CMU SIM800L GSM GPRS 2G Module Quad Band with Antenna

The CMU SIM800L GSM/GPRS Module + Antenna is a compact cellular communication development board based on the SIMCom SIM800L module. Designed for embedded electronics, IoT, automation, remote monitoring and tracking applications, it provides a simple way to add GSM/GPRS connectivity to a microcontroller-based project.

The SIM800L supports quad-band GSM operation at 850MHz, 900MHz, 1800MHz and 1900MHz, allowing it to operate on compatible 2G GSM networks in supported regions.

Important: This module works on 2G networks only. It does not support 3G, 4G or 5G cellular networks. Before using the module, ensure that a compatible 2G GSM/GPRS service is available from the intended network provider in the installation area.

Communication with a microcontroller is provided through a TTL UART serial interface, allowing the module to be controlled directly without requiring a MAX232 serial converter. The module supports standard 3GPP TS 27.007 and TS 27.005 AT commands, as well as SIMCom enhanced AT commands.

The board also features integrated logic-level translation, allowing it to interface with compatible microcontrollers using 3.0-5.0V logic levels. An onboard status indicator provides information about the module's network state through different flashing patterns.

With its compact size of approximately 23 × 35 × 5.6mm, the SIM800L is well suited to applications where cellular communication needs to be integrated into a small embedded system.

Important 2G Network Notice

The SIM800L is a 2G GSM/GPRS module only.

It supports:

• GSM 850MHz
• GSM 900MHz
• GSM 1800MHz
• GSM 1900MHz
• GPRS data
• SMS communication

It does not support:

• 3G
• 4G / LTE
• 5G

Network availability varies by country, region and mobile network operator. Confirm that compatible 2G service is available before purchasing for a cellular deployment.

Features

• SIM800L Cellular Module: Based on the SIMCom SIM800L GSM/GPRS platform.
• Quad-Band GSM: Supports 850/900/1800/1900MHz GSM frequencies.
• 2G/GPRS Only: Designed for compatible 2G cellular networks.
• GPRS Data Communication: Supports packet-based mobile data transmission.
• SMS Support: Suitable for compatible SMS-based applications.
• UART TTL Interface: Allows direct communication with a compatible microcontroller.
• No MAX232 Required: TTL serial communication can be connected directly to a suitable MCU.
• AT Command Control: Supports standard 3GPP and SIMCom AT commands.
• Logic-Level Translation: Supports compatible 3.0-5.0V logic levels.
• Automatic Startup: Designed for automatic power-on and network searching.
• Network Status Indicator: Integrated LED indicates network status through flashing patterns.
• A-GPS Support: Supports mobile-network-based positioning functionality according to the supplied specifications.
• Real-Time Clock: Includes RTC functionality.
• Low Power Consumption: Approximately 1mA in sleep mode according to the supplied specifications.
• Compact Form Factor: Approximately 23 × 35 × 5.6mm.
• Micro SIM: Uses a Micro SIM card.
• External Antenna: Includes a quad-band GSM antenna.
• Suitable for Embedded Projects: Designed for integration into microcontroller-based systems.

Specifications

• Product Type: GSM/GPRS Development Module
• Module: SIM800L
• Cellular Technology: GSM/GPRS
• Network Generation: 2G only
• GSM Bands: 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900MHz
• GPRS: Multi-slot Class 12
• Maximum GPRS Data Rate: Up to 85.6kbps download/upload according to supplied specifications
• GPRS Mobile Station: Class B
• Operating Voltage: 3.7-4.2V
• Peak Current: Up to 1A
• Serial Interface: TTL UART
• Logic Level: 3.0-5.0V
• SIM Type: Micro SIM
• Control Method: AT Commands
• Supported Commands: 3GPP TS 27.007, 27.005 and SIMCom enhanced AT commands
• Real-Time Clock: Supported
• A-GPS: Supported
• Sleep Current: Approximately 1mA
• Status Indicator: Onboard LED
• Automatic Startup: Supported
• Network Search: Automatic
• Board Dimensions: Approximately 23 × 35 × 5.6mm
• Antenna: Quad-band GSM antenna
• Application: GSM/GPRS communication, IoT, remote monitoring and tracking

GPRS Communication

The SIM800L provides GPRS packet-data connectivity for compatible 2G networks. This allows an embedded device to send and receive data over a cellular network without relying on a local Wi-Fi connection.

The supplied specifications indicate GPRS Multi-Slot Class 12 operation with data rates of up to approximately 85.6kbps for download/upload.

GPRS can be used for applications such as:

• Remote sensor data
• Telemetry
• Machine status reporting
• IoT data transmission
• Remote control systems
• Simple cloud-connected devices
• Automated alerts

Actual data speeds depend on network conditions, coverage, configuration and mobile network availability.

UART Serial Communication

The module communicates with a host microcontroller through its TTL UART serial interface.

This makes it suitable for development boards and microcontrollers that can communicate using serial AT commands. The integrated level translation supports compatible 3.0-5.0V logic levels, simplifying integration with a variety of development platforms.

The module can be controlled using:

• Standard 3GPP TS 27.007 commands
• 3GPP TS 27.005 commands
• SIMCom enhanced AT commands

SMS Applications

The GSM functionality can be used for projects requiring cellular messaging capabilities, subject to network and SIM-card support.

Potential applications include:

• SMS notifications
• Remote alerts
• Equipment status messages
• Alarm systems
• Remote control
• Embedded communication systems

A-GPS and Positioning

The supplied product information indicates support for A-GPS/mobile-network positioning functionality. This can be useful in selected tracking and location-related applications.

The module's positioning capabilities should not be confused with a dedicated high-precision GNSS receiver. Actual positioning functionality depends on network support, software implementation and the surrounding cellular infrastructure.

Status Indicator

An onboard LED provides a convenient visual indication of cellular network status.

According to the supplied information:

• Slow flashing: Indicates network signal/status activity.
• Fast flashing: Indicates no network availability.

This provides a simple way to check the module's cellular connection during development and troubleshooting.

Power Requirements

The SIM800L requires a relatively high peak current during cellular transmission. The supplied specifications specify an operating voltage of 3.7-4.2V with a peak current of approximately 1A.

A suitable power supply capable of handling the required current should therefore be used. An inadequate power source may cause unstable operation, failed network registration or unexpected resets during transmission.

Applications

The CMU SIM800L GSM/GPRS Module can be used for a wide variety of embedded and communication applications, including:

• IoT projects
• Remote monitoring
• GSM communication
• GPRS data transmission
• SMS-based projects
• Remote control systems
• Alarm systems
• Security systems
• Asset tracking
• Vehicle tracking projects
• Telemetry
• Remote sensor monitoring
• Industrial monitoring
• Agricultural monitoring
• Automated notification systems
• Smart-device prototypes
• Microcontroller-based cellular projects
• Embedded communication systems
• Educational electronics
• Maker and DIY projects

Suitable For

The module is suitable for developers, electronics enthusiasts, engineers, students and makers who need to add 2G GSM/GPRS connectivity to a microcontroller or embedded system.

Its small footprint and UART interface make it convenient for integration into compact projects where cellular communication is required.

Installation and Usage Considerations

For reliable operation:

• Use a suitable power supply capable of handling the module's peak current.
• Insert a compatible Micro SIM card.
• Confirm that the SIM card has an active service plan where required.
• Confirm that compatible 2G network service is available in the intended location.
• Connect the supplied GSM antenna before operating the cellular functionality.
• Use a compatible UART interface when connecting the module to a microcontroller.
• Ensure that the selected microcontroller uses a compatible logic level.

What's in the box
1 x CMU SIM800L GSM/GPRS Module
1 x Quad-Band GSM Antenna