N401BS LoRa Module | LLCC68 Multi-Band | +22dBm, -148dBm Sensitivity for IoT
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N401BS LLCC68 LoRa Module
Product Overview
The N401BS is a versatile, ultra-long-range LoRa® RF transceiver module based on the renowned Semtech LLCC68 chip. Engineered for global deployment, it operates across key Sub-GHz ISM bands (169 MHz, 433 MHz, 868 MHz, and 915 MHz), delivering a powerful +22 dBm output power and an exceptional receiver sensitivity down to -148 dBm. This combination enables reliable communication over distances up to 2 km, making it an ideal foundation for LPWAN applications. With its compact size and full pin breakout, the module offers developers maximum flexibility for creating power-efficient IoT solutions that comply with LoRaWAN® and proprietary protocols. Full ESD protection on all interfaces ensures reliable operation in demanding environments.
Key Features & Benefits
Global Multi-Band Operation: A single module platform supports major frequency bands worldwide (169/433/868/915 MHz), simplifying inventory and design for international products.
Industry-Leading Link Budget: The high +22 dBm transmit power combined with extreme -148 dBm sensitivity provides an unmatched radio link budget for the most challenging environments.
Ultra-Low Power Consumption: Built on the LLCC68's efficient architecture, featuring a receive current of only 12 mA and a deep sleep current as low as 1 µA, essential for battery-powered devices with multi-year lifespans.
Developer-Ready Design: All LLCC68 pins are accessible via a compact 20 x 17 mm footprint, supporting full secondary development. Compatible with popular platforms like Arduino through community libraries.
Protocol & Regulatory Ready: Designed to support the LoRaWAN standard and (G)FSK modulation, facilitating compliance with global regulations (ETSI EN 300 220, FCC Part 15, etc.).
Technical Specifications
| Category | Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| RF & Performance | Frequency Range | 150 – 960 MHz (Programmable) Model-Specific: 169M, 433M, 868M, 915MHz |
| Max. Output Power | +22 dBm | |
| Receiver Sensitivity | -148 dBm (LoRa, SF12, BW=125 kHz) | |
| Modulation | LoRa®, (G)FSK | |
| Data Rate (LoRa) | 0.3 – 62.5 kbps | |
| Typical Range | > 2000 m (Line-of-Sight, ideal conditions) | |
| Electrical | Supply Voltage | 3.3 V |
| TX Current (@ +22 dBm) | 160 mA (typical) | |
| RX Current | 12 mA (typical) | |
| Sleep Current | 1 µA (typical) | |
| Physical & Interface | Dimensions | 20.0 x 17.0 x 3.0 mm |
| Interface | SPI (for host MCU control) | |
| Antenna Interface | 50Ω RF Pad (for PCB trace or external antenna) | |
| Package | Surface Mount (SMD) | |
| Environmental | Operating Temperature | -40°C to +85°C |
Applications
The N401BS is perfect for a vast array of long-range, low-power IoT use cases, including:
Smart Agriculture: Soil moisture sensors, weather stations, livestock tracking.
Smart City & Utilities: Smart street lighting, parking sensors, waste management, water/gas metering (AMR).
Industrial IoT (IIoT): Asset tracking, supply chain logistics, equipment monitoring, predictive maintenance.
Environmental Monitoring: Air/water quality sensors, forest fire detection, disaster alert systems.
Building & Home Automation: Security sensors, HVAC control, energy management.
Development & Integration
Full Hardware Access: All LLCC68 GPIOs, RF, and control pins are broken out, allowing developers to implement custom board designs and peripherals.
Standard SPI Interface: Simple connection to any host microcontroller (e.g., STM32, ESP32, nRF52, Arduino MCUs).
Software Support: Compatible with Semtech's LoRaWAN stack and numerous open-source Arduino/PlatformIO libraries for rapid prototyping.
Design Flexibility: The small form factor and integrated RF circuit simplify PCB layout, requiring only an external antenna and host MCU to form a complete wireless node.
Ordering Information
Select the model tailored for your target region's frequency allocation:
| Model Number | Core IC | Target Frequency Band | Output Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| N401BS-169M | Semtech LLCC68 | 160 – 175 MHz | +22 dBm |
| N401BS-433M | Semtech LLCC68 | 410 – 480 MHz | +22 dBm |
| N401BS-868M | Semtech LLCC68 | 860 – 880 MHz | +22 dBm |
| N401BS-915M | Semtech LLCC68 | 910 – 960 MHz | +22 dBm |
Why Choose the N401BS Module?
The N401AS distills the industry-leading performance of Semtech's LLCC68 into a reliable, ready-to-integrate LoRa® module. It solves the core RF design challenges of extended range, ultra-low power consumption, and global compliance, allowing your engineering team to concentrate on application development and rapid market entry. Whether building a LoRaWAN® network device or a proprietary long-range sensor, the N401BS provides a robust and future-proof wireless foundation.
For technical documentation, application notes, or technical support, please contact our sales team.
Need Higher Power or Specialized Variants?
The N401BS provides a balanced, cost-effective foundation for most LPWAN applications. If your project requires extended transmission range, higher output power for challenging environments, or specialized form factors, explore our enhanced LoRa solutions built on the same reliable LLCC68 platform.
| Dimension | 1-Watt High-Power Module | 2-Watt Extended Range | 5-Watt Maximum Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| Product Model | N426BS Module | N427BS Module | N428BS Module |
| Core IC(s) | LLCC68 + High-Efficiency PA | LLCC68 + High-Power PA | LLCC68 + Industrial PA |
| Protocol Support | LoRa®, (G)FSK (Same as N401AS) | LoRa®, (G)FSK | LoRa®, (G)FSK |
| Key Upgrade Highlights | +30 dBm Output Power • Ideal for urban/suburban networks • 30-50% range improvement over +22dBm • Balanced power consumption | +33 dBm Output Power • Designed for rural/rugged deployments • Penetrates dense vegetation and structures • Suitable for telemetry and remote monitoring | +37 dBm Output Power • Maximum legal power for industrial use • Ultra-long-range telemetry (10km+) • Critical infrastructure and remote sensing |
| Ideal Use Case | Urban & Suburban Networks • Smart city deployments (lighting, parking) • Building automation and HVAC control • Medium-range agricultural monitoring | Rural & Challenging Environments • Agricultural automation over large farms • Forest fire detection and environmental monitoring • Mining and quarry equipment tracking | Industrial & Critical Infrastructure • Pipeline and utility monitoring • Offshore and maritime communications • Emergency response and disaster recovery |
| Form Factor | SMD Module (Compact) | SMD Module (Enhanced thermal design) | SMD Module (Industrial-grade) |
| Learn More | View N426BS Details | View N427BS Details | View N428BS Details |
How to Choose?
Choose the N401BS if you are developing standard LPWAN applications that require a balanced combination of range (+22dBm), power efficiency (12mA RX), and cost-effectiveness. It's perfect for smart meters, environmental sensors, and most IoT devices where battery life and reliability are key.
Upgrade to the N426BS if your application operates in urban environments with obstructions or needs 30-50% more range than standard modules. This is ideal for smart city infrastructure, building management systems, and applications where slightly higher power can overcome interference.
Choose the N427BS for rural, agricultural, or geographically challenging deployments where distance is critical. With +33dBm output, it can cover large farms, forests, or uneven terrain where standard modules may struggle.
Select the N428BS only for mission-critical industrial applications that require maximum possible range and can accommodate higher power consumption. This includes remote telemetry, critical infrastructure monitoring, and applications where communication reliability cannot be compromised.