UBlox NEO 7M GPS Module with EEPROM

UBlox NEO 7M GPS Module with EEPROM provides a highly versatile and cost-effective solution for acquiring precise positioning data in a variety of embedded projects. This module utilizes the advanced UBlox NEO-7 series engine to deliver high sensitivity and minimal acquisition times, while consequently maintaining remarkably low power consumption. Furthermore, the inclusion of an on-board EEPROM allows the module to permanently store configuration settings and GNSS data, which results in faster “warm starts” after power cycles. Therefore, you can easily integrate this GPS receiver into drones, vehicle tracking systems, or handheld devices where reliability and data retention remain critical.

Key Features:

• High-Sensitivity Engine: The NEO-7M chipset tracks multiple satellite constellations with exceptional sensitivity, ensuring a stable lock even in urban canyons or under dense foliage.
• Integrated EEPROM: An on-board memory chip stores user configurations and satellite orbit data, thus enabling significantly faster TTFF (Time To First Fix) performance.
• Built-in Ceramic Antenna: The module includes a high-gain passive ceramic patch antenna, although it also provides a U.FL connector for attaching an external active antenna if required.
• Battery Backup: A small rechargeable coin cell battery maintains the Real-Time Clock (RTC) and SRAM data to support rapid hot starts.
• LED Status Indicator: A dedicated on-board LED flashes once a satellite lock occurs, providing an immediate visual confirmation of the system’s operational status.

Technical Specifications:

• Receiver Type: 56-channel u-blox 7 engine (GPS L1 C/A, GLONASS L1 FDMA, QZSS L1 C/A)
• Supply Voltage: 3.3 V to 5.0 V (Compatible with most microcontrollers)
• Horizontal Position Accuracy: ≈ 2.5 m (Autonomous)
• Navigation Update Rate: Up to 10 Hz (Default 1 Hz)
• Tracking Sensitivity: −162 dBm
• Cold Start Time: ≈ 29 seconds
• Hot Start Time: ≈ 1 second
• Communication Protocol: UART (NMEA, UBX binary, RTCM)

Mechanical Specifications:

• Mounting Hole Diameter: 3.0 mm (Standard M3 size)
• Antenna Type: 25 x 25 mm Ceramic Patch
• Interface Header: 4-pin or 5-pin 2.54 mm pitch through-hole header
• Connector: IPX/U.FL for optional external antenna connection

Dimensions:

• Module Length: ≈ 35 mm
• Module Width: ≈ 25 mm
• Total Height: ≈ 8.5 mm (Including antenna)
• Weight: ≈ 18 g (Including integrated antenna)

Pinout and Wiring:

• VCC: Connect this pin to a 3.3 V or 5 V power source.
• GND: Connect this pin to the common ground of your circuit.
• TX (Transmit): Connect to the RX pin of your microcontroller to receive NMEA data strings.
• RX (Receive): Connect to the TX pin of your microcontroller for module configuration and command input.
• PPS (Pulse Per Second): Provides a high-precision time pulse output, which is synchronized with GPS time.

Datasheet Reference:

• Download UBlox NEO 7 Series Datasheet

Commonly Used in:

• Drone Flight Controllers: Provides essential coordinate data for autonomous waypoints and “Return to Home” functions.
• Arduino Projects: Enthusiasts frequently use this module for geo-fencing, speedometers, and digital compasses.
• Vehicle Telematics: Captures real-time speed and location data for fleet management and asset tracking.

Applications:

• Geotagging: Recording geographical coordinates for scientific data logging or photography.
• Navigation Systems: Developing custom handheld or marine navigation units.
• Time Synchronization: Utilizing the PPS output to synchronize high-precision network clocks or distributed systems.

Equivalent Models:

• UBlox NEO-6M: The older version of this module, which remains widely available but offers slightly lower sensitivity.
• UBlox NEO-M8N: A more advanced model that supports simultaneous reception of multiple GNSS systems (GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo).
• SKG13C: A functionally similar 3.3V/5V GPS module often used as a direct low-cost substitute in hobbyist electronics.

Package Includes:

• 1 x UBlox NEO 7M GPS Module
• 1 x Integrated Ceramic Patch Antenna