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Hardware Assembly

GNSS Antenna

In order to receive GNSS signals, users will need to connect compatible antennas. For the best performance, we recommend users choose active, L1/L2/L5/L6/L-Band GNSS antennas and utilize a low-loss cables.

Antenna Specifications
  • Passive antennas are not recommended for the LG580P GNSS module.
  • To mitigate the impact of out-of-band signals, utilize an active antenna whose SAW filter is placed in front of the LNA in the internal framework.
    • DO NOT select and antenna with the LNA placed in the front.
  • There is no need to inject an external DC voltage for the GNSS antenna. Power is already provided from the LG580P module for the LNA of an active antenna.

Tip

For the best performance, we recommend users choose compatible L1/L2/L5/L6/L-Band GNSS antennas and utilize a low-loss cables. Also, don't forget that GNSS signals are fairly weak and can't penetrate buildings or dense vegetation. The GNSS antennas should have an unobstructed view of the sky.

U.FL Connectors

GNSS antennas are connected to the U.FL connectors on the GNSS Flex board. For sturdier connections, users have the option to bridging the connection to the SMA connector on a Flex carrier board.

Primary Antenna

The Antenna-1 U.FL connector functions as the primary GNSS antenna connection for the LG580P GNSS receiver. The GNSS antenna on this connection will also function as the reference position for any heading computations.

Antenna connection

Attaching an U.FL cable to the GNSS Flex board.

Secondary Antenna

The Antenna-2 U.FL connector is only utilized for attitude determination by the LG580P GNSS receiver. With a minimum distance of 1m between the antennas and the base length setting configured, users should be able to achieve a heading accuracy of 0.1°.

Second antenna connection

Attaching a second U.FL cable to the GNSS Flex board.

GNSS Flex Headers

SparkPNT GNSS Flex modules are plug-in boards featuring different GNSS receivers. They are designed to be easily swapped for repairs and pin-compatible for upgrades. The boards come populated with two 2x10 pin, 2mm pitch female headers for connecting to carrier boards.

Stacking LG580P GNSS Flex module onto a carrier board

Stacking a GNSS Flex module onto a carrier board.