Quectel L96 GNSS Module Documentation

1. Introduction

The Quectel L96 is a high-performance GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) module designed to provide precise positioning and navigation capabilities. It supports multiple satellite systems, including GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou, ensuring robust and reliable location data in various environments. With its low power consumption, compact size, and high sensitivity, the L96 is ideal for applications in IoT devices, asset tracking, wearables, drones, and automotive systems.

Key Features:

• Multi-GNSS support: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou.
• High sensitivity for weak signal environments.
• Ultra-low power consumption for battery-powered applications.
• Compact design for space-constrained devices.
• Built-in low-noise amplifier (LNA) for improved signal reception.

2. Technical Specifications

The following table outlines the key technical specifications of the Quectel L96 module:

Pin Configuration

The Quectel L96 module has a total of 12 pins. The table below describes the pin configuration:

3. Usage Instructions

Connecting the L96 to an Arduino UNO

The Quectel L96 can be easily interfaced with an Arduino UNO using its UART interface. Below is a step-by-step guide:

1. Hardware Connections:

   • Connect the VCC pin of the L96 to the 3.3V or 5V pin of the Arduino UNO.
   • Connect the GND pin of the L96 to the GND pin of the Arduino UNO.
   • Connect the TXD pin of the L96 to the RX pin (pin 0) of the Arduino UNO.
   • Connect the RXD pin of the L96 to the TX pin (pin 1) of the Arduino UNO.
   • If using an external antenna, connect it to the ANT_IN pin.

2. Software Setup:

   • Install the Arduino IDE on your computer.
   • Use the SoftwareSerial library to communicate with the L96 module.

3. Sample Code: Below is an example Arduino sketch to read GNSS data from the L96 module:

   #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("Quectel L96 GNSS Module Test");
   }
   
   void loop() {
     while (GNSS.available()) {
       char c = GNSS.read();    // Read data from GNSS module
       Serial.print(c);         // Print GNSS data to Serial Monitor
     }
   }
   

   Note: The GNSS module outputs NMEA sentences (e.g., $GPGGA, $GPRMC) by default. These sentences contain positioning and timing data.

Important Considerations:

• Use a level shifter if interfacing the L96 with a 5V microcontroller to avoid damaging the module.
• Ensure a clear view of the sky for optimal satellite reception.
• Use an external active antenna for better signal quality in weak signal environments.
• Connect the V_BCKP pin to a backup battery to retain RTC data during power loss.

4. Troubleshooting and FAQs

Common Issues and Solutions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the default baud rate of the L96 module?

   • The default baud rate is 9600 bps.

2. Can the L96 module work indoors?

   • The L96 is highly sensitive and may work indoors near windows, but for best results, use it outdoors with a clear view of the sky.

3. Does the L96 support DGPS or SBAS?

   • Yes, the L96 supports DGPS (Differential GPS) and SBAS (Satellite-Based Augmentation System) for improved accuracy.

4. What type of antenna should I use with the L96?

   • Use an active antenna with a gain of 15-25 dB for optimal performance.

5. How do I parse NMEA sentences from the L96?

   • Use libraries like TinyGPS++ or NeoGPS in Arduino to parse NMEA sentences and extract useful data.

This documentation provides a comprehensive guide to using the Quectel L96 GNSS module. For further details, refer to the official Quectel L96 datasheet or contact Quectel technical support.