Press and News - 03.09.2001

u-blox introduces the fully self-contained low-cost GPS receiver macro-component TIM

With the introduction of the GPS-MS1, u-blox presented the first miniature GPS receiver module. With TIM u-blox continues this evolution and presents a GPS macro-component, which can be processed like a single chip component. TIM's ultra thin and small package in combination with minimal power consumption, excellent GPS performance and low cost makes the TIM receiver first choice for mobile GPS applications. In automotive applications TIM supports advanced tracking capabilities through fast recovery times combined with reliable operation in "urban canyons" and areas of dense foliage.

The GPS macro-component TIM is a self-contained receiver for the Global Positioning System (GPS). The complete signal processing chain from antenna input to serial output is contained within one single component. The height of 3mm at the size of 25.4mm x 25.4mm makes it the ideal GPS solution for applications with stringent space requirements. Innovative packaging technology has opened the door for a thin and compact GPS receiver unique on the market. This new type of package makes expensive RF cabling obsolete. Because the RF input is available on a pin, TIM is SMT solderable and can be handled by standard pick-and-place equipment. TIM also enables a fully automatic assembly process.

The GPS macro-component TIM provides complete GPS signal processing from antenna input to serial data output (NMEA or SiRF® proprietary data format). A second serial port accepts differential GPS data (RTCM).

Operating at a nominal operating voltage of 3.3 Volts, the module consumes less than 0.5 Watts in continuous operation mode. The implementation of the patent pending TricklePower™ Mode allows a considerable reduction of power consumption for applications where this is of primary concern.

Based on the SiRFstarII™ chip-set TIM supports all features of this architecture. Featuring the GRF2 RF front-end chip and an integrated Low-Noise Amplifier (LNA) TIM connects seamlessly to low-cost passive and active antennas. The bias voltage for active antennas is supplied externally. When using a passive antenna TIM can be connected to the GPS antenna without expensive RF cabling, which reduces overall system costs.

Combining innovative packaging and superior GPS technology at low cost TIM provides the optimal solution for the automotive and telecommunication industries.

About u-blox

u-blox currently employs a workforce of 38 at locations in Switzerland, Germany, Hong Kong, England and the USA. In the last fiscal year, sales totalled some CHF 17 million (sales in 1999 came to CHF 2 million and in 1998 to CHF 200,000). Edzard Reuter, former Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler-Benz, is president of the u-blox Board.

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