What Cellular Module Should You Choose for Routers and Gateways?
The best cellular module for routers and gateways depends on throughput, interface, fallback, operating system, and deployment lifecycle.
LTE Cat 4
LTE Cat 4 modules are suitable for current 4G routers and gateways that need reliable broadband-class cellular connectivity.
5G RedCap
5G RedCap modules are ideal for OEMs moving toward 5G with a balanced cost and performance profile.
5G NR
5G NR modules are best suited for high-bandwidth routers, CPE devices, private network gateways, industrial edge gateways, connected surveillance and data-heavy IoT deployments.
Cavli supports this complete roadmap with LTE Cat 4, 5G RedCap, and 5G NR modules designed for router and gateway manufacturers.
Why Routers and Gateways Need Cellular IoT Modules
Routers and gateways act as the connectivity layer between field devices, enterprise systems, cloud platforms, and remote infrastructure. In many IoT deployments, these devices need cellular connectivity because wired broadband is unavailable, unreliable, costly to install, or difficult to maintain at scale.
Cellular IoT modules help router and gateway manufacturers build devices that can support:
Cellular IoT modules help router and gateway manufacturers build devices that can support:
For OEMs and ODMs, the challenge is no longer just adding cellular connectivity. The real challenge is choosing the right module based on throughput, host interface, operating system support, regional bands, fallback requirements, GNSS needs, certification readiness, and long-term migration strategy.
Built for High-Throughput Router and Gateway Applications
Router and gateway devices often handle more traffic than typical IoT endpoints. They may aggregate data from multiple sensors, cameras, industrial controllers, meters, vehicles, or enterprise devices before sending that data to the cloud or a private network.
That is why cellular module selection must begin with throughput.
LTE Cat 4 for current-generation router and gateway designs
LTE Cat 4 is a practical choice for current 4G routers and gateways that need reliable cellular data performance without the complexity of full 5G.
Cavli’s LTE Cat 4 modules, including CQ20 and C20QM, support up to 150 Mbps downlink and 50 Mbps uplink. These modules are suitable for industrial routers, remote gateways, backup connectivity devices, data loggers, fleet systems, and cost-sensitive router designs.
5G RedCap for balanced 5G migration
5G RedCap is designed for applications that need more capability than LTE but do not require full 5G NR throughput. It gives router and gateway OEMs a practical path to 5G while keeping device complexity under control.
Cavli CQM220 supports 5G RedCap with 4G fallback, delivering up to 220 Mbps downlink and 120 Mbps uplink on 5G, with LTE Cat 4 fallback speeds of 150 Mbps downlink and 50 Mbps uplink.
5G NR for high-bandwidth routers and edge gateways
Full 5G NR is suitable for routers and gateways that need multi-gigabit throughput, strong uplink capacity, low-latency connectivity, and advanced host interfaces.
Cavli’s 5G NR portfolio includes CQM211, CQM212, and CQM215 for high-performance router, gateway, CPE, surveillance, industrial, and private network applications.
Choose the Right Cellular Technology for Your Router or Gateway
| Requirement | Recommended Technology | Cavli Module Options |
|---|---|---|
| Reliable 4G router or gateway | LTE Cat 4 | CQ20, C20QM |
| Cost-sensitive industrial gateway | LTE Cat 4 | CQ20, C20QM |
| 5G-ready gateway with balanced performance | 5G RedCap | CQM220 |
| Compact 5G router or gateway | 5G RedCap | CQM220 |
| High-performance 5G router | 5G NR | CQM211 |
| Industrial edge gateway | 5G NR / 5G NR Advanced | CQM211, CQM212 |
| Premium 5G CPE or private network gateway | 5G NR Advanced | CQM212, CQM215 |
| Connected Surveillance Solution | 5G NR Advanced | CQM215 |
LTE Cat 4 Modules for Today’s Routers and Gateways
LTE Cat 4 remains a strong choice for many router and gateway applications. It offers dependable cellular throughput, wide network availability, and a practical integration path for OEMs building cost-effective connected products.
CQ20: LTE Cat 4 module for global 4G deployments
CQ20 is designed for LTE Cat 4 and 2G fallback applications. It supports up to 150 Mbps downlink and 50 Mbps uplink, integrated GNSS, VoLTE, SMS over IMS/SG/CS, and wide protocol support.
With regional variants including Worldwide, North America, India, Eurasia and Japan, Australia and New Zealand, and Latin America, CQ20 is well suited for OEMs building router and gateway product families across multiple markets.
Best fit:
C20QM: Compact LTE Cat 4 module with Hubble-enabled connectivity options
C20QM supports LTE Cat 4 with 2G fallback, delivering up to 150 Mbps downlink and 50 Mbps uplink. It comes in a compact LGA form factor and supports in-built GNSS, VoLTE, SMS over IMS/SG/CS, SDK support, USB 2.0, UART, SGMII, I2C, SPI, ADC, GPIO, DBI display and antenna interfaces.
C20QM also supports an optional integrated eSIM powered by Cavli Hubble, helping OEMs simplify connectivity management and reduce time to market for regional and global deployments.
Best fit:
CTA: Explore LTE Cat 4 Modules
5G RedCap for Router and Gateway Migration
As router and gateway OEMs prepare for 5G-ready product lines, 5G RedCap provides a practical middle layer between LTE Cat 4 and full 5G NR.
It is especially useful when the application needs better uplink, lower latency, and longer 5G lifecycle support, but does not need multi-gigabit 5G NR performance.
CQM220: 5G RedCap module for compact 5G gateways
CQM220 is Cavli’s 5G RedCap module based on 3GPP Release 17. It supports 5G SA mode, 4G fallback, OpenWrt, LGA and M.2 form factors, GNSS L1+L5, USB 2.0, PCIe Gen 2, SGMII, UART, SPI, I2C, I2S, GPIO, ADC, JTAG, and dual USIM support.
The module supports up to 220 Mbps downlink and 120 Mbps uplink on 5G, with 4G fallback at 150 Mbps downlink and 50 Mbps uplink. It also supports an optional WiFi and Bluetooth transceiver through PCIe Gen 2 interface.
Best fit:
CTA: Explore 5G RedCap Modules
5G NR Modules for High-Performance Routers and Gateways
High-performance routers and gateways need more than cellular access. They need high-speed host interfaces, strong uplink capacity, multi-antenna support, LTE fallback, OpenWrt/Linux support, and enough processing capability for advanced networking functions.
Cavli’s 5G NR modules are built for routers, CPE devices, industrial gateways, smart surveillance gateways, and private network equipment where high throughput and reliable connectivity are core requirements.
CQM211: 5G NR module for mainstream 5G router and gateway designs
CQM211 supports 5G NR with LTE Cat 16 fallback. It delivers up to 2.4 Gbps downlink and 900 Mbps uplink in 5G SA mode, and up to 3.4 Gbps downlink and 550 Mbps uplink in 5G NSA mode.
With Yocto OS, LGA and M.2 form factors, PCIe Gen 3, USB 3.1/2.0, UART, SPI, I2C, I2S, dual USIM, GPIO, antenna interfaces, and GNSS L1+L5, CQM211 is suitable for OEMs building 5G routers and gateway platforms that need strong throughput with flexible integration.
Best fit:
CQM212: 5G NR Advanced module for high-performance gateways
CQM212 is a 5G NR Advanced module with LTE Cat 20 fallback. It supports up to 5.36 Gbps downlink and 1.25 Gbps uplink in 5G SA Sub-6, and up to 5.05 Gbps downlink and 750 Mbps uplink in 5G NSA Sub-6.
The module runs Linux/OpenWrt and includes a Quad-Core Arm Cortex-A55 processor, Qualcomm Hexagon DSP, GNSS L1+L5, USB 3.1, USB 2.0, PCIe 4.0, PCIe 3.0, UXSGMII, UART, SPI, I2C, I2S, dual USIM, GPIO, LCD, ADC, JTAG, and multi-antenna support.
Best fit:
CQM215: Premium 5G NR Advanced module for multi-gigabit router and CPE systems
CQM215 is Cavli’s premium 5G NR Advanced module with LTE Cat 20 fallback. It supports up to 7.01 Gbps downlink and 1.25 Gbps uplink in 5G SA Sub-6, and up to 5.95 Gbps downlink and 750 Mbps uplink in 5G NSA Sub-6.
With 4CC carrier aggregation, Linux/OpenWrt support, Quad-Core Arm Cortex-A55 processing, Qualcomm Hexagon DSP, GNSS L1+L5, PCIe 4.0, PCIe 3.0, USB 3.1, USB 2.0, UXSGMII, dual USIM, and multi-antenna support, CQM215 is designed for premium 5G routers, CPE devices, private network gateways, and industrial edge systems.
Best fit:
CTA: Explore 5G NR Modules
Interface Support for Router and Gateway Designs
Router and gateway hardware designs depend heavily on host interface compatibility. A module may meet the throughput target, but it must also fit into the device architecture.
Cavli modules support a wide range of interfaces across LTE Cat 4, 5G RedCap, and 5G NR product families.
UART for control and diagnostics
UART is commonly used for modem control, diagnostics, command communication, and embedded system integration. It is useful in router and gateway designs where the host processor needs reliable command-level communication with the cellular module.
USB 2.0 and USB 3.1 for data connectivity
USB is widely used in router and gateway platforms for host connectivity and data transfer. LTE Cat 4 and RedCap designs can use USB 2.0, while high-performance 5G NR routers and gateways can use USB 3.1 where higher data movement is required.
PCIe for high-performance router architectures
PCIe is important for high-throughput router, CPE, and gateway systems. Cavli’s 5G RedCap and 5G NR modules support PCIe options across product families, including PCIe Gen 2, PCIe Gen 3, and PCIe 4.0, depending on the selected module.
SGMII and UXSGMII for Ethernet-oriented gateway designs
SGMII and UXSGMII support router and gateway architectures that require Ethernet-oriented data paths. These interfaces are especially relevant for industrial gateways, CPE devices, and networking equipment where high-speed Ethernet integration is part of the product design.
Dual USIM for carrier flexibility
Dual USIM support in 5G RedCap and 5G NR modules helps OEMs design routers and gateways with improved carrier flexibility, regional deployment options, and connectivity fallback strategies.
GNSS and antenna support for mobile and field gateways
Integrated GNSS and multi-antenna support help enable mobile gateways, fleet routers, surveillance gateways, and remote infrastructure devices that require location awareness, diversity, MIMO, and stable RF performance.
4G Router Deployments Today, 5G-Ready Gateways Tomorrow
Many IoT router and gateway deployments still rely on LTE because 4G coverage is mature, widely available, and practical for current field deployments. At the same time, OEMs designing new products must plan for longer device lifecycles, evolving network roadmaps, and the shift toward 5G-ready infrastructure.
Cavli’s portfolio helps OEMs manage this transition without forcing a single technology choice.
For current 4G deployments, CQ20 and C20QM provide LTE Cat 4 connectivity with 2G fallback and practical interface support. For balanced 5G migration, CQM220 brings 5G RedCap with 4G fallback. For high-bandwidth router and gateway platforms, CQM211, CQM212, and CQM215 support 5G NR and 5G NR Advanced performance with LTE fallback.
This gives router and gateway manufacturers a clear product roadmap:
LTE Cat 4 for reliable 4G connectivity
5G RedCap for cost-balanced 5G migration
5G NR for premium high-throughput systems
Router and Gateway Applications Cavli Modules Support
✓ Industrial routers
✓ IoT gateways
✓ 5G CPE devices
✓ Smart city gateways
✓ Smart surveillance gateways
✓ Energy and utility gateways
✓ Fleet and transportation gateways
✓ Private network gateways
Router and Gateway Applications Cavli Modules Support
Industrial routers
Industrial routers connect PLCs, sensors, machines, and remote industrial systems to enterprise networks or cloud platforms. Cavli LTE and 5G modules help OEMs build routers for factories, automation systems, remote plants, and industrial infrastructure.
IoT gateways
IoT gateways aggregate data from sensors, meters, controllers, cameras, and field devices. Cavli modules provide the cellular backhaul needed to send this data to cloud platforms, private networks, or enterprise systems.
5G CPE devices
5G CPE devices require high-throughput cellular connectivity, advanced antenna design, and strong interface support. Cavli’s 5G NR modules support CPE designs where fixed wireless access, enterprise broadband, and private network connectivity are key requirements.
Smart city gateways
Smart city gateways connect traffic systems, lighting networks, surveillance devices, environmental sensors, parking systems, and utility infrastructure. Cavli modules support scalable cellular connectivity across distributed urban deployments.
Smart surveillance gateways
Surveillance gateways often need high uplink capacity, stable connectivity, and edge processing support. Cavli’s 5G RedCap and 5G NR modules are suitable for HD surveillance gateways and video-heavy deployments.
Energy and utility gateways
Utility gateways need long-term network availability, secure data transmission, and broad regional support. Cavli modules can support cellular connectivity for smart grid, metering, renewable energy, and remote utility monitoring systems.
Fleet and transportation gateways
Mobile routers and vehicular gateways require cellular connectivity, GNSS support, and regional network compatibility. Cavli modules support applications such as fleet monitoring, vehicle telemetry, passenger Wi-Fi, and mobile asset connectivity.
Private network gateways
Private LTE and 5G networks require gateway devices that can connect industrial equipment, enterprise systems, and edge infrastructure. Cavli’s 5G NR modules support high-performance connectivity for private network environments.
Cavli Hubble for Connectivity & IoT Module Management
Router and gateway deployments do not end at hardware integration. Once devices are deployed across regions, OEMs and enterprises need visibility into SIM status, data usage, network behavior, and device lifecycle events.
With Cavli Hubble-enabled connectivity options, businesses can simplify IoT connectivity management across device fleets. For router and gateway OEMs, this helps reduce operational complexity after deployment and supports better control over connected devices in the field.
Cavli Hubble can support use cases such as:
- eSIM lifecycle management
- Data plan management
- Connectivity monitoring
- Usage visibility
- Remote diagnostics
- Device lifecycle support
- Global connectivity management
CTA: Contact Sales to Discuss Hubble-Enabled Connectivity
Module Comparison for Router and Gateway OEMs
| Module | Technology | Peak Throughput | Fallback | OS | Key Interfaces | Best Fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CQ20 | LTE Cat 4 | 150 Mbps DL / 50 Mbps UL | 2G | Yocto Linux 4.14 | UART, USB 2.0, SGMII, I2C | LTE routers, IoT gateways |
| C20QM | LTE Cat 4 | 150 Mbps DL / 50 Mbps UL | 2G | Linux 4.14 | UART, USB 2.0, SGMII, SPI, I2C | Compact LTE gateways |
| CQM220 | 5G RedCap | 220 Mbps DL / 120 Mbps UL | 4G Cat 4 | OpenWrt | USB 2.0, PCIe Gen 2, SGMII, UART | RedCap routers, mid-tier 5G gateways |
| CQM211 | 5G NR | 3.4 Gbps DL / 550 Mbps UL in NSA | LTE Cat 16 | Yocto OS | PCIe Gen 3, USB 3.1/2.0, UART | 5G routers, CPE, gateways |
| CQM212 | 5G NR Advanced | 5.36 Gbps DL / 1.25 Gbps UL in SA | LTE Cat 20 | Linux/OpenWrt | PCIe 4.0, PCIe 3.0, USB 3.1, UXSGMII | High-performance gateways |
| CQM215 | 5G NR Advanced | 7.01 Gbps DL / 1.25 Gbps UL in SA | LTE Cat 20 | Linux/OpenWrt | PCIe 4.0, PCIe 3.0, USB 3.1, UXSGMII | Premium 5G routers and CPE |
Engineering Checklist for Router and Gateway Module Selection
Before selecting a cellular module for your router or gateway design, evaluate:
Build Your Next Router or Gateway with the Right Cellular Module
Whether you are designing an LTE router, 5G RedCap gateway, industrial edge gateway, or premium 5G CPE, Cavli can help you identify the right module for your application, region, throughput target, interface requirement, and deployment roadmap.
Talk to Cavli’s solution team to compare LTE Cat 4, 5G RedCap, and 5G NR module options for your router or gateway design.
Go Beyond and Explore
What is a Flip-Chip Land Grid Array?
Key Features of Flip-Chip Land Grid Array
Flip-Chip Technology: Flip-chip refers to a packaging method where the chip is flipped upside down so that its active surface (the side with the contacts or bumps) faces the PCB. In the Flip-Chip Land Grid Array, the flip-chip die is directly connected to the PCB using solder bumps instead of the traditional wire bonding process. It allows for shorter interconnects, faster data transfer, and better signal integrity. Land Grid Array (LGA) Design: LGA is a packaging design where the chip's contact pads (lands) are arranged in a grid pattern on the bottom of the chip rather than using pins or solder balls. In the Flip Chip Land Grid Array, the chip's active surface with solder bumps is aligned with the LGA contact pads on the PCB. The pads on the PCB enable the electrical connection between the chip and the board.Advantages of Flip Chip Land Grid Array
- Higher Density: The flip-chip method allows for a higher-density connection between the chip and the PCB, which results in a smaller package size and the ability to fit more pins (lands) in a compact area.
- Improved Electrical Performance: Flip-chip bonding reduces electrical resistance and inductance, improving the signal integrity and data speed of the device.
- Better Thermal Management: The flip-chip design can enhance thermal dissipation, as the chip's heat-generating area is in direct contact with the PCB, which improves overall thermal performance.
- Higher Reliability: With no exposed pins, as seen in traditional PGA or BGA, FC-LGA is more mechanically robust and less prone to damage during handling or over the device's lifespan
What are the most favorable applications for LGA-based modules?
- LGA packages offer a compact size for space-constrained devices like wearables, smart meters, and asset trackers.
- It offers high performance for IoT applications like industrial automation, healthcare IoT devices, and smart cities.
- Thermal and mechanical reliability in rugged environments makes it ideal for remote sensors, smart agriculture, and automotive IoT.
- It is scalable across multi-band IoT solutions, from NB-IoT to 5G-enabled devices.
What are typical LGA pad counts and how do they affect the module's capabilities?
- LGA 1151 (used for desktop CPUs) typically has 1,151 pads.
- LGA 2011 (common in server processors) has around 2,011 pads.
- For cellular IoT modules, LGA pad counts typically range from 100 to 500 pads, depending on the connectivity and features required (e.g., LTE, NB-IoT, or 5G).
Author
Drishya Manohar
Sr. Associate - Content Marketing
