NL-SWN-LTE-NRF9160-C Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The NL-SWN-LTE-NRF9160-C is a cellular and navigation RF transceiver module from NimbeLink's Skywire® LTE-M series. This chassis mount module integrates 4G LTE CAT-4 (Verizon) and GPS functionality across multiple frequency bands (700MHz through 2.1GHz) with a 375kbps data rate. The module operates on a 3.3V to 5.5V supply and supports GPIO, I2C, SPI, and UART serial interfaces.

The NL-SWN-LTE-NRF9160-C is classified as obsolete. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary to maintain system functionality and ensure continued availability for new designs or replacement requirements in existing applications.

Substiute Parts

NL-SWN-LTE-NRF9160-C

NimbeLink, LLCIn Stock: 921NL-SWN-LTE-NRF9160-C Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

NL-SWN-LTE-NRF9160-D

NimbeLink, LLCIn Stock: 1128NL-SWN-LTE-NRF9160-D Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the NL-SWN-LTE-NRF9160-C is determined by the following critical parameters:

Electrical Compatibility: Voltage supply range (3.3V ~ 5.5V) must be maintained. Data rate (375kbps) establishes the minimum throughput requirement. Serial interface support (GPIO, I2C, SPI, UART) ensures host communication compatibility.

Mechanical Compatibility: Mounting type differs between the main part (chassis mount) and substitute options. Mounting type selection depends on PCB layout and mechanical integration requirements.

Regulatory & Compliance: ECCN classification (5A992C) and HTSUS code (8517.62.0010 for main part) establish export control and tariff requirements. Substitute parts must maintain equivalent regulatory status.

Functional Capability: The main part provides dual cellular and navigation (GPS) functionality. Substitute parts may provide cellular-only functionality with different protocol implementations (CAT M1/NB-IoT versus CAT-4).

Product Status: The main part is obsolete. Active substitute parts ensure long-term availability and support.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

For Direct Replacement: The NL-SWN-LTE-NRF9160-D is the manufacturer-recommended substitute for the obsolete NL-SWN-LTE-NRF9160-C. Both parts share identical voltage supply ranges (3.3V ~ 5.5V), data rates (375kbps), moisture sensitivity levels (MSL 1), and ECCN classifications (5A992C).

Functional Differences: The main part provides integrated GPS navigation capability alongside 4G LTE CAT-4 (Verizon) connectivity. The substitute part provides 4G LTE CAT M1/NB-IoT connectivity without GPS functionality. Applications requiring GPS must source navigation capability separately or select alternative parts with integrated GPS.

Mechanical Integration: The main part uses chassis mount configuration; the substitute uses surface mount (60-SMD Module). PCB layout and mechanical housing must be redesigned to accommodate the different mounting type.

Product Status & Support: The substitute part (NL-SWN-LTE-NRF9160-D) is active and maintains current manufacturer support. The main part is obsolete and no longer supported by NimbeLink, LLC.

Regulatory Compliance: Both parts maintain identical ECCN (5A992C) export control classifications, ensuring equivalent regulatory treatment in procurement and distribution.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the NL-SWN-LTE-NRF9160-D directly replace the NL-SWN-LTE-NRF9160-C in existing designs?

A: Electrical compatibility is maintained (identical 3.3V ~ 5.5V supply, 375kbps data rate, MSL 1). However, mechanical redesign is required due to different mounting types (chassis mount versus surface mount). Additionally, the substitute part does not include GPS functionality; applications requiring navigation must implement alternative solutions.

Q: What are the key electrical parameters that determine substitution compatibility?

A: Voltage supply range (3.3V ~ 5.5V), data rate (375kbps), and serial interface support (GPIO, I2C, SPI, UART) are the primary electrical parameters. Both parts meet these requirements.

Q: Does the substitute part support the same frequency bands as the main part?

A: Frequency band information is not provided for the NL-SWN-LTE-NRF9160-D. The main part operates across 700MHz, 800MHz, 850MHz, 900MHz, 1.7GHz, 1.8GHz, 1.9GHz, and 2.1GHz. Protocol differences (CAT-4 versus CAT M1/NB-IoT) may result in different frequency band support.

Q: What is the impact of the different mounting types?

A: The main part uses chassis mount configuration for through-hole or bracket-based installation. The substitute uses surface mount (60-SMD Module) for direct PCB soldering. Mechanical housing, PCB layout, and assembly processes must be modified accordingly.

Q: Are both parts subject to the same export control regulations?

A: Yes. Both parts share identical ECCN classification (5A992C), indicating equivalent export control treatment under U.S. regulations.

Q: What is the significance of the nRF9160 IC in the substitute part?

A: The nRF9160 is the integrated circuit utilized in the NL-SWN-LTE-NRF9160-D. This information is provided for reference but does not affect substitution compatibility at the module level.

Q: Is GPS functionality available in the substitute part?

A: No. The NL-SWN-LTE-NRF9160-D provides cellular connectivity only (4G LTE CAT M1/NB-IoT). The main part integrates both cellular and GPS navigation. Applications requiring GPS must source navigation capability through separate modules or alternative integrated solutions.

Q: What is the product status difference, and why does it matter?

A: The main part is obsolete; the substitute is active. Active status ensures ongoing manufacturer support, availability, and potential firmware updates. Obsolete parts face eventual discontinuation and supply constraints.