Following the launch of the UBX-M10150-CC low-power GNSS module, u-blox has expanded its lineup with the MAX-M10N, another ultra-low-power module based on the UBX-M10150-KB GNSS chip. The new module supports firmware upgradeability and offers up to 50% lower power consumption thanks to features such as Low Energy Accurate Positioning (LEAP) and PSMCT cyclic tracking modes.
The latest SPG 5.30 firmware also adds support for RTCM correction input for sub-meter positioning accuracy, along with improved spoofing and jamming detection. It also includes data logging and geo-fencing for autonomous tracking and uses AssistNow Predictive and Live Orbits for faster satellite acquisition. The MAX-M10N integrates an LNA and dual SAW filters for better RF sensitivity and interference protection, while maintaining pin compatibility with earlier MAX modules. These features make it suitable for low-power, high-accuracy applications such as wearables, asset tracking, and battery-powered IoT devices.
u-blox MAX-M10N GNSS module specifications:
- Receiver type – u-blox M10 engine
- GNSS receiver
- GPS – L1 C/A
- QZSS – L1C/A, L1S
- Galileo – E1B/C
- BeiDou – B1I, B1C
- SBAS – L1 C/A
- Communication protocol
- NMEA 4.11
- UBX binary
- RTCM v. 3.4 (new feature)
- Horizontal position accuracy – 1.0 to 1.5 m CEP
- Navigation update rate
- Up to 25 Hz (single GNSS)
- Up to 10 Hz (≥ 3 concurrent GNSS)
- Sensitivity
- Tracking & Navigation – –167 dBm
- Reacquisition – –160 dBm
- Cold start – –148 dBm
- Hot start – –159 dBm
- Acquisition
- Cold start – 28 s
- Aided start – 1–2 s
- Hot start – 1–2 s
- Interfaces
- 1x UART
- 1x SPI
- 1x DDC (I2C compliant)
- Digital I/O for configurable time pulse, EXTINT input
- Security
- Spoofing/jamming detection and reporting
- Configuration lock and signed UBX messages (SHA-256)
- JTAG is disabled by default
- Misc
- Supports both active and passive antennas
- LEAP (Low-Energy Accurate Positioning) mode for < 15 mW consumption (new feature)
- PSMCT cyclic tracking mode for up to 50 % power reduction
- Data logging and data batching (up to 10 min without host)
- AssistNow Predictive & Live Orbit data support
- Odometer and distance tracking
- Integrated RTC crystal and TCXO
- Power Support
- Voltage Range – 1.76 V – 5.5 V
- Power consumption – 24–27 mW (continuous), 12 mW (LEAP mode)
- Dimensions – 10.1 x 9.7 x 2.5 mm (18-pin LCC package)
- weight – 0.6 g
- Temperature Range – -40°C to +85°C (operating and storage)
- Environmental – RED-certified, qualified to the AEC-Q104 subset
- Compliance – RoHS-3 compliant
The MAX-M10 family now comes in five variants, including the MAX-M10M-00B, MAX-M10M-20B, MAX-M10S, MAX-M10N-00B, and MAX-M10N-10B. The MAX-M10M models offer faster aided and host starts, feature firmware in ROM, and the 20B version adds an LNA and SAW filter for improved RF performance. The MAX-M10S also includes a TCXO for higher frequency stability. The new MAX-M10N is the first MAX-M10 module to offer a flash-upgradeable firmware, and the 10B variant adds two SAW filters for RF immunity.
What’s also interesting about the MAX-M10N is the implementation of LEAP (Low Energy Accurate Positioning) technology, a new power-saving mode introduced by u-blox in the SPG 5.30 firmware for its M10-series GNSS modules.
It prefers direct line-of-sight signals, satellites higher above the horizon, and strong signals with a high signal-to-noise ratio, and ignores reflected or weak signals. This smart filtering saves energy and ensures more precise location data.
LEAP technology also saves power by activating the external Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) only when needed, reducing energy use without affecting GNSS performance.
It further reduces power use by preloading satellite data (almanac, ephemeris, and corrections) from the internet instead of downloading it from space during startup. Combined with its smart signal and power management features, LEAP achieves up to 50% lower energy consumption while keeping high positioning accuracy in all environments. This makes this module suitable for battery-powered devices like smartwatches, fitness bands, and trackers, as it extends battery life without reducing location precision.
In most traditional GNSS modules like the u-blox ZED-F20P triple-band GNSS module, the DAN-F10N dual-band (L1/L5) GNSS module, and the ZED-X20P all-band GNSS module, the firmware is stored in ROM (Read-Only Memory), meaning it can’t be changed or improved once shipped. In contrast, firmware-upgradeable GNSS hardware like the u-blox MAX-M10N module or UBX-M10150-KB chip stores its firmware in flash memory and allows users to install new versions released by the manufacturer. This can, in theory, improve positioning accuracy, add support for new satellite constellations or correction inputs, and users can expect a longer product life.
The company also provides the u-blox EVK-M10 evaluation kit, designed to help developers easily test and evaluate u-blox M10 GNSS technology. It comes with USB, UART, SPI, and I²C, and can be powered directly via USB or an external 5V input. The kit also includes an active GNSS antenna, a USB Type-C cable, and supports testing with u-center 2 software for configuration, logging, and power measurement.
The company has not provided any pricing information about the new MAX-M10N series of ultra-low power GNSS modules. More information can be found on the product pages of the UBX-M10150-KB chip and the MAX-M10 series module, as well as on the press release.
Debashis Das is a technical content writer and embedded engineer with over five years of experience in the industry. With expertise in Embedded C, PCB Design, and SEO optimization, he effectively blends difficult technical topics with clear communication
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