NEO-6M GPS module with antenna and build-in EEPROM

This module is compatible with APM2 and APM2.5, and EEPROM can save all your configuration data.

Interface: RS232 TTL
Power: 3-5v
Baudrate default:9600bps

NEO-6M GPS Chip

At the heart of the module is a GPS chip from U-blox – NEO-6M. The chip measures less than a postage stamp but packs a surprising amount of features into its tiny frame.

It can track up to 22 satellites over 50 channels and achieve the industry’s highest level of tracking sensitivity i.e. -161 dB, while consuming only 45 mA current.

Unlike other GPS modules, it can perform 5 location updates in a second with 2.5m horizontal position accuracy. The U-blox 6 positioning engine also has a Time-To-First-Fix (TTFF) of less than 1 second.

One of the best features offered by the chip is Power Save Mode (PSM). This allows a reduction in system power consumption by selectively switching certain parts of the receiver on and off. This dramatically reduces the power consumption of the module to just 11mA making it suitable for power sensitive applications such as GPS wristwatches.

The required data pins of the NEO-6M GPS chip are broken out to a 0.1″ pitch headers. It contains the pins needed for communication with the microcontroller over the UART. The module supports baud rates from 4800bps to 230400bps with a default baud of 9600.

Here are the specifications:

For more details, please refer below datasheet.

Position Fix LED Indicator

There is an LED on the NEO-6M GPS module that indicates the status of the ‘Position Fix’. It will blink at different rates depending on which state it is in:

• No blinking – it is searching for satellites.
• Blink every 1s – Position Fix is found (the module can see enough satellites).

3.3V LDO Regulator

The operating voltage of the NEO-6M chip ranges from 2.7 to 3.6V. But the good news is, this module comes with MICREL’s MIC5205 Ultra-Low Dropout 3V3 regulator.

The logic pins are also 5-volt tolerant, so we can easily connect it to Arduino or any 5V logic microcontroller without using a logic level converter.

Battery & EEPROM

The module is equipped with HK24C32 Two Wire Serial EEPROM. It is 4KB in size and is connected via I2C to the NEO-6M chip.

The module also houses a rechargeable button battery that acts as a super-capacitor.

EEPROM and battery together help in retaining the BBR (Battery Backed RAM). BBR contains clock data, latest position data (GNSS orbit data) and module configuration. But it is not for permanent data storage.

The battery charges automatically when power is supplied to the module and retains data for two weeks without power.

Since the battery retains the clock and last position data, Time-To-First-Fix (TTFF) is significantly reduced to 1s. This allows much faster position locks. Without battery the GPS is always cold-started and takes longer for the initial GPS lock.

Antenna

The module comes with -161 dBm sensitivity patch antenna for receiving radio signals from GPS satellites.

You can snap-fit this antenna into the small U.FL connector located on the module.

The patch antenna is great for most of our projects. But if you want to get more sensitivity and accuracy, you can also snap-on any 3V active GPS antenna.

NEO-6M GPS Module Pinout

The NEO-6M GPS module has a total of 4 pins that connect it to the outside world. The connections are as follows:

GND is the ground pin and needs to be connected to the GND pin on the Arduino.

TxD (Transmitter) pin is used for serial communication.

RxD (Receiver) pin is used for serial communication.

VCC supplies power to the module. You can connect it directly to the 5V pin on the Arduino.

Wiring a NEO-6M GPS Module to an Arduino

Now that we know everything about the module, we can start connecting it to our Arduino.

Begin by connecting the patch antenna to the U.FL connector. You can thread the U.FL cable through one of the mounting holes.

The module usually comes with unsoldered header pins. So you will need to solder them first.

Next, connect the VCC pin to the 5V pin on the arduino and GND to ground.

Finally connect the Tx and Rx pins on the module to digital pins #2 and #3 respectively.

Once you have connected everything you are ready to go!