Ai-Thinker Ca-01 4G Cat.1 LTE Module

The Ai-Thinker Ca-01 is a compact 4G Cat.1 LTE cellular module designed for IoT and M2M applications requiring reliable mobile connectivity with lower power consumption than Cat.4 alternatives. Professional engineers and IoT developers integrate this module into remote monitoring systems, smart meters, GPS trackers, and industrial telemetry devices where cost-effective cellular communication is critical. This module solves the connectivity challenge for battery-powered IoT devices by delivering 4G LTE speeds while maintaining excellent power efficiency and a minimal footprint suitable for space-constrained embedded applications.

Product Overview

The Ai-Thinker Ca-01 operates on Cat.1 LTE technology, delivering download speeds up to 10 Mbps and upload speeds up to 5 Mbps, making it ideal for data-light IoT applications that don't require the bandwidth of higher category modules. The module features a compact form factor with integrated RF design, requiring minimal external components for deployment. It supports multiple frequency bands including FDD-LTE bands covering major global networks, enabling seamless operation across India and international markets. The integrated TCP/IP stack and AT command interface simplify firmware development, allowing engineers to focus on application logic rather than low-level cellular protocol management.

What distinguishes the Ca-01 is its exceptional power efficiency, consuming as little as 2mA in idle mode and 50-80mA during active data transfer, making it suitable for solar-powered and battery-backed IoT deployments with extended operational lifespans. The module integrates a GNSS receiver for location-based services, eliminating the need for separate GPS modules in tracking applications. Built-in security features including TLS/SSL support and secure boot protect sensitive IoT data transmission. The industrial temperature range of -40°C to +85°C ensures reliable operation in harsh environmental conditions typical of outdoor IoT deployments.

Key Specifications

Specification	Details
Product Type	4G Cat.1 LTE Cellular Module
Brand	Ai-Thinker
Origin	Original/Authentic
Warranty	7 days on manufacturing defects
Shipping	1-5 days from Bengaluru
Delivery	7-8 days across India
Support	24/7 via Email and WhatsApp
LTE Category	Cat.1 (10 Mbps DL / 5 Mbps UL)
Frequency Bands	FDD-LTE Bands 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 32
Power Consumption	Idle: 2mA, Active: 50-80mA
Interface	UART, SPI, GPIO, USB
Operating Temperature	-40°C to +85°C
GNSS Support	GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo

Key Features

• Cat.1 LTE Connectivity: 10 Mbps download and 5 Mbps upload speeds optimized for IoT data transmission without excessive power drain
• Ultra-Low Power Consumption: 2mA idle current enables multi-year battery operation in remote IoT devices and solar-powered applications
• Integrated GNSS Receiver: Built-in GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, and Galileo support eliminates need for external positioning modules in tracking applications
• Compact Form Factor: 25.6mm x 30mm x 2.7mm module size fits into space-constrained IoT devices and wearable applications
• Multi-Band Support: FDD-LTE bands cover Indian telecom operators and global networks for seamless international deployment
• Industrial Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C operation ensures reliability in outdoor, automotive, and harsh industrial environments
• TLS/SSL Security: Secure data transmission protects sensitive IoT communications and prevents unauthorized access
• AT Command Interface: Standard command set simplifies integration with microcontrollers and reduces development time

Applications and Use Cases

• Smart Metering Systems: Deploy Ca-01 modules in electricity, water, and gas meters for real-time consumption monitoring and automated billing with reliable cellular backhaul
• GPS Vehicle Tracking: Integrate into fleet management systems and asset trackers where combined GNSS and LTE connectivity provides location data and command responsiveness
• Industrial IoT Sensors: Monitor temperature, pressure, and vibration in remote manufacturing facilities and oil rigs where cellular is the only viable connectivity option
• Environmental Monitoring Stations: Deploy in weather stations and air quality sensors across distributed locations with solar power and battery backup for autonomous operation
• Agricultural IoT: Monitor soil moisture, temperature, and crop health in remote farmlands using battery-powered sensors with cellular data transmission
• Smart City Infrastructure: Integrate into smart traffic lights, parking sensors, and public safety devices requiring low-power cellular connectivity

How to Use

Integration of the Ai-Thinker Ca-01 begins with proper hardware design including a 3.8V to 4.2V power supply with adequate current capacity (peak 2A during transmission), antenna placement with proper impedance matching, and UART connection to your host microcontroller. Most engineers use a simple breakout board or development kit to prototype before integrating directly into PCB designs. The module requires a valid SIM card from any Indian telecom operator supporting LTE networks. Power-on initialization takes approximately 30-40 seconds for full network registration and GNSS acquisition.

Communication with the Ca-01 is handled through AT commands sent via UART at 115200 baud rate. Essential commands include AT+CPIN for SIM verification, AT+COPS for network operator selection, AT+CGACT for packet data connection activation, and AT+CIPSTART for TCP socket establishment. The module supports both transparent data mode and command mode, allowing flexible integration patterns depending on your application requirements. For GNSS positioning, use AT+CGNSSPWR to enable the receiver and AT+CGNSINF to retrieve latitude, longitude, and altitude data. Comprehensive AT command documentation is available in the official Ai-Thinker datasheet, and our technical team provides implementation guidance for complex integration scenarios.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Cat.1 and Cat.4 LTE modules?

Cat.1 modules like the Ca-01 deliver maximum 10 Mbps download speeds compared to Cat.4's 150 Mbps, but consume significantly less power (2-5x lower), making them ideal for battery-powered IoT devices. Cat.4 modules are better for high-bandwidth applications like video streaming or real-time data logging. For most IoT applications requiring periodic data transmission, Cat.1 provides the optimal balance of capability and efficiency.

Can the Ca-01 work with all Indian telecom operators?

Yes, the Ca-01 supports FDD-LTE bands used by all major Indian operators including Jio, Airtel, Vodafone-Idea, and BSNL. The module automatically selects available bands in your location. However, verify band support with your specific operator before deployment, as some rural areas may have limited band availability. Our support team can help identify optimal band configurations for your deployment region.

What is the maximum distance the integrated GNSS can achieve accuracy?

The integrated GNSS receiver provides position accuracy of approximately 5-10 meters under clear sky conditions with good satellite visibility. Accuracy degrades in urban canyons, indoors, or heavily forested areas due to signal obstruction. For applications requiring higher accuracy, consider external high-precision GNSS modules or combining cellular triangulation with GNSS data for improved position estimates in challenging environments.

How do I handle SIM card connectivity and data plans?

Insert a standard nano-SIM card into the module's SIM slot. Any prepaid or postpaid plan from Indian telecom operators works with the Ca-01. For IoT deployments, consider M2M-specific plans offering better data rates and lower per-MB costs. Verify APN settings match your operator's requirements using AT+CGDCONT commands. Our team can assist with operator-specific configuration if needed.

When will I receive my order?

Orders are dispatched within 1-5 business days from our Bengaluru warehouse. Delivery takes 7-8 days to most locations across India.

What is your return and warranty policy?

We offer a 7-day return policy on manufacturing defects only. Contact support within 7 days of receipt for free replacement or full refund. Not applicable for user damage or misuse.

Are bulk discounts available?

Yes, wholesale pricing for orders of 10 or more units. Contact our sales team via WhatsApp or email for a customized bulk quote.

Why Buy from The Engineer Store

• Genuine Products: Sourced directly from authorized distributors with authentication
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• Fast Shipping: Dispatched within 1-5 days from our Bengaluru warehouse
• Pan-India Delivery: 7-8 days to Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, Kolkata
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• Technical Support: 24/7 expert guidance via email and WhatsApp
• Returns: 7-day return policy on manufacturing defects only

Buy Ai-Thinker Ca-01 4G Cat.1 LTE Module Online in India

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