Miniaturize GPS+LoRa PCB Design -- 2
Budget: $750 – $1,500 USD
Redesign GPS + LoRa PCB from 40mm x 40mm → Target: 20mm x 20mm — Deliver updated Gerber files Description:
I have an existing GPS + LoRa tracker PCB design (currently 40mm x 40mm).
I need a skilled PCB designer with RF experience to redesign this board with the goal of achieving 20mm x 20mm, using both sides of the PCB where appropriate, and by optimizing component selection where needed. Scope of Work: • Modify existing PCB layout to fit within target size of 20mm x 20mm. • You may place components on both front and back of the PCB to optimize space usage. • You are encouraged to propose smaller component alternatives (see below for example options) where this will help achieve a smaller board size while maintaining full functionality. • Optimize component placement and layout to maintain good RF performance (GPS + LoRa antennas are internal — no external SMA connectors). • Replace Micro USB with a compact USB-C connector or suggest better options for this size board. • Provide complete updated design files: ◦ PCB layout file (EasyEDA / KiCAD / Altium — original file will be provided). ◦ Updated Gerber files. ◦ Updated BOM. ◦ Updated Pick & Place (CPL) file. Component Change Notes: To reduce overall board size, I am open to replacing the current GPS and LoRa modules with smaller alternatives. Example options you may consider: LoRa Module: • Replace current RFM95W (~16x16mm) with: ◦ Semtech SX1262 bare chip (~4x4mm) — preferred. ◦ Or compact SX1262-based modules (~12x12mm), such as EBYTE E22-900M22S or similar. GPS Module: • Replace current ATGM336H (~10x10mm) with: ◦ u-blox MIA-M10 (~4.5x4.5mm) — preferred. ◦ Or other smaller GPS modules as you may recommend. If achieving 20mm x 20mm is not realistic without major loss of RF performance or critical functionality, you should: • Propose the smallest practical board size you believe is achievable. • Explain your design recommendations and any necessary trade-offs. Background:
This is a GPS + LoRa tracker device with the following core components (already present in the existing design): • GPS module: ATGM336H-5N71 → to be replaced with smaller alternative if needed. • LoRa module: RFM95W-915S2 → to be replaced with smaller alternative if needed. • Internal antennas: GPS + LoRa antennas — already selected (but you may suggest adjustments for optimal layout). • LiPo battery: compact, already selected. • Charging circuit: currently Micro USB — to be replaced with compact USB-C. Current passives: mostly 0805 and 1206 → should be shrunk to 0603 or smaller where practical. Important Requirements: Timeframe:
You must be able to complete this project within a specific timeframe (we will confirm this before starting). Commitment:
Only bid if you are confident you can complete this work.
If you are unsure, or do not have experience with compact RF / GPS / LoRa PCB layout, please do not bid. I will not accept offers that do not follow this requirement. Deliverables: • Updated PCB layout. • Updated Gerber files. • Updated BOM. • Updated Pick & Place (CPL) file. Screening Question (Required): 1. What size passives (capacitors / resistors) do you recommend for a compact 20mm x 20mm LoRa + GPS board, and why? 2. Please also describe your prior experience designing compact RF boards or GPS / LoRa devices. 3. How small are you confident in making the tracker Closing:
If you are experienced in compact PCB design, RF layout, and tight-space optimization, I look forward to working with you!
Please include relevant past projects / portfolio with your bid.
Related categories:
Electronics
Microcontroller
Electrical Engineering
PCB Layout
GPS
Antenna Design
Embedded Systems
LoRa
Prototyping