I am working on a project that involves using GPS module on Arduino Uno Board.
The GPS module I bought is Ublox NEO-6M GPS Module GY-GPS6MV2.
I have been trying to test the GPS module functionality with some test codes that I found.
There's data loading in the serial monitor but so far, the GPS has not lock-on yet (There's no LED light blinking on the module)
-Refer to the attached Picture of the serial monitor.
I have checked the connections and the power supply is between 3.3V - 5V, .
Read some forums online that the GPS module has to be brought outside under a clear sky to get the GPS location. Is this true? And is it only the first time or must I always bring it outside for the GPS to lock-on ?
Gps module has to be outside to get a signal from 3 or more satellites to get a 3D fix and get valid location data.
Once you get a fix (enough satellites have locked on) you can go inside and put the gps module near a window. While inside your accuracy may drop off due to weakening signal to the satellites and may eventually loose the fix in which case you will need to go outside again to regain it and lock on to new satellites.
Gps signals can penetrate certain objects (glass, plastic etc) but unfortunately not a buildings walls/roof etc.
Not from the research I have done anyway!
The GPS is actually working, but the signals from the satellites are reporting as very weak, too weak even to pick up the time.
Take the GPS outside and post the text from the serial monitor, so we can see the difference.
I have a GPS running on my bench at the moment, the workshop walls are quite thin, the roof a thin corrugated cement.
The GPS has so far taken 15 minutes to pick up the time, no sign of a fix yet, 1 satellite in view.
I have tested the exact same GPS outdoors in the middle of my garden only about 3m away, it will pick up time in around 5-10seconds and a location fix in 35.
I bought a second GPS module, same version.
And it is able to work when I brought it outside.
I guess the first module was faulty/poor quality as you mentioned.