2 Product Overview
The Swarm (Model: M138) satellite data modem transmits and receives data to and from
Swarm’s space network and is designed to be embedded into a third-party product. Swarm
backend systems support the delivery of customer data via a REST API or Webhook to the
cloud service of each user’s choice.
The Swarm Modem is a module suitable for a variety of low-bandwidth use cases: from
connecting people and tracking vehicles, ships, or packages to relaying sensor data for
agriculture, energy, and industrial IoT applications.
The Swarm Modem is a Mini-PCI Express Card that can be easily integrated into any new or
existing PCB design. The Swarm Modem communicates via a standard 3.3V CMOS serial
UART interface or a PC interface with a USB-to-serial converter.
Category
Description
Components
GPS, VHF radio with integrated T/R switch, U.FL connector for GPS and
VHF antenna, indicator LEDs, 3.3V serial interface, 3.3V GPIO
Onboard
Sensors
uBLOX GPS (lat/lon/alt), CPU Temperature
Dimensions
and Mass
51.0 mm x 30.0 mm x 5.3 mm, 9.6 g
See detailed description in the Mechanical Specification section.
Power
Mode
Typical
Peak
3.3V
5V
3.3V
5V
Sleep
-
-
80μA
110μA
Receiver Active
26mA
25mA
40mA
45mA
Transmitter On
850mA
550mA
1000mA
600mA
Protocol
Modified NMEA two-letter command set
Bit rate
1 kbps. Maximum packet size is 192 bytes
Table 2:
Overview of the Swarm Modem.
© 2022 SWARM TECHNOLOGIES
SWARM M138 MODEM PRODUCT MANUAL · REV 1.20 · FEBRUARY 2022
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