How to Use SIM7600E-H LTE GPS HAT : Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The SIM7600E-H LTE GPS HAT (Manufacturer Part ID: 14952) by Waveshare is a versatile module designed to provide LTE cellular connectivity and GPS functionality. This HAT is compatible with Raspberry Pi and other development boards, making it an excellent choice for IoT applications. It supports multiple communication protocols, including LTE, GSM, GPRS, and GNSS, enabling remote monitoring, tracking, and data transmission.

• IoT-based remote monitoring systems
• GPS tracking for vehicles and assets
• Smart agriculture and environmental monitoring
• Industrial automation and telemetry
• Emergency communication systems

The SIM7600E-H LTE GPS HAT connects to the Raspberry Pi via the 40-pin GPIO header. Below is the pin configuration:

1. Hardware Setup:

   • Attach the SIM7600E-H LTE GPS HAT to the Raspberry Pi's 40-pin GPIO header.
   • Connect the included LTE and GPS antennas to the respective SMA connectors on the HAT.
   • Insert a micro SIM card into the SIM card slot.
   • Power the HAT using the Raspberry Pi's GPIO (5V) or an external DC power supply (7-36V).

2. Software Setup:

   • Install the required drivers and libraries for the SIM7600E-H module. On Raspberry Pi, you can use the following commands:

     sudo apt-get update
     sudo apt-get install ppp minicom
     

   • Configure the serial port by enabling UART on the Raspberry Pi. Use raspi-config to enable the serial interface.

3. Testing LTE Connectivity:

   • Open a terminal and use minicom to communicate with the module:

     sudo minicom -D /dev/ttyS0
     

   • Send AT commands to test connectivity:
     • AT (Check communication)
     • AT+CPIN? (Check SIM card status)
     • AT+COPS? (Check network registration)

4. Using GPS Functionality:

   • Send the following AT commands to enable GPS:

     AT+CGPS=1,1   // Enable GPS
     AT+CGPSINFO   // Get GPS location data
     

• Ensure the SIM card has an active data plan for LTE connectivity.
• Place the GPS antenna in an open area for better satellite reception.
• Use proper standoffs to secure the HAT to the Raspberry Pi.
• Avoid powering the HAT solely through the Raspberry Pi if additional peripherals are connected, as it may exceed the Pi's power capacity.

The SIM7600E-H can also be used with an Arduino UNO via UART. Below is an example code snippet to send an AT command and read the response:

#include <SoftwareSerial.h>

// Define RX and TX pins for SoftwareSerial
SoftwareSerial sim7600(10, 11); // RX = 10, TX = 11

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);          // Initialize Serial Monitor
  sim7600.begin(9600);         // Initialize SIM7600 UART communication

  Serial.println("Initializing SIM7600...");
  delay(1000);

  // Send AT command to check communication
  sim7600.println("AT");
  delay(500);

  // Read and print the response
  while (sim7600.available()) {
    Serial.write(sim7600.read());
  }
}

void loop() {
  // Add your main code here
}

1. Module Not Powering On:

   • Ensure the HAT is properly connected to the Raspberry Pi GPIO header.
   • Check the power supply voltage (5V via GPIO or 7-36V via DC jack).

2. No Network Connection:

   • Verify that the SIM card is inserted correctly and has an active data plan.
   • Check the antenna connections and ensure the LTE antenna is securely attached.

3. GPS Not Working:

   • Place the GPS antenna in an open area with a clear view of the sky.
   • Ensure GPS is enabled using the AT+CGPS=1,1 command.

4. No Response to AT Commands:

   • Confirm the UART connection (TX and RX pins) is correct.
   • Check the baud rate settings in your software (default: 9600).

Q: Can I use this HAT with a microcontroller other than Raspberry Pi?
A: Yes, the SIM7600E-H LTE GPS HAT can be used with other microcontrollers like Arduino, provided you connect it via UART or USB.

Q: How do I update the firmware of the SIM7600E-H module?
A: Firmware updates can be performed via the USB interface using the manufacturer's tools. Refer to Waveshare's official documentation for detailed instructions.

Q: What is the maximum data rate supported by the LTE module?
A: The SIM7600E-H supports LTE CAT4 with a maximum download speed of 150 Mbps and upload speed of 50 Mbps.

Q: Can I use this module for voice calls?
A: Yes, the SIM7600E-H supports voice calls. You can use AT commands like ATD to dial a number.