41113915
Rev 0.3
June 17, 2020
10
AirPrime EM9190 Hardware Integration Guide
RF Specifications
3.1.
RF Connections
When attaching antennas to the module:
Sub-6G /GNSS connectors:
Use RF plug connectors that are compatible with the following RF receptacle connectors:
I-PEX (20449-001E (MHF4)).
Match coaxial connections between the module and the antenna to 50
Ω
.
Minimize RF cable losses to the antenna; the recommended maximum cable loss for antenna
cabling is 0.5 dB.
mmWave connectors:
Use RF plug connectors that are compatible with the following RF receptacle connectors:
I-PEX (20956-001E-01 (MHF7S)).
To ensure best thermal performance, use the ground hole (if possible) to attach (ground) the
device to a metal chassis.
Note:
If antenna connection is shorted or open, the modem will not sustain permanent damage.
3.1.1.
Shielding
The module is fully shielded to protect against EMI and must not be removed.
3.2.
Sub-6G Antennas and Cabling
When selecting the Sub-6G antennas and cables, it is critical to RF performance to match antenna
gain and cable loss.
Note:
There is no explicit list of antennas required in the application. The PWB-6-60-RSMAP Wide Band
4G/5G Terminal Paddle Antenna has been verified as a reference.
For detailed electrical
performance criteria, see
Choosing the Correct Sub-6G Antenna and Cabling
When matching antennas and cabling:
The antenna (and associated circuitry) should have a nominal impedance of 50
Ω
with a return
loss of better than 10 dB across each frequency band of operation.
The system gain value affects both radiated power and regulatory (FCC, IC, CE, etc.) test
results.
Designing Custom Sub-6G Antennas
Consider the following points when designing custom antennas:
A skilled RF engineer should do the development to ensure that the RF performance is
maintained.
If multiple modules will be installed on the same platform, you may want to develop separate
antennas for maximum performance.
Determining the Sub-
6G Antenna’s Location
When deciding where to put the antennas:
Antenna location may affect RF performance. Although the module is shielded to prevent
interference in most applications, the placement of the antenna is still very important
— if the
host device is insufficiently shielded, high levels of broadband or spurious noise can degrade the
module’s performance.
Connecting cables between the module and the antenna must have 50
Ω
impedance. If the
impedance of the module is mismatched, RF performance is reduced significantly.
