using 3.3V.

3. How can we control VGPIO without an external MCU?

 You can use a regulator or connect directly to VDD.

Best regards,

Marjeris

[Venugopal.K]

Hi,

Thank you for the response.

Reg: Question #3

There is a note specifying that VGPIO voltage should be provided after the VDD in the nRF9160 Product Specification V1.1 document. But you are suggesting us to directly connect VGPIO to VDD. 

Please suggest us a specific solution for this.

Thanks & Regards,

Venugopal.K

[Marjeris Romero]

Hi,

If you turn on all power supplies at the same time you will be fine. The important part is to make sure VDD is not turned on last. If VDD=VDD_GPIO is fine.

Best regards,

Marjeris