How to Use SparkFun GNSS L1/L5 Breakout - NEO-F10N, SMA: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The SparkFun GNSS L1/L5 Breakout - NEO-F10N, SMA (GPS-24114) is a high-precision Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) module designed for applications requiring accurate positioning and timing. It features the u-blox NEO-F10N module, which supports dual-band GNSS reception (L1 and L5) for enhanced accuracy and reliability. This breakout board is equipped with an SMA connector for an external antenna, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, including autonomous vehicles, drones, surveying, and IoT devices.

• High-precision navigation for drones and autonomous vehicles
• Surveying and mapping
• Timing synchronization for communication systems
• IoT devices requiring accurate geolocation
• Research and development in GNSS technologies

1. Power Supply: Connect the 3.3V pin to a regulated 3.3V power source and the GND pin to the ground.
2. Antenna Connection: Attach an external GNSS antenna to the SMA connector for optimal signal reception.
3. Communication Interface:
   • For UART communication, connect the TX and RX pins to the corresponding UART pins on your microcontroller.
   • For I2C communication, connect the SDA and SCL pins to the I2C bus of your microcontroller.
4. Optional Connections:
   • Use the PPS pin for precise timing applications.
   • Connect the RST pin to a GPIO pin on your microcontroller for manual resets if needed.

• Antenna Placement: Ensure the external antenna has a clear view of the sky for optimal satellite reception.
• Power Supply: Use a clean and stable 3.3V power source to avoid noise and interference.
• UART/I2C Selection: Configure your microcontroller to use the appropriate communication protocol.
• RTK Corrections: For high-precision applications, use Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) corrections with a compatible base station.

Below is an example of how to interface the SparkFun GNSS L1/L5 Breakout with an Arduino UNO using UART communication:

#include <SoftwareSerial.h>

// Define RX and TX pins for SoftwareSerial
SoftwareSerial mySerial(4, 3); // RX = Pin 4, TX = Pin 3

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize hardware serial for debugging
  mySerial.begin(9600); // Initialize software serial for GNSS module

  Serial.println("SparkFun GNSS L1/L5 Breakout Example");
}

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

Note: Ensure the GNSS module's baud rate matches the mySerial.begin() value (default is 9600).

1. No GNSS Fix:

   • Ensure the external antenna is properly connected and has a clear view of the sky.
   • Check the power supply for stability and correct voltage.
   • Verify the module's configuration and communication settings.

2. No Data Output:

   • Confirm the TX and RX connections between the GNSS module and the microcontroller.
   • Ensure the baud rate in your code matches the module's default baud rate (9600).

3. Intermittent Signal Loss:

   • Avoid placing the antenna near sources of interference, such as Wi-Fi routers or metal objects.
   • Use a high-quality GNSS antenna for better performance.

Q: Can I use this module indoors?
A: While the module may work indoors near windows, optimal performance requires a clear view of the sky.

Q: What type of antenna should I use?
A: Use an active GNSS antenna with an SMA connector for best results.

Q: How do I enable RTK corrections?
A: RTK corrections require additional hardware (e.g., a base station) and configuration. Refer to the u-blox NEO-F10N datasheet for detailed instructions.

Q: Can I power the module with 5V?
A: No, the module requires a regulated 3.3V power supply. Use a voltage regulator if your system operates at 5V.