u-blox MAX-M10N GNSS Module Adds LEAP Mode and Flash-Upgradeable Firmware

u-blox MAX-M10N Module. Image used courtesy of u-blox

u-blox MAX-M10N is an ultra-low-power GNSS module designed for high-efficiency, battery-powered devices. The USP of the product is that it features LEAP (Low Energy Accurate Positioning) technology, firmware-upgradeable flash, and improved RF performance compared to earlier MAX-M10 models. With that, it targets wearables, trackers, and compact IoT systems that require reliable positioning with minimal power drain.

The module is built around the UBX-M10150-KB GNSS chip and supports GPS, QZSS, Galileo, BeiDou, and SBAS with up to 1–1.5 m CEP accuracy. On top of that, it features smart power-saving modes like LEAP and PSMCT for ~50% reduced consumption. Other features include 25 Hz updates, integrated LNA with dual SAW filters, RTCM 3.4 correction input for sub-meter accuracy, spoofing/jamming detection, AssistNow orbit prediction, data logging/batching, and flexible interfaces (UART/SPI/I²C). With flash-based firmware updates, support for both active/passive antennas, 1.76–5.5V operation, and a compact package option.

MAX-M10N module and UBX-M10150-KB chip. Image used courtesy of u-blox 

u-blox MAX-M10N Specifications:

• Receiver type: u-blox M10 engine
• GNSS: GPS L1 C/A, QZSS L1C/A & L1S, Galileo E1B/C, BeiDou B1I/B1C, SBAS L1 C/A
• Protocols: NMEA 4.11, UBX binary, RTCM 3.4 (new)
• Horizontal accuracy: 1.0–1.5 m CEP
• Update rate: Up to 25 Hz (single GNSS), 10 Hz (≥3 constellations)
• Sensitivity:
  • Tracking/Navigation: –167 dBm
  • Reacquisition: –160 dBm
  • Cold start: –148 dBm
  • Hot start: –159 dBm
• Acquisition times: Cold: 28 s; Aided: 1–2 s; Hot: 1–2 s
• Interfaces: 1x UART, 1x SPI, 1x DDC (I²C), time-pulse output, EXTINT input
• Security: Spoofing/jamming detection, SHA-256 signed messages, config lock, JTAG disabled
• Antenna support: Active and passive antennas
• Power-saving features:
  • LEAP mode: <15 mW
  • PSMCT cyclic tracking: Up to 50% lower power
  • Data logging & batching: Up to 10 min without host
  • AssistNow Predictive & Live Orbits
• Other features: Odometer, distance tracking, onboard RTC crystal & TCXO
• Power: 1.76–5.5 V; 24–27 mW continuous; ~12 mW LEAP mode
• Package: 10.1 × 9.7 × 2.5 mm, 18-pin LCC, 0.6 g
• Environmental: –40°C to +85°C, RED-certified, AEC-Q104 subset, RoHS-3 compliant

The most interesting feature of the devices is LEAP (Low Energy Accurate Positioning), introduced in the SPG 5.30 firmware, is a new power-saving mode for u-blox M10 modules. It prioritizes strong, direct line-of-sight satellite signals while ignoring weak or reflected ones, improving accuracy and cutting power use. LEAP also switches the external LNA on only when needed and preloads satellite data from the internet to avoid long GNSS downloads. Overall, it reduces energy consumption by up to 50% while maintaining high positioning accuracy, making it ideal for battery-powered wearables and trackers.

LEAP External LNA Switching. Image used courtesy of u-blox 

LEAP Smart Signal Selection. Image used courtesy of u-blox 

The MAX-M10N supports u-blox’s u-center 2 software for configuration, data logging, power measurement, and firmware updates, making it easy for developers to evaluate performance and tune GNSS settings. It also works with AssistNow Predictive and Live Orbit services for faster acquisition, and supports RTCM 3.4 correction input for higher accuracy, ensuring strong software-side tooling for both prototyping and deployment.

EVK-M10 evaluation kit. Image used courtesy of u-blox 

u-blox also offers the EVK-M10 evaluation kit for quick testing of M10-series GNSS modules. It provides USB, UART, SPI, and I²C interfaces, supports USB or 5V external power, and includes an active GNSS antenna and USB-C cable. Developers can use it with the u-center 2 software for configuration, logging, and power analysis.

The MAX-M10 family now includes five variants: MAX-M10M-00B/20B, MAX-M10S, and the new MAX-M10N-00B/10B. The M10M models feature faster aided/host starts with ROM firmware, while the 20B adds an LNA and SAW filter. The M10S integrates a TCXO for better frequency stability. The new M10N series introduces flash-upgradeable firmware, with the 10B version adding dual SAW filters for improved RF immunity.

The company has not disclosed pricing for the new MAX-M10N modules. More details are available on the UBX-M10150-KB chip page, the MAX-M10 series product page, and in the official press release.

Images used courtesy of u-blox.com