LDS cap antenna introduced with GNSS and iridium band support

November 6, 2025 by Emma Lutjen

Collected at: https://www.eeworldonline.com/lds-cap-antenna-introduced-with-gnss-and-iridium-band-support/

A new LDS cap antenna and evaluation board have been introduced by KYOCERA AVX in collaboration with Iridium for use with Iridium Certus™ 9704 IoT modules. The antenna was developed for low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity in IoT systems.

The antenna is manufactured using laser direct structuring (LDS), a process for forming three-dimensional RF patterns on molded parts. The design targets compact size, low mass, and wide operating bandwidth. Compared to ceramic patch antennas commonly found in satellite IoT products, the LDS cap format offers reduced volume and weight. It supports right-hand circular polarization and maintains relatively consistent gain from zenith to horizon to improve link performance at low satellite elevation angles. The antenna also provides wider bandwidth and greater radiation efficiency than typical ceramic alternatives.

The device has a diameter of 35.7 mm, a height of 17.98 mm, and a mass of 6.85 g. It is compatible with surface-mount assembly and allows components to be mounted on its underside, enabling PCB space savings. Electrical specifications include support for GNSS (1,559–1,610 MHz) and Iridium (1,616–1,626.5 MHz) bands, approximately 2 dBi peak gain, and 60% efficiency. Additional characteristics include 4 W power handling, 50-ohm feed impedance, and an operating temperature range of −40°C to +85°C. Mechanical and environmental evaluations include exposure to elevated temperature, humidity, and salt spray. The unit meets current RoHS and REACH requirements and is supplied in tape-and-reel packaging for reflow processing.

An associated evaluation board measuring 70 × 70 × 32.5 mm (L × W × H) is available to support system integration. Both the antenna and the evaluation board are qualified for use with Iridium Certus 9704 products, including IoT modules and development kits.

Target applications include satellite-based IoT functions such as telematics, asset tracking, remote monitoring, agriculture, and municipal infrastructure.