NRF9160-SICA-R

RF Transceiver ICS Overview

The NRF9160-SICA-R is a compact system-in-package (SiP) from Nordic Semiconductor designed for low-power cellular IoT applications. It integrates an LTE-M and NB-IoT modem with GNSS, a 64 MHz Arm Cortex-M33 application processor, 1 MB flash memory, and 256 KB RAM. The device supports global connectivity across multiple LTE bands including B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B8, B12, B13, B14, B17, B18, B19, B20, B25, B26, B28, and B66. Key electrical specifications include a transmitter output power of 23 dBm and receiver sensitivity ranging from -108 dBm to -155 dBm depending on the configuration. Operating temperature spans -40°C to +85°C, with a supply voltage range of 3.5V DC.

RF Transceiver ICS Feature Summary

• Integrates LTE-M and NB-IoT modem with GNSS capabilities in a single package
• Includes Arm Cortex-M33 processor with TrustZone security features
• Supports eSIM and physical SIM card options for network authentication
• Enables secure over-the-air firmware updates via FOTA

RF Transceiver ICS Applications

• Asset tracking and logistics monitoring
• Smart metering and utility management
• Wearable health and safety devices
• Industrial sensor networks

RF Transceiver ICS Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'SICA' against official Nordic documentation to confirm regional certification status and antenna configuration. Ensure compatibility with the required LTE bands for your target market. Confirm that the reel packaging format aligns with your surface-mount assembly requirements. Cross-reference the operating temperature range with your environmental design constraints.

RF Transceiver ICS Selection Notes

Choose this component when a highly integrated solution combining cellular connectivity and location services is required. It is suitable for designs needing both application processing and modem functions in a small footprint. Consider the power consumption profiles of LTE-M versus NB-IoT based on data transmission frequency. Evaluate the need for GNSS integration versus external positioning solutions.

RF Transceiver ICS Part Context

This part belongs to the nRF91 series of cellular IoT modules. It serves as a complete solution for connecting devices to mobile networks without requiring separate modem and application processor chips. The series emphasizes low power consumption and security through Arm TrustZone. It is designed to simplify development by integrating RF front-end and power management components.

RF Transceiver ICS Replacement Considerations

The nRF9161 offers enhanced features including DECT NR+ support and updated LTE protocol stacks. For non-cellular Wi-Fi applications, the nRF70 series may be relevant. Verify pin-to-pin compatibility if substituting within the same family. Check for any changes in supported LTE bands or regulatory certifications.