Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT


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.



Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Mobile satellite connectivity available in SA
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Space42 has commercially launched its next generation mobile satellite service, Thuraya 4 NGS, available in South Africa as of February 2026.

Read more...
Next-gen Wi Fi 6E connectivity for embedded systems
iCorp Technologies Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Espressif Systems has expanded its connectivity portfolio with the introduction of the ESP32-E22, the company’s first Wi-Fi 6E connectivity co-processor.

Read more...
Quectel redefines connectivity with RG660Qx 5G Series
iCorp Technologies Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Purpose-built to meet the demands of next-generation IoT and wireless broadband, these modules leverage the cutting-edge Qualcomm X85 and X82 5G Modem-RF systems to deliver enterprise-grade performance.

Read more...
Contactless IO-Link couplers
IOT Electronics Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
The IO-Link couplers from Phoenix Contact are industrial contactless couplers designed to transmit power and IO-Link data across a small air gap without physical connectors.

Read more...
Quectel’s RG255C-NA and RM255C-GL accelerate 5G RedCap adoption
iCorp Technologies Editor's Choice Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Quectel’s RG255C-NA and RM255C-GL modules represent a strategic move into this fast-growing segment, delivering Sub-6 GHz 5G connectivity optimised for mid-tier IoT applications.

Read more...
SDRs – Which RF architecture should you choose?
RFiber Solutions Editor's Choice Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
There are several common methods of implementing SDR architectures. This paper discusses which is best when meeting a specific need.

Read more...
Multi-band GNSS patch antenna
RF Design Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
The Taoglas AHP2356A is a compact, high-performance active GNSS patch antenna designed for next-generation positioning systems requiring precision, reliability, and multi-constellation support.

Read more...
Cellular routers for explosive areas
Phoenix Contact Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Updated versions of the Cellulink outdoor cellular router product range from Phoenix Contact are now available; they have been specially developed for use in Zone 2 potentially explosive areas.

Read more...
Power the next wave of IoT innovation
Links Field Networks Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Links Field Networks’ portfolio includes connectivity platforms, edge devices, and network management tools designed to support secure, resilient IoT deployments across a range of use cases.

Read more...
Move to smart agriculture
Otto Wireless Solutions Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Designed for precision agriculture, the RAKwireless SensorHub is a modular, industrial-grade IoT platform that collects real-time environmental and soil data across farming operations.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved