STMicroelectronics SPSGRF-915

Overview

SPSGRF-915 from STMicroelectronics is an FCC- and IC-certified sub-GHz RF transceiver module operating at 902–928 MHz, built around the SPIRIT1 transceiver with integrated BALF-SPI-01D3 balun and on-board antenna. It supports 2-FSK/GFSK/MSK/GMSK/OOK/ASK modulation, delivers up to +11.6 dBm output power, achieves -118 dBm receiver sensitivity, and operates across -40 °C to +85 °C for wireless sensor networks and industrial telemetry.

For engineers reviewing the SPSGRF-915 datasheet, SPSGRF-915 pinout, SPSGRF-915 application, or SPSGRF-915 equivalent, key selection criteria include its certified 915 MHz ISM band operation, programmable +11.6 dBm transmit power, -118 dBm sensitivity, SPI interface compatibility, and 4-pin GPIO flexibility for low-power embedded wireless node design.

Technical Context

The SPSGRF-915 implements a state-machine-controlled RF subsystem with dedicated READY, LOCK, TX, RX, SLEEP, and STANDBY modes managed exclusively via SPI commands. Its internal controller handles LO synthesis, mode transitions, and FIFO management without requiring external timing or configuration logic.

It integrates a calibrated RF front-end with programmable output power (from -30 dBm to +11.6 dBm), configurable air data rates (1–500 kbps), and hardware-accelerated packet handling - all accessible through a standard 4-wire SPI interface operating up to 8 MHz, with SDN pin enabling full shutdown (<0.1 µA).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SPSGRF-915 uses a compact 11-pin surface-mount module (4-layer PCB) with exposed thermal pad; dimensions are 13.0 mm × 13.0 mm × 2.0 mm (L×W×H). All pins are 0.5 mm pitch, RoHS-compliant, and designed for reflow per IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020C.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar sub-GHz transceiver module applications.

Compared with SX1276IMLTRT and CC1312R1F3RGZT, SPSGRF-915 trades raw range and processing capability for out-of-box regulatory compliance, smallest footprint, and lowest integration risk - making it optimal for volume OEMs shipping certified wireless endpoints into North American markets.

Availability

SPSGRF-915 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart utility metering, industrial wireless sensor networks, and wireless fire alarm systems requiring stable component supply, full regulatory documentation, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for SPSGRF-915 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, designing and manufacturing microcontrollers, analog ICs, MEMS, and RF solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The SPSGRF series belongs to ST's certified wireless connectivity product line, engineered specifically to accelerate development of FCC/IC/CE-compliant sub-GHz IoT endpoints with zero RF design overhead.

FAQ

Is SPSGRF-915 FCC and IC certified as a standalone module?

Yes. SPSGRF-915 holds modular transmitter certification under FCC ID S9NSPSGRF and IC ID 8976C-SPSGRF. It is approved for stand-alone use in final products, provided OEMs follow labeling, manual, and antenna placement guidelines specified in the datasheet. No additional RF testing is required for integration.

What is the maximum achievable range with SPSGRF-915 in open-field conditions?

In open-field line-of-sight with +11.6 dBm output and -118 dBm sensitivity, theoretical free-space range exceeds 3 km. Real-world performance depends on antenna efficiency, environmental obstructions, and interference; typical indoor range is 100–300 m, and outdoor urban range is 300–800 m.

Can GPIO pins be used for analog temperature sensing?

Only GPIO[0] (Pin 4) supports analog temperature measurement with ±2 °C accuracy across -40 °C to +85 °C. The other three GPIOs (Pins 1–3) are digital-only and support configurable pull-up/down, interrupt generation, and drive strength control - no ADC functionality.

Does SPSGRF-915 require external crystal or oscillator?

Yes. The module includes an onboard 26 MHz crystal (XO) that serves as the reference clock for the SPIRIT1 transceiver. No external crystal is needed - the XO is fully integrated and factory-calibrated; users must not replace or bypass it.