AI-Thinker CA-01 LTE Cat.1 bis Module Dev Board

The CA-01 uses standard 3GPP AT commands for network registration, data session management, and SMS. To establish a connection, power the module with 3.3-4.3V, connect an active LTE antenna to its pads, and insert a compatible SIM card. Use a USB-to-serial adapter or the onboard USB interface to communicate via a UART at a default baud rate (often 115200). Send basic AT commands like AT+CPIN? to check SIM status and AT+CREG? to verify network registration before initiating a data call with AT+CGDCONT and AT+CGACT.

To minimize power, utilize the module's sleep modes via AT commands like AT+CFUN=0 (minimum functionality) or AT+CFUN=4 (flight mode). The typical sleep current is 3 mA. For the absolute lowest consumption of 20 µA, use the PWRKEY pin to trigger a full shutdown, waking the module via a timed GPIO or external event. Design your host MCU to control the module's power rail completely, only enabling it when data needs to be transmitted, and leverage extended DRX (eDRX) cycles if supported by your network.

Yes, the CA-01 provides dedicated SPI interfaces for both a camera and an LCD display. You will need to connect the camera's MCLK, PCLK, VSYNC, HSYNC, and data lines to the corresponding module pads, and configure the sensor via the SPI control interface. For displays, use the SPI LCD interface pins. Development requires the vendor's SDK or AT commands to initialize the camera sensor (e.g., for JPEG capture) and to push framebuffer data to the display. Ensure your external components are compatible with 3.3V logic levels.

Firmware updates are typically performed via the high-speed USB 2.0 interface using a manufacturer-provided flashing tool (like a .exe or Python script). Place the module into a specific download mode, often by holding a boot pin low during reset. Connect the module via USB to your PC, run the flashing tool, and select the new firmware file. The process will erase and reprogram the internal flash. Always backup any custom AT command profiles or configurations before starting, as they will be lost.