RM186-SM-02 Equivalent & Substitute Parts Reference

Part Overview

The RM186-SM-02 is a General ISM < 1GHz LoRa™ Transceiver Module manufactured by Laird Connectivity Inc., designed for applications requiring long-range, low-power wireless communication in the 863MHz to 870MHz frequency band. This surface mount module integrates RF transmission and reception capabilities with I2C, SPI, and UART serial interfaces, operating across a supply voltage range of 1.8V to 3.6V.

The RM186-SM-02 is designated as Last Time Buy, indicating that this component is no longer in active production. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary for design continuity, long-term product support, and ensuring availability for future manufacturing runs or design revisions.

Substiute Parts

RM186-SM-02

Laird Connectivity Inc.In Stock: 3516RM186-SM-02 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the RM186-SM-02 must satisfy the following critical parameters to ensure functional and mechanical compatibility:

Primary Substitution Criteria:

• RF Family/Standard: General ISM < 1GHz
• Protocol: LoRa™
• Frequency Range: 863MHz ~ 870MHz (European ISM band)
• Data Rate: 1Mbps or higher
• Power Output: 14dBm or greater
• Serial Interfaces: Must include I2C, SPI, and UART
• Antenna Type: U.FL connector
• Voltage Supply: 1.8V ~ 3.6V compatible
• Mounting Type: Surface Mount
• Package Type: 24-pin or equivalent SMD module
• Operating Temperature: -40°C ~ 85°C minimum
• Compliance: ROHS3 Compliant, REACH Unaffected

Current Status: No substitute parts have been identified from the provided input data. Substitute parts must be sourced from component distributors and verified against all parameters listed above before implementation in production designs.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The RM186-SM-02 is classified as Last Time Buy, indicating production discontinuation. When selecting substitute components, the following engineering criteria apply:

Compliance Requirements:

• All substitute parts must maintain ROHS3 compliance to satisfy regulatory requirements for lead-free manufacturing.
• REACH Unaffected status must be preserved to ensure no restricted substances are introduced.
• Moisture Sensitivity Level 3 (168 Hours) handling procedures must be maintained during assembly and storage.

Functional Compatibility:

• Substitute parts must support the identical LoRa™ protocol and 863MHz ~ 870MHz frequency band to ensure interoperability with existing network infrastructure and regulatory certifications.
• Serial interface compatibility (I2C, SPI, UART) is mandatory for firmware and hardware integration without redesign.
• U.FL antenna connector type must be preserved to maintain mechanical compatibility with existing PCB designs.

Electrical Specifications:

• Supply voltage range of 1.8V ~ 3.6V must be maintained to ensure compatibility with existing power distribution circuits.
• Power output of 14dBm or greater ensures equivalent or improved RF performance.
• Operating temperature range of -40°C ~ 85°C must be supported for applications requiring extended environmental operation.

Manufacturing Considerations:

• Surface mount packaging and 24-pin SMD module format must be preserved for automated assembly compatibility.
• Pin-to-pin compatibility should be verified to minimize PCB redesign requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What makes a part a valid substitute for the RM186-SM-02?

A: A valid substitute must match all critical parameters: LoRa™ protocol, 863MHz ~ 870MHz frequency band, 1Mbps data rate, 14dBm power output, I2C/SPI/UART interfaces, U.FL antenna connector, 1.8V ~ 3.6V supply voltage, surface mount packaging, 24-SMD module format, -40°C ~ 85°C operating temperature, ROHS3 compliance, and REACH Unaffected status.

Q: Can I use a LoRa™ module operating at a different frequency band?

A: No. The RM186-SM-02 is specifically designed for the 863MHz ~ 870MHz European ISM band. Modules operating at different frequencies (such as 915MHz or 433MHz) are not substitutes and will not function in the intended application without regulatory and hardware modifications.

Q: Is antenna compatibility important when selecting a substitute?

A: Yes. The RM186-SM-02 uses a U.FL connector for external antenna attachment. Substitute parts must use the same U.FL connector type to maintain mechanical compatibility with existing antenna assemblies and PCB designs.

Q: What if a substitute part has higher power output than 14dBm?

A: Higher power output (such as 20dBm or 27dBm) is acceptable from an electrical standpoint, as it provides equal or improved RF performance. However, regulatory compliance must be verified to ensure the higher power output does not violate regional ISM band power limits.

Q: Are there any handling differences for substitute parts with Moisture Sensitivity Level 3?

A: All substitute parts with MSL 3 (168 Hours) must follow identical storage and handling procedures as the RM186-SM-02. Components must be stored in dry conditions and used within 168 hours of package opening to prevent moisture absorption and solder joint degradation.

Q: Can I substitute this module with a different serial interface configuration?

A: No. The RM186-SM-02 requires I2C, SPI, and UART interfaces for firmware communication and control. Substitute parts must support all three interfaces. Parts with only SPI or UART are not compatible without firmware and hardware redesign.

Q: What is the significance of the Last Time Buy status?

A: Last Time Buy indicates that the RM186-SM-02 is no longer in active production and existing inventory will be depleted. Identifying and qualifying substitute parts is essential for long-term product support and future manufacturing requirements.