Quectel EC21 Hardware Design V1.7

EC21 Hardware Design
LTE Standard Module Series
Rev. EC21_Hardware_Design_V1.7
Date: 2019-08-19
Status: Released
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About the Document
History
Revision Date Author Description
1.0 2016-04-15 Yeoman CHEN Initial
1. Updated frequency bands in Table 1.

2. Updated transmitting power, supported maximum
baud rate of main UART, supported internet
protocols, supported USB drivers of USB interface,
and temperature range in Table 2.
3. Updated timing of turning on module in Figure 12.
4. Updated timing of turning off module in Figure 13.
Yeoman CHEN/ 5. Updated timing of resetting module in Figure 16.
1.1 2016-09-22 Frank WANG/ 6. Updated main UART supports baud rate in Chapter
Lyndon LIU 3.11.
7. Added notes for ADC interface in Chapter 3.13.
8. Updated GNSS Performance in Table 21.
9. Updated operating frequencies of module in Table
23.
10. Added current consumption in Chapter 6.4.
11. Updated RF output power in Chapter 6.5.
12. Added RF receiving sensitivity in Chapter 6.6.
1. Added SGMII and WLAN interfaces in Table 2.
2. Updated function diagram in Figure 1.
3. Updated pin assignment (Top View) in Figure 2.
4. Added description of SGMII and WLAN interfaces in
Table 4.
Lyndon LIU/
1.2 2016-11-04 5. Added SGMII interface in Chapter 3.17.
Michael ZHANG
6. Added WLAN interface in Chapter 3.18.
7. Added USB_BOOT interface in Chapter 3.19.
8. Added reference design of RF layout in Chapter
5.1.4.
9. Added current consumption of EC21-V in Chapter
6.4
10. Added note about SIMO in Chapter 6.6.
2. Updated function diagram in Figure 1.
3. Updated pin assignment (top view) in Figure 2.
4. Added BT interface in Chapter 3.18.2.
5. Updated reference circuit of wireless connectivity
interfaces with FC20 module in Figure 29.
Lyndon LIU/
1.3 2017-01-24 6. Updated GNSS performance in Table 24.
Rex WANG
7. Updated module operating frequencies in Table 26.
8. Added EC21-AUV current consumption in Table 38.
9. Updated EC21-A conducted RF receiving sensitivity
of in Table 42.
10. Added EC21-J conducted RF receiving sensitivity in
Table 48.
1.4 2017-03-01 Geely YANG Deleted the LTE band TDD B41 of EC21-CT
1. Updated functional diagram in Figure 1.

3. Updated UMTS and GSM features in Table 2.
4. Updated description of pin 40/136/137/138.
5. Updated PWRKEY pulled down time to 500ms in
chapter 3.7.1 and reference circuit in Figure 10.
6. Updated reference circuit of (U)SIM interface in
Figure 17&18.
7. Updated reference circuit of USB interface in Figure
19.
8. Updated PCM mode in Chapter 3.12.
9. Updated USB_BOOT reference circuit in Chapter
Annice ZHANG/ 3.20.
1.5 2018-03-05 Lyndon LIU/ 10. Added SD card interface in Chapter 3.13.
Frank WANG 11. Updated module operating frequencies in Table 26.
12. Updated EC21 series modules current consumption
in Chapter 6.5.
13. Updated EC21 series modules conducted RF
receiving sensitivity in Chapter 6.6.
14. Added thermal consideration description in Chapter
6.8.
15. Updated dimension tolerance information in
Chapter 7.
16. Added storage temperature range in Table 2 and
Chapter 6.3.
17. Updated RF output power in Table 42.
18. Updated antenna requirements in Table 29.
19. Updated GPRS multi-slot classes in Table 55.

20. Updated storage information in Chapter 8.1
1. Added new variants EC21-EU and related
information.
2. Updated star structure of the power supply in Figure
8.
3. Updated power-on scenario of module in Figure 12.
4. Updated reference circuit with translator chip in
Figure 20.
5. Added timing sequence for entering into emergency
download mode of USB_BOOT interface in Figure
32.
6. Updated GNSS frequency in Table 29.
7. Updated antenna requirements in Table 30.
8. Added EC21-EU current consumption in Table 41.
9. Added EC21-EC current consumption in Table 42.
Woody WU/ 10. Updated EC21-E conducted RF receiving sensitivity
1.6 2019-04-30 Nathan LIU/ in Table 44.
Frank WANG 11. Updated EC21-A conducted RF receiving sensitivity
in Table 45.
12. Updated EC21-V conducted RF receiving sensitivity
in Table 46.
13. Updated EC21-AUT conducted RF receiving
sensitivity in Table 47.
14. Updated EC21-AU conducted RF receiving
15. Added EC21-EU conducted RF receiving sensitivity
in Table 52.
16. Added EC21-EC conducted RF receiving sensitivity
in Table 53.
17. Updated recommended stencil thickness as
0.18mm~0.20mm and reflow soldering thermal
profile in Chapter 8.2.
1. Added ThreadX variant EC21-AUX and updated
related information in Table 1 and Chapter 2.1.
2. Deleted the information of GNSS supported on
EC21-EC in Table 1
3. Updated supported protocols and USB serial driver
Ward WANG/
1.7 2019-08-19 in Table 2.
Owen WEI
4. Updated functional diagram in Figure 1.
5. Updated notes in Chapter 3.7.1.
6. Updated EC21-E current consumption (GSM voice
call) in Table 34.
7. Updated EC21-EU current consumption in Table 41.
8. Updated EC21-EC current consumption in Table 42.

9. Added EC21-AUX current consumption in Table 43.
10. Updated EC21-EU conducted RF receiving
11. Added EC21-AUX conducted RF receiving
12. Updated module bottom dimensions (bottom view)
in Figure 45.
13. Added tape and reel directions in Figure 51.
Contents
About the Document ................................................................................................................................... 2

Contents ....................................................................................................................................................... 6
Table Index ................................................................................................................................................... 9
Figure Index ............................................................................................................................................... 11
1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ 13
1.1. Safety Information.................................................................................................................... 14
2 Product Concept ................................................................................................................................ 15

2.1. General Description ................................................................................................................. 15
2.2. Key Features ........................................................................................................................... 16
2.3. Functional Diagram ................................................................................................................. 19
2.4. Evaluation Board ..................................................................................................................... 20
3 Application Interfaces ....................................................................................................................... 21

3.2. Pin Assignment ........................................................................................................................ 22
3.3. Pin Description......................................................................................................................... 23
3.4. Operating Modes ..................................................................................................................... 35
3.5. Power Saving........................................................................................................................... 35
3.5.1. Sleep Mode .................................................................................................................... 35
3.5.1.1. UART Application ................................................................................................. 36
3.5.1.2. USB Application with USB Remote Wakeup Function ........................................ 36
3.5.1.3. USB Application with USB Suspend/Resume and RI Function .......................... 37
3.5.1.4. USB Application without USB Suspend Function ................................................ 38
3.5.2. Airplane Mode ................................................................................................................ 38
3.6. Power Supply........................................................................................................................... 39
3.6.1. Power Supply Pins ......................................................................................................... 39
3.6.2. Decrease Voltage Drop .................................................................................................. 40
3.6.3. Reference Design for Power Supply .............................................................................. 41
3.6.4. Monitor the Power Supply .............................................................................................. 41
3.7. Power-on/off Scenarios ........................................................................................................... 42
3.7.1. Turn on Module Using the PWRKEY ............................................................................. 42
3.7.2. Turn off Module .............................................................................................................. 44
3.7.2.1. Turn off Module Using the PWRKEY Pin............................................................. 44
3.7.2.2. Turn off Module Using AT Command ................................................................... 44
3.8. Reset Module........................................................................................................................... 45
3.9. (U)SIM Interface ...................................................................................................................... 46
3.10. USB Interface .......................................................................................................................... 48
3.11. UART Interfaces ...................................................................................................................... 50
3.12. PCM and I2C Interfaces .......................................................................................................... 52
3.13. SD Card Interface .................................................................................................................... 55
3.14. Wireless Connectivity Interfaces ............................................................................................. 56
3.14.1. WLAN Interface .............................................................................................................. 59

3.14.2. BT Interface* .................................................................................................................. 59
3.15. ADC Interfaces ........................................................................................................................ 59
3.16. SGMII Interface........................................................................................................................ 60
3.17. Network Status Indication ........................................................................................................ 63
3.18. STATUS ................................................................................................................................... 64
3.19. Behaviors of RI ........................................................................................................................ 65
3.20. USB_BOOT Interface .............................................................................................................. 66
4 GNSS Receiver ................................................................................................................................... 68

4.2. GNSS Performance ................................................................................................................. 68
4.3. Layout Guidelines .................................................................................................................... 69
5 Antenna Interfaces............................................................................................................................. 70
5.1. Main/Rx-diversity Antenna Interfaces...................................................................................... 70
5.1.1. Pin Definition .................................................................................................................. 70
5.1.2. Operating Frequency ..................................................................................................... 70
5.1.3. Reference Design of RF Antenna Interface ................................................................... 71
5.1.4. Reference Design of RF Layout..................................................................................... 72
5.2. GNSS Antenna Interface ......................................................................................................... 74
5.3. Antenna Installation ................................................................................................................. 76
5.3.1. Antenna Requirement .................................................................................................... 76
5.3.2. Recommended RF Connector for Antenna Installation ................................................. 77
6 Electrical, Reliability and Radio Characteristics ............................................................................ 79

6.1. Absolute Maximum Ratings ..................................................................................................... 79
6.2. Power Supply Ratings ............................................................................................................. 80
6.3. Operation and Storage Temperatures ..................................................................................... 80
6.4. Current Consumption .............................................................................................................. 81
6.5. RF Output Power ..................................................................................................................... 95
6.6. RF Receiving Sensitivity .......................................................................................................... 96
6.7. Electrostatic Discharge .......................................................................................................... 102
6.8. Thermal Consideration .......................................................................................................... 102
7 Mechanical Dimensions .................................................................................................................. 105

7.1. Mechanical Dimensions of the Module.................................................................................. 105
7.2. Recommended Footprint ....................................................................................................... 107
7.3. Design Effect Drawings of the Module .................................................................................. 108
8 Storage, Manufacturing and Packaging ........................................................................................ 109

8.1. Storage................................................................................................................................... 109
8.2. Manufacturing and Soldering ................................................................................................ 110
8.3. Packaging ...............................................................................................................................111
9 Appendix A References................................................................................................................... 113

10 Appendix B GPRS Coding Schemes ............................................................................................. 117
11 Appendix C GPRS Multi-slot Classes ............................................................................................ 118

12 Appendix D EDGE Modulation and Coding Schemes ................................................................. 120
Table Index
TABLE 1: FREQUENCY BANDS OF EC21 SERIES MODULE ........................................................................ 15

TABLE 2: KEY FEATURES OF EC21 MODULE ............................................................................................... 16
TABLE 3: I/O PARAMETERS DEFINITION ....................................................................................................... 23
TABLE 4: PIN DESCRIPTION ........................................................................................................................... 23
TABLE 5: OVERVIEW OF OPERATING MODES ............................................................................................. 35
TABLE 6: VBAT AND GND PINS....................................................................................................................... 39
TABLE 7: PIN DEFINITION OF PWRKEY ........................................................................................................ 42
TABLE 8: PIN DEFINITION OF RESET_N ....................................................................................................... 45
TABLE 9: PIN DEFINITION OF (U)SIM INTERFACE ....................................................................................... 47
TABLE 10: PIN DESCRIPTION OF USB INTERFACE ..................................................................................... 49
TABLE 11: PIN DEFINITION OF MAIN UART INTERFACE ............................................................................. 50
TABLE 12: PIN DEFINITION OF DEBUG UART INTERFACE ......................................................................... 51
TABLE 13: LOGIC LEVELS OF DIGITAL I/O .................................................................................................... 51
TABLE 14: PIN DEFINITION OF PCM AND I2C INTERFACES ....................................................................... 54
TABLE 15: PIN DEFINITION OF SD CARD INTERFACE ................................................................................ 55
TABLE 16: PIN DEFINITION OF WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY INTERFACES ................................................ 57
TABLE 17: PIN DEFINITION OF ADC INTERFACES ....................................................................................... 60
TABLE 18: CHARACTERISTIC OF ADC .......................................................................................................... 60
TABLE 19: PIN DEFINITION OF SGMII INTERFACE ...................................................................................... 61
TABLE 20: PIN DEFINITION OF NETWORK CONNECTION STATUS/ACTIVITY INDICATOR ...................... 63
TABLE 21: WORKING STATE OF NETWORK CONNECTION STATUS/ACTIVITY INDICATOR ................... 63
TABLE 22: PIN DEFINITION OF STATUS ........................................................................................................ 64
TABLE 23: BEHAVIORS OF RI ......................................................................................................................... 65
TABLE 24: PIN DEFINITION OF USB_BOOT INTERFACE ............................................................................. 66
TABLE 25: GNSS PERFORMANCE ................................................................................................................. 68
TABLE 26: PIN DEFINITION OF RF ANTENNAS ............................................................................................. 70
TABLE 27: MODULE OPERATING FREQUENCIES ........................................................................................ 70
TABLE 28: PIN DEFINITION OF GNSS ANTENNA INTERFACE..................................................................... 74
TABLE 29: GNSS FREQUENCY ....................................................................................................................... 75
TABLE 30: ANTENNA REQUIREMENTS.......................................................................................................... 76
TABLE 31: ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS .................................................................................................. 79
TABLE 32: POWER SUPPLY RATINGS ........................................................................................................... 80
TABLE 33: OPERATION AND STORAGE TEMPERATURES .......................................................................... 80
TABLE 34: EC21-E CURRENT CONSUMPTION ............................................................................................. 81
TABLE 35: EC21-A CURRENT CONSUMPTION ............................................................................................. 83
TABLE 36: EC21-V CURRENT CONSUMPTION ............................................................................................. 84
TABLE 37: EC21-AUT CURRENT CONSUMPTION ........................................................................................ 84
TABLE 38: EC21-AUV CURRENT CONSUMPTION ........................................................................................ 85
TABLE 39: EC21-J CURRENT CONSUMPTION .............................................................................................. 86
TABLE 40: EC21-KL CURRENT CONSUMPTION ........................................................................................... 87
TABLE 41: EC21-EU CURRENT CONSUMPTION........................................................................................... 88
TABLE 42: EC21-EC CURRENT CONSUMPTION........................................................................................... 90

TABLE 43: EC21-AUX CURRENT CONSUMPTION ........................................................................................ 92
TABLE 44: RF OUTPUT POWER ..................................................................................................................... 95
TABLE 45: EC21-E CONDUCTED RF RECEIVING SENSITIVITY .................................................................. 96
TABLE 46: EC21-A CONDUCTED RF RECEIVING SENSITIVITY .................................................................. 97
TABLE 47: EC21-V CONDUCTED RF RECEIVING SENSITIVITY .................................................................. 97
TABLE 48: EC21-AUT CONDUCTED RF RECEIVING SENSITIVITY ............................................................. 97
TABLE 49: EC21-KL CONDUCTED RF RECEIVING SENSITIVITY ................................................................ 98
TABLE 50: EC21-J CONDUCTED RF RECEIVING SENSITIVITY................................................................... 98
TABLE 51: EC21-AUV CONDUCTED RF RECEIVING SENSITIVITY ............................................................. 98
TABLE 52: EC21-AU CONDUCTED RF RECEIVING SENSITIVITY ............................................................... 99
TABLE 53: EC21-EU CONDUCTED RF RECEIVING SENSITIVITY ............................................................. 100
TABLE 54: EC21-EC CONDUCTED RF RECEIVING SENSITIVITY ............................................................. 100
TABLE 55: EC21-AUX CONDUCTED RF RECEIVING SENSITIVITY ........................................................... 101
TABLE 56: ELECTROSTATICS DISCHARGE CHARACTERISTICS (25ºC, 45% RELATIVE HUMIDITY) .... 102
TABLE 57: RECOMMENDED THERMAL PROFILE PARAMETERS .............................................................. 110
TABLE 58: RELATED DOCUMENTS ............................................................................................................... 113
TABLE 59: TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS ..................................................................................................... 113
TABLE 60: DESCRIPTION OF DIFFERENT CODING SCHEMES ................................................................. 117
TABLE 61: GPRS MULTI-SLOT CLASSES ..................................................................................................... 118
TABLE 62: EDGE MODULATION AND CODING SCHEMES ......................................................................... 120
Figure Index
FIGURE 1: FUNCTIONAL DIAGRAM ............................................................................................................... 20

FIGURE 2: PIN ASSIGNMENT (TOP VIEW)..................................................................................................... 22
FIGURE 3: SLEEP MODE APPLICATION VIA UART ....................................................................................... 36
FIGURE 4: SLEEP MODE APPLICATION WITH USB REMOTE WAKEUP .................................................... 37
FIGURE 5: SLEEP MODE APPLICATION WITH RI ......................................................................................... 37
FIGURE 6: SLEEP MODE APPLICATION WITHOUT SUSPEND FUNCTION ................................................ 38
FIGURE 7: POWER SUPPLY LIMITS DURING BURST TRANSMISSION ...................................................... 40
FIGURE 8: STAR STRUCTURE OF THE POWER SUPPLY............................................................................ 40
FIGURE 9: REFERENCE CIRCUIT OF POWER SUPPLY .............................................................................. 41
FIGURE 10: TURN ON THE MODULE BY USING DRIVING CIRCUIT ........................................................... 42
FIGURE 11: TURN ON THE MODULE BY USING KEYSTROKE .................................................................... 43
FIGURE 12: TIMING OF TURNING ON MODULE ........................................................................................... 43
FIGURE 13: TIMING OF TURNING OFF MODULE ......................................................................................... 44
FIGURE 14: REFERENCE CIRCUIT OF RESET_N BY USING DRIVING CIRCUIT ...................................... 45
FIGURE 15: REFERENCE CIRCUIT OF RESET_N BY USING BUTTON ...................................................... 46
FIGURE 16: TIMING OF RESETTING MODULE ............................................................................................. 46
FIGURE 17: REFERENCE CIRCUIT OF (U)SIM INTERFACE WITH AN 8-PIN (U)SIM CARD CONNECTOR
................................................................................................................................................................... 47
FIGURE 18: REFERENCE CIRCUIT OF (U)SIM INTERFACE WITH A 6-PIN (U)SIM CARD CONNECTOR . 48
FIGURE 19: REFERENCE CIRCUIT OF USB APPLICATION ......................................................................... 49
FIGURE 20: REFERENCE CIRCUIT WITH TRANSLATOR CHIP ................................................................... 51
FIGURE 21: REFERENCE CIRCUIT WITH TRANSISTOR CIRCUIT .............................................................. 52
FIGURE 22: PRIMARY MODE TIMING ............................................................................................................ 53
FIGURE 23: AUXILIARY MODE TIMING .......................................................................................................... 53
FIGURE 24: REFERENCE CIRCUIT OF PCM APPLICATION WITH AUDIO CODEC .................................... 54
FIGURE 25: REFERENCE CIRCUIT OF SD CARD INTERFACE.................................................................... 55
FIGURE 26: REFERENCE CIRCUIT OF WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY INTERFACES WITH FC20 MODULE
................................................................................................................................................................... 58
FIGURE 27: SIMPLIFIED BLOCK DIAGRAM FOR ETHERNET APPLICATION ............................................. 61
FIGURE 28: REFERENCE CIRCUIT OF SGMII INTERFACE WITH PHY AR8033 APPLICATION................. 62
FIGURE 29: REFERENCE CIRCUIT OF THE NETWORK INDICATOR .......................................................... 64
FIGURE 30: REFERENCE CIRCUITS OF STATUS ......................................................................................... 65
FIGURE 31: REFERENCE CIRCUIT OF USB_BOOT INTERFACE ................................................................ 66
FIGURE 32: TIMING SEQUENCE FOR ENTERING EMERGENCY DOWNLOAD MODE ............................. 67
FIGURE 33: REFERENCE CIRCUIT OF RF ANTENNA INTERFACE ............................................................. 72
FIGURE 34: MICROSTRIP DESIGN ON A 2-LAYER PCB ............................................................................... 73
FIGURE 35: COPLANAR WAVEGUIDE DESIGN ON A 2-LAYER PCB ........................................................... 73
FIGURE 36: COPLANAR WAVEGUIDE DESIGN ON A 4-LAYER PCB (LAYER 3 AS REFERENCE GROUND)
................................................................................................................................................................... 73
FIGURE 37: COPLANAR WAVEGUIDE DESIGN ON A 4-LAYER PCB (LAYER 4 AS REFERENCE GROUND)
................................................................................................................................................................... 74
FIGURE 38: REFERENCE CIRCUIT OF GNSS ANTENNA ............................................................................. 75

FIGURE 39: DIMENSIONS OF THE U.FL-R-SMT CONNECTOR (UNIT: MM) ................................................ 77
FIGURE 40: MECHANICALS OF U.FL-LP CONNECTORS ............................................................................. 77
FIGURE 41: SPACE FACTOR OF MATED CONNECTOR (UNIT: MM) ........................................................... 78
FIGURE 42: REFERENCED HEATSINK DESIGN (HEATSINK AT THE TOP OF THE MODULE) ................ 103
FIGURE 43: REFERENCED HEATSINK DESIGN (HEATSINK AT THE BACKSIDE OF CUSTOMERS’ PCB)
................................................................................................................................................................. 103
FIGURE 44: MODULE TOP AND SIDE DIMENSIONS ................................................................................... 105
FIGURE 45: MODULE BOTTOM DIMENSIONS (BOTTOM VIEW) ............................................................... 106
FIGURE 46: RECOMMENDED FOOTPRINT (TOP VIEW) ............................................................................ 107
FIGURE 47: TOP VIEW OF THE MODULE .................................................................................................... 108
FIGURE 48: BOTTOM VIEW OF THE MODULE ............................................................................................ 108
FIGURE 49: REFLOW SOLDERING THERMAL PROFILE ............................................................................. 110
FIGURE 50: TAPE AND REEL SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................................................... 112
FIGURE 51: TAPE AND REEL DIRECTIONS .................................................................................................. 112
1 Introduction
This document defines EC21 module and describes its air interface and hardware interfaces which are
connected with customers’ applications.
This document can help customers quickly understand module interface specifications, electrical and
mechanical details, as well as other related information of EC21 module. To facilitate its application in
different fields, relevant reference design is also provided for customers’ reference. Associated with
application note and user guide, customers can use EC21 module to design and set up mobile
applications easily.
1.1. Safety Information
The following safety precautions must be observed during all phases of operation, such as usage, service
or repair of any cellular terminal or mobile incorporating EC21 module. Manufacturers of the cellular
terminal should send the following safety information to users and operating personnel, and incorporate
these guidelines into all manuals supplied with the product. If not so, Quectel assumes no liability for
customers’ failure to comply with these precautions.
Full attention must be given to driving at all times in order to reduce the risk of an
accident. Using a mobile while driving (even with a handsfree kit) causes
distraction and can lead to an accident. Please comply with laws and regulations
restricting the use of wireless devices while driving.
Switch off the cellular terminal or mobile before boarding an aircraft. The operation
of wireless appliances in an aircraft is forbidden to prevent interference with
communication systems. If the device offers an Airplane Mode, then it should be
enabled prior to boarding an aircraft. Please consult the airline staff for more
restrictions on the use of wireless devices on boarding the aircraft.
Wireless devices may cause interference on sensitive medical equipment, so

please be aware of the restrictions on the use of wireless devices when in
hospitals, clinics or other healthcare facilities.
Cellular terminals or mobiles operating over radio signals and cellular network
cannot be guaranteed to connect in all possible conditions (for example, with
unpaid bills or with an invalid (U)SIM card). When emergent help is needed in such
conditions, please remember using emergency call. In order to make or receive a
call, the cellular terminal or mobile must be switched on in a service area with
adequate cellular signal strength.
The cellular terminal or mobile contains a transmitter and receiver. When it is ON, it
receives and transmits radio frequency signals. RF interference can occur if it is
used close to TV set, radio, computer or other electric equipment.
In locations with potentially explosive atmospheres, obey all posted signs to turn
off wireless devices such as your phone or other cellular terminals. Areas with
potentially explosive atmospheres include fuelling areas, below decks on boats,
fuel or chemical transfer or storage facilities, areas where the air contains
chemicals or particles such as grain, dust or metal powders, etc.
2 Product Concept
2.1. General Description
EC21 is a series of LTE-FDD/LTE-TDD/WCDMA/GSM wireless communication module with receive

diversity. It provides data connectivity on LTE-FDD, LTE-TDD, DC-HSDPA, HSPA+, HSDPA, HSUPA,
WCDMA, EDGE and GPRS networks. It also provides GNSS1) and voice functionality2) for customers’
specific applications. EC21 contains 11 variants: EC21-E, EC21-A, EC21-V, EC21-AU, EC21-EU,
EC21-EC, EC21-AUT, EC21-AUV, EC21-J, EC21-KL and EC21-AUX. Customers can choose a dedicated
type based on the region or operator. The following table shows the frequency bands of EC21 series
module.
Table 1: Frequency Bands of EC21 Series Module
WCDMA Rx-
Modules2) LTE Bands GSM Bands GNSS1)
Bands diversity
FDD:
EC21-E B1/B5/B8 900/1800MHz Y
B1/B3/B5/B7/B8/B20
EC21-A FDD: B2/B4/B12 B2/B4/B5 N Y
GPS,
EC21-V FDD: B4/B13 N N Y
GLONASS,
FDD: BeiDou/
B1/B2/B3/B4/B5/B7/B8/ 850/900/ Compass,
EC21-AU3) B1/B2/B5/B8 Y
B28 1800/1900MHz Galileo,
TDD: B40 QZSS
FDD:
EC21-EU B1/B8 900/1800MHz Y
B1/B3/B7/B8/B20/B28A
FDD:
EC21-AUT B1/B5 N Y
B1/B3/B5/B7/B28
FDD:
EC21-EC B1/B8 900/1800MHz Y N
B1/B3/B7/B8/B20/B28A
FDD:
EC21-AUV B1/B5/B8 N Y N
B1/B3/B5/B8/B28
FDD:
EC21-J N N Y N
B1/B3/B8/B18/B19/B26
FDD:
EC21-KL N N Y N
B1/B3/B5/B7/B8
FDD:
B1/B2/B3/B4/B5/B7/B8/ B1/B2/B4/B5/ 850/900/
EC21-AUX3) Y Y
B28 B8 1800/1900MHz
TDD: B40
NOTES
1)
1. GNSS function is optional.
2)
2. EC21 series module contains Telematics version and Data-only version. Telematics version
supports voice and data functions, while Data-only version only supports data function.
3) B2 band on EC21-AU and EC21-AUX module does not support Rx-diversity. Additionally,
3.
EC21-AUX is based on ThreadX OS.
4. Y = Supported. N = Not supported.
With a compact profile of 29.0mm × 32.0mm × 2.4mm, EC21 can meet almost all requirements for M2M
applications such as automotive, metering, tracking system, security, router, wireless POS, mobile
computing device, PDA phone, tablet PC, etc.
EC21 is an SMD type module which can be embedded into applications through its 144-pin pads,
including 80 LCC signal pads and 64 LGA pads.
2.2. Key Features
The following table describes the detailed features of EC21 module.
Table 2: Key Features of EC21 Module
Features Details
Supply voltage: 3.3V~4.3V

Power Supply
Typical supply voltage: 3.8V
Class 4 (33dBm±2dB) for GSM850
Class 4 (33dBm±2dB) for EGSM900
Class 1 (30dBm±2dB) for DCS1800
Class 1 (30dBm±2dB) for PCS1900
Transmitting Power
Class E2 (27dBm±3dB) for GSM850 8-PSK
Class E2 (27dBm±3dB) for EGSM900 8-PSK
Class E2 (26dBm±3dB) for DCS1800 8-PSK
Class E2 (26dBm±3dB) for PCS1900 8-PSK
Class 3 (24dBm+1/-3dB) for WCDMA bands

Class 3 (23dBm±2dB) for LTE-FDD bands
Class 3 (23dBm±2dB) for LTE-TDD bands
Support up to non-CA Cat 1 FDD and TDD
Support 1.4/3/5/10/15/20MHz RF bandwidth
LTE Features Support MIMO in DL direction
LTE-FDD: Max 10Mbps (DL)/Max 5Mbps (UL)
LTE-TDD: Max 8.96Mbps (DL)/Max 3.1Mbps (UL)
Support 3GPP R8 DC-HSDPA, HSPA+, HSDPA, HSUPA and WCDMA
Support QPSK, 16-QAM and 64-QAM modulation
UMTS Features DC-HSDPA: Max 42Mbps (DL)
HSUPA: Max 5.76Mbps (UL)
WCDMA: Max 384Kbps (DL)/Max 384Kbps (UL)
GPRS:
Support GPRS multi-slot class 33 (33 by default)
Coding scheme: CS-1, CS-2, CS-3 and CS-4
Max 107Kbps (DL)/Max 85.6Kbps (UL)
EDGE:
GSM Features Support EDGE multi-slot class 33 (33 by default)
Support GMSK and 8-PSK for different MCS (Modulation and Coding
Scheme)
Downlink coding schemes: CS 1-4 and MCS 1-9
Uplink coding schemes: CS 1-4 and MCS 1-9
Max 296Kbps (DL)/Max 236.8Kbps (UL)
Support TCP/UDP/PPP/FTP/FTPS/HTTP/HTTPS/NTP/PING/QMI/NITZ/
MMS/SMTP/SSL/MQTT/FILE/CMUX*/SMTPS* protocols
Internet Protocol Features Support PAP (Password Authentication Protocol) and CHAP (Challenge
Handshake Authentication Protocol) protocols which are usually used for
PPP connections
Text and PDU mode
Point to point MO and MT
SMS
SMS cell broadcast
SMS storage: ME by default
(U)SIM Interface Support USIM/SIM card: 1.8V, 3.0V
Support one digital audio interface: PCM interface

GSM: HR/FR/EFR/AMR/AMR-WB
Audio Features WCDMA: AMR/AMR-WB
LTE: AMR/AMR-WB
Support echo cancellation and noise suppression
Used for audio function with external codec
Support 16-bit linear data format
PCM Interface
Support long frame synchronization and short frame synchronization
Support master and slave modes, but must be the master in long frame
synchronization
Compliant with USB 2.0 specification (slave only); the data transfer rate
can reach up to 480Mbps
Used for AT command communication, data transmission, GNSS NMEA
USB Interface
output, software debugging, firmware upgrade and voice over USB
Support USB serial drivers for: Windows 7/8/8.1/10, Linux 2.6/3.x/4.1~4.15,
Android 4.x/5.x/6.x/7.x/8.x/9.x, etc.
Main UART:
Used for AT command communication and data transmission
Baud rates reach up to 921600bps, 115200bps by default
UART Interfaces Support RTS and CTS hardware flow control
Debug UART:
Used for Linux console and log output
115200bps baud rate
SD Card Interface1) Support SD 3.0 protocol
SGMII Interface1) Support 10M/100M/1000M Ethernet work mode
Wireless Connectivity Support a low-power SDIO 3.0 interface for WLAN and UART/PCM
Interfaces1) interfaces for Bluetooth
Rx-diversity Support LTE/WCDMA Rx-diversity
Gen8C Lite of Qualcomm

GNSS Features
Protocol: NMEA 0183
Compliant with 3GPP TS 27.007, 27.005 and Quectel enhanced AT
AT Commands
commands
Two pins including NET_MODE and NET_STATUS to indicate network
Network Indication
connectivity status
Including main antenna interface (ANT_MAIN), Rx-diversity antenna
Antenna Interfaces
interface (ANT_DIV) and GNSS antenna interface (ANT_GNSS)
Size: (29.0±0.15)mm × (32.0±0.15)mm × (2.4±0.2)mm
Physical Characteristics
Weight: approx. 4.9g
Operation temperature range: -35°C ~ +75°C2)
Temperature Range Extended temperature range: -40°C ~ +85°C3)
Storage temperature range: -40°C ~ +90°C
Firmware Upgrade USB interface or DFOTA*
RoHS All hardware components are fully compliant with EU RoHS directive
NOTES
1)
1. SD card, wireless connectivity and SGMII interfaces are not supported on ThreadX module.
2)
2. Within operation temperature range, the module is 3GPP compliant.
3)
3. Within extended temperature range, the module remains the ability to establish and maintain a
voice, SMS, data transmission, emergency call* (emergency call is not supported on ThreadX
module), etc. There is no unrecoverable malfunction. There are also no effects on radio spectrum
and no harm to radio network. Only one or more parameters like Pout might reduce in their value and
exceed the specified tolerances. When the temperature returns to normal operation temperature
levels, the module will meet 3GPP specifications again.
4. “*” means under development.
2.3. Functional Diagram
The following figure shows a block diagram of EC21 and illustrates the major functional parts.
 Power management
 Baseband
 DDR+NAND flash
 Radio frequency
 Peripheral interfaces
ANT_MAIN ANT_GNSS ANT_DIV
PAM SAW Switch
SAW Duplex LNA

SAW
VBAT_RF
PA
APT
PRx DRx
Tx
NAND
Transceiver DDR2
SDRAM
IQ Control
VBAT_BB
PMIC
Control
PWRKEY
RESET_N
Baseband
ADCs
STATUS 19.2M
XO
VDD_EXT USB (U)SIM PCM I2C UARTs SGMII WLAN BT GPIOs SD
Figure 1: Functional Diagram
2.4. Evaluation Board
In order to help customers develop applications with EC21, Quectel supplies an evaluation board
(UMTS&LTE EVB), USB to RS-232 converter cable, earphone, antenna and other peripherals to control
or test the module. For more details, please refer to document [8].
3 Application Interfaces
EC21 is equipped with 80 LCC pads plus 64 LGA pads that can be connected to cellular application
platform. The subsequent chapters will provide detailed descriptions of the following functions/pins/
interfaces.
 Power supply
 (U)SIM interface
 USB interface
 UART interfaces
 PCM and I2C interfaces
 SD card interface1)
 ADC interfaces
 Status indication
 SGMII interface1)
 Wireless connectivity interfaces1)
 USB_BOOT interface
NOTE
1) SD
card, wireless connectivity and SGMII interfaces are not supported on ThreadX module.
3.2. Pin Assignment
The following figure shows the pin assignment of EC21 module.
RESERVED
RESERVED 114
RESERVED
USB_VBUS
VBAT_RF
VBAT_BB
VBAT_BB
VBAT_RF
USB_DM
USB_DP
ST ATUS
GND
GND
DCD
RXD
DTR
CTS
TXD
RTS
RI
113
72
71
70
69
68
67
66
65
64
63
62
61
60
59
58
57
56
55
WAKEUP_IN1) 1 54 GND
AP_READY 2 53 GND
129 117
RESERVED 3 52 GND
108 103 99 95 90 85
W_DISABLE# 4 130 118 51 GND
NET_MODE1) 5 131 119 50 GND
NET_ST ATUS 6 49 ANT_MAIN
132 120 104 100 91 86
VDD_EXT 7 109 96 48 GND
RESERVED 141 133 121 144 RESERVED
RESERVED 142 82 79 76 73 143 RESERVED
134 122
GND 8 110 105 83 80 77 74 92 87 47 ANT_GNSS
GND 9 135 123 84 81 78 75 46 GND
USIM_GND 10 45 ADC0
136 1) 124
DBG_RXD 11 44 ADC1
1) 111 106 101 97 93 88
DBG_TXD 12 137 125 43 RESERVED
USIM_PRESENCE 13 42 I2C_SDA
138 1) 126
USIM_VDD 14 41 I2C_SCL
USIM_DATA 15 139 127 112 107 102 98 94 89 40 BT_CTS1)
USIM_CLK 16 39 BT_RXD
140 128
USIM_RST 17 38 BT_TXD
RESERVED 18 37 BT_RTS
116
115 USB_BOOT1)
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
SDC2_DATA3
SDC2_DATA2
SDC2_DATA1
SDC2_DATA0
RESET_N
PWRKEY 2)
GND
ANT_DIV
GND
SD_INS_DET
SDC2_CLK
SDC2_CMD
VDD_SDIO
GND
RESERVED
PCM_IN3)
PCM_OUT3)
PCM_SYNC3)
PCM_CLK3)
Power Pins Signal Pins WLAN Pins RESERVED Pins
GND Pins Bluetooth Pins SGMII Pins
Figure 2: Pin Assignment (Top View)
NOTES
1)
1. means pins WAKEUP_IN, NET_MODE, WLAN_EN, COEX_UART_RX, COEX_UART_TX,
USB_BOOT and BT_CTS cannot be pulled up before startup.
2) PWRKEY output voltage is 0.8V because of the diode drop in the Qualcomm chipset.
2.
3) means digital audio (PCM) is only supported on Telematics version.
3.
4. Pins 37~40, 118, 127 and 129~139 are used for wireless connectivity interfaces, among which pads
118, 127 and 129~138 are WLAN function pins, and the rest are Bluetooth (BT) function pins. BT
function is under development.
5. Pins 119~126 and 128 are used for SGMII interface.

6. Pins 24~27 for PCM function are multiplexing pins used for audio design on EC21 module and BT
function on FC20 module.
7. SD card, wireless connectivity and SGMII interfaces (pins 37~40, 118, 127, 129~139, 119~126, 128,
23, 28~34) are not supported on ThreadX module.
8. Keep all RESERVED pins and unused pins unconnected.
9. GND pads 85~112 should be connected to ground in the design. RESERVED pads 73~84 should not
be designed in schematic and PCB decal, and these pins should be served as a keepout area.
3.3. Pin Description
The following tables show the pin definition of EC21 module.
Table 3: I/O Parameters Definition
Type Description
AI Analog Input
AO Analog Output
DI Digital Input
DO Digital Output
IO Bidirectional
OD Open Drain
PI Power Input
PO Power Output
Table 4: Pin Description
Power Supply
Pin Name Pin No. I/O Description DC Characteristics Comment
Power supply for Vmax=4.3V It must be provided with

VBAT_BB 59, 60 PI module’s baseband Vmin=3.3V sufficient current up to
part Vnorm=3.8V 0.8A.
It must be provided with

Vmax=4.3V
Power supply for sufficient current up to
VBAT_RF 57, 58 PI Vmin=3.3V
module’s RF part 1.8A in a burst
Vnorm=3.8V
transmission.
Power supply for
Provide 1.8V for Vnorm=1.8V external GPIO’s pull-up
VDD_EXT 7 PO
external circuit IOmax=50mA circuits.
If unused, keep it open.
8, 9, 19,
22, 36, 46,
GND 48, 50~54, Ground
56, 72,
85~112
Power-on/off
The output voltage is

Turn on/off the 0.8V because of the
PWRKEY 21 DI VH=0.8V
module diode drop in the
Qualcomm chipset.
VIHmax=2.1V
Reset signal of the If unused, keep it
RESET_N 20 DI VIHmin=1.3V
module open.
VILmax=0.5V
Status Indication
An external pull-up
The drive current
Indicate the module resistor is required.
STATUS 61 OD should be less than
operating status If unused, keep it
0.9mA.
open.
1.8V power domain.
Indicate the It cannot be pulled up
VOHmin=1.35V
NET_MODE 5 DO module’s network before startup.
VOLmax=0.45V
registration mode If unused, keep it
open.
Indicate the 1.8V power domain.
NET_ VOHmin=1.35V
6 DO module’s network If unused, keep it
STATUS VOLmax=0.45V
activity status open.
USB Interface
USB power supply, Vmax=5.25V Typical: 5.0V

USB_VBUS 71 PI used for USB Vmin=3.0V If unused, keep it
detection Vnorm=5.0V open.
Require differential
Compliant with USB
USB differential data impedance of 90Ω.
USB_DP 69 IO 2.0 standard
bus (+) If unused, keep it
specification.
open.
Compliant with USB
USB differential data impedance of 90Ω.
USB_DM 70 IO 2.0 standard
bus (-) If unused, keep it
specification.
open.
(U)SIM Interface
Specified ground for

USIM_GND 10
(U)SIM card
For 1.8V (U)SIM:
Vmax=1.9V
Vmin=1.7V
Either 1.8V or 3.0V is
Power supply for
USIM_VDD 14 PO supported by the
(U)SIM card For 3.0V (U)SIM:
module automatically.
Vmax=3.05V
Vmin=2.7V
IOmax=50mA
For 1.8V (U)SIM:
VILmax=0.6V
VIHmin=1.2V
VOLmax=0.45V
VOHmin=1.35V
Data signal of
USIM_DATA 15 IO
(U)SIM card
For 3.0V (U)SIM:
VILmax=1.0V
VIHmin=1.95V
VOLmax=0.45V
VOHmin=2.55V
For 1.8V (U)SIM:
VOLmax=0.45V
VOHmin=1.35V
Clock signal of
USIM_CLK 16 DO
(U)SIM card
For 3.0V (U)SIM:
VOLmax=0.45V
VOHmin=2.55V
For 1.8V (U)SIM:

VOLmax=0.45V
VOHmin=1.35V
Reset signal of
USIM_RST 17 DO
(U)SIM card
For 3.0V (U)SIM:
VOLmax=0.45V
VOHmin=2.55V
VILmin=-0.3V
1.8V power domain.
USIM_ (U)SIM card VILmax=0.6V
13 DI If unused, keep it
PRESENCE insertion detection VIHmin=1.2V
open.
VIHmax=2.0V
Main UART Interface
1.8V power domain.

VOLmax=0.45V
RI 62 DO Ring indicator If unused, keep it
VOHmin=1.35V
open.
1.8V power domain.
Data carrier VOLmax=0.45V
DCD 63 DO If unused, keep it
detection VOHmin=1.35V
open.
1.8V power domain.
VOLmax=0.45V
CTS 64 DO Clear to send If unused, keep it
VOHmin=1.35V
open.
VILmin=-0.3V
1.8V power domain.
VILmax=0.6V
RTS 65 DI Request to send If unused, keep it
VIHmin=1.2V
open.
VIHmax=2.0V
1.8V power domain.
VILmin=-0.3V Pulled up by default.
Data terminal ready, VILmax=0.6V Low level wakes up
DTR 66 DI
sleep mode control VIHmin=1.2V the module.
VIHmax=2.0V If unused, keep it
open.
1.8V power domain.
VOLmax=0.45V
TXD 67 DO Transmit data If unused, keep it
VOHmin=1.35V
open.
VILmin=-0.3V
1.8V power domain.
VILmax=0.6V
RXD 68 DI Receive data If unused, keep it
VIHmin=1.2V
open.
VIHmax=2.0V
Debug UART Interface
1.8V power domain.

VOLmax=0.45V
DBG_TXD 12 DO Transmit data If unused, keep it
VOHmin=1.35V
open.
VILmin=-0.3V
1.8V power domain.
VILmax=0.6V
DBG_RXD 11 DI Receive data If unused, keep it
VIHmin=1.2V
open.
VIHmax=2.0V
ADC Interfaces
General purpose
Voltage range: If unused, keep it
ADC0 45 AI analog to digital
0.3V to VBAT_BB open.
converter
General purpose
Voltage range: If unused, keep it
ADC1 44 AI analog to digital
0.3V to VBAT_BB open.
converter
PCM Interface1)
VILmin=-0.3V
1.8V power domain.
VILmax=0.6V
PCM_IN 24 DI PCM data input If unused, keep it
VIHmin=1.2V
open.
VIHmax=2.0V
1.8V power domain.
VOLmax=0.45V
PCM_OUT 25 DO PCM data output If unused, keep it
VOHmin=1.35V
open.
1.8V power domain.
VOLmax=0.45V
In master mode, it is
VOHmin=1.35V
PCM data frame an output signal.
VILmin=-0.3V
PCM_SYNC 26 IO synchronization In slave mode, it is an
VILmax=0.6V
signal input signal.
VIHmin=1.2V
If unused, keep it
VIHmax=2.0V
open.
1.8V power domain.
VOLmax=0.45V
In master mode, it is
VOHmin=1.35V
an output signal.
VILmin=-0.3V
PCM_CLK 27 IO PCM clock In slave mode, it is an
VILmax=0.6V
input signal.
VIHmin=1.2V
If unused, keep it
VIHmax=2.0V
open.
I2C Interface
An external pull-up
I2C serial clock. resistor is required.
I2C_SCL 41 OD Used for external 1.8V only.
codec If unused, keep it
open.
An external pull-up
I2C serial data. resistor is required.
I2C_SDA 42 OD Used for external 1.8V only.
codec If unused, keep it
open.
SD Card Interface
1.8V signaling:
VOLmax=0.45V
VOHmin=1.4V
VILmin=-0.3V
SDIO signal level can
VILmax=0.58V
be selected according
VIHmin=1.27V
to SD card supported
VIHmax=2.0V
SDC2_ SD card SDIO bus level, please refer to
28 IO
DATA3 DATA3 SD 3.0 protocol for
3.0V signaling:
more details.
VOLmax=0.38V
If unused, keep it
VOHmin=2.01V
open.
VILmin=-0.3V
VILmax=0.76V
VIHmin=1.72V
VIHmax=3.34V
1.8V signaling:
VOLmax=0.45V
VOHmin=1.4V SDIO signal level can
VILmin=-0.3V be selected according
VILmax=0.58V to SD card supported
SDC2_ SD card SDIO bus VIHmin=1.27V level, please refer to
29 IO
DATA2 DATA2 VIHmax=2.0V SD 3.0 protocol for
more details.
3.0V signaling: If unused, keep it
VOLmax=0.38V open.
VOHmin=2.01V
VILmin=-0.3V
VILmax=0.76V
VIHmin=1.72V
VIHmax=3.34V
1.8V signaling:
VOLmax=0.45V
VOHmin=1.4V
VILmin=-0.3V
VILmax=0.58V
VIHmin=1.27V
VIHmax=2.0V
30 IO
3.0V signaling:
more details.
VOLmax=0.38V
If unused, keep it
VOHmin=2.01V
open.
VILmin=-0.3V
VILmax=0.76V
VIHmin=1.72V
VIHmax=3.34V
1.8V signaling:
VOLmax=0.45V
VOHmin=1.4V
VILmin=-0.3V
VILmax=0.58V
VIHmin=1.27V
VIHmax=2.0V
31 IO
3.0V signaling:
more details.
VOLmax=0.38V
If unused, keep it
VOHmin=2.01V
open.
VILmin=-0.3V
VILmax=0.76V
VIHmin=1.72V
VIHmax=3.34V
1.8V signaling:
VOLmax=0.45V
VOHmin=1.4V
SD card SDIO bus level, please refer to
SDC2_CLK 32 DO
clock SD 3.0 protocol for
3.0V signaling:
more details.
VOLmax=0.38V
If unused, keep it
VOHmin=2.01V
open.
1.8V signaling: SDIO signal level can
SD card SDIO bus
SDC2_CMD 33 IO VOLmax=0.45V be selected according
command
VOHmin=1.4V to SD card supported
VILmin=-0.3V level, please refer to

VILmax=0.58V SD 3.0 protocol for
VIHmin=1.27V more details.
VIHmax=2.0V If unused, keep it
open.
3.0V signaling:
VOLmax=0.38V
VOHmin=2.01V
VILmin=-0.3V
VILmax=0.76V
VIHmin=1.72V
VIHmax=3.34V
VILmin=-0.3V
1.8V power domain.
SD_INS_ SD card insertion VILmax=0.6V
23 DI If unused, keep it
DET detect VIHmin=1.2V
open.
VIHmax=2.0V
1.8V/2.85V
configurable.
SD card SDIO bus Cannot be used for SD
VDD_SDIO 34 PO IOmax=50mA
pull-up power card power.
If unused, keep it
open.
SGMII Interface
For 1.8V:
VOLmax=0.45V
1.8V/2.85V power
VOHmin=1.4V
domain.
EPHY_RST_N 119 DO Ethernet PHY reset
If unused, keep it
For 2.85V:
open.
VOLmax=0.35V
VOHmin=2.14V
VILmin=-0.3V
1.8V power domain.
Ethernet PHY VILmax=0.6V
EPHY_INT_N 120 DI If unused, keep it
interrupt VIHmin=1.2V
open.
VIHmax=2.0V
For 1.8V:
VOLmax=0.45V
1.8V/2.85V power
SGMII MDIO VOHmin=1.4V
SGMII_ domain.
121 IO (Management Data VILmax=0.58V
MDATA If unused, keep it
Input/Output) data VIHmin=1.27V
open.
For 2.85V:
VOLmax=0.35V
VOHmin=2.14V
VILmax=0.71V
VIHmin=1.78V
For 1.8V:
VOLmax=0.45V
1.8V/2.85V power
SGMII MDIO VOHmin=1.4V
SGMII_ domain.
122 DO (Management Data
MCLK If unused, keep it
Input/Output) clock For 2.85V:
open.
VOLmax=0.35V
VOHmin=2.14V
Configurable power
source.
1.8V/2.85V power
SGMII MDIO pull-up domain.
USIM2_VDD 128 PO
power source External pull-up for
SGMII MDIO pins.
If unused, keep it
open.
Connect with a 0.1uF
capacitor, and is close
SGMII transmission
SGMII_TX_M 123 AO to the PHY side.
- minus
If unused, keep it
open.
SGMII transmission
SGMII_TX_P 124 AO to the PHY side.
- plus
If unused, keep it
open.
SGMII receiving
SGMII_RX_P 125 AI to EC21 module.
- plus
If unused, keep it
open.
SGMII receiving
SGMII_RX_M 126 AI to EC21 module.
- minus
If unused, keep it
open.
Wireless Connectivity Interfaces
VOLmax=0.45V
VOHmin=1.35V
1.8V power domain.
SDC1_ WLAN SDIO data VILmin=-0.3V
129 IO If unused, keep it
DATA3 bus D3 VILmax=0.6V
open.
VIHmin=1.2V
VIHmax=2.0V
VOLmax=0.45V
VOHmin=1.35V
1.8V power domain.
open.
VIHmin=1.2V
VIHmax=2.0V
VOLmax=0.45V
VOHmin=1.35V
1.8V power domain.
open.
VIHmin=1.2V
VIHmax=2.0V
VOLmax=0.45V
VOHmin=1.35V
1.8V power domain.
open.
VIHmin=1.2V
VIHmax=2.0V
1.8V power domain.
WLAN SDIO bus VOLmax=0.45V
SDC1_CLK 133 DO If unused, keep it
clock VOHmin=1.35V
open.
1.8V power domain.
WLAN SDIO bus VOLmax=0.45V
SDC1_CMD 134 DO If unused, keep it
command VOHmin=1.35V
open.
1.8V power domain.
VOLmax=0.45V
PM_ENABLE 127 DO WLAN power control If unused, keep it
VOHmin=1.35V
open.
VILmin=-0.3V 1.8V power domain.
Wake up the host
WAKE_ON_ VILmax=0.6V Active low.
135 DI (EC21 module) by
WIRELESS VIHmin=1.2V If unused, keep it
FC20 module.
VIHmax=2.0V open.
1.8V power domain.
Active high.
WLAN function
VOLmax=0.45V Cannot be pulled up
WLAN_EN 136 DO control via FC20
VOHmin=1.35V before startup.
module
If unused, keep it
open.
1.8V power domain.

VILmin=-0.3V
Cannot be pulled up
COEX_UART_ LTE/WLAN&BT VILmax=0.6V
137 DI before startup.
RX coexistence signal VIHmin=1.2V
If unused, keep it
VIHmax=2.0V
open.
1.8V power domain.
Cannot be pulled up
COEX_UART_ LTE/WLAN&BT VOLmax=0.45V
138 DO before startup.
TX coexistence signal VOHmin=1.35V
If unused, keep it
open.
WLAN_SLP_ If unused, keep it
118 DO WLAN sleep clock
CLK open.
VILmin=-0.3V
1.8V power domain.
BT UART request to VILmax=0.6V
BT_RTS 37 DI If unused, keep it
send VIHmin=1.2V
open.
VIHmax=2.0V
1.8V power domain.
BT UART transmit VOLmax=0.45V
BT_TXD 38 DO If unused, keep it
data VOHmin=1.35V
open.
VILmin=-0.3V
1.8V power domain.
BT UART receive VILmax=0.6V
BT_RXD 39 DI If unused, keep it
data VIHmin=1.2V
open.
VIHmax=2.0V
1.8V power domain.
Cannot be pulled up
BT UART clear to VOLmax=0.45V
BT_CTS 40 DO before startup.
send VOHmin=1.35V
If unused, keep it
open.
1.8V power domain.
BT function control VOLmax=0.45V
BT_EN 139 DO If unused, keep it
via FC20 module VOHmin=1.35V
open.
RF Interfaces
50Ω impedance.
ANT_DIV 35 AI Diversity antenna If unused, keep it
open.
ANT_MAIN 49 IO Main antenna 50Ω impedance
50Ω impedance.
ANT_GNSS 47 AI GNSS antenna If unused, keep it
open.
Other Interface Pins
1.8V power domain.

Cannot be pulled up
VILmin=-0.3V
before startup.
VILmax=0.6V
WAKEUP_IN 1 DI Sleep mode control Low level wakes up
VIHmin=1.2V
the module.
VIHmax=2.0V
If unused, keep it
open.
1.8V power domain.
Pull-up by default.
VILmin=-0.3V
At low voltage level,
Airplane mode VILmax=0.6V
W_DISABLE# 4 DI module can enter
control VIHmin=1.2V
airplane mode.
VIHmax=2.0V
If unused, keep it
open.
VILmin=-0.3V
Application 1.8V power domain.
VILmax=0.6V
AP_READY 2 DI processor sleep If unused, keep it
VIHmin=1.2V
state detection open.
VIHmax=2.0V
USB_BOOT Interface
1.8V power domain.

VILmin=-0.3V
Force the module to Cannot be pulled up
VILmax=0.6V
USB_BOOT 115 DI enter emergency before startup.
VIHmin=1.2V
download mode. It is recommended to
VIHmax=2.0V
reserve test point.
RESERVED Pins
3, 18, 43,
55,
73~84, Keep these pins
RESERVED Reserved
113, 114, unconnected.
116, 117,
140-144.
NOTES
1)
1. PCM interface pins are multiplexing pins used for audio design on EC25 module and BT function on
FC20 module.
1. SD card, wireless connectivity and SGMII interfaces pins are not supported on ThreadX module.
2. BT function is under development.
3.4. Operating Modes
The table below briefly summarizes the various operating modes referred in the following chapters.
Table 5: Overview of Operating Modes
Mode Details
Software is active. The module has registered on the network, and it is

Idle
Normal ready to send and receive data.
Operation Network connection is ongoing. In this mode, the power consumption is
Talk/Data
decided by network setting and data transfer rate.
Minimum
AT+CFUN command can set the module to a minimum functionality mode without
Functionality
removing the power supply. In this case, both RF function and (U)SIM card will be invalid.
Mode
Airplane AT+CFUN command or W_DISABLE# pin can set the module to airplane mode. In this
Mode case, RF function will be invalid.
In this mode, the current consumption of the module will be reduced to the minimal level.
Sleep Mode During this mode, the module can still receive paging message, SMS, voice call and
TCP/UDP data from the network normally.
In this mode, the power management unit shuts down the power supply. Software is not
Power Down
active. The serial interface is not accessible. Operating voltage (connected to VBAT_RF
Mode
and VBAT_BB) remains applied.
3.5. Power Saving
3.5.1. Sleep Mode
EC21 is able to reduce its current consumption to a minimum value during the sleep mode. The following
section describes power saving procedures of EC21 module.
3.5.1.1. UART Application
If the host communicates with module via UART interface, the following preconditions can let the module
enter into sleep mode.
 Execute AT+QSCLK=1 command to enable sleep mode.

 Drive DTR to high level.
The following figure shows the connection between the module and the host.
Module Host
RXD TXD
TXD RXD
RI EINT
DTR GPIO
AP_READY GPIO
GND GND
Figure 3: Sleep Mode Application via UART
 Driving the host DTR to low level will wake up the module.
 When EC21 has a URC to report, RI signal will wake up the host. Please refer to Chapter 3.19 for
details about RI behaviors.
 AP_READY will detect the sleep state of the host (can be configured to high level or low level
detection). Please refer to AT+QCFG="apready" command for details.
3.5.1.2. USB Application with USB Remote Wakeup Function
If the host supports USB suspend/resume and remote wakeup functions, the following three preconditions
must be met to let the module enter sleep mode.

 Ensure the DTR is held at high level or keep it open.
 The host’s USB bus, which is connected with the module’s USB interface, enters suspend state.
Module Host
USB_VBUS VDD
USB_DP USB_DP
USB_DM USB_DM
AP_READY GPIO
GND GND
Figure 4: Sleep Mode Application with USB Remote Wakeup
Sending data to EC21 via USB will wake up the module.
 When EC21 has a URC to report, the module will send remote wake-up signals via USB bus so as to
wake up the host.
3.5.1.3. USB Application with USB Suspend/Resume and RI Function
If the host supports USB suspend and resume, but does not support remote wake-up function, the RI
signal is needed to wake up the host.
There are three preconditions to let the module enter sleep mode.

 The host’s USB bus, which is connected with the module’s USB interface, enters suspend state.
Module Host
USB_VBUS VDD
USB_DP USB_DP
USB_DM USB_DM
AP_READY GPIO
RI EINT
GND GND
Figure 5: Sleep Mode Application with RI
 Sending data to EC21 via USB will wake up the module.

 When EC21 has a URC to report, RI signal will wake up the host.
3.5.1.4. USB Application without USB Suspend Function
If the host does not support USB suspend function, USB_VBUS should be disconnected via an additional
control circuit to let the module enter sleep mode.

 Disconnect USB_VBUS.
Module Host
GPIO
Power
USB_VBUS Switch VDD
USB_DP USB_DP
USB_DM USB_DM
RI EINT
AP_READY GPIO
GND GND
Figure 6: Sleep Mode Application without Suspend Function
Switching on the power switch to supply power to USB_VBUS will wake up the module.
NOTE
Please pay attention to the level match shown in dotted line between the module and the host. For more
details about EC21 power management application, please refer to document [1].
3.5.2. Airplane Mode
When the module enters airplane mode, the RF function does not work, and all AT commands correlative
with RF function will be inaccessible. This mode can be set via the following ways.
Hardware:
The W_DISABLE# pin is pulled up by default. Driving it to low level will let the module enter airplane
mode.
Software:
AT+CFUN command provides the choice of the functionality level through setting <fun> into 0, 1 or 4.
 AT+CFUN=0: Minimum functionality mode. Both (U)SIM and RF functions are disabled.
 AT+CFUN=1: Full functionality mode (by default).
 AT+CFUN=4: Airplane mode. RF function is disabled.
NOTES
1. The W_DISABLE# control function is disabled in firmware by default. It can be enabled by

AT+QCFG="airplanecontrol" command, and this command is under development.
2. The execution of AT+CFUN command will not affect GNSS function.
3.6. Power Supply
3.6.1. Power Supply Pins
EC21 provides four VBAT pins for connection with the external power supply. There are two separate
voltage domains for VBAT.
 Two VBAT_RF pins for module’s RF part.

 Two VBAT_BB pins for module’s baseband part.
The following table shows the details of VBAT pins and ground pins.
Table 6: VBAT and GND Pins
Pin Name Pin No. Description Min. Typ. Max. Unit
Power supply for module’s

VBAT_RF 57, 58 3.3 3.8 4.3 V
RF part.
Power supply for module’s
VBAT_BB 59, 60 3.3 3.8 4.3 V
baseband part.
8, 9, 19, 22, 36,
GND 46, 48, 50~54, Ground - 0 - V
56, 72, 85~112
3.6.2. Decrease Voltage Drop
The power supply range of the module is from 3.3V to 4.3V. Please make sure that the input voltage will
never drop below 3.3V. The following figure shows the voltage drop during burst transmission in 2G
network. The voltage drop will be less in 3G and 4G networks.
Burst Burst
Transmission Transmission
VBAT Ripple
Drop
Min.3.3V
Figure 7: Power Supply Limits during Burst Transmission
To decrease voltage drop, a bypass capacitor of about 100µF with low ESR (ESR=0.7Ω) should be used,
and a multi-layer ceramic chip (MLCC) capacitor array should also be reserved due to its ultra-low ESR. It
is recommended to use three ceramic capacitors (100nF, 33pF, 10pF) for composing the MLCC array, and
place these capacitors close to VBAT_BB/VBAT_RF pins. The main power supply from an external
application has to be a single voltage source and can be expanded to two sub paths with star structure.
The width of VBAT_BB trace should be no less than 1mm; and the width of VBAT_RF trace should be no
less than 2mm. In principle, the longer the VBAT trace is, the wider it will be.
In addition, in order to avoid the damage caused by electric surge and ESD, it is suggested that a TVS
diode with suggested low reverse stand-off voltage VRWM 4.5V, low clamping voltage VC and high reverse
peak pulse current IPP should be used. The following figure shows the star structure of the power supply.
VBAT
VBAT_RF
VBAT_BB
+ +
D1 C1 C2 C3 C4 C5 C6 C7 C8
WS4.5D3HV 100uF 100nF 33pF 10pF 100uF 100nF 33pF 10pF
Module
Figure 8: Star Structure of the Power Supply
3.6.3. Reference Design for Power Supply
Power design for the module is very important, as the performance of the module largely depends on the
power source. The power supply should be able to provide sufficient current up to 2.0A at least. If the
voltage drop between the input and output is not too high, it is suggested that an LDO should be used to
supply power for the module. If there is a big voltage difference between the input source and the desired
output (VBAT), a buck converter is preferred to be used as the power supply.
The following figure shows a reference design for +5.0V input power source. The typical output of the
power supply is about 3.8V and the maximum load current is 3.0A.
MIC29302WU
DC_IN VBAT
2 4
IN GND OUT
ADJ
EN
100K
51K 1%
1
4.7K 470R
470uF 100nF
470uF 100nF
47K
VBAT_EN 47K 1%
Figure 9: Reference Circuit of Power Supply
NOTE
In order to avoid damaging internal flash, please do not switch off the power supply when the module
works normally. Only after the module is shut down by PWRKEY or AT command, then the power supply
can be cut off.
3.6.4. Monitor the Power Supply
AT+CBC command can be used to monitor the VBAT_BB voltage value. For more details, please refer to
document [2].
3.7. Power-on/off Scenarios
3.7.1. Turn on Module Using the PWRKEY
The following table shows the pin definition of PWRKEY.
Table 7: Pin Definition of PWRKEY
Pin Name Pin No. I/O Description Comment
The output voltage is 0.8V because of

PWRKEY 21 DI Turn on/off the module
the diode drop in the Qualcomm chipset.
When EC21 is in power down mode, it can be turned on to normal mode by driving the PWRKEY pin to a
low level for at least 500ms. It is recommended to use an open drain/collector driver to control the
PWRKEY. After STATUS pin (require external pull-up resistor) outputs a low level, PWRKEY pin can be
released. A simple reference circuit is illustrated in the following figure.
PWRKEY
≥ 500ms
4.7K
10nF
Turn-on pulse
47K
Figure 10: Turn on the Module by Using Driving Circuit
The other way to control the PWRKEY is using a button directly. When pressing the key, electrostatic
strike may generate from finger. Therefore, a TVS component is indispensable to be placed nearby the
button for ESD protection. A reference circuit is shown in the following figure.
S1
PWRKEY
TVS
Close to S1
Figure 11: Turn on the Module by Using Keystroke
The power-on scenario is illustrated in the following figure.
NOTE 1
VBA T ≥500ms
VH=0.8V
PWRKEY VIL≤0.5V
Abo ut 100ms
VDD_EXT
≥100ms. Afte r this time, the BOOT_CONFIG

pins ca n b e set h igh level b y exter nal circuit .
BOO T_CONFIG &
USB_BOO T Pin s
RESET_N
≥2.5s
STATUS
(OD)
≥12s
UART Inactive Active
≥13s
USB Inactive Active
Figure 12: Timing of Turning on Module
NOTES
1. Please make sure that VBAT is stable before pulling down PWRKEY pin. It is recommended that the
time between powering up VBAT and pulling down PWRKEY pin is no less than 30ms.
2. PWRKEY can be pulled down directly to GND with a recommended 10kΩ resistor if module needs to
be powered on automatically and shutdown is not needed.
3.7.2. Turn off Module
The following procedures can be used to turn off the module:
 Normal power-off procedure: Turn off the module using the PWRKEY pin.
 Normal power-off procedure: Turn off the module using AT+QPOWD command.
3.7.2.1. Turn off Module Using the PWRKEY Pin
Driving the PWRKEY pin to a low level voltage for at least 650ms, the module will execute power-off
procedure after the PWRKEY is released. The power-off scenario is illustrated in the following figure.
VBA T
≥650ms ≥29.5s
PWRKEY
STATUS
(OD)
Module RUNNING Power-off procedure OFF

Status
Figure 13: Timing of Turning off Module
3.7.2.2. Turn off Module Using AT Command
It is also a safe way to use AT+QPOWD command to turn off the module, which is similar to turning off the
module via PWRKEY pin.
Please refer to document [2] for details about AT+QPOWD command.
NOTE
1. In order to avoid damaging internal flash, please do not switch off the power supply when the module
works normally. Only after the module is shut down by PWRKEY or AT command, then the power
supply can be cut off.
2. When turning off module with AT command, please keep PWRKEY at high level after the execution of
power-off command. Otherwise the module will be turned on again after successfully turn-off.
3.8. Reset Module
The RESET_N pin can be used to reset the module. The module can be reset by driving RESET_N to a
low level voltage for time between 150ms and 460ms.
Table 8: Pin Definition of RESET_N
RESET_N 20 DI Reset the module 1.8V power domain
The recommended circuit is similar to the PWRKEY control circuit. An open drain/collector driver or button
can be used to control the RESET_N.
RESET_N
150ms~460ms
4.7K
Reset pulse
47K
Figure 14: Reference Circuit of RESET_N by Using Driving Circuit
S2
RESET_N
TVS
Close to S2
Figure 15: Reference Circuit of RESET_N by Using Button
The reset scenario is illustrated in the following figure.
VBAT
≤460ms
≥150ms
RESET_N VIH≥1.3V
VIL≤0.5V
Module
Running Resetting Restart
Status
Figure 16: Timing of Resetting Module
NOTES
1. Use RESET_N only when failed to turn off the module by AT+QPOWD command and PWRKEY pin.
2. Ensure that there is no large capacitance on PWRKEY and RESET_N pins.
3.9. (U)SIM Interface
The (U)SIM interface circuitry meets ETSI and IMT-2000 requirements. Both 1.8V and 3.0V (U)SIM cards
are supported.
Table 9: Pin Definition of (U)SIM Interface
Either 1.8V or 3.0V is supported

USIM_VDD 14 PO Power supply for (U)SIM card
by the module automatically.
USIM_DATA 15 IO Data signal of (U)SIM card
USIM_CLK 16 DO Clock signal of (U)SIM card
USIM_RST 17 DO Reset signal of (U)SIM card
USIM_ 1.8V power domain.

13 DI (U)SIM card insertion detection
PRESENCE If unused, keep it open.
USIM_GND 10 Specified ground for (U)SIM card
EC21 supports (U)SIM card hot-plug via the USIM_PRESENCE pin. The function supports low level and
high level detections, and is disabled by default. Please refer to document [2] for more details about
AT+QSIMDET command.
The following figure shows a reference design for (U)SIM interface with an 8-pin (U)SIM card connector.
VDD_EXT USIM_VDD
51K 15K
USIM_GND 100nF (U)SIM Card Connector
USIM_VDD
VCC GND
USIM_RST 0R
RST VPP
Module USIM_CLK
CLK IO
USIM_PRESENCE 0R
USIM_DATA 0R
GND
33pF 33pF 33pF
GND GND
Figure 17: Reference Circuit of (U)SIM Interface with an 8-pin (U)SIM Card Connector
If (U)SIM card detection function is not needed, please keep USIM_PRESENCE unconnected. A
reference circuit for (U)SIM interface with a 6-pin (U)SIM card connector is illustrated in the following
figure.
USIM_VDD
15K
USIM_GND 100nF
(U)SIM Card Connector
USIM_VDD
VCC GND
USIM_RST 0R
RST VPP
Module USIM_CLK
CLK IO
0R
USIM_DATA 0R
33pF 33pF 33pF
GND GND
Figure 18: Reference Circuit of (U)SIM Interface with a 6-pin (U)SIM Card Connector
In order to enhance the reliability and availability of the (U)SIM card in customers’ applications, please
follow the criteria below in (U)SIM circuit design:
 Keep placement of (U)SIM card connector to the module as close as possible. Keep the trace length
as less than 200mm as possible.
 Keep (U)SIM card signals away from RF and VBAT traces.
 Make sure the bypass capacitor between USIM_VDD and USIM_GND less than 1uF, and place it as
close to (U)SIM card connector as possible. If the ground is complete on customers’ PCB,
USIM_GND can be connected to PCB ground directly.
 To avoid cross-talk between USIM_DATA and USIM_CLK, keep them away from each other and
shield them with surrounded ground.
 In order to offer good ESD protection, it is recommended to add a TVS diode array whose parasitic
capacitance should not be more than 15pF. The 0Ω resistors should be added in series between the
module and the (U)SIM card to facilitate debugging. The 33pF capacitors are used for filtering
interference of EGSM900. Please note that the (U)SIM peripheral circuit should be close to the
(U)SIM card connector.
 The pull-up resistor on USIM_DATA line can improve anti-jamming capability when long layout trace
and sensitive occasion are applied, and should be placed close to the (U)SIM card connector.
3.10. USB Interface
EC21 contains one integrated Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface which complies with the USB 2.0
specification and supports high-speed (480Mbps) and full-speed (12Mbps) modes. The USB interface
can only serves as a slave device and is used for AT command communication, data transmission, GNSS
NMEA sentences output, software debugging, firmware upgrade and voice over USB. The following table
shows the pin definition of USB interface.
Table 10: Pin Description of USB Interface
USB_DP 69 IO USB differential data bus (+)
impedance of 90Ω
USB_DM 70 IO USB differential data bus (-)
impedance of 90Ω
USB power supply,
USB_VBUS 71 PI Typical 5.0V
used for USB detection
GND 72 Ground
For more details about the USB 2.0 specifications, please visit http://www.usb.org/home.
The USB interface is recommended to be reserved for firmware upgrade in customers’ designs. The
following figure shows a reference circuit of USB interface.
Test Points
Minimize these stubs
Module MCU
R3 NM_0R
VDD R4 NM_0R
USB_VBUS ESD Array
L1 USB_DM
USB_DM
USB_DP USB_DP
Close to Module GND

GND
Figure 19: Reference Circuit of USB Application
A common mode choke L1 is recommended to be added in series between the module and customer’s
MCU in order to suppress EMI spurious transmission. Meanwhile, the 0Ω resistors (R3 and R4) should be
added in series between the module and the test points so as to facilitate debugging, and the resistors are
not mounted by default. In order to ensure the integrity of USB data line signal, L1/R3/R4 components
must be placed close to the module, and also these resistors should be placed close to each other. The
extra stubs of trace must be as short as possible.
The following principles should be complied with when design the USB interface, so as to meet USB 2.0
specification.
 It is important to route the USB signal traces as differential pairs with total grounding. The impedance
of USB differential trace is 90Ω.
 Do not route signal traces under crystals, oscillators, magnetic devices and RF signal traces. It is
important to route the USB differential traces in inner-layer with ground shielding on not only upper
and lower layers but also right and left sides.
 Pay attention to the influence of junction capacitance of ESD protection components on USB data
lines. Typically, the capacitance value should be less than 2.0pF.
 Keep the ESD protection components to the USB connector as close as possible.
3.11. UART Interfaces
The module provides two UART interfaces: the main UART interface and the debug UART interface. The
following shows their features.
 The main UART interface supports 4800bps, 9600bps, 19200bps, 38400bps, 57600bps, 115200bps,
230400bps, 460800bps and 921600bps baud rates, and the default is 115200bps. This interface is
used for data transmission and AT command communication.
 The debug UART interface supports 115200bps baud rate. It is used for Linux console and log
output.
The following tables show the pin definition of the UART interfaces.
Table 11: Pin Definition of Main UART Interface
RI 62 DO Ring indicator
DCD 63 DO Data carrier detection
CTS 64 DO Clear to send
RTS 65 DI Request to send 1.8V power domain

Data terminal ready,
DTR 66 DI
sleep mode control
TXD 67 DO Transmit data
RXD 68 DI Receive data
Table 12: Pin Definition of Debug UART Interface
DBG_TXD 12 DO Transmit data

1.8V power domain
DBG_RXD 11 DI Receive data
The logic levels are described in the following table.
Table 13: Logic Levels of Digital I/O
Parameter Min. Max. Unit
VIL -0.3 0.6 V
VIH 1.2 2.0 V
VOL 0 0.45 V
VOH 1.35 1.8 V
The module provides 1.8V UART interface. A level translator should be used if customers’ application is
equipped with a 3.3V UART interface. A level translator TXS0108EPWR provided by Texas Instruments is
recommended. The following figure shows a reference design.
VDD_EXT VCCA VCCB VDD_MCU

0.1uF 0.1uF
10K
120K
OE GND
RI A1 B1 RI_MCU
DCD A2 B2 DCD_MCU
CTS A3 Translator B3 CTS_MCU
RTS A4 B4 RTS_MCU
DTR A5 B5 DTR_MCU
TXD A6 B6 TXD_MCU
RXD A7 B7 RXD_MCU
51K 51K
A8 B8
Figure 20: Reference Circuit with Translator Chip
Please visit http://www.ti.com for more information.
Another example with transistor translation circuit is shown as below. The circuit design of dotted line
section can refer to the design of solid line section, in terms of both module input and output circuit
designs, but please pay attention to the direction of connection.
4.7K
VDD_EXT VDD_EXT
1nF
MCU/ARM Module
10K
TXD RXD
RXD TXD
1nF
10K
VDD_EXT
VCC_MCU 4.7K
RTS RTS
CTS CTS
GPIO DTR
EINT RI
GPIO DCD
GND GND
Figure 21: Reference Circuit with Transistor Circuit
NOTE
Transistor circuit solution is not suitable for applications with high baud rates exceeding 460Kbps.
3.12. PCM and I2C Interfaces
EC21 provides one Pulse Code Modulation (PCM) digital interface for audio design, which supports the
following modes and one I2C interface:
 Primary mode (short frame synchronization, works as both master and slave)
 Auxiliary mode (long frame synchronization, works as master only)
In primary mode, the data is sampled on the falling edge of the PCM_CLK and transmitted on the rising
edge. The PCM_SYNC falling edge represents the MSB. In this mode, the PCM interface supports
256KHz, 512KHz, 1024KHz or 2048KHz PCM_CLK at 8KHz PCM_SYNC, and also supports 4096KHz
PCM_CLK at 16KHz PCM_SYNC.
In auxiliary mode, the data is sampled on the falling edge of the PCM_CLK and transmitted on the rising
edge. The PCM_SYNC rising edge represents the MSB. In this mode, the PCM interface operates with a
256KHz, 512KHz, 1024KHz or 2048KHz PCM_CLK and an 8KHz, 50% duty cycle PCM_SYNC.
EC21 supports 16-bit linear data format. The following figures show the primary mode’s timing
relationship with 8KHz PCM_SYNC and 2048KHz PCM_CLK, as well as the auxiliary mode’s timing
relationship with 8KHz PCM_SYNC and 256KHz PCM_CLK.
125us
PCM_CLK 1 2 255 256
PCM_SYNC
MSB LSB MSB
PCM_OUT
MSB LSB MSB
PCM_IN
Figure 22: Primary Mode Timing
125us
PCM_CLK 1 2 31 32
PCM_SYNC
MSB LSB
PCM_OUT
MSB LSB
PCM_IN
Figure 23: Auxiliary Mode Timing
The following table shows the pin definition of PCM and I2C interfaces which can be applied on audio
codec design.
Table 14: Pin Definition of PCM and I2C Interfaces
PCM_IN 24 DI PCM data input 1.8V power domain
PCM_OUT 25 DO PCM data output 1.8V power domain
PCM data frame

PCM_SYNC 26 IO 1.8V power domain
synchronization signal
PCM_CLK 27 IO PCM data bit clock 1.8V power domain
I2C_SCL 41 OD I2C serial clock Require external pull-up to 1.8V
I2C_SDA 42 OD I2C serial data Require external pull-up to 1.8V
Clock and mode can be configured by AT command, and the default configuration is master mode using
short frame synchronization format with 2048KHz PCM_CLK and 8KHz PCM_SYNC. Please refer to
document [2] for more details about AT+QDAI command.
The following figure shows a reference design of PCM interface with external codec IC.
MICBIAS
INP
BIAS
PCM_CLK BCLK
INN
PCM_SYNC LRCK
PCM_OUT DAC
PCM_IN ADC
LOUTP
I2C_SCL SCL
I2C_SDA SDA LOUTN
4.7K
4.7K
Module Codec
1.8V
Figure 24: Reference Circuit of PCM Application with Audio Codec
NOTES
1. It is recommended to reserve an RC (R=22Ω, C=22pF) circuits on the PCM lines, especially for
PCM_CLK.
2. EC21 works as a master device pertaining to I2C interface.
3.13. SD Card Interface
EC21 supports SDIO 3.0 interface for SD card.
The following table shows the pin definition of SD card interface.
Table 15: Pin Definition of SD Card Interface
SDC2_DATA3 28 IO SD card SDIO bus DATA3
SDC2_DATA2 29 IO SD card SDIO bus DATA2 SDIO signal level can be

selected according to SD
card supported level,
please refer to SD 3.0
protocol for more details.
SDC2_CLK 32 DO SD card SDIO bus clock If unused, keep it open.
SDC2_CMD 33 IO SD card SDIO bus command
1.8V/2.85V configurable.
Cannot be used for SD
VDD_SDIO 34 PO SD card SDIO bus pull up power
card power. If unused,
keep it open.
1.8V power domain.
SD_INS_DET 23 DI SD card insertion detection
The following figure shows a reference design of SD card.
Module VDD_EXT VDD_3V SD Card Connector

VDD_SDIO VDD
+
C10 C9 C8 C7
R7 R8 R9 R10 R11 R12
100uF 100nF 33pF 10pF
NM NM NM NM NM 470K
R1 0R
SDC2_DATA3 CD/DAT3
R2 0R
SDC2_DATA2 DAT2
R3 0R
SDC2_DATA1 DAT1
R4 0R
SDC2_DATA0 DAT0
R5 0R
SDC2_CLK CLK
R6 0R
SDC2_CMD CMD
SD_INS_DET DETECTIVE
C1 D1 C2 D2 C3 D3 C4 D4 C5 D5 D7 C6 D6
NM NM NM NM NM NM VSS
Figure 25: Reference Circuit of SD Card Interface
In SD card interface design, in order to ensure good communication performance with SD card, the
following design principles should be complied with:
 SD_INS_DET must be connected.

 The voltage range of SD card power supply VDD_3V is 2.7V~3.6V and a sufficient current up to 0.8A
should be provided. As the maximum output current of VDD_SDIO is 50mA which can only be used
for SDIO pull-up resistors, an externally power supply is needed for SD card.
 To avoid jitter of bus, resistors R7~R11 are needed to pull up the SDIO to VDD_SDIO. Value of these
resistors is among 10KΩ~100KΩ and the recommended value is 100KΩ. VDD_SDIO should be used
as the pull-up power.
 In order to adjust signal quality, it is recommended to add 0Ω resistors R1~R6 in series between the
module and the SD card. The bypass capacitors C1~C6 are reserved and not mounted by default. All
resistors and bypass capacitors should be placed close to the module.
 In order to offer good ESD protection, it is recommended to add a TVS diode on SD card pins near
the SD card connector with junction capacitance less than 15pF.
 Keep SDIO signals far away from other sensitive circuits/signals such as RF circuits, analog signals,
etc., as well as noisy signals such as clock signals, DCDC signals, etc.
 It is important to route the SDIO signal traces with total grounding. The impedance of SDIO data trace
is 50Ω (±10%).
 Make sure the adjacent trace spacing is two times of the trace width and the load capacitance of
SDIO bus should be less than 15pF.
 It is recommended to keep the trace length difference between CLK and DATA/CMD less than 1mm
and the total routing length less than 50mm. The total trace length inside the module is 27mm, so the
exterior total trace length should be less than 23mm.
NOTE
SD card interface is not supported on ThreadX module.
3.14. Wireless Connectivity Interfaces
EC21 supports a low-power SDIO 3.0 interface for WLAN and UART/PCM interfaces for BT function.
The following table shows the pin definition of wireless connectivity interfaces.
Table 16: Pin Definition of Wireless Connectivity Interfaces
WLAN Part
SDC1_DATA3 129 IO WLAN SDIO data bus D3 1.8V power domain
SDC1_CLK 133 DO WLAN SDIO bus clock 1.8V power domain
SDC1_CMD 134 IO WLAN SDIO bus command 1.8V power domain
1.8V power domain

WLAN function control via FC20 Active high.
WLAN_EN 136 DO
module. It cannot be pulled up
before startup
Coexistence and Control Part
1.8V power domain.

PM_ENABLE 127 DO WLAN power control
Active high.
WAKE_ON_ Wake up the host (EC21
135 DI 1.8V power domain
WIRELESS module) by FC20 module
1.8V power domain.
LTE/WLAN&BT coexistence
COEX_UART_RX 137 DI It cannot be pulled up
signal
before startup
1.8V power domain.
LTE/WLAN&BT coexistence
COEX_UART_TX 138 DO It cannot be pulled up
signal
before startup
WLAN_SLP_CLK 118 DO WLAN sleep clock
BT Part
BT_RTS 37 DI BT UART request to send 1.8V power domain
BT_TXD 38 DO BT UART transmit data 1.8V power domain
BT_RXD 39 DI BT UART receive data 1.8V power domain
1.8V power domain

BT_CTS 40 DO BT UART clear to send It cannot be pulled up
before startup
PCM_IN1) 24 DI PCM data input 1.8V power domain
PCM_OUT1) 25 DO PCM data output 1.8V power domain
PCM data frame synchronization

PCM_SYNC1) 26 IO 1.8V power domain
signal
PCM_CLK1) 27 IO PCM data bit clock 1.8V power domain
BT function control via FC20 1.8V power domain

BT_EN 139 DO
module. Active high.
The following figure shows a reference design of wireless connectivity interfaces with Quectel FC20
module.
Module FC20 Module
PM_ENABL E DCDC/LDO VDD_3V3

POWER
VDD_EXT VIO
SDC1_DATA3 SDIO_D3
SDC1_DATA2 SDIO_D2
SDC1_DATA1 SDIO_D1
SDC1_DATA0 SDIO_D0
WLAN SDC1_CLK SDIO_CLK
SDC1_CMD SDIO_CMD
WLAN_EN WLAN_EN
WLAN_SLP_CLK 32KHZ_IN
WAKE_ON_WIREL ESS WAKE_ON_WIREL ESS
COEX_UART_RX LTE_UART_TXD
COEX
COEX_UART_TX LTE_UART_RXD
BT_EN BT_EN
BT_RTS BT_UART_RTS
BT_CTS BT_UART_CTS
BT_TXD BT_UART_RXD
Bluetooth* BT_RXD BT_UART_TXD
PCM_IN PCM_OUT
PCM_OUT PCM_IN
PCM_SYNC PCM_SYNC
PCM_CLK PCM_CLK
Figure 26: Reference Circuit of Wireless Connectivity Interfaces with FC20 Module
NOTES
1. FC20 module can only be used as a slave device.

2. When BT function is enabled on EC21 module, PCM_SYNC and PCM_CLK pins are only used to
output signals. BT function is under development.
1) Pads 24~27 are multiplexing pins used for audio design on EC21 module and BT function on BT
3.
module.
4. Wireless connectivity interfaces are not supported on ThreadX module.
5. For more information about wireless connectivity interfaces, please refer to document [5].
3.14.1. WLAN Interface
EC21 provides a low power SDIO 3.0 interface and control interface for WLAN design.
SDIO interface supports the SDR mode (up to 50MHz).
As SDIO signals are very high-speed, in order to ensure the SDIO interface design corresponds with the
SDIO 3.0 specification, please comply with the following principles:
 It is important to route the SDIO signal traces with total grounding. The impedance of SDIO signal
trace is 50Ω±10%.
 Keep SDIO signals far away from other sensitive circuits/signals such as RF circuits, analog signals,
etc., as well as noisy signals such as clock signals, DCDC signals, etc.
 It is recommended to keep matching length between CLK and DATA/CMD less than 1mm and total
routing length less than 50mm.
 Keep termination resistors within 15Ω~24Ω on clock lines near the module and keep the route
distance from the module clock pins to termination resistors less than 5mm.
 Make sure the adjacent trace spacing is 2 times of the trace width and bus capacitance is less than
15pF.
3.14.2. BT Interface*
EC21 supports a dedicated UART interface and a PCM interface for BT application.
Further information about BT interface will be added in future version of this document.
NOTE
“*” means under development.
3.15. ADC Interfaces
The module provides two analog-to-digital converter (ADC) interfaces. AT+QADC=0 command can be
used to read the voltage value on ADC0 pin. AT+QADC=1 command can be used to read the voltage
value on ADC1 pin. For more details about these AT commands, please refer to document [2].
In order to improve the accuracy of ADC, the trace of ADC should be surrounded by ground.
Table 17: Pin Definition of ADC Interfaces
Pin Name Pin No. Description
ADC0 45 General purpose analog to digital converter
ADC1 44 General purpose analog to digital converter
The following table describes the characteristic of ADC function.
Table 18: Characteristic of ADC
Parameter Min. Typ. Max. Unit
ADC0 Voltage Range 0.3 VBAT_BB V
ADC1 Voltage Range 0.3 VBAT_BB V
ADC Resolution 15 bits
NOTES
1. ADC input voltage must not exceed that of VBAT_BB.

2. It is prohibited to supply any voltage to ADC pins when VBAT power supply is removed.
3. It is recommended to use a resistor divider circuit for ADC application.
3.16. SGMII Interface
EC21 includes an integrated Ethernet MAC with an SGMII interface and two management interfaces. The
key features of the SGMII interface are shown below:
 IEEE802.3 compliant
 Support 10M/100M/1000M Ethernet work mode
 Support VLAN tagging
 Support IEEE1588 and Precision Time Protocol (PTP)
 Can be used to connect to external Ethernet PHY like AR8033, or to an external switch
 Management interfaces support dual voltage 1.8V/2.85V
The following table shows the pin definition of SGMII interface.
Table 19: Pin Definition of SGMII Interface
Control Signal Part
EPHY_RST_N 119 DO Ethernet PHY reset 1.8V/2.85V power domain
EPHY_INT_N 120 DI Ethernet PHY interrupt 1.8V power domain

SGMII MDIO (Management Data
SGMII_MDATA 121 IO 1.8V/2.85V power domain
Input/Output) data
SGMII MDIO (Management Data
SGMII_MCLK 122 DO 1.8V/2.85V power domain
Input/Output) clock
Configurable power source.
SGMII MDIO pull-up power 1.8V/2.85V power domain.
USIM2_VDD 128 PO
source External pull-up power source for
SGMII MDIO pins.
SGMII Signal Part
Connect with a 0.1uF capacitor,

SGMII_TX_M 123 AO SGMII transmission - minus
close to the PHY side.
SGMII_TX_P 124 AO SGMII transmission - plus
close to the PHY side.
SGMII_RX_P 125 AI SGMII receiving - plus
close to EC21 module.
SGMII_RX_M 126 AI SGMII receiving - minus
close to EC21 module.
The following figure shows the simplified block diagram for Ethernet application.
SGMII
MDI Ethernet
Module AR8033 RJ45
Transformer
Control
Figure 27: Simplified Block Diagram for Ethernet Application
The following figure shows a reference design of SGMII interface with PHY AR8033 application.
Module R1 10K AR8033

VDD_EXT
R2 1.5K
USIM2_VDD
EPHY_INT_N
INT
EPHY_RST_N
RSTN
Control SGMII_MDATA
MDIO
SGMII_MCLK
MDC
USIM2_VDD USIM2_VDD
Close to Module
SGMII_RX_P C1 0.1uF SOP
SGMII_RX_M C2 0.1uF SON

SGMII Data
SGMII_TX_P 0.1uF C3 SIP
SGMII_TX_M 0.1uF C4 SIN
Close to AR8033
Figure 28: Reference Circuit of SGMII Interface with PHY AR8033 Application
In order to enhance the reliability and availability in customers’ applications, please follow the criteria
below in the Ethernet PHY circuit design:
 Keep SGMII data and control signals away from other sensitive circuits/signals such as RF circuits,
analog signals, etc., as well as noisy signals such as clock signals, DC-DC signals, etc.
 Keep the maximum trace length less than 10 inch and keep skew on the differential pairs less than
20mil.
 The differential impedance of SGMII data trace is 100Ω±10%, and the reference ground of the area
should be complete.
 Make sure the trace spacing between SGMII RX and TX is at least 3 times of the trace width, and the
same to the adjacent signal traces.
NOTE
SGMII interface is not supported on ThreadX module.
3.17. Network Status Indication
The network indication pins can be used to drive network status indication LEDs. The module provides
two pins which are NET_MODE and NET_STATUS. The following tables describe the pin definition and
logic level changes in different network status.
Table 20: Pin Definition of Network Connection Status/Activity Indicator
1.8V power domain.

Indicate the module’s network registration
NET_MODE 5 DO Cannot be pulled up
mode
before startup
Indicate the module’s network activity
NET_STATUS 6 DO 1.8V power domain
status
Table 21: Working State of Network Connection Status/Activity Indicator
Pin Name Logic Level Changes Network Status
Always High Registered on LTE network

NET_MODE
Always Low Others
Flicker slowly (200ms High/1800ms Low) Network searching
Flicker slowly (1800ms High/200ms Low) Idle

NET_STATUS
Flicker quickly (125ms High/125ms Low) Data transfer is ongoing
Always High Voice calling
A reference circuit is shown in the following figure.
VBAT
Module
2.2K
Network 4.7K
Indicator
47K
Figure 29: Reference Circuit of the Network Indicator
3.18. STATUS
The STATUS pin is an open drain output for indicating the module’s operation status. It can be connected
to a GPIO of DTE with a pull-up resistor, or as LED indication circuit as below. When the module is turned
on normally, the STATUS will present the low state. Otherwise, the STATUS will present high-impedance
state.
Table 22: Pin Definition of STATUS
An external pull-up resistor

STATUS 61 OD Indicate the module’s operation status is required.
The following figure shows different circuit designs of STATUS, and customers can choose either one
according to customers’ application demands.
VBAT
VDD_MCU
10K
2.2K
STATUS MCU_GPIO STATUS
Module Module
Figure 30: Reference Circuits of STATUS
NOTES
The status pin cannot be used as indication of module shutdown status when VBAT power supply is
removed.
3.19. Behaviors of RI
AT+QCFG="risignaltype","physical" command can be used to configure RI behavior.
No matter on which port URC is presented, the URC will trigger the behaviors of RI pin.
NOTE
URC can be outputted from UART port, USB AT port and USB modem port through configuration via
AT+QURCCFG command. The default port is USB AT port.
In addition, RI behavior can be configured flexibly. The default behaviors of the RI is shown as below.
Table 23: Behaviors of RI
State Response
Idle RI keeps at high level
URC RI outputs 120ms low pulse when a new URC returns
The RI behavior can be changed by AT+QCFG="urc/ri/ring" command. Please refer to document [2] for
details.
3.20. USB_BOOT Interface
EC21 provides a USB_BOOT pin. Customers can pull up USB_BOOT to 1.8V before VDD_EXT is
powered up, and the module will enter emergency download mode when it is powered on. In this mode,
the module supports firmware upgrade over USB interface.
Table 24: Pin Definition of USB_BOOT Interface
1.8V power domain.

Force the module to enter Active high.
USB_BOOT 115 DI
emergency download mode It is recommended to
reserve a test point.
The following figure shows a reference circuit of USB_BOOT interface.
Module
VDD_EXT
Test point
4.7K
USB_BOOT
Close to test point
TVS
Figure 31: Reference Circuit of USB_BOOT Interface
NOTE 1
VBAT ≥500ms
VH=0.8V
PWRKEY VIL≤0.5V
About 100ms
VDD_EXT USB_BOOT can be pul led up to 1.8V before

VDD_EXT Is powered up, and the module will
enter emerge ncy download mode wh en i t is
powered on.
USB_BOOT
RESET_N
Figure 32: Timing Sequence for Entering Emergency Download Mode
NOTES
1. Please make sure that VBAT is stable before pulling down PWRKEY pin. It is recommended that the
time between powering up VBAT and pulling down PWRKEY pin is no less than 30ms.
2. When using MCU to control module to enter the emergency download mode, please follow the above
timing sequence. It is not recommended to pull up USB_BOOT to 1.8V before powering up VBAT.
Short the test points as shown in Figure 31 can manually force the module to enter download mode.
4 GNSS Receiver
EC21 includes a fully integrated global navigation satellite system solution that supports Gen8C-Lite of
Qualcomm (GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo and QZSS).
EC21 supports standard NMEA-0183 protocol, and outputs NMEA sentences at 1Hz data update rate via
USB interface by default.
By default, EC21 GNSS engine is switched off. It has to be switched on via AT command. For more details
about GNSS engine technology and configurations, please refer to document [3].
4.2. GNSS Performance
The following table shows the GNSS performance of EC21.
Table 25: GNSS Performance
Parameter Description Conditions Typ. Unit
Cold start Autonomous -146 dBm

Sensitivity
Reacquisition Autonomous -157 dBm
(GNSS)
Tracking Autonomous -157 dBm
Autonomous 35 s
Cold start
@open sky
XTRA enabled 18 s
TTFF
(GNSS)
Autonomous 26 s
Warm start
@open sky
XTRA enabled 2.2 s
Autonomous 2.5 s
Hot start
@open sky
XTRA enabled 1.8 s
Accuracy Autonomous
CEP-50 <2.5 m
(GNSS) @open sky
NOTES
1. Tracking sensitivity: the lowest GNSS signal value at the antenna port on which the module can keep
on positioning for 3 minutes.
2. Reacquisition sensitivity: the lowest GNSS signal value at the antenna port on which the module can
fix position again within 3 minutes after loss of lock.
3. Cold start sensitivity: the lowest GNSS signal value at the antenna port on which the module fixes
position within 3 minutes after executing cold start command.
4.3. Layout Guidelines
The following layout guidelines should be taken into account in customers’ designs.
 Maximize the distance among GNSS antenna, main antenna and Rx-diversity antenna.
 Digital circuits such as (U)SIM card, USB interface, camera module and display connector should be
kept away from the antennas.
 Use ground vias around the GNSS trace and sensitive analog signal traces to provide coplanar
isolation and protection.
 Keep 50Ω characteristic impedance for the ANT_GNSS trace.
Please refer to Chapter 5 for GNSS antenna reference design and antenna installation information.
5 Antenna Interfaces
EC21 antenna interfaces include a main antenna interface, an Rx-diversity antenna interface which is
used to resist the fall of signals caused by high speed movement and multipath effect, and a GNSS
antenna interface. The antenna ports have an impedance of 50Ω.
5.1. Main/Rx-diversity Antenna Interfaces
5.1.1. Pin Definition
The pin definition of main antenna and Rx-diversity antenna interfaces is shown below.
Table 26: Pin Definition of RF Antennas
ANT_MAIN 49 IO Main antenna 50Ω impedance
50Ω impedance.
ANT_DIV 35 AI Receive diversity antenna
5.1.2. Operating Frequency
Table 27: Module Operating Frequencies
3GPP Band Transmit Receive Unit
GSM850 824~849 869~894 MHz
EGSM900 880~915 925~960 MHz
DCS1800 1710~1785 1805~1880 MHz
PCS1900 1850~1910 1930~1990 MHz
WCDMA B1 1920~1980 2110~2170 MHz
WCDMA B2 1850~1910 1930~1990 MHz
WCDMA B4 1710~1755 2110~2155 MHz
WCDMA B5 824~849 869~894 MHz
WCDMA B8 880~915 925~960 MHz
LTE-FDD B1 1920~1980 2110~2170 MHz
LTE-FDD B2 1850~1910 1930~1990 MHz
LTE-FDD B3 1710~1785 1805~1880 MHz
LTE-FDD B4 1710~1755 2110~2155 MHz
LTE-FDD B5 824~849 869~894 MHz
LTE-FDD B7 2500~2570 2620~2690 MHz
LTE-FDD B8 880~915 925~960 MHz
LTE-FDD B12 699~716 729~746 MHz
LTE-FDD B13 777~787 746~756 MHz
LTE-FDD B18 815~830 860~875 MHz
LTE-FDD B19 830~845 875~890 MHz
LTE-FDD B20 832~862 791~821 MHz
LTE-FDD B26 814~849 859~894 MHz
LTE-FDD B28 703~748 758~803 MHz
LTE-TDD B40 2300~2400 2300~2400 MHz
5.1.3. Reference Design of RF Antenna Interface
A reference design of ANT_MAIN and ANT_DIV antenna pads is shown as below. A π-type matching
circuit should be reserved for better RF performance. The capacitors are not mounted by default.
Main
Module antenna
R1 0R
ANT_MAIN
C1 C2
NM NM
Diversity
antenna
R2 0R
ANT_DIV
C3 C4
NM NM
Figure 33: Reference Circuit of RF Antenna Interface
NOTES
1. Keep a proper distance between the main antenna and the Rx-diversity antenna to improve the
receiving sensitivity.
2. ANT_DIV function is enabled by default. AT+QCFG="diversity",0 command can be used to disable
receive diversity. Please refer to document [2] for details.
3. Place the π-type matching components (R1&C1&C2, R2&C3&C4) as close to the antenna as
possible.
5.1.4. Reference Design of RF Layout
For user’s PCB, the characteristic impedance of all RF traces should be controlled as 50Ω. The
impedance of the RF traces is usually determined by the trace width (W), the materials’ dielectric constant,
height from the reference ground to the signal layer (H), and the space between the RF trace and the
ground (S). Microstrip and coplanar waveguide are typically used in RF layout to control characteristic
impedance. The following figures are reference designs of microstrip or coplanar waveguide with different
PCB structures.
Figure 34: Microstrip Design on a 2-layer PCB
Figure 35: Coplanar Waveguide Design on a 2-layer PCB
Figure 36: Coplanar Waveguide Design on a 4-layer PCB (Layer 3 as Reference Ground)
Figure 37: Coplanar Waveguide Design on a 4-layer PCB (Layer 4 as Reference Ground)
In order to ensure RF performance and reliability, the following principles should be complied with in RF
layout design:
 Please use an impedance simulation tool to control the characteristic impedance of RF traces as
50Ω.
 The GND pins adjacent to RF pins should not be designed as thermal relief pads, and should be fully
connected to ground.
 The distance between the RF pins and the RF connector should be as short as possible, and all the
right angle traces should be changed to curved ones.
 There should be clearance area under the signal pin of the antenna connector or solder joint.
 The reference ground of RF traces should be complete. Meanwhile, adding some ground vias around
RF traces and the reference ground could help to improve RF performance. The distance between
the ground vias and RF traces should be no less than two times the width of RF signal traces (2*W).
For more details about RF layout, please refer to document [6].
5.2. GNSS Antenna Interface
The following tables show the pin definition and frequency specification of GNSS antenna interface.
Table 28: Pin Definition of GNSS Antenna Interface
50Ω impedance.
ANT_GNSS 47 AI GNSS antenna
Table 29: GNSS Frequency
Type Frequency Unit
GPS 1575.42±1.023 MHz
GLONASS 1597.5~1605.8 MHz
Galileo 1575.42±2.046 MHz
BeiDou 1561.098±2.046 MHz
QZSS 1575.42 MHz
A reference design of GNSS antenna is shown as below.
VDD
0.1uF GNSS
10R
Antenna
Module
47nH
0R 100pF
ANT_GNSS
NM NM
Figure 38: Reference Circuit of GNSS Antenna
NOTES
1. An external LDO can be selected to supply power according to the active antenna requirement.
2. If the module is designed with a passive antenna, then the VDD circuit is not needed.
5.3. Antenna Installation
5.3.1. Antenna Requirement
The following table shows the requirements on main antenna, Rx-diversity antenna and GNSS antenna.
Table 30: Antenna Requirements
Type Requirements
Frequency range: 1559MHz~1609MHz

Polarization: RHCP or linear
VSWR: < 2 (Typ.)
GNSS1) Passive antenna gain: > 0dBi
Active antenna noise figure: <1.5dB
Active antenna gain: > 0dBi
Active antenna embedded LNA gain: < 17dB
VSWR: ≤ 2
Efficiency: > 30%
Max input power: 50W
Input impedance: 50Ω
Cable insertion loss: <1dB
GSM/WCDMA/LTE (GSM850, EGSM900, WCDMA B5/B8,
LTE-FDD B5/B8/B12/B13/B18/B19/B20/B26/B28)
Cable insertion loss: <1.5dB
(DCS1800, PCS1900, WCDMA B1/B2/B4, LTE B1/B2/B3/B4)
Cable insertion loss <2dB
(LTE-FDD B7, LTE-TDD B40)
NOTE
1) It
is recommended to use a passive GNSS antenna when LTE B13 or B14 is supported, as the use of
active antenna may generate harmonics which will affect the GNSS performance.
5.3.2. Recommended RF Connector for Antenna Installation
If RF connector is used for antenna connection, it is recommended to use U.FL-R-SMT connector

provided by Hirose.
Figure 39: Dimensions of the U.FL-R-SMT Connector (Unit: mm)
U.FL-LP serial connectors listed in the following figure can be used to match the U.FL-R-SMT.
Figure 40: Mechanicals of U.FL-LP Connectors
The following figure describes the space factor of mated connector.
Figure 41: Space Factor of Mated Connector (Unit: mm)
For more details, please visit http://www.hirose.com.
6 Electrical, Reliability and Radio

Characteristics
6.1. Absolute Maximum Ratings
Absolute maximum ratings for power supply and voltage on digital and analog pins of the module are
listed in the following table.
Table 31: Absolute Maximum Ratings
Parameter Min. Max. Unit
VBAT_RF/VBAT_BB -0.3 4.7 V
USB_VBUS -0.3 5.5 V
Peak Current of VBAT_BB 0 0.8 A
Peak Current of VBAT_RF 0 1.8 A
Voltage at Digital Pins -0.3 2.3 V
Voltage at ADC0 0 VBAT_BB V
Voltage at ADC1 0 VBAT_BB V
6.2. Power Supply Ratings
Table 32: Power Supply Ratings
Parameter Description Conditions Min. Typ. Max. Unit
The actual input voltages

VBAT_BB and must be kept between the
3.3 3.8 4.3 V
VBAT_RF minimum and maximum
VBAT
values.
Voltage drop during Maximum power control
400 mV
burst transmission level on EGSM900
Peak supply current
Maximum power control
IVBAT (during transmission 1.8 2.0 A
level on EGSM900
slot)
USB power supply,
USB_VBUS used for USB 3.0 5.0 5.25 V
detection
6.3. Operation and Storage Temperatures
The operation and storage temperatures are listed in the following table.
Table 33: Operation and Storage Temperatures
Parameter Min. Typ. Max. Unit
Operation Temperature Range1) -35 +25 +75 ºC
Extended Temperature Range2) -40 +85 ºC
Storage Temperature Range -40 +90 ºC
NOTES
1) Within
1. operation temperature range, the module is 3GPP compliant.
2)
2. Within extended temperature range, the module remains the ability to establish and maintain a
voice, SMS, data transmission, emergency call* (emergency call is not supported on ThreadX
modules), etc. There is no unrecoverable malfunction. There are also no effects on radio spectrum
and no harm to radio network. Only one or more parameters like Pout might reduce in their value and
exceed the specified tolerances. When the temperature returns to the normal operation temperature
levels, the module will meet 3GPP specifications again.
3. “*” means under development.
6.4. Current Consumption
The values of current consumption are shown below.
Table 34: EC21-E Current Consumption
OFF state Power down 13 uA
AT+CFUN=0 (USB disconnected) 1.4 mA
EGSM900 @DRX=9 (USB disconnected) 1.8 mA
DCS1800 @DRX=9 (USB disconnected) 1.8 mA
Sleep state WCDMA PF=64 (USB disconnected) 2.4 mA
WCDMA PF=128 (USB disconnected) 1.9 mA
LTE-FDD PF=64 (USB disconnected) 3.2 mA

IVBAT
EGSM900 @DRX=5 (USB connected) 32.0 mA

Idle state
(GNSS OFF)
WCDMA PF=64 (USB connected) 32.7 mA
LTE-FDD PF=64 (USB connected) 32.5 mA
EGSM900 4DL/1UL @32.3dBm 220 mA

GPRS data transfer
(GNSS OFF)
DCS1800 4DL/1UL @29.6dBm 185 mA
DCS1800 3DL/2UL @29.1dBm 305 mA
DCS1800 2DL/3UL @28.8dBm 431 mA
DCS1800 1DL/4UL @29.1dBm 540 mA
EGSM900 4DL/1UL @26dBm 148 mA

EDGE data transfer
(GNSS OFF)
DCS1800 4DL/1UL @26dBm 150 mA
WCDMA B1 HSDPA @22.5dBm 659 mA
WCDMA B1 HSUPA @21.11dBm 545 mA

WCDMA data transfer
(GNSS OFF)
LTE-FDD B1 @23.45dBm 807 mA

LTE data transfer
(GNSS OFF)
EGSM900 PCL=5 @33.08dBm 264.0 mA

GSM voice call
DCS1800 PCL=0 @29.75dBm 190.0 mA
WCDMA B1 @23.69dBm 683 mA
WCDMA voice call WCDMA B5 @23.61dBm 741 mA
WCDMA B8 @23.35dBm 564 mA
Table 35: EC21-A Current Consumption

Idle state
IVBAT
(GNSS OFF)
WCDMA B2 HSDPA @21.54dBm 479.0 mA
WCDMA B2 HSUPA @22.19dBm 530.0 mA

WCDMA data transfer
(GNSS OFF)
LTE-FDD B2 @23.11dBm 721.0 mA

LTE data transfer
(GNSS OFF)
WCDMA B2 @22.97dBm 565.0 mA
WCDMA voice call WCDMA B4 @22.91dBm 590.0 mA
Table 36: EC21-V Current Consumption
Sleep state LTE-FDD PF=64 (USB disconnected) 2.85 mA

IVBAT
Idle state
(GNSS OFF)

LTE data transfer
(GNSS OFF)
Table 37: EC21-AUT Current Consumption
IVBAT WCDMA PF=64 (USB disconnected) 2.1 mA

Sleep state

Idle state
(GNSS OFF)
WCDMA data WCDMA B1 HSUPA @22.29dBm 623.0 mA

transfer
(GNSS OFF) WCDMA B5 HSDPA @22.22dBm 511.0 mA

LTE data
transfer LTE-FDD B5 @23.12dBm 613.0 mA
(GNSS OFF)

WCDMA voice
call
Table 38: EC21-AUV Current Consumption

IVBAT

Idle state
(GNSS OFF)
WCDMA data WCDMA B5 HSDPA @22.95dBm 605.0 mA

transfer
(GNSS OFF) WCDMA B5 HSUPA @22.87dBm 610.0 mA

LTE data transfer
(GNSS OFF)
WCDMA voice call WCDMA B5 @23.32dBm 616.0 mA
Table 39: EC21-J Current Consumption

IVBAT

Idle state
(GNSS OFF)

LTE data transfer
(GNSS OFF)
Table 40: EC21-KL Current Consumption

Idle state
(GNSS OFF)
IVBAT LTE-FDD PF=64 (USB connected) 33.5 mA

LTE data transfer
(GNSS OFF)
Table 41: EC21-EU Current Consumption
OFF state Power down 12.8 uA
GSM DRX=2 (USB disconnected) 3.0 mA
EGSM900 @DRX=5 (USB connected) 27.7 mA

Idle state
(GNSS OFF)
IVBAT WCDMA PF=64 (USB connected) 27.9 mA
EGSM900 4DL/1UL @33.80dBm 264.3 mA
EGSM900 3DL/2UL @32.57dBm 419.8 mA
EGSM900 2DL/3UL @30.26dBm 481.5 mA
EGSM900 1DL/4UL @28.94dBm 553.2 mA

GPRS data transfer
(GNSS OFF)
DCS1800 4DL/1UL @31.13dBm 178.3 mA
DCS1800 3DL/2UL @30.28dBm 293.6 mA
DCS1800 2DL/3UL @28.21dBm 354.3 mA
DCS1800 1DL/4UL @27.05dBm 424.7 mA
EDGE data transfer EGSM900 4DL/1UL @27.08dBm 147.1 mA
(GNSS OFF) EGSM900 3DL/2UL @25.91dBm 240.0 mA
EGSM900 2DL/3UL @23.83dBm 296.2 mA
EGSM900 1DL/4UL @22.73dBm 357.1 mA
DCS1800 4DL/1UL @26.65dBm 138.7 mA
DCS1800 3DL/2UL @25.61dBm 227.4 mA
DCS1800 2DL/3UL @23.46dBm 302.8 mA
DCS1800 1DL/4UL @22.19dBm 381.7 mA

WCDMA data transfer
(GNSS OFF)

LTE data transfer
(GNSS OFF)
LTE-FDD B28A @23.34dBm 748.1 mA
GSM900 PCL=5 @33.85dBm 279.9 mA

GSM voice call
DCS1800 PCL=0 @31.20dBm 189.5 mA

WCDMA voice call
Table 42: EC21-EC Current Consumption
GSM DRX=5 (USB connected) 27.3 mA

Idle state
(GNSS OFF)
IVBAT WCDMA PF=64 (USB connected) 26.3 mA
EGSM900 4DL/1UL @33.65dBm 270.8 mA
EGSM900 3DL/2UL @33.41dBm 491.2 mA
EGSM900 2DL/3UL @30.08dBm 496.3 mA
GPRS data EGSM900 1DL/4UL @28.75dBm 566.0 mA

transfer
(GNSS OFF) DCS1800 4DL/1UL @30.05dBm 167.7 mA
DCS1800 3DL/2UL @29.99dBm 273.1 mA
DCS1800 2DL/3UL @29.79dBm 378.8 mA
DCS1800 1DL/4UL @29.85dBm 488.0 mA
EDGE data EGSM900 4DL/1UL PCL=8 @24.73dBm 164.3 mA
transfer EGSM900 3DL/2UL PCL=8 @24.47dBm 277.6 mA

(GNSS OFF)
EGSM900 2DL/3UL PCL=8 @24.99dBm 389.8 mA
DCS1800 4DL/1UL PCL=2 @25.91dBm 149.6 mA
WCDMA data WCDMA B1 HSUPA @22.59dBm 601.4 mA

transfer
(GNSS OFF) WCDMA B8 HSDPA @22.76dBm 496.7 mA
LTE data LTE-FDD B7 @24.47dBm 744.4 mA

transfer
(GNSS OFF) LTE-FDD B8 @24.07dBm 586.0 mA
EGSM900 PCL=5 @33.29dBm 269.3 mA

GSM voice call
DCS1800 PCL=0 @29.69dBm 158.1 mA

WCDMA voice
call
Table 43: EC21-AUX Current Consumption
LTE-TDD PF=64 (USB disconnected) 2.68 mA
IVBAT GSM DRX=5 (USB connected) 33.7 mA

Idle state
(GNSS OFF)
LTE-TDD PF=64 (USB connected) 34.0 mA
GSM850 4DL/1UL @32.41dBm 236.2 mA
GSM850 3DL/2UL @31.48dBm 380.2 mA

GPRS data
transfer GSM850 2DL/3UL @29.31dBm 446.2 mA
(GNSS OFF)
GSM850 1DL/4UL @28.21dBm 527.7 mA
EGSM900 4DL/1UL @33.06dBm 259.0 mA
EGSM900 3DL/2UL @31.74dBm 398.0 mA
EGSM900 2DL/3UL @29.32dBm 448.0 mA
EGSM900 1DL/4UL @28.30dBm 532.0 mA
DCS1800 4DL/1UL @29.20dBm 149.0 mA
DCS1800 3DL/2UL @28.16dBm 225.0 mA
DCS1800 2DL/3UL @26.05dBm 283.0 mA
DCS1800 1DL/4UL @25.14dBm 357.0 mA
PCS1900 4DL/1UL @29.39dBm 159.7 mA
PCS1900 3DL/2UL @28.06dBm 234.6 mA
PCS1900 2DL/3UL @26.01dBm 289.0 mA
PCS1900 1DL/4UL @25.20dBm 363.9 mA
GSM850 4DL/1UL PCL=8 @26.86dBm 169.9 mA
EDGE data EGSM900 2DL/3UL PCL=8 @23.64dBm 389.0 mA

transfer
(GNSS OFF) EGSM900 1DL/4UL PCL=8 @22.46dBm 500.0 mA
PCS1900 4DL/1UL PCL=2 @25.36dBm 132.4 mA
WCDMA data WCDMA B4 HSDPA @23.27dBm 491.0 mA

transfer
(GNSS OFF) WCDMA B4 HSUPA @23.19dBm 504.0 mA
LTE data LTE-FDD B5 @23.61dBm 558.0 mA

transfer
(GNSS OFF) LTE-FDD B7 @23.40dBm 704.0 mA
LTE-FDD B28B @23.65dBm 780.0 mA
LTE-TDD B40 @23.66dBm 340.3 mA
GSM850 PCL=5 @32.45dBm 234.9 mA
GSM voice call EGSM900 PCL=5 @32.81dBm 249.0 mA
DCS1800 PCL=0 @29.28dBm 143.0 mA
PCS1900 PCL=0 @29.47dBm 154.5 mA

WCDMA voice
call
Table 43: GNSS Current Consumption of EC21 Series Module
Cold start @Passive Antenna 58 mA

Searching
(AT+CFUN=0)
Lost state @Passive Antenna 58 mA
IVBAT
Instrument Environment 33 mA
(GNSS)
Tracking
Open Sky @Passive Antenna 35 mA
(AT+CFUN=0)
Open Sky @Active Antenna 43 mA
6.5. RF Output Power
The following table shows the RF output power of EC21 module.
Table 44: RF Output Power
Frequency Max. Min.
GSM850/EGSM900 33dBm±2dB 5dBm±5dB
DCS1800/PCS1900 30dBm±2dB 0dBm±5dB
GSM850/EGSM900 (8-PSK) 27dBm±3dB 5dBm±5dB
DCS1800/PCS1900 (8-PSK) 26dBm±3dB 0dBm±5dB
WCDMA bands 24dBm+1/-3dB < -49dBm
LTE-FDD bands 23dBm±2dB < -39dBm
LTE-TDD bands 23dBm±2dB < -39dBm
NOTE
In GPRS 4 slots TX mode, the maximum output power is reduced by 3.0dB. The design conforms to the
GSM specification as described in Chapter 13.16 of 3GPP TS 51.010-1.
6.6. RF Receiving Sensitivity
The following tables show the conducted RF receiving sensitivity of EC21 series module.
Table 45: EC21-E Conducted RF Receiving Sensitivity
Frequency Primary Diversity SIMO1) 3GPP (SIMO)
EGSM900 -109.0dBm / / -102.0dBm
DCS1800 -109.0dBm / / -102.0dbm
WCDMA B1 -110.5dBm / / -106.7dBm
WCDMA B5 -110.5dBm / / -104.7dBm
WCDMA B8 -110.5dBm / / -103.7dBm
LTE-FDD B1 (10MHz) -98.0dBm -98.0dBm -101.5dBm -96.3dBm
Table 46: EC21-A Conducted RF Receiving Sensitivity
WCDMA B2 -110.0dBm / / -104.7dBm
WCDMA B4 -110.0dBm / / -106.7dBm
WCDMA B5 -110.5dBm / / -104.7dBm
Table 47: EC21-V Conducted RF Receiving Sensitivity
Table 48: EC21-AUT Conducted RF Receiving Sensitivity
WCDMA B1 -110.0dBm / / -106.7dBm
WCDMA B5 -110.5dBm / / -104.7dBm
Table 49: EC21-KL Conducted RF Receiving Sensitivity
Table 50: EC21-J Conducted RF Receiving Sensitivity
Table 51: EC21-AUV Conducted RF Receiving Sensitivity
WCDMA B1 -109.5dBm / / -106.7dBm
WCDMA B5 -111.0dBm / / -104.7dBm
WCDMA B8 -111.0dBm / / -103.7dBm
Table 52: EC21-AU Conducted RF Receiving Sensitivity
GSM850 -109.0dBm / / -102.0dBm
EGSM900 -109.0dBm / / -102.0dBm
DCS1800 -109.0dBm / / -102.0dBm
PCS1900 -109.0dBm / / -102.0dBm
WCDMA B1 -110.0dBm / / -106.7dBm
WCDMA B2 -110.0dBm / / -104.7dBm
WCDMA B5 -111.0dBm / / -104.7dBm
WCDMA B8 -111.0dBm / / -103.7dBm
LTE-FDD B2 (10MHz) -98.2dBm / / -94.3dBm
LTE-TDD B40 (10MHz) -97.2dBm -98.4dBm -101.2dBm -96.3dBm
Table 53: EC21-EU Conducted RF Receiving Sensitivity
EGSM900 -109.0dBm / / -102.0dBm
DCS1800 -109.0dBm / / -102.0dbm
WCDMA B1 -110.5dBm / / -106.7dBm
WCDMA B8 -110.5dBm / / -103.7dBm
LTE-FDD B1 (10MHz) -98.2dBm -99dBm -101.7dBm -96.3dBm
LTE-FDD B8 (10MHz) -98.7dBm -100dBm -101.7dBm -93.3dBm
LTE-FDD B28A (10MHz) -98.8dBm -100dBm -101.5dBm -94.8dBm
Table 54: EC21-EC Conducted RF Receiving Sensitivity
EGSM900 -108.8dBm / / -102.0dBm
DCS1800 -109.0dBm / / -102.0dbm
WCDMA B1 -110.5dBm / / -106.7dBm
WCDMA B8 -110.5dBm / / -103.7dBm

Table 55: EC21-AUX Conducted RF Receiving Sensitivity
GSM850 -109.0dBm / / -102.0dBm
EGSM900 -109.0dBm / / -102.0dBm
DCS1800 -109.0dBm / / -102.0dBm
PCS1900 -109.0dBm / / -102.0dBm
WCDMA B1 -110.0dBm -109.5dBm -112dBm -106.7dBm
WCDMA B2 -110.5dBm / / -104.7dBm
WCDMA B4 -110.0dBm -110dBm -112dBm -104.7dBm
LTE-FDD B2 (10MHz) -98.5dBm / / -94.3dBm
LTE-TDD B40 (10MHz) -97.5dBm -98.2dBm -101.2dBm -96.3dBm
NOTE
1)
SIMO is a smart antenna technology that uses a single antenna at the transmitter side and two
antennas at the receiver side, which can improve RX performance.

6.7. Electrostatic Discharge
The module is not protected against electrostatics discharge (ESD) in general. Consequently, it is subject
to ESD handling precautions that typically apply to ESD sensitive components. Proper ESD handling and
packaging procedures must be applied throughout the processing, handling and operation of any
application that incorporates the module.
The following table shows the module‘s’ electrostatics discharge characteristics.
Table 56: Electrostatics Discharge Characteristics (25ºC, 45% Relative Humidity)
Tested Interfaces Contact Discharge Air Discharge Unit
VBAT, GND ±5 ±10 kV
All Antenna Interfaces ±4 ±8 kV
Other Interfaces ±0.5 ±1 kV
6.8. Thermal Consideration
In order to achieve better performance of the module, it is recommended to comply with the following
principles for thermal consideration:
 On customers’ PCB design, please keep placement of the module away from heating sources,
especially high power components such as ARM processor, audio power amplifier, power supply, etc.
 Do not place components on the opposite side of the PCB area where the module is mounted, in
order to facilitate adding of heatsink when necessary.
 Do not apply solder mask on the opposite side of the PCB area where the module is mounted, so as
to ensure better heat dissipation performance.
 The reference ground of the area where the module is mounted should be complete, and add ground
vias as many as possible for better heat dissipation.
 Make sure the ground pads of the module and PCB are fully connected.
 According to customers’ application demands, the heatsink can be mounted on the top of the module,
or the opposite side of the PCB area where the module is mounted, or both of them.
 The heatsink should be designed with as many fins as possible to increase heat dissipation area.
Meanwhile, a thermal pad with high thermal conductivity should be used between the heatsink and
module/PCB.
The following shows two kinds of heatsink designs for reference and customers can choose one or both
of them according to their application structure.

EC21 Module Heatsink Heatsink
Thermal Pad
Shielding Cover
Application Board Application Board
Figure 42: Referenced Heatsink Design (Heatsink at the Top of the Module)
Thermal Pad
Thermal Pad
EC21 Module
Heatsink
Heatsink
Application Board
Shielding Cover Application Board
Figure 43: Referenced Heatsink Design (Heatsink at the Backside of Customers’ PCB)
NOTES
1. The module offers the best performance when the internal BB chip stays below 105°C. When the
maximum temperature of the BB chip reaches or exceeds 105°C, the module works normal but
provides reduced performance (such as RF output power, data rate, etc.). When the maximum BB
chip temperature reaches or exceeds 115°C, the module will disconnect from the network, and it will
recover to network connected state after the maximum temperature falls below 115°C. Therefore, the
thermal design should be maximally optimized to make sure the maximum BB chip temperature

always maintains below 105°C. Customers can execute AT+QTEMP command and get the
maximum BB chip temperature from the first returned value.
2. For more detailed guidelines on thermal design, please refer to document [7].

7 Mechanical Dimensions
This chapter describes the mechanical dimensions of the module. All dimensions are measured in mm,
and the dimensional tolerances are ±0.05mm unless otherwise specified.
7.1. Mechanical Dimensions of the Module
32.0± 0.15 2.4± 0.2
Pin
Pin 1
1
29.0±0.15
0.8
Figure 44: Module Top and Side Dimensions

32.0＋/-0.15
1.90 1.30 3.85
Pin 1
3.5
1.30
3.4
1.1 1.1
5.96 2.0
3.0 2.0
2.0
29.0＋/-0.15
0.87
1.8 3.0 1.8
1.15
2.8
2.15
4.82
1.05
1.6
4.8
6.8
1.7
0.8
3.2 3.4 3.2 3.4 3.2
4.37
3.5
2.49
1.9 2.4 1.5

3.45
Figure 45: Module Bottom Dimensions (Bottom View)

7.2. Recommended Footprint
Figure 46: Recommended Footprint (Top View)
NOTES
1. The keepout area should not be designed.

2. For easy maintenance of the module, please keep about 3mm between the module and other
components in the host PCB.

7.3. Design Effect Drawings of the Module
Figure 47: Top View of the Module
Figure 48: Bottom View of the Module
NOTE
These are renderings of EC21 module. For authentic appearance, please refer to the module that you
receive from Quectel.

8 Storage, Manufacturing and

Packaging
8.1. Storage
EC21 is stored in a vacuum-sealed bag. It is rated at MSL 3, and its storage restrictions are listed below.
1. Shelf life in vacuum-sealed bag: 12 months at <40ºC/90%RH.
2. After the vacuum-sealed bag is opened, devices that will be subjected to reflow soldering or other
high temperature processes must be:
 Mounted within 168 hours at the factory environment of ≤30ºC/60%RH.

 Stored at <10%RH.
3. Devices require baking before mounting, if any circumstances below occurs:
 When the ambient temperature is 23ºC±5ºC and the humidity indicator card shows the humidity
is >10% before opening the vacuum-sealed bag.
 Device mounting cannot be finished within 168 hours at factory conditions of ≤30ºC/60%RH.
4. If baking is required, devices may be baked for 8 hours at 120ºC±5ºC.
NOTE
As the plastic package cannot be subjected to high temperature, it should be removed from devices
before high temperature (120ºC) baking. If shorter baking time is desired, please refer to
IPC/JEDECJ-STD-033 for baking procedure.

8.2. Manufacturing and Soldering
Push the squeegee to apply the solder paste on the surface of stencil, thus making the paste fill the
stencil openings and then penetrate to the PCB. The force on the squeegee should be adjusted properly
so as to produce a clean stencil surface on a single pass. To ensure the module soldering quality, the
thickness of stencil for the module is recommended to be 0.18mm~0.20mm. For more details, please
refer to document [4].
It is suggested that the peak reflow temperature is 238ºC~245ºC, and the absolute maximum reflow
temperature is 245ºC. To avoid damage to the module caused by repeated heating, it is strongly
recommended that the module should be mounted after reflow soldering for the other side of PCB has
been completed. The recommended reflow soldering thermal profile (lead-free reflow soldering) and
related parameters are shown below.
Temp. (°C)
Reflow Zone
Max slope: Cooling down
2~3°C/sec C slope: 1~4°C/sec
245
238
220
B D
200
Soak Zone
150 A
100
Max slope: 1~3°C/sec
Figure 49: Reflow Soldering Thermal Profile
Table 57: Recommended Thermal Profile Parameters
Factor Recommendation
Soak Zone
Max slope 1~3°C/sec
Soak time (between A and B: 150°C and 200°C) 60~120sec
Reflow Zone

Max slope 2~3°C/sec
Reflow time (D: over 220°C) 40~60sec
Max temperature 238~245°C
Cooling down slope 1~4°C/sec
Reflow Cycle
Max reflow cycle 1
8.3. Packaging
EC21 is packaged in tap and reel carriers. Each reel is 11.88m long and contains 250pcs modules. The
figure below shows the package details, measured in mm.
1.75±0.1
44.00±0.1 1
0.
2.00±0.1 4.00±0.1 50± 0.35±0.05
1.
20.20±0.15
29.3±0.15
30.3±0.15
30.3±0.15
44.00±0.3
32.5±0.15 4.2±0.15
33.5±0.15 3.1±0.15
32.5±0.15
33.5±0.15

48.5
Cover tape
13
100 Direction of feed
44.5+0.20
-0.00
Figure 50: Tape and Reel Specifications
1083
Carrier tape Carrier tape

packing module unfolding
Figure 51: Tape and Reel Directions

9 Appendix A References
Table 58: Related Documents
SN Document Name Remark
Power management application note for

Quectel_EC2x&EGxx_Power_Management_
[1] EC25, EC21, EC20 R2.0, EC20 R2.1,
Application_Note
EG95, EG91 and EG25-G modules
AT commands manual for EC25, EC21,
Quectel_EC2x&EG9x&EM05_AT_Commands_
[2] EC20 R2.0, EC20 R2.1, EG91, EG95
Manual
and EM05 modules
GNSS AT Commands Manual for EC25,
Quectel_EC2x&EGxx&EM05_GNSS_AT_Commands_
[3] EC21, EC20 R2.0, EC20 R2.1, EG95,
Manual
EG91, EG25-G and EM05 modules
[4] Quectel_Module_Secondary_SMT_User_Guide Module secondary SMT user guide
[5] Quectel_EC21_Reference_Design EC21 reference design
[6] Quectel_RF_Layout_Application_Note RF layout application note
Thermal design guide for LTE standard,

[7] Quectel_LTE_Module_Thermal_Design_Guide
LTE-A and Automotive modules
UMTS&LTE EVB user guide for
[8] Quectel_UMTS&LTE_EVB_User_Guide
UMTS&LTE modules
Table 59: Terms and Abbreviations
Abbreviation Description
AMR Adaptive Multi-rate
bps Bits Per Second
CHAP Challenge Handshake Authentication Protocol
CS Coding Scheme
CSD Circuit Switched Data

CTS Clear To Send
DC-HSPA+ Dual-carrier High Speed Packet Access
DFOTA Delta Firmware Upgrade Over The Air
DL Downlink
DTR Data Terminal Ready
DTX Discontinuous Transmission
EFR Enhanced Full Rate
ESD Electrostatic Discharge
FDD Frequency Division Duplex
FR Full Rate
GLObalnaya NAvigatsionnaya Sputnikovaya Sistema, the Russian Global

GLONASS
Navigation Satellite System
GMSK Gaussian Minimum Shift Keying
GNSS Global Navigation Satellite System
GPS Global Positioning System
GSM Global System for Mobile Communications
HR Half Rate
HSPA High Speed Packet Access
HSDPA High Speed Downlink Packet Access
HSUPA High Speed Uplink Packet Access
I/O Input/Output
Inorm Normal Current
LED Light Emitting Diode
LNA Low Noise Amplifier
LTE Long Term Evolution
MIMO Multiple Input Multiple Output

MO Mobile Originated
MS Mobile Station (GSM engine)
MT Mobile Terminated
PAP Password Authentication Protocol
PCB Printed Circuit Board
PDU Protocol Data Unit
PPP Point-to-Point Protocol
QAM Quadrature Amplitude Modulation
QPSK Quadrature Phase Shift Keying
RF Radio Frequency
RHCP Right Hand Circularly Polarized
Rx Receive
SGMII Serial Gigabit Media Independent Interface
SIM Subscriber Identification Module
SIMO Single Input Multiple Output
SMS Short Message Service
TDD Time Division Duplexing
TDMA Time Division Multiple Access
TD-SCDMA Time Division-Synchronous Code Division Multiple Access
TX Transmitting Direction
UL Uplink
UMTS Universal Mobile Telecommunications System
URC Unsolicited Result Code
(U)SIM (Universal) Subscriber Identity Module
Vmax Maximum Voltage Value

Vnorm Normal Voltage Value
Vmin Minimum Voltage Value
VIHmax Maximum Input High Level Voltage Value
VIHmin Minimum Input High Level Voltage Value
VILmax Maximum Input Low Level Voltage Value
VILmin Minimum Input Low Level Voltage Value
VImax Absolute Maximum Input Voltage Value
VImin Absolute Minimum Input Voltage Value
VOHmax Maximum Output High Level Voltage Value
VOHmin Minimum Output High Level Voltage Value
VOLmax Maximum Output Low Level Voltage Value
VOLmin Minimum Output Low Level Voltage Value
VSWR Voltage Standing Wave Ratio
WCDMA Wideband Code Division Multiple Access
WLAN Wireless Local Area Network

10 Appendix B GPRS Coding Schemes

Table 60: Description of Different Coding Schemes
Scheme CS-1 CS-2 CS-3 CS-4
Code Rate 1/2 2/3 3/4 1
USF 3 3 3 3
Pre-coded USF 3 6 6 12
Radio Block excl. USF and BCS 181 268 312 428
BCS 40 16 16 16
Tail 4 4 4 -
Coded Bits 456 588 676 456
Punctured Bits 0 132 220 -
Data Rate Kb/s 9.05 13.4 15.6 21.4

11 Appendix C GPRS Multi-slot Classes

Thirty-three classes of GPRS multi-slot modes are defined for MS in GPRS specification. Multi-slot
classes are product dependent, and determine the maximum achievable data rates in both the uplink and
downlink directions. Written as 3+1 or 2+2, the first number indicates the amount of downlink timeslots,
while the second number indicates the amount of uplink timeslots. The active slots determine the total
number of slots the GPRS device can use simultaneously for both uplink and downlink communications.
The description of different multi-slot classes is shown in the following table.
Table 61: GPRS Multi-slot Classes
Multislot Class Downlink Slots Uplink Slots Active Slots
1 1 1 2
2 2 1 3
3 2 2 3
4 3 1 4
5 2 2 4
6 3 2 4
7 3 3 4
8 4 1 5
9 3 2 5
10 4 2 5
11 4 3 5
12 4 4 5
13 3 3 NA
14 4 4 NA

15 5 5 NA
16 6 6 NA
17 7 7 NA
18 8 8 NA
19 6 2 NA
20 6 3 NA
21 6 4 NA
22 6 4 NA
23 6 6 NA
24 8 2 NA
25 8 3 NA
26 8 4 NA
27 8 4 NA
28 8 6 NA
29 8 8 NA
30 5 1 6
31 5 2 6
32 5 3 6
33 5 4 6

LTE Standard Module Sires
12 Appendix D EDGE Modulation and

Coding Schemes
Table 62: EDGE Modulation and Coding Schemes
Coding Scheme Modulation Coding Family 1 Timeslot 2 Timeslot 4 Timeslot
CS-1: GMSK / 9.05kbps 18.1kbps 36.2kbps
MCS-1 GMSK C 8.80kbps 17.60kbps 35.20kbps
MCS-2 GMSK B 11.2kbps 22.4kbps 44.8kbps
MCS-3 GMSK A 14.8kbps 29.6kbps 59.2kbps
MCS-4 GMSK C 17.6kbps 35.2kbps 70.4kbps
MCS-5 8-PSK B 22.4kbps 44.8kbps 89.6kbps
MCS-6 8-PSK A 29.6kbps 59.2kbps 118.4kbps
MCS-7 8-PSK B 44.8kbps 89.6kbps 179.2kbps

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About the Document

Revision Date Author Description

1.0 2016-04-15 Yeoman CHEN Initial

1. Updated frequency bands in Table 1.

1. Updated functional diagram in Figure 1.

19. Updated GPRS multi-slot classes in Table 55.

8. Updated EC21-EC current consumption in Table 42.

About the Document ................................................................................................................................... 2

2 Product Concept ................................................................................................................................ 15

3 Application Interfaces ....................................................................................................................... 21

3.14.1. WLAN Interface .............................................................................................................. 59

4 GNSS Receiver ................................................................................................................................... 68

6 Electrical, Reliability and Radio Characteristics ............................................................................ 79

7 Mechanical Dimensions .................................................................................................................. 105

8 Storage, Manufacturing and Packaging ........................................................................................ 109

9 Appendix A References................................................................................................................... 113

11 Appendix C GPRS Multi-slot Classes ............................................................................................ 118

TABLE 1: FREQUENCY BANDS OF EC21 SERIES MODULE ........................................................................ 15

TABLE 42: EC21-EC CURRENT CONSUMPTION........................................................................................... 90

FIGURE 1: FUNCTIONAL DIAGRAM ............................................................................................................... 20

FIGURE 38: REFERENCE CIRCUIT OF GNSS ANTENNA ............................................................................. 75

1.1. Safety Information

Wireless devices may cause interference on sensitive medical equipment, so

2.1. General Description

EC21 is a series of LTE-FDD/LTE-TDD/WCDMA/GSM wireless communication module with receive

Table 1: Frequency Bands of EC21 Series Module

EC21-A FDD: B2/B4/B12 B2/B4/B5 N Y

2.2. Key Features

The following table describes the detailed features of EC21 module.

Table 2: Key Features of EC21 Module

Supply voltage: 3.3V~4.3V

Class 3 (24dBm+1/-3dB) for WCDMA bands

(U)SIM Interface Support USIM/SIM card: 1.8V, 3.0V

Support one digital audio interface: PCM interface

SD Card Interface1) Support SD 3.0 protocol

SGMII Interface1) Support 10M/100M/1000M Ethernet work mode

Rx-diversity Support LTE/WCDMA Rx-diversity

Gen8C Lite of Qualcomm

Firmware Upgrade USB interface or DFOTA*

2.3. Functional Diagram

ANT_MAIN ANT_GNSS ANT_DIV

PAM SAW Switch

SAW Duplex LNA

VDD_EXT USB (U)SIM PCM I2C UARTs SGMII WLAN BT GPIOs SD

Figure 1: Functional Diagram

2.4. Evaluation Board

3.1. General Description

3.2. Pin Assignment

The following figure shows the pin assignment of EC21 module.

Power Pins Signal Pins WLAN Pins RESERVED Pins

GND Pins Bluetooth Pins SGMII Pins

Figure 2: Pin Assignment (Top View)

5. Pins 119~126 and 128 are used for SGMII interface.

3.3. Pin Description