Unlock Compact Connectivity with RAK3172 & RAK11720 LoRa® Modules
At Alpha Micro, we’re proud to spotlight two ultra-compact LoRa® modules from RAKwireless: the RAK3172 and RAK11720. Both are designed for seamless integration into low-power, long-range IoT applications.
These modules strike the perfect balance of performance, size and flexibility. As a result, they’re ideal for developers building smart sensors, industrial devices, or embedded systems that require reliable LPWAN connectivity.
RAK3172: Compact and Optimised for Efficiency
Measuring just 15 x 15.5 mm, the RAK3172 is a surface-mounted module powered by the STM32WLE5CC SoC. It combines an ARM Cortex-M4 MCU and a Semtech SX1262 LoRa® transceiver in a single, space-saving package.
Key features:
Based on STM32WLE5CC (LoRa® + MCU)
Ultra-low power for battery-powered use
Supports LoRaWAN® 1.0.3 and 1.0.4
Preloaded with RUI3 firmware
Simple AT command interface
Dimensions: 15 x 15.5 mm
Because of its compact size and low energy use, the RAK3172 is ideal for smart agriculture, asset tracking, remote sensors and building automation.
To simplify development, the RAK3172 Breakout Board offers standard headers and full I/O access — no custom PCB required.
RAK11720: Enhanced Performance with Apollo3 MCU
While it shares the same footprint, the RAK11720 swaps in an Ambiq Apollo3 MCU. This delivers more processing power and even lower energy consumption. It’s a pin-compatible upgrade for applications that need extra computing headroom.
Key features:
SX1262 LoRa® transceiver + Apollo3 MCU
Integrated BLE 5.0 for dual connectivity
Preloaded with RUI3 firmware
Supports LoRaWAN® 1.0.3
Dual UARTs and flexible GPIOs
Dimensions: 15 x 15.5 mm
Additionally, the RAK11720 Breakout Board includes micro USB and debug ports — ideal for prototyping and quick performance evaluation.
Fast Development with RUI3 Firmware
Both modules run RAKwireless’ RUI3 firmware, enabling faster development and easier device management. With support for AT commands, C APIs, OTA updates and a user-friendly IDE, RUI3 helps reduce time to market significantly.
Whether you’re building a single device or deploying at scale, RAK modules offer the power and flexibility to get the job done.
Available Now at Alpha Micro
Alpha Micro are proud to offer these cutting-edge modules and their breakout boards, with full technical support and stock available via our LoRa Products page.
Whether you’re building agricultural sensors, industrial monitors or smart city infrastructure, the RAK3172 and RAK11720 provide the reliability and scalability required for your LoRaWAN® application.