FG132 5G RedCap SMD module

5G RedCap (Reduced Capability) is a feature introduced in 3GPP Release 17 that streamlines 5G for IoT devices. It lowers complexity, antenna count, and power usage compared to standard 5G, while still providing broadband speeds. The FG132 leverages RedCap to deliver robust 5G connectivity with a simpler design and lower power consumption, making it ideal for mid-rate IoT applications that don’t require the full throughput of enhanced mobile broadband.

Yes. The FG132 is fully backward-compatible with 4G LTE. If 5G coverage is not available or if the network only supports LTE, the module will automatically switch to LTE mode (up to Cat 4 speeds, roughly 195 Mbps downlink). This ensures devices stay connected by using LTE as a fallback whenever 5G standalone is unavailable.

These FG132 variants are tuned for different regional network requirements. The GL (Global) variant supports a broad range of 5G/4G bands to cover worldwide deployments (excluding a few region-specific certifications). FG132-NA is optimised for North American carriers (with band support and certifications for US/Canada networks). FG132-CN focuses on China’s domestic bands and network standards, while FG132-EAU covers Europe, Asia-Pacific and other regions outside NA/China, supporting the typical bands used there. When selecting a variant, choose the one that matches your deployment region to ensure compatibility with local operators and regulations.

Voice services (VoLTE and VoNR) and SMS are supported as optional features on the FG132. This means the module hardware can handle voice calls (over LTE or 5G networks) and send/receive SMS, provided the feature is enabled in firmware and supported by the network/operator. This is useful for IoT applications that may require voice calling or text messaging capabilities in addition to data, such as emergency call systems or telematics.

Yes, the FG132 series offers an optional GNSS receiver. It supports multi-band GNSS (for example, L1 and L5 GPS/Galileo/BeiDou signals), allowing the module to provide location positioning in devices that need it. Not all deployments will require GNSS, so it is included as an optional component – ensuring you have the flexibility to use the FG132 for positioning and navigation if needed, without adding unnecessary cost if it’s not required.

The FG132 uses a standard LGA surface-mount package measuring 32 × 29 mm. You solder it directly onto your PCB like other SMD components. The pin assignment is aligned with legacy Cat 4 and Cat 1 modules (NL668, MC116 series), which simplifies upgrades for existing designs. Make sure your PCB footprint matches the module’s pad layout as shown in the datasheet. Provide a stable power supply (3.8 V typical) and connect the required interfaces (USB, PCIe, UART, etc.) to your host processor. It’s also important to follow the hardware design guidelines in the datasheet for RF antenna layout, grounding, and interface routing to ensure optimal performance.

The FG132 module offers a rich set of hardware interfaces. For data and control, it provides a USB 2.0 interface and a PCIe interface (for high-speed data throughput to host platforms). It also features multiple UART serial ports for AT commands or external device connections, along with SPI and I²C buses for peripheral connectivity. Additionally, the module has a PCM interface for audio, an SDIO interface, an SGMII interface (useful for connecting to network processors or switches), and numerous configurable GPIO pins and ADC inputs. This wide range of interfaces makes it easy to integrate the FG132 into different systems and connect it with various host processors or sensors.

Yes, the FG132 supports DFOTA (Delta Firmware Over-The-Air) updates. This means you can remotely update the module’s firmware via the cellular network without needing physical access. DFOTA is efficient in that it sends only the incremental changes (deltas) rather than the entire firmware, saving on data costs and time. This feature is essential for keeping your devices up-to-date with the latest firmware improvements, security patches, or new features long after deployment.

The module operates from a 3.3 V to 4.3 V DC power supply, with 3.8 V nominal. It is designed with IoT in mind, so it has been optimised for power efficiency. For instance, it can make use of 4G/5G power-saving modes such as eDRX or PSM (idle modes), and generally benefits from the reduced complexity of RedCap which inherently consumes less power than full-spec 5G devices. The FG132 is suitable for battery-powered and remote devices – with proper configuration, it can help maximise battery life while still maintaining connectivity. (For detailed power consumption figures in various modes, refer to the datasheet.)

The FG132 is primarily intended for 5G Standalone (SA) operation, which aligns with the RedCap use-case (pure 5G core network connectivity. It does not operate in 5G Non-Standalone (NSA) mode – however, this isn’t a limitation in practice because the module will simply use LTE if a 5G SA network isn’t available. In other words, instead of connecting via a 5G NSA (which uses a 4G anchor), the FG132 will switch to 4G LTE Cat 4 for coverage. This dual-mode approach (5G SA + LTE) ensures your device stays connected at all times without needing NSA support.