Low-power GPS module

18 April 2012 Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT

Fastrax has introduced the IT530, a low-power OEM GPS module in a tiny form factor. Advanced power-saving features ensure fast time to first fix (TTFF) without sacrificing battery life a critically important issue in location-aware, battery-powered devices.

The module boasts sensitivity of -148 dBm in acquisition,

-165 dBm in navigation and power consumption of just 35 mW at 3,3 V. With a form factor of 9,6 x 9,6 x 1,85 mm and a weight of 0,4 g, it has an identical footprint to the Fastrax IT430. A dual module reference design allows designers and OEMs to use either of the modules, saving the time and costs of PCB redesign.

The IT530 offers a fast and convenient user experience without draining battery by keeping GPS in full power mode. The new power-saving AlwaysLocate mode prolongs battery life by intelligently controlling receiver power modes and maintaining location information. Depending on the environment and motion, the module adaptively adjusts its navigation activity to balance positioning accuracy, fix rate and power consumption (typically between 2 and 8 mW).

In addition, the Embedded Assist System (EASY) reduces warm-start TTFF by up to 90% with assisting ephemeris data stored internally for up to three days. The additional server-assisted EPO file transfer extends the external A-GPS service to up to 14 days.

Handheld consumer electronics devices are typically packed in the smallest possible casing and include a number of electromagnetic interference (EMI) sources. Depending on the overall design and location of the GPS antenna, EMI may severely decrease positioning functionality and accuracy. An embedded jammer remover in the IT530 fights distorting EMI signals with active interference cancellation (AIC) of 12 CW type EMI sources up to -80 dBm, preventing GPS performance issues caused by challenging designs.

The embedded LOCUS logger function can store location information in the internal memory of the module for up to 16 hours at a predetermined interval, set at every 15 seconds as a default. Depending on the nature of the application, the logged data may be dumped and parsed from the log via the host port.

The Fastrax IT530 supports a direct power supply connection to a lithium battery as the extended input voltage range of +3,0–4,3 V allows the omission of an external regulator.

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