RAK3172-9-SM-NI

Overview

The RAK3172-9-SM-NI is a surface-mount LoRaWAN transceiver module by RAKwireless, based on the STM32WLE5CC MCU. It operates in the 915MHz, 920MHz, and 923MHz ISM bands with a supply voltage range of 2V to 3.6V. The module features a compact SMD package measuring 15.5mm x 15.0mm with a height of 2.60mm. It supports LoRaWAN classes A, B, and C, as well as LoRa P2P communication. Key electrical parameters include a receive current of 5.22mA and an output power of 20dBm. The device is RoHS3 compliant and has a moisture sensitivity level (MSL) of 3.

Feature Summary

• Supports LoRaWAN 1.0.3 specifications including Class A, B, and C operation modes for flexible network integration.
• Enables long-range wireless data transmission with a specified communication distance up to 15km.
• Integrates low-power design suitable for battery-operated applications with efficient current consumption profiles.
• Provides UART interface configuration capabilities using AT commands for rapid mode and operation setup.

Applications

• Smart metering and utility infrastructure monitoring
• Industrial IoT sensor networks and remote telemetry
• Smart city applications such as waste management and street lighting
• Agricultural environmental monitoring systems

Procurement Notes

Verify that the specific part number suffix matches the required regional frequency band, as variants exist for different regions. Confirm whether the order includes or excludes I-PEX connectors, as this affects mechanical integration. Check the manufacturing lead time, which may extend beyond standard stock availability due to production cycles. Ensure compatibility with the target PCB footprint, noting the 15.5mm x 15.0mm SMD dimensions. Validate RoHS3 compliance requirements against project specifications before finalizing procurement.

Selection Notes

Select this module when operating in North American or similar 915MHz ISM bands requiring LoRaWAN connectivity. Choose the SMD variant for automated assembly processes where space constraints limit board area. Consider the integrated STM32WLE5 processor if firmware customization via UART AT commands is preferred over external microcontroller dependency. Evaluate the 2V to 3.6V supply range against available power sources to ensure stable operation without additional regulation.

Part Context

This component belongs to the RAK3172 series of LoRa modules designed for low-power wide-area networking. It utilizes the STM32WLE5 system-on-chip, combining a LoRa modem with an ARM Cortex-M4 core. The -9-SM-NI designation indicates the 915MHz frequency band, surface-mount packaging, and absence of pre-installed I-PEX connectors. It serves as a drop-in solution for developers building scalable IoT devices requiring certified LoRaWAN compliance.

Replacement Considerations

Public confirmed substitute part numbers are not explicitly documented in the provided source material. Variants within the same series, such as RAK3172-8-SM-NI for 868MHz bands, offer identical form factors but differ in regional frequency support. Cross-region substitution requires verification of regulatory compliance and antenna tuning. No direct equivalent models from other manufacturers are listed in the reference data.

FAQ

Does the RAK3172-9-SM-NI include an I-PEX connector?

No, the product description explicitly states it is supplied without an I-PEX connector.

What is the maximum communication distance supported by this module?

The module supports a communication distance of up to 15km under optimal conditions.

Which LoRaWAN classes are supported by this module?

It complies with LoRaWAN 1.0.3 specifications, supporting Class A, Class B, and Class C operations.