Smart modules

Smart IoT modules bring together previously separate functionalities – for instance computing, graphics processing, data storage and connectivity – into single, highly compact pieces of hardware. The ability to perform such various tasks in a single module removes the need to specify and develop multiple function-specific modules, and then ensure they can be integrated into a unified product.

The multiple functions of a smart module work together seamlessly, significantly reducing the bill of materials (BOM) cost of an IoT device. Time-to-market can also be shortened because developers and designers don’t need to procure multiple components and ensure they integrate well into the device. Smart modules are therefore a key way for solution builders to simplify designs, reduce size, remove technical limitations, limit costs and accelerate time-to-market. They are, in short, the cutting edge of integrated hardware in the world of IoT technologies.

Smart modules can support a rich set of peripheral components – such as cameras, LCMs, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GNSS, memory and SD cards, eSIM and embedded universal integrated circuit cards (eUICC). They offer a wide choice of interfaces such as USB2.0/3.0, USB type-C, I2C, UART, GPIOs, and support PWM and ADCs. They also have integrated operating systems – often with a choice of Linux for applications in industrial IoT, or Android for commercial solutions – as well as device drivers and associated SDKs. 

Quectel offers a comprehensive range of smart modules, with extensive product families of variants to support deployment regions and a range of interfaces and connection options. To find out more you can browse our webshop from the links on the table below.

Use cases for smart modules include

• AR/VR
• Delivery lockers
• Digital signage
• Edge computing
• In-car entertainment systems
• PDAs and tablets
• Robotics and smart factories
• Smartphones
• Smart POS
• Smart home gateways
• Vehicle center consoles
• Vending machines
• Video streaming
• Wearables