How to make a GPS unit

Projects Networking, Protocols, and Devices
1

Hi all,

I've made a few Arduino projects in the past, and now I'd like to learn how to turn on of them into a PCB.
The project is simple enough, it logs temperature and gps and stores this to a microSD. The problem is I have no clue how to attach any old GPS receiver to an arduino and make it work (and I can't just buy a gps shield for my PCB).

I'd like to use something like this:

https://www.digikey.co.uk/product-detail/en/skyworks-solutions-inc/SE4150L-R/863-1354-1-ND/2745473

would that be easy enough to do?

Thanks

2

That chip needs an antenna and about 20 other specialized parts. Download and study the data sheet for complete details.

You are much better off using a complete GPS module, something like this one.

3

There are plenty of ready assembled GPS units avaialble, even for under $10.

Just 4 wires to connect them, 2 for power and two for the serial connection.

Is there any particular reason you want to take on the signifcant technical challenge of assembling your own GPS unit ?

4

Thanks for the help guys thats quite helpful :slight_smile:

As you can probably tell I don't really have much experience in this area so I'm not quite sure what I need. I'm technical enough to attach wires to an Arduino and program it to make a prototype but now I would like to miniaturise it and make it ready for manufacture. I need to make 20 PCBs for testing, and so things like Arduino breakout boards and shields aren't suitable. I had no idea ready assembled cheap gps units are available, and so I'll definitely look at using those as proposed to trying to design a matching network etc!

jremington I found the module you recommended for $2

Thanks guys!

5

jremington I found the module you recommended for $2

Probably not, but post a link.

6

https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Maestro-wireless-A2235-H-GPS-module_60672612323.html?spm=a2700.7724838.2017115.23.1e7545487q4GHB

it's Alibaba, and I need to purchase minimum 10, which is fine considering I will need 20.

What do you think? genuine?

7

matt3526:
It's Alibaba, and I need to purchase minimum 10, which is fine considering I will need 20.
What do you think? genuine?

Well, you buy 20 and let us know if they work.

Remember that the picture you are looking at may bear no realtionship to what you are actually going to get.