SparkFun LTE GNSS Function Board - SARA-R5

The SparkFun SARA-R5 LTE GNSS Function Board is a robust development tool for u-blox's impressive SARA-R510M8S module designed to work with the MicroMod Ecosystem. The SARA-R510M8S combines u-blox's UBX-R5 cellular chipset with their M8 GNSS receiver chipset to provide a 5G-Ready wireless IoT device with positioning data all on a single chip. As an asset tracker, the LTE GNSS Function Board offers Secure Cloud LTE-M communication for multi-regional use. It also has an integrated u-blox M8 GNSS receiver for accurate positioning information.

The UBX-R5 chipset supports many different forms of data communication from full TCP/IP sockets and packet switched data, through HTTP Get/Put/Post, FTP (the SARA has a built-in file system), or ping to good old SMS text messaging! The built-in u‑blox M8 GNSS receiver provides accurate and reliable positioning with a separate GNSS antenna interface for an external antenna. The GNSS antenna and LTE connections are made via a pair of u.FL connectors. A nano SIM card slot is also included as well.

Utilizing our handy M.2 MicroMod connector, no soldering is required to connect it to your system. Simply match up the key on your processor and function board's beveled edge connector to their respective key on the M.2 connector, then secure them to the Main Board with screws.

This Function Board provides access to the UART (default configuration) with a Processor Board. The USB pins are also broken out to a USB-C connector for diagnostic purposes. Status LEDs for 3.3V, Ring Indicator, LTE ON, and LTE Network Indicator are included. A button is included for LTE Power On.

Note: The SparkFun LTE GNSS Function Board - SARA-R5 uses the "01B" product version of the SARA-R5 module (specifically the SARA-R510M8S-01B).


MicroMod is a modular interface ecosystem that connects a microcontroller “processor board” to various “carrier board” peripherals. Utilizing the M.2 standard, the MicroMod standard is designed to easily swap out processors on the fly. Pair a specialized carrier board for the project you need with your choice of compatible processor!


  • Input Voltage Range
    • 3.7V to 6.0V
    • Typ. 5V via Main Board's USB Connector
    • Typ. ~3.7V to 4.2V via Main Board's LiPo Battery Connector
    • Reverse Polarity Protection via Schottky Diode
  • I/O Voltage
    • 3.3V
    • 1.8V for LTE
  • USB Type C Connector
  • 6V/2A Resettable Fuse
  • ESD Protection Diodes for USB Data Lines
  • 3.3V Voltage Regulators
    • AP7361C (Rated 1A) for SARA-R5
    • AP2112K (Rated 600mA) for GNSS Antenna
  • u-blox SARA-R510M8S module providing Secure Cloud LTE-M data communication for multi-regional use
    • Please check that your service provider offers LTE-M coverage for your area before purchasing
  • Integrated u-blox M8 GNSS receiver for accurate positioning information
  • Separate u.FL connectors for LTE and GNSS antennas
  • Nano SIM Socket
  • I2C Pull-Up Resistors (2.2kΩ)
  • I2C EEPROM
  • SARA Power On Button
  • LEDs
    • Power (3.3V and VCCIO)
    • SARA-R5 On
    • Network Indicator
  • Jumpers
    • USB Shield
    • 3.3V LED
    • 3.3V Regulator for GNSS Antenna
    • LTE On LED
    • LTE On
    • LTE Reset
    • Network Indicator LED
    • Network Indicator
    • LTE Power On
    • LTE Ring Indicator LED
    • I2C Pull-Up Resistors
    • EEPROM Write Protection
  • Board Dimensions: 37.49mm x 61.00mm (1.48in. x 2.40in.)
  • Weight: 8.05g

SparkFun LTE GNSS Function Board - SARA-R5 Product Help and Resources

Designing with MicroMod

October 21, 2020

This tutorial will walk you through the specs of the MicroMod processor and carrier board as well as the basics of incorporating the MicroMod form factor into your own PCB designs!

Getting Started with MicroMod

October 21, 2020

Dive into the world of MicroMod - a compact interface to connect a microcontroller to various peripherals via the M.2 Connector!

Core Skill: DIY

Whether it's for assembling a kit, hacking an enclosure, or creating your own parts; the DIY skill is all about knowing how to use tools and the techniques associated with them.

1 DIY

Skill Level: Noob - Basic assembly is required. You may need to provide your own basic tools like a screwdriver, hammer or scissors. Power tools or custom parts are not required. Instructions will be included and easy to follow. Sewing may be required, but only with included patterns.
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Core Skill: Programming

If a board needs code or communicates somehow, you're going to need to know how to program or interface with it. The programming skill is all about communication and code.

3 Programming

Skill Level: Competent - The toolchain for programming is a bit more complex and will examples may not be explicitly provided for you. You will be required to have a fundamental knowledge of programming and be required to provide your own code. You may need to modify existing libraries or code to work with your specific hardware. Sensor and hardware interfaces will be SPI or I2C.
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Core Skill: Electrical Prototyping

If it requires power, you need to know how much, what all the pins do, and how to hook it up. You may need to reference datasheets, schematics, and know the ins and outs of electronics.

2 Electrical Prototyping

Skill Level: Rookie - You may be required to know a bit more about the component, such as orientation, or how to hook it up, in addition to power requirements. You will need to understand polarized components.
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