u-blox continues to push the boundaries of low-power navigation with its latest release — the MAX-M10N, a new GNSS module built around the UBX-M10150-KB chipset. Designed for wearables, asset trackers, and battery-powered IoT devices, the MAX-M10N brings a huge leap in efficiency thanks to its Low Energy Accurate Positioning (LEAP) technology and flash-upgradeable firmware — two features that redefine what’s possible in compact GNSS hardware.
A Smarter Successor in the MAX-M10 Family
Following the earlier UBX-M10150-CC module, the MAX-M10N introduces several key innovations:
- Up to 50% lower power consumption through new energy-saving modes
- Firmware-upgradeable flash memory instead of fixed ROM
- Improved spoofing/jamming detection and RTCM correction input for sub-meter accuracy
- Integrated LNA + dual SAW filters for superior RF performance
LEAP — Low Energy Accurate Positioning
At the heart of this release is LEAP mode, a power optimization technology introduced in u-blox’s SPG 5.30 firmware.
LEAP intelligently selects only the best satellite signals — those with direct line-of-sight, higher elevation, and stronger signal-to-noise ratios — while ignoring weak or reflected ones. This “smart signal filtering” dramatically cuts energy use without reducing positioning precision.
LEAP mode innovations include:
- Dynamic LNA control: Activates the external Low Noise Amplifier only when needed.
- Predictive satellite data: Preloads ephemeris and correction data via the internet to avoid downloading from satellites.
- Optimized cyclic tracking (PSMCT): Reduces receiver activity cycles for up to 50% less power draw.
In practical terms, this allows sub-15 mW power consumption in LEAP mode — a breakthrough for wearables, smart tags, and portable IoT sensors.
High-Accuracy GNSS with Smart Firmware
The MAX-M10N is powered by the u-blox M10 GNSS engine, offering multi-constellation tracking with support for GPS, Galileo, BeiDou, QZSS, and SBAS.
It supports RTCM v3.4 correction input, enabling sub-meter accuracy, and adds data logging, geo-fencing, and AssistNow Predictive & Live Orbit data for faster startup and more stable tracking.
Technical Specifications: u-blox MAX-M10N
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| GNSS Engine | u-blox M10 |
| Supported Constellations | GPS (L1 C/A), QZSS (L1C/A, L1S), Galileo (E1B/C), BeiDou (B1I/B1C), SBAS (L1 C/A) |
| Accuracy | 1.0–1.5 m CEP |
| Update Rate | Up to 25 Hz (single GNSS), 10 Hz (multi-GNSS) |
| Sensitivity | Tracking – –167 dBm |
| Start Times | Cold Start – 28 s |
| Interfaces | UART, SPI, DDC (I²C), EXTINT input, configurable time pulse |
| Security | Spoofing/jamming detection, SHA-256 signed messages, configuration lock |
| Power Modes | Continuous – 24–27 mW |
| Voltage Range | 1.76 V – 5.5 V |
| Form Factor | 10.1 × 9.7 × 2.5 mm (18-pin LCC) |
| Weight | 0.6 g |
| Operating Temp | –40 °C to +85 °C |
| Certifications | RED-certified, AEC-Q104 subset qualified, RoHS-3 compliant |
Firmware Upgradeability — Future-Proofing GNSS Hardware
Unlike traditional GNSS modules that store firmware in read-only memory (ROM), the MAX-M10N keeps its firmware in flash memory. This allows firmware updates, meaning users can benefit from:
- Improved positioning algorithms
- New satellite constellation support
- Updated spoofing/jamming protection
- Extended hardware life
This feature not only future-proofs designs but also makes it possible for developers to adapt to evolving navigation standards without hardware replacement.
Developer Tools: u-blox EVK-M10 Evaluation Kit
To simplify testing, u-blox provides the EVK-M10 evaluation kit, offering:
- USB, UART, SPI, and I²C interfaces
- External power or USB-C input
- Active GNSS antenna
- Integration with u-center 2 software for configuration, logging, and power analysis
This makes it easy for engineers to measure power draw, experiment with LEAP mode, and evaluate performance across different environments.
Applications & Use Cases
The MAX-M10N is designed for low-power, high-accuracy applications, such as:
- Wearables & Fitness Devices – extended battery life with sub-meter precision
- Asset Tracking & Logistics – continuous position tracking with low energy cost
- Smart Agriculture – compact, autonomous GNSS tracking
- Battery-Powered IoT Sensors – long-term operation in remote or power-limited systems
With LEAP mode and firmware upgradeability, the module offers a strong combination of efficiency, precision, and longevity — ideal for next-generation IoT ecosystems.
More details are available on the official u-blox MAX-M10 series page and UBX-M10150-KB chip documentation.
The company has not yet disclosed pricing details for the MAX-M10N, but it’s expected to sit in the same range as other M10-series modules.
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