[time-nuts] Low cost GPS for model aircraft

Jim Lux jimlux at earthlink.net
Mon Aug 5 11:01:31 UTC 2013


Design so that when that module is no longer available, you've got pins and software switches to use something else.  Lots of one off projects depend on something surplus or cheap, and rapidly become non-duplicate-able when the parts supply ends. 

On Aug 5, 2013, at 1:18, "M. Simon" <msimon6808 at yahoo.com> wrote:

> I was looking at this GPS with a PPS output for $22 plus shipping.
> 
> http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__31135__neo_6m_gps_module.html
> 
> 
> I have finally decided to take the plunge and design a low cost frequency standard and that module looks like a good place to start. Couple it with a cheap micro running at 50MHz with a time capture counter (no one count bobbles). The master clock will be a  Pletronics TCD-4051-10MHz  TCVCXO good to .1 ppm over temp (when calibrated). The micro multiplies it up to 50MHz (PLL) to clock the micro and counter. Plus a 16 bit DAC and reference. I thought I might be able to get as close as 1E-9 short term maybe a little better. 
> 
>  
> Software? I plan to roll my own. I will make bare boards available for those interested in duplicating my efforts. Software too. The micro will have I2C (for an LCD display and any front panel controls/LEDs required) and serial (good to 115,200). The serial will give access to USB for those who want that.  Plus a few spare port pins. 
> 
> Now my question is: what do you think of the above GPS model? Does anyone have experience with it? It is supposedly based on the ublox NEO-6M GPS module.
> 
> I have also contacted: http://www.inventeksys.com/products-page/gps-modules/
> To see what they have to offer. 
> 
> I'm open to any suggestions - as long as the cost is low or I can get free samples. And I don't care if I can buy something for less fully assembled and tested. I'm a Maker. I want to make it. And write it up for the magazine I write for. 
> 
> Simon 
> 
> Engineering is the art of making what you want from what you can get at a profit.
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