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Adafruit FONA 3G Cellular Breakout - European version

The Adafruit FONA 3G Cellular Breakout (European Version) is an all-in-one 3G cellular modem with integrated GPS, supporting dual-band UMTS/HSDPA on 900/2100 MHz WCDMA for use on European and Australian 3G networks. It also provides quad-band 2G GSM fallback (850/900/1800/1900 MHz).

Built around the SIM5320E module, this compact 1.75 × 1.6-inch breakout provides voice calling, SMS, GPRS data, and GPS geolocation in a single board. It features built-in level shifting (2.8–5 V logic), LiPo battery charging via Micro-USB, native USB serial with AT command and GPS NMEA ports, and indicator LEDs for power and network status.

Key Features

  • 3G European Bands – Dual-band UMTS/HSDPA 900/2100 MHz WCDMA + quad-band 2G GSM fallback
  • Integrated GPS – Qualcomm PM8015, 16 channels, ~2.5 m accuracy, ~1 s hot start
  • Voice, SMS, and Data – Make/receive calls, send/receive SMS, GPRS data (TCP/IP, HTTP)
  • Native USB – Serial ports for AT commands, GPS NMEA, and modem access
  • LiPo Battery Charging – On-board charger via Micro-USB; requires 500 mAh+ battery
  • Level Shifting – Works with 2.8–5 V logic levels
  • TRRS Headphone Jack – Standard 4-pole jack for Android/iPhone-compatible headsets
  • Speaker + Mic Breakouts – Pads for external 8 Ω speaker and electret microphone
  • uFL Antenna Connectors – Separate uFL ports for GSM and GPS antennas
  • Standard SIM Slot – Accepts a mini SIM card (2G or 3G)
  • AT Command Interface – Controllable via UART from any 3–5 V microcontroller

GPS Specifications

  • Channels: 16 acquisition
  • Signal: GPS L1 C/A code
  • Tracking Sensitivity: −157 dBm
  • Cold Start Sensitivity: −144 dBm
  • TTFF Cold Start: ~100 s typical
  • TTFF Hot Start: ~1 s typical
  • Accuracy: ~2.5 m
Important: This module is not a drop-in replacement for the FONA 800/808. Data functionality differs and library support may be limited. Recommended for users comfortable with a more advanced experience. An active GPS antenna is strongly recommended.

Also Available

Required Accessories (Not Included)

  • 2G or 3G mini SIM card
  • LiPo battery – 500 mAh or larger
  • Micro-USB cable for charging and USB communication
  • External uFL GSM antenna
  • External active GPS antenna (uFL; may need uFL-to-SMA adapter)

Ideal For

  • IoT projects requiring cellular data on European/Australian 3G networks
  • GPS asset tracking and geolocation
  • Remote sensing and telemetry
  • Voice and SMS-enabled embedded devices

Package Contents

  • 1× Adafruit FONA 3G Cellular Breakout – European Version

The Adafruit FONA 3G Cellular Breakout - European version appears in the following collections:

SKU AF-2691