Blues and Skylo Technologies Unveil Starnote – A Satellite IIoT module that costs only $49

Blues and Skylo Technologies have partnered to create the Starnote Satellite IIoT module, a backup module that costs only $49. It’s a backup module meaning it will connect to a satellite connection when cellular or Wi-Fi isn’t available.

The module is built in an M.2 E-Key edge connector from Factor and features a six-pin JST connector (on the backside of the PCB) for easy setup, the module has two versions one has a PCB antenna and another one has a u.FL connectors.

That’s not all Skylo is also providing 18KB of free satellite data without any monthly charges, and according to Blues, this 18KB will last a year if the module is sending a max of 50-byte of data every day.

The Starnote module comes in two variants: one with built-in satellite and GPS antennas for immediate use, and a smaller version for external antennas using u.FL connectors. It uses Skylo Satellite Coverage and supports 3GPP Rel-17. Detailed technical information, including processor specifications and comprehensive software/hardware support details, is not readily available, although a general API reference is provided by the company.

Starnote Satellite IIoT module Specification:

• Satellite and GPS Integration:
  • Integrated satellite and GPS antennas for direct connectivity.
  • External antenna compatibility facilitated through u.FL connectors.
• Connectivity Options:
  • JSON API support for integration with Notecard.
  • M.2 Key E and six-pin JST connectors offer versatile connection possibilities.
• NTN Modem Features:
  • Equipped with an NTN (Non-Terrestrial Networks) modem.
  • Features zero-touch setup for ease of use.
• Data Inclusion:
  • Comes with 18KB of Skylo satellite data.
  • No additional fees or subscriptions are required for the included data.
• Antenna Variations:
  • Two variants are available: one with onboard satellite and GPS ceramic antennas, and another with external antenna capabilities via u.FL connectors.
• Coverage and Support:
  • Utilizes Skylo Satellite Coverage.
  • Supports 3GPP Rel-17 connectivity.
• API and Software Support:
  • Availability of API reference for software integration.
  • Lacks specific module information in the existing API reference.
• Notecarrier Compatibility:
  • Compatible with Notecarrier A, B, F, and Pi Hat Boards.
  • Supports various Notecard modules including Cellular, Cell+Wifi, LoRa, and Starnote models with M.2 E-Key.

The Notecarrier series includes four types of boards: Notecarrier A, B, F, and Pi Hat. Each is compatible with Notecard modules including Cellular, Cell+Wifi, LoRa, and Starnote, as they all support the M.2 E-Key interface.

The recently released Starnote Satellite IIoT module is currently out of stock. However, Blues has set up a waitlist on its website for potential buyers interested in the introductory price of $49. More information can be found in the press release on their website.

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