NRF24L01+PA+LNA 2.4GHz Wireless RF Module

The NRF24L01+PA+LNA 2.4GHz Wireless RF Module is a long-range wireless transceiver designed for projects that need reliable communication well beyond the range of a standard nRF24L01+ module. It's built around the same nRF24L01+ chipset, but adds an onboard Power Amplifier (PA) and Low-Noise Amplifier (LNA), extending its usable range to over 1000 metres in open, line-of-sight conditions.

The Power Amplifier boosts the strength of the outgoing signal, helping it travel further, while the Low-Noise Amplifier strengthens weak incoming signals on the receiving end without introducing much additional interference. Together, these two additions are what separate this module from the compact, built-in-antenna version, and why it's a better fit for outdoor, long-range, or obstacle-heavy environments.

Key Features:

• Operating Frequency: 2400 MHz to 2524 MHz, in the worldwide licence-free 2.4GHz ISM band.
• Communication Range: Over 1000 metres, line of sight.
• Modulation: GFSK (Gaussian Frequency-Shift Keying).
• Data Rate: Selectable 250 kbps, 1 Mbps, or 2 Mbps over-the-air data rate.
• Amplification: Onboard PA delivering up to 20 dBm output power, and LNA providing up to 10 dB of gain.
• Receiver Sensitivity: Approximately -95 dBm.
• Interface: 4-wire SPI, for straightforward integration with most microcontrollers.
• Logic Levels: Built-in level-shifting circuitry supports both 3.3V and 5V logic, so no external logic level converter is needed.
• Operating Voltage: 2.7V to 3.6V (do not connect directly to 5V power).
• Current Draw: Up to 115 mA when transmitting, up to 45 mA when receiving.
• Antenna: External SMA connector with a duck antenna, for improved range over onboard PCB antenna designs.
• Board Dimensions: 41mm x 15.5mm.

Standard vs PA+LNA: What's the Difference?

The nRF24L01+ is available in two versions. The standard version has a small antenna built directly onto the circuit board, keeping it compact, but limiting outdoor line-of-sight range to around 100 metres, with reduced range indoors due to walls and furniture. This PA+LNA version instead uses an external SMA antenna paired with an RFX2401C range extender chip, combining the PA, LNA, and transmit/receive switching circuitry into one package, extending outdoor range up to 1000+ metres.

Both versions are fully interchangeable in existing projects. If you've built something using the standard module, you can swap in this PA+LNA version without changing any of your wiring or code. If you're after the smaller, more compact option instead, take a look at our NRF24L01+ Module.

Connectivity and Pinout

• GND: Ground pin, connect to GND of your power source.
• 3.3VDC: Power input, connect to a 3.3V supply.
• CE: Chip Enable, an active-high pin that determines whether the module is transmitting or receiving.
• CSN: Chip Select Not, enables SPI communication with your microcontroller.
• IRQ: Interrupt pin, can notify your microcontroller when new data is available (not commonly used).
• MISO: Master In Slave Out, carries data from the module to your microcontroller.
• MOSI: Master Out Slave In, carries data from your microcontroller to the module.
• SCK: Serial Clock, provides the clock signal for SPI communication.

Since this module runs on 2.7V-3.6V rather than a standard 5V logic supply, it's recommended to pair it with our NRF24L01 Wireless Transceiver Socket Adapter Board, which simplifies powering and wiring considerably, particularly useful given this module's higher current draw during transmission compared to the standard version.

Applications:

• Long-range wireless sensor networks
• Remote monitoring and telemetry
• Home automation
• Robotics and remote robotic control
• Wireless mesh networks
• General IoT projects requiring extended range

Compatible with Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, Teensy, and most other microcontrollers over SPI. An Arduino IDE library is available to simplify integration into your projects.

Resources

• Pinout Diagram
• Datasheet

This product can be found here:

• Components & Parts
• RF
• Wireless Connectivity