Here is the teardown of Quectel M66 GSM GPRS Modem. I have already done teardown of several other GSM GPRS Modems from brands like SIMCom, Quectel, Ublox, etc.
As mentioned on the Quectel’s M66 product page
The M66 is a quad-band GSM/GPRS 2G module measuring 17.7mm × 15.8mm × 2.3mm which uses LCC castellation packaging. Based on the latest 2G chipset, it is optimized for data, SMS and audio transmission, and is designed for low-power IoT use cases that operate in harsh conditions.
The M66 uses surface mounted technology, making it ideal for large-scale manufacturing, which can have strict requirements on cost and efficiency. The M66’s ultra-compact profile makes it particularly suited to size-sensitive applications, and the module can serve a range of applications such as wearable devices, automotive, PDAs, asset tracking, POS, smart metering and telematics.
Key Features
- Supports frequency bands 850/900/1800/1900MHz
- Easier soldering process with LCC package
- Power consumption as low as 1.3mA
- GPRS Multi-slot Class 12
- Supports BT 3.0
- Supports QuecFOTA
- Supports Quectel OpenCPU
- Embedded internet service protocols, multiple sockets and IP addresses
Back side of the Module PCB looks like this
You have remove the RF shield in order to see inside. I used the hot air gun inorder to remove the shield.
After opening the RF shield what you see is Two chipsets, one the Main processor from Mediatek MT6261MA which is an ARM based GSM processor.
Another chipset on the module is the Power Amplifier HS8298H, I wasn’t able to locate the datasheet but it is an RF Amplifier.
It schematic symbol as available on EasyEDA website is
Other than that the board is full of passive resistor and capacitors, 26 MHz crystal is used for Main processor.
I hope you found this teardown interesting and learned something new.
I am always interested to know which other teardown you would be interested in, please do share in the comments below.
I will publish a new blog very soon.
I am currently working as an embedded systems design consultant helping companies build custom embedded products and develop test automation solutions for their PCBs.
If you have any feedback about the blog, you can share it in the comments below or contact me directly.
Thanks, I always found your tear-down helpful.
Thank you. Glad you found them useful!