GPS Module GT-U7 With NEO-6M

Features

• High Sensitivity: Receives GPS signals even in challenging environments.
• Low Power Consumption: Ensures extended operation without draining the power source.
• Miniaturization: Compact size with straight or patch installation options.
• High Tracking Sensitivity: Expands localization coverage, capable of precise positioning in narrow urban skies or dense jungle environments.
• Compatibility with 51 Single-Chip Arduino STM32 Routines: Simplifies development.
• USB Interface: Direct connection to a computer using a mobile phone data cable.
• No Need for Additional Serial Modules: Can function as a host computer serial port.
• Shared NEO-6M Chip: Ensures compatibility with existing codes and wiring.

Principle of Work

Internal Operation

1. GPS Antenna: Built-in or external antenna receives satellite signals with timing and positional data.
2. RF Front-End: Amplifies and filters incoming GPS signals for sensitivity and selectivity.
3. Signal Processing: Decodes GPS signals and extracts satellite constellation data.
4. Calculations: Determines precise position via trilateration using distances from multiple satellites.
5. Data Output: Outputs GPS data in NMEA format for use with other devices.

Interaction with MCU (Microcontroller Unit)

1. Serial Communication: Uses UART (TXD and RXD pins) to connect to MCU.
2. Baud Rate Configuration: Default 9600 baud, configurable as needed.
3. Data Parsing: MCU extracts latitude, longitude, altitude, and time from NMEA sentences.
4. Custom Coding: Allows display, logging, or transmission of GPS data.
5. Integration with Other Sensors: Can combine GPS with other sensor data for advanced applications.
6. Power Supply: Operates on 3.6V to 5V for reliable operation.

Pinout of the Module

Applications

• Vehicle Tracking and Fleet Management
• Handheld Devices and PDAs
• Vehicle Monitoring Systems (speed, mileage, route history)
• Mobile Phones for navigation and geotagging
• Cameras and Camcorders for geotagging media files
• Shared Bikes and Scooters location tracking
• Shared Mobile Power Devices tracking
• Environmental Monitoring and Research
• Precision Agriculture for planting, irrigation, and harvesting optimization
• Wildlife Tracking for conservation studies
• Geocaching games
• Emergency Response for precise location identification
• Marine Navigation when paired with suitable software

Circuit

Library & Code

The library is already installed in the Arduino IDE. The following code configures the Arduino to communicate with the GT-U7 GPS module via software serial, reads NMEA sentences, and prints GPS data to the serial monitor:

#include "SoftwareSerial.h"

// Define the software serial object
SoftwareSerial gpsSerial(2, 3); // RX, TX (Connect GT-U7 RX to Arduino TX and GT-U7 TX to Arduino RX)

void setup() {
  // Start the software serial communication
  gpsSerial.begin(9600);
  // Start the serial communication with the computer
  Serial.begin(9600);
}

void loop() {
  if (gpsSerial.available()) {
    char c = gpsSerial.read();
    // Check if the character received is the start of a NMEA sentence
    if (c == '$') {
      String sentence = gpsSerial.readStringUntil('\n');
      // Check if the sentence starts with "GPGGA" (GPS fix data)
      if (sentence.startsWith("$GPGGA")) {
        // Print the GPS data to the serial monitor
        Serial.println(sentence);
      }
    }
  }
}

Technical Details

• Size: 27.6 x 26.6 mm
• Working Voltage: 3.6V - 5V (or direct USB supply)
• Default Baud Rate: 9600 (modifiable)
• Antenna Interface: IPEX (active antenna included)
• Onboard Rechargeable Button Cell
• Onboard E2PROM for parameter storage
• NMEA Output Format compatible with NEO-6M

Comparisons with NEO-6M

Differences

• Sensitivity and Tracking: GT-U7 has high sensitivity for challenging GPS environments.
• Miniaturization: GT-U7 measures 27.6 x 26.6 mm, smaller than typical NEO-6M modules.
• USB Interface: GT-U7 allows direct computer connection via USB.
• E2PROM: Onboard storage for parameters, which may not exist in all NEO-6M modules.

Similarities

• Chip Compatibility: Both use NEO-6M chip.
• Working Voltage: 3.6V to 5V range supported.
• Baud Rate: Default 9600, configurable.
• NMEA Output Format: Both compatible with NMEA standard.