GPS MODULE EVALUATION BOARD Features • Standard RS232 Data Output Via 9way D Type Connector • Data In Standard NMEA Format • Low Power Consumption • Supplied with o GPS Antenna o Supporting software o RS232 Cable (for PC connection) • Led Indicators For Valid Almanac And Signal Lock • Link Selectable And Programmable Baud Rates • Onboard Regulator Allows 3.3v To 15v Supply • Compatible With Popular Routing Software Applications • Development for embedded GPS • Asset Management • Vehicle Tracking / Navigation • Add On For PDA’s Description This board is provides a hardware and software evaluation platform for development of the RF Solutions GPS/PVT module. This module provides position, velocity and time information in a standard NMEA string format that is compatible with a range of GPS driven navigation packages including Microsoft AUTOROUTE. The evaluation board provides a completed design utilising the GPS Module. This provides a direct PC interface via 9 way ‘D’ type connector and a row of pin headers to enable configuration and monitoring of the GPS signals. Power may be from any dc supply from 3.3 – 15V. Two LEDs provide additional information relating to the signal lock status and the validity of the onboard almanac. Ordering Information Part Number GPS-EVAL2R2 DS033-3 July 2004 Description GPS Module Evaluation Board ©2004 Reg. No. 227 4001, England Page 1 GPS MODULE EVALUATION BOARD Jumper Settings The Pin Headers provide access to the GPS modules pins. Pin 1 of each of the pin headers connects through to the GPS module as indicated in the table below. Pin 2 of each pin header is connected to ground. Please refer to the Data Interface section on page 4 of datasheet DS031 for information on the functionality of these pins. Jumper Link ON_OFF B_R PPS RST STY SBY ALM GPS Pin ON/OFF BAUD RATE PPS RESET STY1 Standby ALMRDY Link Open ON 9600 N/A N/A Link Closed OFF 4800 N/A RESET STY1 Standby N/A I/O Input Input Output Input Input Input Output Power Connections Power can be supplied to the board at either 3.3Vdc or 49Vdc via the 3V3 or JP1 pin headers respectively. Data Connections Data access is provided at either RS232 or TTL voltage levels. • The 9-way D-Type connector provides data transfer at RS232 voltage levels. It may be connected directly to a COM port of a PC. • The COMMS pin header provides direct access to the GPS module 3.3V data lines. COMMS_1 = GPS Data Transmit COMMS_2 = GPS Data Recieve In this case the RS232 Driver chip can be disabled by removing R3 and R9. Status LEDs LED1 (the green LED) illuminates to indicate that a valid almanac is available. LED2 (the red LED) flashes to indicate that no GPS information is available. LED2 remains off if GPS information is available. PCB Dimensions: 85.5mm x 33.5mm Other Information For a detailed description of the GPS Module please see the following documents: GPS Datasheet: DS031 GPS Programmers Guide: DS032 Software Information The following software may be used to operate on a PC in conjunction with the evaluation board: Microsoft Autoroute • This produces a complete Satellite navigation system. The GPS information is utilised to plot your position on a map of your current location. DS033-3 July 2004 ©2004 Reg. No. 227 4001, England Page 2 GPS MODULE EVALUATION BOARD • • The only connections required to the GPS Evaluation board are an RS232 data cable and power. Jumper link JP5 should be fitted to set the baud rate to 4800 baud. • Please see the Microsoft Autoroute help file for information on configuring the software to work with a GPS receiver Evaluation Software • This provides an interface to the GPS receiver. Information including your current Location, a real time position plot, the satellite locations and the satellite signal strength is displayed, as shown below. • The only connections required to the GPS Evaluation board are an RS232 data cable and power. • All jumper connections can be left open and the communications can be effected at 9600 baud. DS033-3 July 2004 ©2004 Reg. No. 227 4001, England Page 3 GPS MODULE EVALUATION BOARD Antenna Information The GPS antenna is a compact active antenna designed for use with GPS module GPSM001. The antenna is equipped with a magnetic base so can be easily mounted. Due to the low power consumption it is ideal for portable devices. Specifications Features • Active antenna design • 5 meter coax connecting cable • 100 mm SMA-to-HFL conversion cable suppli • Small size 39 x 35 x 12.5 mm Parameter Min Foperating Bandwidth Operating Temp range Connector Patch Antenna Polarization Gain to Fo @900 elevation Output VSWR Impedance Antenna + LNA Gain to Fo Noise Figure Voltage Supply Current Consumption Typ 1574.42 MHz 2.046 MHz -20 0C Max 850C SMA R.H.C.P 5 Dbi 2 50 Ohm 27 dB 29 dB 2.7 V 3.3 V 12 Ma 33 dB 1.7dB 3.9 V For more information or general enquiries, please contact: RF Solutions Ltd., Unit 21 Cliffe Industrial Estate, South Street, Lewes, East Sussex, BN8 6JL, England Tel: +44 (0)1273 898 000 Fax: +44 (0)1273 480 661 Email: [email protected] http://www.rfsolutions.co.uk RF Solutions is a member of the Low Power Radio Association All Trademarks acknowledged and remain the property of the respected owners. Information contained in this document is believed to be accurate, however no representation or warranty is given and R.F. Solutions Ltd. assumes no liability with respect to the accuracy of such information. Use of R.F.Solutions as critical components in life support systems is not authorised except with express written approval from R.F.Solutions Ltd. DS033-3 July 2004 ©2004 Reg. No. 227 4001, England Page 4