The NRF24L01+ PA + LNA is a long-range 2.4 GHz wireless transceiver module designed for reliable, low-power data communication. It integrates a Power Amplifier (PA) and Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) along with an external SMA antenna, significantly extending communication range compared to the standard NRF24L01 module. This makes it ideal for IoT, robotics, remote control, and wireless sensor network applications.
Core Module Specifications
• RF Chipset: NRF24L01+
• Operating Frequency: 2.4 GHz ISM band
• Modulation: GFSK
• Channels: 125 selectable channels
• Data Rates: 250 kbps, 1 Mbps, 2 Mbps
• RF Output Power: Up to +20 dBm (with PA)
Electrical & Interface
• Operating Voltage: 3.0 V – 3.6 V (3.3 V typical)
• Logic Level: 3.3 V (not 5 V tolerant)
• Communication Interface: SPI
• Interface Pins: VCC, GND, CE, CSN, SCK, MOSI, MISO, IRQ
• Current Consumption:
– TX (PA enabled): up to ~115 mA
– RX (LNA enabled): ~45 mA
Performance Characteristics
• Communication Range:
– Up to 800–1000 m (open area, line-of-sight, antenna dependent)
• High receiver sensitivity with LNA
• Automatic packet handling and retransmission
• CRC error checking and address filtering
Physical Characteristics
• Module Type: PA + LNA RF transceiver module
• Antenna Connector: SMA female
• Antenna Type: External 2.4 GHz whip antenna
• Form Factor: Extended PCB compared to standard NRF24L01
Compatibility
• Arduino Uno / Nano / Mega (with level-safe wiring)
• ESP8266 / ESP32
• STM32, AVR, PIC microcontrollers
• Raspberry Pi (SPI interface)
Key Advantages
• Much longer range than standard NRF24L01
• Stable communication in noisy RF environments
• External antenna improves reliability
• Widely supported by libraries and examples
Technical Insights
• Requires a stable 3.3 V supply with high current capability
• Onboard AMS1117 regulator present on many PA+LNA boards
• Lower data rates (250 kbps) provide maximum range
• Proper decoupling capacitors improve performance
Applications
• Long-range wireless sensor networks
• Remote-controlled robots and vehicles
• Home automation systems
• Telemetry and data logging
• Industrial and agricultural monitoring
Pro Tip
• Use a dedicated 3.3 V regulator or DC-DC converter
• Place a 10 µF–47 µF capacitor near the VCC pin
• Avoid using long jumper wires for SPI signals
• Match antenna orientation on both transmitter and receiver
Package Includes
• 1 × NRF24L01+ PA + LNA Wireless Transceiver Module
• 1 × 2.4 GHz SMA Antenna