How to Use Teseo-LIV4F: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Teseo-LIV4F, manufactured by STMicroelectronics, is a high-performance GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receiver module designed for precise positioning and navigation applications. It supports multiple satellite systems, including GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou, making it a versatile solution for global navigation needs. The module incorporates advanced algorithms to enhance accuracy and reliability, even in challenging environments such as urban canyons or dense foliage.

• Automotive navigation systems
• Asset tracking and fleet management
• Drones and UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles)
• IoT devices requiring geolocation
• Marine and outdoor navigation
• Precision agriculture

The Teseo-LIV4F is a compact and efficient GNSS module with the following key specifications:

• Supported GNSS Systems: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou
• Frequency Bands: L1 (1575.42 MHz for GPS, Galileo, and BeiDou; 1602 MHz for GLONASS)
• Sensitivity:
  • Acquisition: -147 dBm
  • Tracking: -163 dBm
• Position Accuracy: < 1.5 meters CEP (Circular Error Probable)
• Update Rate: Up to 10 Hz
• Power Supply Voltage: 3.0V to 3.6V
• Power Consumption:
  • Acquisition: ~30 mA
  • Tracking: ~25 mA
• Operating Temperature: -40°C to +85°C
• Communication Interfaces: UART, I2C, SPI
• Dimensions: 9.7 mm x 10.1 mm x 2.5 mm

The Teseo-LIV4F module has a set of pins for power, communication, and control. Below is the pinout description:

1. Power Supply: Connect the VCC pin to a stable 3.3V power source and the GND pin to the ground.
2. Communication Interface: Choose a communication protocol (UART, I2C, or SPI) based on your application. For example:
   • For UART, connect the TXD and RXD pins to the corresponding UART pins on your microcontroller.
   • For I2C, connect I2C_SCL and I2C_SDA to the microcontroller's I2C pins, with appropriate pull-up resistors (typically 4.7 kΩ).
   • For SPI, connect SPI_MISO, SPI_MOSI, SPI_CLK, and SPI_CS to the microcontroller's SPI pins.
3. Antenna Connection: Attach an external GNSS antenna to the module's antenna port for optimal signal reception.
4. Reset: Use the RESET_N pin to reset the module if needed. Pull this pin low for at least 10 ms to trigger a reset.

• Antenna Placement: Ensure the antenna has a clear view of the sky for optimal satellite reception. Avoid placing it near metal objects or inside enclosures that block RF signals.
• Power Supply: Use a low-noise power supply to prevent interference with the GNSS signals.
• Ground Plane: For best performance, use a ground plane under the module to improve signal quality.
• Firmware Updates: Check for firmware updates from STMicroelectronics to ensure the module operates with the latest features and bug fixes.

Below is an example of how to interface the Teseo-LIV4F with an Arduino UNO using UART communication:

• Connect the Teseo-LIV4F's TXD pin to the Arduino's RX (Pin 0).
• Connect the Teseo-LIV4F's RXD pin to the Arduino's TX (Pin 1).
• Connect the VCC pin to the Arduino's 3.3V pin.
• Connect the GND pin to the Arduino's GND pin.

#include <SoftwareSerial.h>

// Define RX and TX pins for SoftwareSerial
SoftwareSerial GNSS(10, 11); // RX = Pin 10, TX = Pin 11

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize Serial Monitor
  GNSS.begin(9600);   // Initialize GNSS module communication

  Serial.println("Teseo-LIV4F GNSS Module Test");
}

void loop() {
  // Check if data is available from the GNSS module
  if (GNSS.available()) {
    // Read data from GNSS and send it to Serial Monitor
    while (GNSS.available()) {
      char c = GNSS.read();
      Serial.print(c);
    }
  }

  // Optional: Add a small delay to avoid flooding the Serial Monitor
  delay(100);
}

1. No GNSS Fix (No Position Data)

   • Cause: Poor antenna placement or obstructed view of the sky.
   • Solution: Ensure the antenna is placed in an open area with a clear view of the sky. Check the antenna connection.

2. Module Not Responding

   • Cause: Incorrect power supply or communication interface setup.
   • Solution: Verify the power supply voltage (3.3V) and check the wiring of the communication interface.

3. Intermittent Signal Loss

   • Cause: RF interference or unstable power supply.
   • Solution: Use a low-noise power supply and ensure the module is placed away from sources of RF interference.

4. Data Corruption in Output

   • Cause: Mismatched baud rate or noisy communication lines.
   • Solution: Ensure the baud rate of the microcontroller matches the module's default baud rate (9600 bps). Use shorter wires for communication.

• Q: Can the Teseo-LIV4F operate indoors?

  • A: While the module can operate indoors, signal reception may be weak or unavailable due to obstructions. Use it in open areas for best results.

• Q: How do I increase the update rate?

  • A: The update rate can be configured up to 10 Hz using specific commands sent via the communication interface. Refer to the module's datasheet for details.

• Q: Does the module support differential GNSS (DGNSS)?

  • A: Yes, the Teseo-LIV4F supports DGNSS for improved positioning accuracy.

• Q: What type of antenna should I use?

  • A: Use an active GNSS antenna with a gain of 15-30 dB for optimal performance.