AI Thinker A9G Development Board – GSM/GPRS+GPS/BDS

Description:

AI Thinker A9G Development Board – GSM/GPRS+GPS/BDS

The AI Thinker A9G Development Board is a powerful and cost-effective GSM/GPRS and GPS/BDS (BeiDou Navigation Satellite System) module designed for IoT applications. With built-in cellular communication and precise GPS positioning capabilities, this module is ideal for a variety of remote monitoring, tracking, and communication projects.

Compact in size yet highly efficient, the A9G board supports multiple frequency bands, making it compatible with global networks. It offers seamless integration with microcontrollers like Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, and other embedded systems via UART communication. Whether you’re developing vehicle tracking solutions, remote sensor networks, or smart security systems, the A9G module provides the connectivity and positioning accuracy required for modern IoT applications.

Applications:

• Vehicle tracking solutions for real-time GPS monitoring
• IoT communication with remote connectivity and data transmission
• Smart agriculture for environmental data monitoring
• Security and surveillance for remote monitoring and emergency response
• Wearable GPS devices for personal tracking
• Weather stations and remote sensors for data transmission over GSM networks

Key Features:

• Supports digital audio and analog audio, supports HR, FR, EFR, AM R voice coding
• Support voice calls and SMS messages
• Embedded network service protocol stack
• Support standard GSM07.07.07.05AT command
• Dual-functionality with GSM/GPRS communication and GPS/BDS positioning
• Quad-band support for 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM frequency bands
• High-precision GPS with support for GPS and BeiDou (BDS) satellite systems
• Low power consumption with optimized sleep modes
• AT command support for flexible configuration
• Compatible with microcontrollers like Arduino, ESP8266, ESP32, and Raspberry Pi
• External GSM and GPS antennas for improved signal reception
• Supports TCP/IP, HTTP, and SMS communication for real-time data exchange
• Compact design for quick prototyping and easy integration

Technical Specifications:

• Module: AI Thinker A9G (GSM/GPRS + GPS/BDS)
• GSM Bands: 850/900/1800/1900 MHz (Quad-band)
• GPS & BDS Support: Yes (GPS L1: 1575.42 MHz, BDS B1: 1561.098 MHz)
• Communication Interface: UART (Serial), TCP/IP, SMS, HTTP
• Peak Current: ~2A (during GSM transmission bursts)
• Operating Temperature: -40°C to +85°C
• AT Command Support: 3GPP TS 27.007, 27.005, AI Thinker enhanced AT commands
• SIM Card Type: Standard SIM (2G/3G/4G Compatible)
• Power Consumption: Sleep mode (~5mA), Active GSM transmission (~350mA), Peak (~2A)
• Additional Features: Supports A-GPS, Voice Calls, SMS, MMS, and Data Transmission
• Working voltage: 5v USB or Lipo battery(3.3V-4.2V)
• GPIO level: 2.8v

Using Tips for A9G Module:

• Ensure a stable power source with at least 2A peak current capability. Use a regulated 3.8V supply for optimal performance
• Place GSM and GPS antennas correctly for better signal strength and accurate positioning
• Use an unlocked SIM card that supports 2G networks and ensure it’s inserted properly
• Use UART communication (RX/TX) with appropriate voltage levels to interface with Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, etc.
• Allow sufficient time for the module to register on the network after power-up

Ai-Thinker A9G Module Pinout and Connection with Arduino

The Ai-Thinker A9G module is a versatile tool for adding GSM/GPRS and GPS functionality to your projects. It has a variety of pins for different purposes, including:

• GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) pins: These can be used for a variety of tasks, such as controlling LEDs or reading sensor data.
• Power supply pins: These provide power to the module.
• Communication interfaces: These allow the module to communicate with other devices, such as an Arduino.
• Antenna connectors: These connect to antennas for GPRS and GPS functionality.

For a detailed diagram of the pinout, please refer to the Ai-Thinker A9G development board information.

#include <SoftwareSerial.h>

SoftwareSerial A9GSerial(7, 8); // RX, TX

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);
  A9GSerial.begin(9600);
}

void loop() {
  if (A9GSerial.available()) {
    char c = A9GSerial.read();
    Serial.write(c);
  }

  if (Serial.available()) {
    char c = Serial.read();
    A9GSerial.write(c);
  }
}

Caution:

• Do not power the module directly from a 5V source (e.g., Arduino 5V pin). The maximum voltage for A9G is 4.2V, exceeding this limit may damage the module
• Peak current demand can reach 2A, so use a proper LDO regulator or Li-Po battery to provide stable power
• Ensure good grounding to reduce noise and interference for stable communication

Why Choose the AI Thinker A9G Module?

• All-in-one solution combining GSM/GPRS communication with GPS/BDS positioning
• Cost-effective and power-efficient for battery-operated IoT devices
• Simple UART communication and AT command interface for quick development
• Global GSM support for seamless connectivity

This module is an excellent choice for real-time tracking, remote monitoring, and wireless data communication.