The Hologram Nova is a global-band, simple-to-use, and completely open source cellular USB modem. We've developed the Hologram Python SDK specifically for use with the Nova. Together the Nova and Python SDK are what we believe is the simplest way to get started using cellular on embedded Linux. This modem is also compatible with Linux, Mac OS, and Windows devices via an AT command interface.
At the heart of the Hologram Nova is the u-blox SARA-U201. We chose this modem family for its direct USB networking interface (available on almost any embedded linux platform), standard AT command interface, and global connectivity availability (when paired with the Hologram SIM). This USB modem is purpose-built for IoT applications and can be purchased for use in large fleets or used as a reference design for any customer application.
Download Nova Data Sheet as PDF here.
Block diagram of the Nova board:
The Hologram Nova is designed to provide easy access to the u-blox SARA-U201 and SARA-R410-02B USB interface.
SARA series modules include a high-speed USB 2.0 compliant interface with maximum 480 Mb/s data rate. The module itself acts as a USB device and can be connected to any USB host. The USB is the suitable interface for transferring high speed data between SARA-U2 series and a host processor, available for AT commands.
The USBD+ / USBD- lines carry the USB serial data and signaling. The USB interface is automatically enabled by an external valid USB VBUS supply voltage (5.0 V typical) applied on the VUSB_DET pin.
For additional details, please see the following datasheets:
u-blox SARA-U201 datasheet
u-blox SARA-R4 Series datasheet
At Hologram, we believe in providing an open platform for developers to build hardware. To support this mission, the Nova exposes the u-blox modem's UART interface as solderable pads on the top half of the board. For more advanced hardware devlopment, this provides direct access to the u-blox modem which runs at 1.8V.
Note: USE UART PADS AT YOUR OWN RISK. Pads are directly connected to the u-blox modem so using these I/O or improperly handling the board runs the risk of damaging the u-blox modem. Additionally, we do not officially provide support this interface.
Stressing the device above one or more of the ratings listed in the Absolute Maximum Rating section may cause permanent damage. These are stress ratings only. Operating the device at these or at any conditions other than those specified in the Operating Conditions should be avoided. Exposure to Absolute Maximum Rating conditions for extended periods may affect device reliability.
For power draw characteristics under certain cellular conditions, please view respective u-blox datasheets.
Note: Nominal operational voltage is 1.8V.
The Hologram Nova is designed to operate within temperatures between -45°C to 85°C. It is not designed to withstand material contact with moisture or any other conductors, aside from intended use of the USB. The Hologram Nova may be installed into appropriate enclosures that can protect the device from heat, cold, moisture, and humidity for Industrial use.
If handling the Nova circuit board directly, please do so in an ESD-safe environment and wear ESD protection.
The Hologram Nova platform features cellular modems which support a global list of 2G, 3G, and LTE Cat-M1/NB-IoT frequencies.
3G Bands
2G Bands
LTE Cat-M1/N1 Bands
The Hologram Nova board without an enclosure is:
Below are views of the Hologram from the top and side.
Top View:
Side View:
The Nova has two clear LEDs for providing power and connectivity feedback. A power LED that represents whether the modem is on or off, and a network LED that indicates the current network status.
Note: Nova LTE-M & NB-IoT modem and Nova 3G/2G modem have same placement of LED color indicators but opposite use for power/network indication. Please use below table for reference.
The Nova is made for ultimate flexibility and this extends to available antennas. Each model's included antenna characteristics are listed below:
The Nova can antenna which has an SMA connector, you need to purchase a UFL - SMA adapter.
NOVA-U201 (3G/2G): AT&T, T-Mobile, PTCRB, GCF
NOVA-R410 (LTE-M & NB-IoT): Verizon ODI, AT&T, T-Mobile (In progress), PTCRB, GCF
Verizon Open Development Device #7721
AT&T Network Compatibility Record: 10bkv4QCDm
ECCNs are five character alpha-numeric designations used on the Commerce Control List (CCL) to identify dual-use items for export control purposes. An ECCN categorizes items based on the nature of the product, i.e. type of commodity, software, or technology and its respective technical parameters.
ECCN for All Nova Modems: 5A992.c.
The Nova modem family complies with the RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) directive of the European Union, EU Directive 2011/65/EU.
HTS Code for All Nova Modems: 8517.62.0010.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules and Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standards. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interferences, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
If the modem's antenna is located farther than 20cm from the human body and there are no proximate transmitters, the FCC/IC approvals of the constituent u- blox SARA-U201 or SARA-R410-02B can be reused by the end product.
Should the modems antenna be mounted closer than 20cm from the human body or if there are proximate transmitters, additional FCC/IC testing may be required for the end product.
Nova 3G/2G & Nova LTE-M & NB-IoT modems make use of the underlying u-blox module's FCC & IC identification numbers below.
Additionally, all Nova modems are compliant with FCC Part 15 Class B.
End products utilizing Nova 3G/2G modems should be labeled with the following information:
Device Uses Approved Radio: NOVA-U201
Contains FCC ID: XPY2AGQN4NNN
Contains IC: 8595A-1CGM5NNN
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules and Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standards. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interferences, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
End products utilizing Nova LTE-M & NB-IoT modems should be labeled with the following information:
Device Uses Approved Radio: NOVA-R410
Contains FCC ID: XPY2AGQN4NNN
Contains IC: 8595A-2AGQN4NNN
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules and Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standards. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interferences, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
The Hologram Nova is assembled in the United States of America from global components. The onboard u-blox modules are made in Austria.
Download Nova Data Sheet as PDF here.
