N538DS | CC1311R3 + PA/LNA | +35dBm, 8km Range High-Power 169MHz Wireless Module
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N538DS Dedicated 169MHz High-Power, Long-Range Wireless Module
Based on Texas Instruments CC1311R3 with Integrated PA/LNA | +35 dBm Output | 10 km Range
Product Overview
The N538DS is a specialized, industrial-grade wireless module engineered for the 169MHz ISM band, a frequency reserved for critical infrastructure and utility applications in regions like the European Union and China. It integrates Texas Instruments' robust CC1311R3 wireless microcontroller with a high-efficiency Power Amplifier (PA) and Low-Noise Amplifier (LNA), achieving a formidable +35 dBm (3.2W) output power. This combination delivers unparalleled range and link reliability for smart metering and industrial telemetry, while maintaining the ultra-low power consumption essential for decade-long battery life. The module's 4-layer PCB design ensures optimal RF performance and stability in demanding environments.
Key Features & Benefits
Optimized for 169MHz Band: Specifically designed for the 160-175 MHz spectrum, offering excellent propagation characteristics, reduced congestion, and compliance with regional utility standards.
Exceptional High Power Output: +35 dBm maximum transmit power enables communication over distances up to 10 kilometers, penetrating urban and industrial obstacles effectively.
Superior Receiver Sensitivity: -112 dBm sensitivity (at 50 kbps) ensures a stable and reliable radio link, maximizing network coverage and reliability.
Ultra-Low Power Architecture: Leverages the CC1311R3's advanced power management, featuring a deep sleep current of 10 µA, enabling multi-year operation from battery power.
Robust & Reliable Design: 4-layer PCB with professional impedance control and integrated LNA enhances the link budget and resistance to interference.
Complete Development Platform: All CC1311R3 pins are accessible for full secondary development, allowing for sensor integration, custom firmware, and peripheral expansion.
Target Applications
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI): Long-range smart water, gas, and electricity meters (particularly for EU and China markets).
Utility & Industrial IoT: Remote monitoring and control of substations, pipelines, and distributed industrial assets.
Smart City Networks: Street lighting control and other municipal infrastructure monitoring.
Long-Distance Telemetry: Reliable data backhaul from remote environmental or agricultural sensors.
Technical Specifications Summary
| Category | Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| RF Core | MCU / Radio | Texas Instruments CC1311R3 |
| Front-End | Integrated High-Power PA & LNA | |
| RF Performance | Frequency Band | 169 MHz (160 - 175 MHz) |
| Max. Output Power | +35 dBm | |
| Receiver Sensitivity | -112 dBm @ 50 kbps | |
| Max. Data Rate | Up to 4000 kbps (software configurable) | |
| Typical Range | 10 000 m (Line-of-sight, 1.2 kbps) | |
| Electrical | Supply Voltage (MCU VCC) | 2.0V - 3.6V (Typ. 3.3V) |
| Supply Voltage (PA VCCPA) | 4.5V - 5.5V (Required for high-power TX) | |
| TX Current | ~1300 mA (Typ. @ +35 dBm) | |
| RX Current | 11 mA | |
| Sleep Current | 10 µA | |
| Physical & Interface | Dimensions | 36.0 x 24.0 x 3.0 mm |
| Antenna Interface | IPEX Connector & RF Stamp Hole Pad | |
| Host Interfaces | UART, SPI, Programmable GPIOs | |
| Package | Surface Mount (SMD) | |
| Operating Temperature | -30°C to +75°C |
N538DS Module Pinout Description
| Pin No. | Pin Name | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | GND | Power | Power Ground. |
| 2 | GND | Power | Power Ground. |
| 3 | VCCPA | Power | PA Power Supply (High Current). Range: 4.5V - 5.5V. |
| 4 | VCCPA | Power | PA Power Supply (High Current). Range: 4.5V - 5.5V. |
| 5 | GND | Power | Power Ground. |
| 6 | DIO2 | Digital I/O | Programmable GPIO of the CC1312R MCU. |
| 7 | DIO3 | Digital I/O | Programmable GPIO of the CC1312R MCU. |
| 8 | DIO5 | Digital I/O | Programmable GPIO of the CC1312R MCU. |
| 9 | DIO6 | Digital I/O | Programmable GPIO of the CC1312R MCU. |
| 10 | DIO7 | Digital I/O | Programmable GPIO of the CC1312R MCU. |
| 11 | DIO8 | Digital I/O | Programmable GPIO of the CC1312R MCU. |
| 12 | VCC | Power | MCU Core Supply. Range: 3.0V - 3.6V (Typ. 3.3V). |
| 13 | GND | Power | Power Ground. |
| 14 | RESET | Digital Input | Module Hardware Reset (Active Low). |
| 15 | TMS | Digital I/O | JTAG Test Mode Select for debugging/programming. |
| 16 | TCK | Digital Input | JTAG Test Clock for debugging/programming. |
| 17 | DIO18 | Digital I/O | Programmable GPIO of the CC1312R MCU. |
| 18 | DIO19 | Digital I/O | Programmable GPIO of the CC1312R MCU. |
| 19 | DIO20 | Digital I/O | Programmable GPIO of the CC1312R MCU. |
| 20 | DIO21 | Digital I/O | Programmable GPIO of the CC1312R MCU. |
| 21 | DIO22 | Digital I/O | Programmable GPIO of the CC1312R MCU. |
| 22 | DIO23 | ADC/Digital I/O | Programmable GPIO of the CC1312R MCU. |
| 23 | DIO24 | ADC/Digital I/O | Programmable GPIO of the CC1312R MCU. |
| 24 | DIO25 | ADC/Digital I/O | Programmable GPIO of the CC1312R MCU. |
| 25 | RF | RF I/O | 50Ω Antenna Port. Connect to antenna via IPEX or microstrip. |
| 26 | GND | Power | Power Ground. |
Ordering Information
| Ordering Code | Core IC | Frequency Band | Output Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| N538DS-CC1311R3-169M | CC1311R3 + PA/LNA | 160 - 175 MHz | +35 dBm |
For integration support, custom firmware, or regulatory guidance, please contact our team.
Why Choose the N538DS Module?
Purpose-Built for Critical Networks: Offers optimized, reliable performance in the dedicated 169MHz band for utilities and industry.
Solve Extreme Range Challenges: Delivers up to 8km range, reducing the need for additional infrastructure.
Power-Efficient for Field Deployment: Ultra-low sleep current enables truly long-life battery operation.
Accelerate Development: A fully integrated RF solution with MCU allows you to focus on application-layer innovation
4. Product Line Positioning: Find Your Fit
The N624PA is designed for a fundamentally different development path compared to our full-stack modules.
| Feature Model | 2 Watt N538BS Module | 2 Watt N538BS Module |
|---|---|---|
| Core MCU | CC1312R | CC1314R10 |
| On-Chip Flash | 352KB | 1 MB |
| Freqe | 433/868/915Mhz | 433/868/915Mhz |
| Core Value | High-Performance Custom Stack | Pre-Integrated Standard Protocols |
| Development Focus | Develop highly optimized, proprietary stacks. | Develop your application only, using pre-built, certified stacks. |
| Ideal For | Performance-critical networks needing maximum RF control. | Smart Utilities (AMI), Smart Cities, projects needing Wi-SUN/WM-Bus, or minimizing dev time & risk. |
| Next Step | Learn More → | Learn More → |
Simple Selection Guide:
Choose the N538 Series (N538BS/N538DS/N538ES) if you are building a unique, proprietary protocol and have the resources for full-stack development.
Choose the N538BS if your project requires standard protocols (like Wi-SUN or Wireless M-Bus) or your primary goal is to minimize development time, cost, and risk.
5. Start Your Project
6. Discover the Long-Range Module
[🚀 Discover the 1W Basic Module] [🚀 Unlock the 2W High-Performance Module]
Engineered for Critical Connectivity. Built for the Long Run.