Ublox SARA-G300 Quick setup guide

SARA-G3 and SARA-U2 series
GSM/GPRS and GSM/EGPRS/HSPA
Cellular Modules
System Integration Manual
Abstract
This document describes the features and the system integration of
the SARA-G3 series GSM/GPRS cellular modules and the SARA-U2
GSM/EGPRS/HSPA cellular modules.
These modules are complete and cost efficient solutions offering
voice and/or data communication over diverse cellular radio access
technologies in the same compact SARA form factor: the SARA-G3
series support up to four GSM/GPRS bands, while the SARA-U2
series support up to five high-speed HSPA bands and up to four
GSM/EGPRS bands.
www.u-blox.com
UBX-13000995 - R26

SARA-G3 and SARA-U2 series - System Integration Manual
UBX-13000995 - R26
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Document Information
Title
SARA-G3 and SARA-U2 series
Subtitle
GSM/GPRS and GSM/EGPRS/HSPA Cellular Modules
Document type
System Integration Manual
Document number
UBX-13000995
Revision and date
R26
02-Jan-2018
Disclosure restriction
u-blox reserves all rights to this document and the information contained herein. Products, names, logos and designs described herein may in
whole or in part be subject to intellectual property rights. Reproduction, use, modification or disclosure to third parties of this document or
any part thereof without the express permission of u-blox is strictly prohibited.
The information contained herein is provided “as is” and u-blox assumes no liability for the use of the information. No warranty, either
express or implied, is given, including but not limited, with respect to the accuracy, correctness, reliability and fitness for a particular purpose
of the information. This document may be revised by u-blox at any time. For most recent documents, visit www.u-blox.com.
Copyright © 2018, u-blox AG
u-blox is a registered trademark of u-blox Holding AG in the EU and other countries.
Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
All other registered trademarks or trademarks mentioned in this document are property of their respective owners.

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This document applies to the following products:
Name
Type number
Modem version
Application version
PCN reference
SARA-G300
SARA-G300-00S-00
08.58
N.A.
GSM.G2-TN-13007
SARA-G300-00S-01
08.58
A01.01
UBX-16010060
SARA-G310
SARA-G310-00S-00
08.58
N.A.
GSM.G2-TN-13007
SARA-G310-00S-01
08.58
A01.01
UBX-16010060
SARA-G340
SARA-G340-00S-00
08.49
N.A.
UBX-14000382
SARA-G340-01S-00
08.70
A00.02
UBX-14039634
SARA-G340-02S-00
08.90
A00.02
UBX-16001074
SARA-G340 ATEX
SARA-G340-02X-00
08.90
A00.02
TBD
SARA-G350
SARA-G350-00S-00
08.49
N.A.
GSM.G2-TN-13002
SARA-G350-01S-00
08.70
A00.02
UBX-14039634
SARA-G350-01B-00
08.70
A00.02
TBD
SARA-G350-02A-01
08.90
A00.06
UBX-17003537
SARA-G350-02S-00
08.90
A00.02
UBX-16001074
SARA-G350 ATEX
SARA-G350-00X-00
08.49
N.A.
GSM.G2-TN-13002
SARA-G350-02X-00
08.90
A00.02
UBX-17048555
SARA-U201
SARA-U201-03A-00
23.60
A01.02
UBX-17012748
SARA-U201-03B-00
23.60
A01.01
UBX-16018086
SARA-U201-63B-00
23.62
A01.01
UBX-17053345
SARA-U201-04A-00
23.60
A01.06
UBX-17058162
SARA-U201-04B-00
23.60
A01.06
UBX-17058162
SARA-U201 ATEX
SARA-U201-03X-00
23.60
A01.01
UBX-16030157
SARA-U201-04X-00
23.60
A01.06
UBX-17058162
SARA-U260
SARA-U260-00S-01
23.20
A01.01
UBX-15013844
SARA-U260-00S-02
23.20
A01.02
UBX-17061316
SARA-U260-03S-00
23.41
A01.01
UBX-15020745
SARA-U260-03S-01
23.41
A01.02
UBX-17061316
SARA-U270
SARA-U270-00S-01
23.20
A01.01
UBX-16006754
SARA-U270-00S-02
23.20
A01.02
UBX-17061316
SARA-U270-03A-00
23.41
A01.01
UBX-17004455
SARA-U270-03A-01
23.41
A01.02
UBX-17064001
SARA-U270-03S-00
23.41
A01.01
UBX-15020745
SARA-U270-03S-01
23.41
A01.02
UBX-17061316
SARA-U270-73S-00
23.41
A01.02
UBX-16028821
SARA-U270-73S-01
23.41
A01.03
UBX-17061316
SARA-U270-53S-00
23.41
A01.03
UBX-16008757
SARA-U270-53S-01
23.41
A01.04
UBX-17011151
SARA-U270-53S-02
23.41
A01.05
UBX-17061316
SARA-U270 ATEX
SARA-U270-00X-00
23.20
A01.00
UBX-14015739
SARA-U270-00X-01
23.20
A01.02
UBX-17061316
SARA-U280
SARA-U280-00S-00
23.28
A01.00
UBX-15013708
SARA-U280-00S-01
23.28
A01.01
UBX-17061316
SARA-U280-03S-00
23.41
A01.01
UBX-15020745
SARA-U280-03S-01
23.41
A01.02
UBX-17061316

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Preface
u-blox Technical Documentation
As part of our commitment to customer support, u-blox maintains an extensive volume of technical
documentation for our products. In addition to our product-specific technical data sheets, the following manuals
are available to assist u-blox customers in product design and development.
AT Commands Manual: This document provides the description of the AT commands supported by the
u-blox cellular modules.
System Integration Manual: This document provides the description of u-blox cellular modules’ system
from the hardware and the software points of view, it provides hardware design guidelines for the optimal
integration of the cellular modules in the application device, and it provides information on how to set up
production and final product tests on application devices which integrate the cellular modules.
Application Notes: These documents provide guidelines and information on specific hardware and/or
software topics on u-blox cellular modules. See the Related documents section for a list of application notes
related to your cellular module.
How to use this Manual
The SARA-G3 and SARA-U2 series System Integration Manual provides the necessary information to successfully
design in and configure these u-blox cellular modules.
This manual has a modular structure. It is not necessary to read it from the beginning to the end.
The following symbols are used to highlight important information within the manual:
An index finger points out key information pertaining to module integration and performance.
A warning symbol indicates actions that could negatively impact or damage the module.
Questions
If you have any questions about u-blox cellular Integration:
Read this manual carefully.
Contact our information service on the homepage http://www.u-blox.com
Technical Support
Worldwide Web
Our website (http://www.u-blox.com) is a rich pool of information. Product information and technical documents
can be accessed 24 hours a day.
By E-mail
If you have technical problems or cannot find the required information in the provided documents, contact the
closest Technical Support office. To ensure that we process your request as soon as possible, use our service pool
email addresses rather than personal staff email addresses. Contact details are at the end of the document.
Helpful Information when Contacting Technical Support
When contacting Technical Support, have the following information ready:
Module type (e.g. SARA-G350) and firmware version
Module configuration
A clear description of your question or the problem
A short description of the application
Your complete contact details

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Contents
Preface ................................................................................................................................4
Contents..............................................................................................................................5
1System description.....................................................................................................10
1.1 Overview ............................................................................................................................................ 10
1.2 Architecture........................................................................................................................................ 13
1.2.1 Internal blocks............................................................................................................................. 15
1.3 Pin-out ............................................................................................................................................... 17
1.4 Operating modes................................................................................................................................ 22
1.5 Supply interfaces ................................................................................................................................ 24
1.5.1 Module supply input (VCC) ......................................................................................................... 24
1.5.2 RTC supply input/output (V_BCKP) .............................................................................................. 33
1.5.3 Generic digital interfaces supply output (V_INT)........................................................................... 34
1.6 System function interfaces.................................................................................................................. 35
1.6.1 Module power-on ....................................................................................................................... 35
1.6.2 Module power-off....................................................................................................................... 39
1.6.3 Module reset............................................................................................................................... 41
1.6.4 External 32 kHz signal input (EXT32K) ......................................................................................... 42
1.6.5 Internal 32 kHz signal output (32K_OUT) .................................................................................... 42
1.7 Antenna interface............................................................................................................................... 43
1.7.1 Antenna RF interface (ANT) ......................................................................................................... 43
1.7.2 Antenna detection interface (ANT_DET) ...................................................................................... 44
1.8 SIM interface ...................................................................................................................................... 44
1.8.1 (U)SIM card interface................................................................................................................... 44
1.8.2 SIM card detection interface (SIM_DET) ....................................................................................... 44
1.9 Serial interfaces .................................................................................................................................. 45
1.9.1 Asynchronous serial interface (UART) .......................................................................................... 46
1.9.2 Auxiliary asynchronous serial interface (AUX UART)..................................................................... 59
1.9.3 USB interface .............................................................................................................................. 63
1.9.4 DDC (I2C) interface ...................................................................................................................... 66
1.10 Audio interface ............................................................................................................................... 68
1.10.1 Analog audio interface ................................................................................................................ 68
1.10.2 Digital audio interface ................................................................................................................. 70
1.10.3 Voice-band processing system..................................................................................................... 72
1.11 General Purpose Input/Output (GPIO) ............................................................................................. 76
1.12 Reserved pins (RSVD) ...................................................................................................................... 80
1.13 System features............................................................................................................................... 81
1.13.1 Network indication...................................................................................................................... 81
1.13.2 Antenna detection ...................................................................................................................... 81
1.13.3 Jamming detection...................................................................................................................... 81

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1.13.4 TCP/IP and UDP/IP ....................................................................................................................... 82
1.13.5 FTP .............................................................................................................................................. 82
1.13.6 HTTP ........................................................................................................................................... 82
1.13.7 SMTP........................................................................................................................................... 82
1.13.8 SSL/TLS........................................................................................................................................ 83
1.13.9 Dual stack IPv4/IPv6..................................................................................................................... 85
1.13.10 Smart temperature management............................................................................................. 86
1.13.11 AssistNow clients and GNSS integration................................................................................... 89
1.13.12 Hybrid positioning and CellLocate®.......................................................................................... 89
1.13.13 Control Plane Aiding / Location Services (LCS).......................................................................... 92
1.13.14 Bearer Independent Protocol.................................................................................................... 92
1.13.15 Multi-Level Precedence and Pre-emption Service...................................................................... 92
1.13.16 Network Friendly Mode ........................................................................................................... 92
1.13.17 Firmware upgrade Over AT (FOAT) .......................................................................................... 93
1.13.18 Firmware update Over The Air (FOTA)...................................................................................... 93
1.13.19 Last gasp ................................................................................................................................. 93
1.13.20 Smart radio Coverage Manager ............................................................................................... 94
1.13.21 In-Band modem (eCall / ERA-GLONASS) .................................................................................. 94
1.13.22 SIM Access Profile (SAP)........................................................................................................... 95
1.13.23 Power Saving........................................................................................................................... 96
2Design-in.....................................................................................................................97
2.1 Overview ............................................................................................................................................ 97
2.2 Supply interfaces ................................................................................................................................ 98
2.2.1 Module supply (VCC) .................................................................................................................. 98
2.2.2 RTC supply (V_BCKP)................................................................................................................. 112
2.2.3 Interface supply (V_INT)............................................................................................................. 114
2.3 System functions interfaces .............................................................................................................. 115
2.3.1 Module power-on (PWR_ON) .................................................................................................... 115
2.3.2 Module reset (RESET_N) ............................................................................................................ 116
2.3.3 32 kHz signal (EXT32K and 32K_OUT)....................................................................................... 117
2.4 Antenna interface............................................................................................................................. 118
2.4.1 Antenna RF interface (ANT) ....................................................................................................... 118
2.4.2 Antenna detection interface (ANT_DET) .................................................................................... 125
2.5 SIM interface .................................................................................................................................... 128
2.6 Serial interfaces ................................................................................................................................ 134
2.6.1 Asynchronous serial interface (UART) ........................................................................................ 134
2.6.2 Auxiliary asynchronous serial interface (UART AUX)................................................................... 140
2.6.3 Universal Serial Bus (USB) .......................................................................................................... 142
2.6.4 DDC (I2C) interface .................................................................................................................... 144
2.7 Audio interface................................................................................................................................. 149
2.7.1 Analog audio interface .............................................................................................................. 149
2.7.2 Digital audio interface ............................................................................................................... 156
2.8 General Purpose Input/Output (GPIO) ............................................................................................... 159

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2.9 Reserved pins (RSVD) ........................................................................................................................ 160
2.10 Module placement........................................................................................................................ 160
2.11 Module footprint and paste mask ................................................................................................. 161
2.12 Thermal guidelines........................................................................................................................ 162
2.13 ESD guidelines .............................................................................................................................. 164
2.13.1 ESD immunity test overview ...................................................................................................... 164
2.13.2 ESD immunity test of u-blox SARA-G3 and SARA-U2 reference designs..................................... 164
2.13.3 ESD application circuits.............................................................................................................. 165
2.14 SARA-G3 / SARA-U2 ATEX modules integration in devices intended for use in potentially explosive
atmospheres................................................................................................................................................ 167
2.14.1 General guidelines..................................................................................................................... 167
2.14.2 Guidelines for VCC supply circuit design ................................................................................... 168
2.14.3 Guidelines for antenna RF interface design................................................................................ 170
2.15 Schematic for SARA-G3 and SARA-U2 series module integration .................................................. 171
2.15.1 Schematic for SARA-G300 / SARA-G310 modules integration ................................................... 171
2.15.2 Schematic for SARA-G340 / SARA-G350 modules integration ................................................... 172
2.15.3 Schematic for SARA-U2 series modules integration ................................................................... 173
2.16 Design-in checklist ........................................................................................................................ 174
2.16.1 Schematic checklist ................................................................................................................... 174
2.16.2 Layout checklist......................................................................................................................... 175
2.16.3 Antenna checklist...................................................................................................................... 175
3Handling and soldering ...........................................................................................176
3.1 Packaging, shipping, storage and moisture preconditioning ............................................................. 176
3.2 Handling........................................................................................................................................... 176
3.3 Soldering .......................................................................................................................................... 177
3.3.1 Soldering paste ......................................................................................................................... 177
3.3.2 Reflow soldering ....................................................................................................................... 177
3.3.3 Optical inspection...................................................................................................................... 178
3.3.4 Cleaning.................................................................................................................................... 178
3.3.5 Repeated reflow soldering......................................................................................................... 179
3.3.6 Wave soldering ......................................................................................................................... 179
3.3.7 Hand soldering.......................................................................................................................... 179
3.3.8 Rework...................................................................................................................................... 179
3.3.9 Conformal coating .................................................................................................................... 179
3.3.10 Casting...................................................................................................................................... 179
3.3.11 Grounding metal covers ............................................................................................................ 179
3.3.12 Use of ultrasonic processes........................................................................................................ 179
4Approvals..................................................................................................................180
4.1 Product certification approval overview............................................................................................. 180
4.2 US Federal Communications Commission notice............................................................................... 181
4.2.1 Safety warnings review the structure......................................................................................... 181
4.2.2 Declaration of conformity.......................................................................................................... 181
4.2.3 Modifications ............................................................................................................................ 182

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4.3 Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada notice ....................................................... 182
4.3.1 Declaration of conformity.......................................................................................................... 182
4.3.2 Modifications ............................................................................................................................ 183
4.4 European conformance CE mark ...................................................................................................... 184
4.5 Brazilian Anatel certification ............................................................................................................. 186
4.6 Australian Regulatory Compliance Mark ........................................................................................... 186
4.7 Mexican IFT certification ................................................................................................................... 187
4.8 Chinese CCC mark ........................................................................................................................... 187
4.9 Korean KCC certification .................................................................................................................. 188
4.10 Taiwanese NCC certification ......................................................................................................... 188
4.11 Japanese Giteki certification.......................................................................................................... 188
4.12 SARA-G3 / SARA-U2 ATEX modules conformance for use in explosive atmospheres ..................... 189
5Product testing .........................................................................................................191
5.1 u-blox in-series production test......................................................................................................... 191
5.2 Test parameters for OEM manufacturers .......................................................................................... 191
5.2.1 “Go/No go” tests for integrated devices.................................................................................... 192
5.2.2 Functional tests providing RF operation ..................................................................................... 192
Appendix ........................................................................................................................195
AMigration between LISA and SARA-G3 modules ...................................................195
A.1 Overview .......................................................................................................................................... 195
A.2 Checklist for migration ..................................................................................................................... 196
A.3 Software migration........................................................................................................................... 198
A.4 Hardware migration ......................................................................................................................... 198
A.4.1 Supply interfaces ....................................................................................................................... 198
A.4.2 System functions interfaces ....................................................................................................... 199
A.4.3 Antenna interface ..................................................................................................................... 200
A.4.4 SIM interface............................................................................................................................. 201
A.4.5 Serial interfaces ......................................................................................................................... 201
A.4.6 Audio interfaces ........................................................................................................................ 202
A.4.7 GPIO pins .................................................................................................................................. 203
A.4.8 Reserved pins ............................................................................................................................ 203
A.4.9 Pin-out comparison between LISA and SARA-G3....................................................................... 203
BMigration between SARA-G3 and SARA-U2...........................................................208
B.1 Overview .......................................................................................................................................... 208
B.2 Pin-out comparison between SARA-G3 and SARA-U2 ...................................................................... 209
B.3 Schematic for SARA-G3 and SARA-U2 integration............................................................................ 211
CGlossary ....................................................................................................................212
Related documents ........................................................................................................214
Revision history..............................................................................................................216

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Contact............................................................................................................................217

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1System description
1.1 Overview
SARA-G3 series GSM/GPRS cellular modules and SARA-U2 series GSM/EGPRS/HSPA cellular modules are versatile
solutions offering voice and/or data communication over diverse radio access technologies in the same miniature
SARA LGA form factor (26 x 16 mm), which allows for seamless drop-in migration between the two SARA-G3
and SARA-U2 series and to and from the other u-blox cellular modules families.
SARA-G350 and SARA-G340 are respectively quad-band and dual-band full feature GSM/GPRS cellular modules
with a comprehensive feature set, including an extensive set of internet protocols and access to u-blox GNSS
positioning chips and modules with embedded A-GPS (AssistNow Online and AssistNow Offline) functionality.
SARA-G310 and SARA-G300 are respectively quad-band and dual-band GSM/GPRS cellular modules targeted for
high volume cost sensitive applications, providing GSM/GPRS functionalities with a reduced set of additional
features to minimize the customer’s total cost of ownership.
SARA-U2 series includes variants supporting various band combinations for worldwide operation, for North
America operation and for operation in Europe, Asia and other countries. A cost-saving UMTS-only variant is also
available.
All SARA-U2 series modules provide a rich feature set including an extensive set of internet protocols, dual-stack
IPv4 / IPv6 and access to u-blox GNSS positioning chips and modules, with embedded A-GPS (AssistNow Online
and AssistNow Offline) functionality.

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Table 1 describes a summary of interfaces and features provided by SARA-G3 and SARA-U2 series modules.
Module
Data rate
Bands
Interfaces
Audio
Features
Grade
3G Up-Link [Mbit/s]
3G Down-Link [Mbit/s]
2G Up-Link [kbit/s]
2G Down-Link [kbit/s]
3G bands [MHz]
2G bands [MHz]
UART
USB 2.0
DDC (I2C)
GPIO
Analog audio
Digital audio
Network indication
Antenna supervisor
Jamming detection
Embedded TCP / UDP
Embedded HTTP, FTP, SMTP
Embedded SSL / TLS
GNSS via Modem
AssistNow Software
CellLocate®
FW update via serial
FOTA
eCall / ERA-GLONASS
Low power idle mode
Dual stack IPv4/IPv6
Standard
Professional
Automotive
SARA-G300
42.8
85.6
900/1800
2
•
■
SARA-G310
42.8
85.6
4-band
2
•
■
SARA-G340
42.8
85.6
900/1800
2
1
4
1
1
•
•
•
•
•
○
•
•
•
•
•
•
□
SARA-G340 ATEX
42.8
85.6
900/1800
2
1
4
1
1
•
•
•
•
•
○
•
•
•
•
•
•
□
SARA-G350
42.8
85.6
4-band
2
1
4
1
1
•
•
•
•
•
○
•
•
•
•
•
•
□
SARA-G350 ATEX
42.8
85.6
4-band
2
1
4
1
1
•
•
•
•
•
○
•
•
•
•
•
•
□
SARA-U201
5.76
7.2
236.8
236.8
5-band
4-band
21
1
1
9
1
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•1
•
•
•
SARA-U201 ATEX
5.76
7.2
236.8
236.8
5-band
4-band
21
1
1
9
1
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•1
•
•
•
SARA-U260
5.76
7.2
85.6
236.8
850/1900
850/1900
1
1
1
9
1
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
SARA-U270
5.76
7.2
85.6
236.8
900/2100
900/18002
1
1
1
9
1
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
SARA-U270 ATEX
5.76
7.2
85.6
236.8
900/2100
900/1800
1
1
1
9
1
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
SARA-U280
5.76
7.2
850/1900
1
1
1
9
1
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
●= supported by all product versions
○= supported by product version “01” onwards
■= 32 kHz signal at EXT32K input is required for low power idle mode
□= supported by product versions “02” onwards
Table 1: SARA-G3 and SARA-U2 series3features summary
1Secondary UART and FOTA not supported by "03" and "63" product versions
2SARA-U270-73S module product version (approved by SKT Korean network operator) and SARA-U270-53S module product version 2SARA-U270-73S module product version (approved by SKT Korean network operator) and SARA-U270-53S module product version
(approved by KT Korean network operator) do not support 2G radio access technology.
3SARA-G350 ATEX modules provide the same feature set of the SARA-G350 modules plus the certification for use in potentially explosive
atmospheres; the same applies to SARA-U201 ATEX and SARA-U201 modules, and to SARA-U270 ATEX and SARA-U270 modules. Unless
otherwise specified, SARA-G350 refers to all SARA-G350 ATEX and SARA-G350 modules; SARA-U201 refers to all SARA-U201 ATEX and
SARA-U201 modules; whereas SARA-U270 refers to all SARA-U270 ATEX modules and SARA-U270 modules.

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Table 2 lists a summary of cellular radio access technologies characteristics of SARA-G3 and SARA-U2 modules.
3G UMTS/HSDPA/HSUPA characteristics
2G GSM/GPRS/EDGE characteristics4
Class A User Equipment5
Class B Mobile Station6
Protocol stack
SARA-U2 series:
3GPP Release 7
Protocol stack
SARA-U2 series:
3GPP Release 7
SARA-G3 series:
3GPP Release 99
Band support
SARA-U201:
Band 19 (800 MHz)
Band 5 (850 MHz)
Band 8 (900 MHz)
Band 2 (1900 MHz)
Band 1 (2100 MHz)
SARA-U260 and SARA-U280:
Band 5 (850 MHz)
Band 2 (1900 MHz)
SARA-U270:
Band 8 (900 MHz)
Band 1 (2100 MHz)
Band support
SARA-U201, SARA-G310, SARA-G350:
GSM 850 MHz
E-GSM 900 MHz
DCS 1800 MHz
PCS 1900 MHz
SARA-U260:
GSM 850 MHz
PCS 1900 MHz
SARA-U270, SARA-G300, SARA-G340:
E-GSM 900 MHz
DCS 1800 MHz
WCDMA/HSDPA/HSUPA Power Class
SARA-U2 series:
Power Class 3 (24 dBm)
GSM/GPRS Power Class
SARA-U2 series, SARA-G3 series:
Power Class 4 (33 dBm) for GSM/E-GSM bands
Power Class 1 (30 dBm) for DCS/PCS bands
EDGE Power Class
SARA-U2017:
Power Class E2 (27 dBm) for GSM/E-GSM bands
Power Class E2 (26 dBm) for DCS/PCS bands
PS (Packet Switched) data rate8
SARA-U2 series:
HSUPA category 6, up to 5.76 Mbit/s UL
HSDPA category 8, up to 7.2 Mbit/s DL
WCDMA PS data, up to 384 kbit/s DL/UL
PS (Packet Switched) data rate9
SARA-U2 series:
GPRS multi-slot class 1210, CS1-CS4 up to 85.6 kbit/s DL/UL
EDGE multi-slot class 1211, MCS1-MCS912 up to 236.8 kbit/s DL/UL
SARA-G3 series:
GPRS multi-slot class 1013, CS1-CS4 up to 85.6 kbit/s DL, 42.8 kbit/s UL
CS (Circuit Switched) data rate8
SARA-U2 series:
WCDMA CS data, up to 64 kbit/s DL/UL
CS (Circuit Switched) data rate8
SARA-U2 series, SARA-G3 series:
GSM CS data, up to 9.6 kbit/s DL/UL, transparent/non transparent mode
Table 2: SARA-G3 series and SARA-U2 series 2G characteristics summary
4Not supported by SARA-U270-53S, SARA-U270-73S modules
5Device can work simultaneously in Packet Switch and Circuit Switch mode: voice calls are possible while the data connection is active
without any interruption in service.
6Device can be attached to both GPRS and GSM services (i.e. Packet Switch and Circuit Switch mode) using one service at a time. For
example, if an incoming call occurs during data transmission, the data connection is suspended to allow the voice communication. Once the
voice call has terminated, the data service is resumed.
7SARA-U260 and SARA-U270 modules do not support 8-PSK modulation in uplink; the EDGE Power Class corresponds to the GSM/GPRS
Power Class
8The maximum bit rate of the module depends on the actual network environmental conditions and settings.
9GPRS / EDGE multi-slot class determines the number of timeslots available for upload and download and thus the speed at which data can
be transmitted and received, with higher classes typically allowing faster data transfer rates.
10 GPRS multi-slot class 12 implies a maximum of 4 slots in DL (reception) and 4 slots in UL (transmission) with 5 slots in total.
11 EDGE multi-slot class 12 implies a maximum of 4 slots in DL (reception) and 4 slots in UL (transmission) with 5 slots in total.
12 SARA-U260 and SARA-U270 modules support EDGE multi-slot class 12: MCS1-MCS9 up to 236.8 kbit/s DL, MCS1-MCS4 up to 70.4 kbit/s
UL
13 GPRS multi-slot class 10 implies a maximum of 4 slots in DL (reception) and 2 slots in UL (transmission) with 5 slots in total.

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1.2 Architecture
Figure 1 summarizes the architecture of the SARA-G300 and SARA-G310 modules, while Figure 2 summarizes
the architecture of the SARA-G340 and SARA-G350 modules, illustrating the internal blocks of the modules,
consisting of the RF, Baseband and Power Management main sections and the available interfaces.
Memory
V_BCKP (RTC)
V_INT (I/O)
32 kHz
26 MHz
RF
Transceiver
Power
Management
ANT SAW
Filter
Switch
VCC (Supply)
32 kHz
Auxiliary UART
SIM
UART
Power-On
Reset
Cellular
BaseBand
Processor
PA
Figure 1: SARA-G300 and SARA-G310 modules block diagram
Memory
V_BCKP (RTC)
V_INT (I/O)
26 MHz 32.768 kHz
RF
Transceiver
Power
Management
Cellular
BaseBand
Processor
ANT SAW
Filter
Switch
PA
VCC (Supply)
Auxiliary UART
DDC (for GNSS)
SIM Card Detection
SIM
UART
Power-On
Reset
Digital Audio
Analog Audio
GPIO
Antenna Detection
Figure 2: SARA-G340 and SARA-G350 modules block diagram

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Figure 3 shows the architecture of the SARA-U201 modules, Figure 4 summarizes the architecture of the SARA-
U260 and SARA-U270 modules, while Figure 5 summarizes the architecture of the SARA-U280 modules,
illustrating the internal blocks of the modules, consisting of the RF, Baseband and Power Management main
sections and the available interfaces.
Memory
V_BCKP (RTC)
V_INT (I/O)
RF
transceiver
Power
Management
Cellular
BaseBand
Processor
ANT
VCC (Supply)
USB
DDC (I2C) / AUX UART
SIM card detection
SIM
UART
Power-On
Reset
Digital audio (I2S)
GPIO
Antenna detection
26 MHz
Duplexers
Filters
Switch
2G PA
32 kHz
LNAs
3G PA
Figure 3: SARA-U201 block diagram
Memory
V_BCKP (RTC)
V_INT (I/O)
RF
transceiver
Power
Management
Cellular
BaseBand
Processor
ANT
VCC (Supply)
USB
DDC (I2C)
SIM card detection
SIM
UART
Power-On
Reset
Digital audio (I2S)
GPIO
Antenna detection
3G PA
26 MHz
Duplexer
Filter
Switch
2G PA
LNA
32 kHz
Figure 4: SARA-U260 and SARA-U270 modules block diagram

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Memory
V_BCKP (RTC)
V_INT (I/O)
RF
transceiver
Power
Management
Cellular
BaseBand
Processor
ANT
VCC (Supply)
USB
DDC (I2C)
SIM card detection
SIM
UART
Power-On
Reset
Digital audio (I2S)
GPIO
Antenna detection
3G PA
26 MHz
Duplexer
Filter
Switch
LNA
32 kHz
Figure 5: SARA-U280 modules block diagram
1.2.1 Internal blocks
SARA-G3 and SARA-U2 series modules internally consist of the RF, Baseband and Power Management sections,
described below with more details than are shown in the simplified block diagrams of Figure 1 to Figure 5.
RF section
The RF section is composed of the following main elements:
2G / 3G RF transceiver performing modulation, up-conversion of the baseband I/Q signals, down-conversion
and demodulation of the RF received signals. The RF transceiver includes:
Constant gain direct conversion receiver with integrated LNAs
Highly linear RF quadrature GMSK demodulator
Digital Sigma-Delta transmitter GMSK modulator
Fractional-N Sigma-Delta RF synthesizer
3.8 GHz VCO
Digital controlled crystal oscillator
2G / 3G Power Amplifier, which amplifies the signals modulated by the RF transceiver
RF switch, which connects the antenna input/output pin (ANT) of the module to the suitable RX/TX path
RX diplexer SAW (band pass) filters
26 MHz crystal, connected to the digital controlled crystal oscillator to perform the clock reference in active
mode or connected mode

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Baseband and Power Management section
The Baseband and Power Management section is composed of the following main elements:
Baseband processor, a mixed signal ASIC which integrates:
Microprocessor for controller functions
DSP core for 2G / 3G Layer 1 and audio processing
Dedicated peripheral blocks for parallel control of the digital interfaces
Audio analog front-end
The SARA-U201 module integrates only a baseband memory SiP including a NAND flash non-volatile
memory and a RAM volatile memory
Memory system in a multi-chip package integrating two devices14:
NOR flash non-volatile memory
RAM volatile memory
Voltage regulators to derive all the system supply voltages from the module supply VCC
Circuit for the RTC clock reference in low power idle mode:
SARA-G340, SARA-G350 and SARA-U2 series modules are equipped with an internal 32.768 kHz crystal
connected to the oscillator of the RTC (Real Time Clock) block that gives the RTC clock reference needed
to provide the RTC functions as well as to reach the very low power idle mode (with power saving
configuration enabled by the AT+UPSV command).
SARA-G300 and SARA-G310 modules are not equipped with an internal 32.768 kHz crystal: a proper
32 kHz signal must be provided at the EXT32K input pin of the modules to give the RTC clock reference
and to provide the RTC functions as well as to reach the very low power idle mode (with power saving
configuration enabled by AT+UPSV). The 32K_OUT output pin of SARA-G300 and SARA-G310 provides
a 32 kHz reference signal suitable only to feed the EXT32K input pin, furnishes the reference clock for
the RTC, and allows low power idle mode and RTC functions support with modules switched on.
14 In all SARA-U2 series and SARA-G3 series modules except for the SARA-U201 modules

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1.3 Pin-out
Table 3 lists the pin-out of the SARA-G3 and SARA-U2 series modules, with pins grouped by function.
Function
Pin Name
Module
Pin No
I/O
Description
Remarks
Power
VCC
All
51, 52, 53
I
Module supply
input
VCC pins are internally connected to each other,
except for SARA-G3 modules product versions ‘02’
onwards.
VCC supply circuit affects the RF performance and
compliance of the device integrating the module
with applicable required certification schemes.
See section 1.5.1 for description and requirements.
See section 2.2.1 for external circuit design-in.
GND
All
1, 3, 5, 14,
20-22, 30,
32, 43, 50,
54, 55,
57-61,
63-96
N/A
Ground
GND pins are internally connected to each other.
External ground connection affects the RF and
thermal performance of the device.
See section 1.5.1 for functional description.
See section 2.2.1 for external circuit design-in.
V_BCKP
All
2
I/O
Real Time Clock
supply
input/output
V_BCKP = 2.3 V (typical) on SARA-G3 series.
V_BCKP = 1.8 V (typical) on SARA-U2 series.
V_BCKP is generated by internal low power linear
regulator when a valid VCC supply is present.
See section 1.5.2 for functional description.
See section 2.2.2 for external circuit design-in.
V_INT
All
4
O
Generic Digital
Interfaces supply
output
V_INT = 1.8 V (typical), generated by internal DC/DC
regulator when the module is switched on.
Access by external test-point is recommended.
See section 1.5.3 for functional description.
See section 2.2.3 for external circuit design-in.
System
PWR_ON
All
15
I
Power-on input
High input impedance: input voltage level must be
properly fixed, e.g. adding external pull-up.
Access by external test-point is recommended.
See section 1.6.1 for functional description.
See section 2.3.1 for external circuit design-in.
RESET_N
All
18
I
External reset
input
Internal 10 kpull-up to V_INT on SARA-G3,
Internal 10 kpull-up to V_BCKP on SARA-U2.
Access by external test-point is recommended.
See section 1.6.3 for functional description.
See section 2.3.2 for external circuit design-in.
EXT32K
SARA-G300
SARA-G310
31
I
32 kHz input
Input for RTC reference clock, needed to enter the
low power idle mode and provide RTC functions.
See section 1.6.4 for functional description.
See section 2.3.3 for external circuit design-in.
32K_OUT
SARA-G300
SARA-G310
24
O
32 kHz output
32 kHz output suitable only to feed the EXT32K
input giving the RTC reference clock, allowing low
power idle mode and RTC function support.
See section 1.6.5 for functional description.
See section 2.3.3 for external circuit design-in.
Antenna
ANT
All
56
I/O
RF input/output
for antenna
50 nominal characteristic impedance.
Antenna circuit affects the RF performance and
compliance of the device integrating the module
with applicable required certification schemes.
See section 1.7 for description and requirements.
See section 2.4 for external circuit design-in.
ANT_DET
SARA-G340
SARA-G350
SARA-U2
62
I
Input for antenna
detection
ADC input for antenna detection function.
See section 1.7.2 for functional description.
See section 2.4.2 for external circuit design-in.

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Function
Pin Name
Module
Pin No
I/O
Description
Remarks
SIM
VSIM
All
41
O
SIM supply output
VSIM = 1.80 V typ. or 2.85 V typ. automatically
generated according to the connected SIM type.
See section 1.8 for functional description.
See section 2.5 for external circuit design-in.
SIM_IO
All
39
I/O
SIM data
Data input/output for 1.8 V / 3 V SIM
Internal 4.7 kpull-up to VSIM.
See section 1.8 for functional description.
See section 2.5 for external circuit design-in.
SIM_CLK
All
38
O
SIM clock
3.25 MHz clock output for 1.8 V / 3 V SIM
See section 1.8 for functional description.
See section 2.5 for external circuit design-in.
SIM_RST
All
40
O
SIM reset
Reset output for 1.8 V / 3 V SIM
See section 1.8 for functional description.
See section 2.5 for external circuit design-in.
SIM_DET
All
42
I /
I/O
SIM detection /
GPIO
1.8 V input for SIM presence detection function.
Pin configurable also as GPIO on SARA-U2 series.
See section 1.8.2 for functional description.
See section 2.5 for external circuit design-in.
UART
RXD
All
13
O
UART data output
1.8 V output, Circuit 104 (RXD) in ITU-T V.24,
for AT, data, Mux, FOAT on SARA-G3 modules,
for AT, data, Mux, FOAT, FW upgrade via EasyFlash
tool and diagnostics on SARA-U2 modules.
Access by external test-point is recommended.
See section 1.9.1 for functional description.
See section 2.6.1 for external circuit design-in.
TXD
All
12
I
UART data input
1.8 V input, Circuit 103 (TXD) in ITU-T V.24,
for AT, data, Mux, FOAT on SARA-G3 modules,
for AT, data, Mux, FOAT, FW upgrade via EasyFlash
tool and diagnostics on SARA-U2 modules.
Internal active pull-up to V_INT.
Access by external test-point is recommended.
See section 1.9.1 for functional description.
See section 2.6.1 for external circuit design-in.
CTS
All
11
O
UART clear to
send output
1.8 V output, Circuit 106 (CTS) in ITU-T V.24.
Access by external test-point is recommended.
See section 1.9.1 for functional description.
See section 2.6.1 for external circuit design-in.
RTS
All
10
I
UART ready to
send input
1.8 V input, Circuit 105 (RTS) in ITU-T V.24.
Internal active pull-up to V_INT.
Access by external test-point is recommended.
See section 1.9.1 for functional description.
See section 2.6.1 for external circuit design-in.
DSR
All
6
O
UART data set
ready output
1.8 V output, Circuit 107 (DSR) in ITU-T V.24.
See section 1.9.1 for functional description.
See section 2.6.1 for external circuit design-in.
RI
All
7
O
UART ring
indicator output
1.8 V output, Circuit 125 (RI) in ITU-T V.24.
See section 1.9.1 for functional description.
See section 2.6.1 for external circuit design-in.
DTR
All
9
I
UART data
terminal ready
input
1.8 V input, Circuit 108/2 (DTR) in ITU-T V.24.
Internal active pull-up to V_INT.
See section 1.9.1 for functional description.
See section 2.6.1 for external circuit design-in.
DCD
All
8
O
UART data carrier
detect output
1.8 V input, Circuit 109 (DCD) in ITU-T V.24.
See section 1.9.1 for functional description.
See section 2.6.1 for external circuit design-in.

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Function
Pin Name
Module
Pin No
I/O
Description
Remarks
Auxiliary
UART
RXD_AUX
SARA-G3
28
O
Auxiliary UART
data output
1.8 V output, Circuit 104 (RXD) in ITU-T V.24,
for FW upgrade via EasyFlash tool, AT command
mode15, GNSS tunneling15 and diagnostics.
Access by external test-point is recommended.
See section 1.9.2 for functional description.
See section 2.6.2 for external circuit design-in.
TXD_AUX
SARA-G3
29
I
Auxiliary UART
data input
1.8 V input, Circuit 103 (TXD) in ITU-T V.24,
for FW upgrade via EasyFlash tool, AT command
mode15, GNSS tunneling15 and diagnostics.
Internal active pull-up to V_INT.
Access by external test-point is recommended.
See section 1.9.2 for functional description.
See section 2.6.2 for external circuit design-in.
SCL
SARA-U2
27
O
Auxiliary UART
data output
Not supported by “00” and “x3” product versions.
1.8 V output, Circuit 104 (RXD) in ITU-T V.24,
for AT command mode and diagnostics.
By default configured as I2C bus clock line.
Access by external test-point is recommended.
See section 1.9.2 for functional description.
See section 2.6.2 for external circuit design-in.
SDA
SARA-U2
26
I
Auxiliary UART
data input
Not supported by “00” and “x3” product versions.
1.8 V input, Circuit 103 (TXD) in ITU-T V.24,
for AT command mode and diagnostics.
Internal active pull-up to V_INT.
By default configured as I2C bus data line.
Access by external test-point is recommended.
See section 1.9.2 for functional description.
See section 2.6.2 for external circuit design-in.
USB
VUSB_DET
SARA-U2
17
I
USB detect input
High-Speed USB 2.0 interface input for VBUS (5 V typ)
USB supply sense. USB available for AT, data, GNSS
tunneling, SAP, Ethernet-over-USB16, FOAT, FW
upgrade via EasyFlash tool, and diagnostics.
Access by external test-point is recommended.
See section 1.9.3 for functional description.
See section 2.6.3 for external circuit design-in.
USB_D-
SARA-U2
28
I/O
USB Data Line D-
High-Speed USB 2.0 interface data line for AT, data,
GNSS tunneling, SAP, Ethernet-over-USB16, FOAT, FW
upgrade via EasyFlash tool, and diagnostics.
90 nominal differential impedance.
Pull-up, pull-down and series resistors as required by
USB 2.0 specifications [14] are part of the USB pin
driver and need not be provided externally.
Access by external test-point is recommended.
See section 1.9.3 for functional description.
See section 2.6.3 for external circuit design-in.
USB_D+
SARA-U2
29
I/O
USB Data Line D+
High-Speed USB 2.0 interface data line for AT, data,
GNSS tunneling, SAP, Ethernet-over-USB16, FOAT, FW
upgrade via EasyFlash tool, and diagnostics.
90 nominal differential impedance.
Pull-up, pull-down and series resistors as required by
USB 2.0 specifications [14] are part of the USB pin
driver and need not be provided externally.
Access by external test-point is recommended.
See section 1.9.3 for functional description.
See section 2.6.3 for external circuit design-in.
15 Supported by product versions “02” onwards
16 Supported by product versions “x3” onwards

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Function
Pin Name
Module
Pin No
I/O
Description
Remarks
DDC
SCL
SARA-G340
SARA-G350
SARA-U2
27
O
I2C bus clock line
1.8 V open drain, for communication with the
u-blox positioning modules / chips. Communication
with other external I2C-slave devices as an audio
codec is additionally supported by SARA-U2 series.
External pull-up required.
See section 1.9.4 for functional description.
See section 2.6.4 for external circuit design-in.
SDA
SARA-G340
SARA-G350
SARA-U2
26
I/O
I2C bus data line
1.8 V open drain, for the communication with
u-blox positioning modules / chips. Communication
with other external I2C-slave devices as an audio
codec is additionally supported by SARA-U2 series.
External pull-up required.
See section 1.9.4 for functional description.
See section 2.6.4 for external circuit design-in.
Analog
Audio
MIC_BIAS
SARA-G340
SARA-G350
46
O
Microphone
supply output
Supply output (2.2 V typ) for external microphone.
See section 1.10.1 for functional description.
See section 2.7.1 for external circuit design-in.
MIC_GND
SARA-G340
SARA-G350
47
I
Microphone
analog reference
Local ground for the external microphone (reference
for the analog audio uplink path).
See section 1.10.1 for functional description.
See section 2.7.1 for external circuit design-in.
MIC_N
SARA-G340
SARA-G350
48
I
Differential
analog audio
input (negative)
Differential analog audio signal input (negative)
shared for all the analog uplink path modes:
handset, headset, hands-free mode.
No internal DC blocking capacitor.
See section 1.10.1 for functional description.
See section 2.7.1 for external circuit design-in.
MIC_P
SARA-G340
SARA-G350
49
I
Differential
analog audio
input (positive)
Differential analog audio signal input (positive)
shared for all the analog uplink path modes:
handset, headset, hands-free mode.
No internal DC blocking capacitor.
See section 1.10.1 for functional description.
See section 2.7.1 for external circuit design-in.
SPK_P
SARA-G340
SARA-G350
44
O
Differential
analog audio
output (positive)
Differential analog audio signal output (positive)
shared for all the analog downlink path modes:
earpiece, headset and loudspeaker mode.
See section 1.10.1 for functional description.
See section 2.7.1 for external circuit design-in.
SPK_N
SARA-G340
SARA-G350
45
O
Differential
analog audio
output (negative)
Differential analog audio signal output (negative)
shared for all the analog downlink path modes:
earpiece, headset and loudspeaker mode.
See section 1.10.1 for functional description.
See section 2.7.1 for external circuit design-in.
Digital
Audio
I2S_CLK
SARA-G340
SARA-G350
SARA-U2
36
O /
I/O
I2S clock /
GPIO
1.8 V serial clock for PCM / normal I2S modes.
Pin configurable also as GPIO on SARA-U2 series.
Access by external test-point is recommended.
See section 1.10.2 for functional description.
See section 2.7.2 for external circuit design-in.
I2S_RXD
SARA-G340
SARA-G350
SARA-U2
37
I /
I/O
I2S receive data /
GPIO
1.8 V data input for PCM / normal I2S modes.
Pin configurable also as GPIO on SARA-U2 series.
Internal active pull-down to GND.
Access by external test-point is recommended.
See section 1.10.2 for functional description.
See section 2.7.2 for external circuit design-in.