GPS Chips & GPS Modules

GPS stands for Global Positioning System and it uses a constellation of between 24 and 32 earth orbit satellites that transmit precise radio signals, which allow GPS receivers to determine their current location, the time, and their velocity.

GPS has several advantages and disadvantages, but what are they?

Advantages

• the system is self-calibrating all you need to do is just turn on and use
• can be used in the field – doesn't require a laboratory or artificial environment
• the technology is relatively small (typical GPS system is now no larger than a small mobile phone)
• works anywhere on Earth
• can give directions
• constantly evolving systems for greater accuracy and usability

Disadvantages

• most systems will last only 8-12 hours before needing a battery recharge
• a signal can be affected by large buildings

What is a GPS module?

The GPS module is a mountable receiver chip that can be attached to certain devices to give it GPS tracking and functions

How do they work?

Through the use of the global positioning system, you are able to track your device via satellite which helps determine location, time and velocity on Earth

Features and benefits:

• Fix status LEDs (to signal to search for satellites, or power conserve status)
• Tracking enabled with multiple satellites
• High frequency of location updates
• High sensitivity logging/tracking
• A high number of channels to use
• Incredibly low power usage
• Low dropout rates
• Some feature external antenna capabilities
• FLASH memory installed in some devices
• Supported BUS interfaces including GPIO, I2C, SBAS and more
• Small and compact
Where might I use one?
• Sat Navs / GPS
• Mobile phones
• Tablets
• Smart watches
• Laptops
• Military applications
• Medical applications