Data Sheet

SAM-M8Q - Data Sheet
UBX-16012619 - R04 Production Information Product handling & soldering
Page 21 of 25
7.2.1 Moisture Sensitivity Levels
The Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) relates to the packaging and handling precautions required. The SAM-M8Q
modules are rated at MSL level 4.
For MSL standard see IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020, which can be downloaded from www.jedec.org.
For more information regarding MSL see the u-blox Package Information Guide [3].
7.2.2 Reflow soldering
Reflow profiles are to be selected according u-blox recommendations (see the SAM-M8Q Hardware Integration
Manual [1]).
7.2.3 Antenna ageing
Antenna electrode metallization is unprotected silver and will tarnish during storage due to sulfuric compounds
present in the atmosphere. Elevated temperature and humidity will accelerate this process. Human skin contact,
wool etc. will also cause tarnishing. This has no effect on the electrical performance of the antenna. u-blox
accepts no warranty claims for tarnished products due to this normal and to be expected process.
7.2.4 ESD handling precautions
SAM-M8Q modules are Electrostatic Sensitive Devices (ESD). Observe precautions for handling!
Failure to observe these precautions can result in severe damage to the GNSS receiver!
GNSS receivers are Electrostatic Sensitive Devices (ESD) and require special precautions when handling. Particular
care must be exercised when handling patch antennas, due to the risk of electrostatic charges. In addition to
standard ESD safety practices, the following measures should be taken into account whenever handling the
receiver:
 Unless there is a galvanic coupling between the
local GND (i.e. the work table) and the PCB GND,
then the first point of contact when handling the
PCB must always be between the local GND and
PCB GND.
 Before mounting an antenna patch, connect the
ground of the device.
 When handling the RF pin, do not come into
contact with any charged capacitors and be
careful when contacting materials that can
develop charges (e.g. patch antenna ~10 pF, coax
cable ~50-80 pF/m, soldering iron, …).
 To prevent electrostatic discharge through the RF
input, do not touch any exposed antenna area. If
there is any risk that such exposed antenna area is
touched in non ESD protected work area,
implement proper ESD protection measures in the
design.
 When soldering RF connectors and patch
antennas to the receiver’s RF pin, make sure to
use an ESD safe soldering iron (tip).