[time-nuts] 5V antenna on 3V receiver via dist. amp?

[Michael Tharp]

On 05/02/2013 03:26 PM, Paul wrote:
> Is it reasonable to to use a GPS distribution amplifier (viz. HP
> 58516A) to power a five volt antenna feeding three volt receivers or
> should I get a "bias tee"?  The internal operation of my electronics
> is largely a mystery to me.

Bias tee would be best because it does exactly the thing you need and no 
more, so it is difficult to miss some small detail and end up in a bad 
configuration. Bias tees have a DC connector to supply power so it will 
be easier to hook up. Look for models that block DC, so you don't expose 
your 3V GPS receiver to 5V power.

A distribution amplifier (like the 58516A) should also be OK. If you are 
going to have a GPS receiver that can provide 5V to the antenna and 
amplifier, that would be ideal. Otherwise you will need to make a 
connector to put 5V on the DC port of the amplifier.

What you don't want is a passive splitter. If you connect a power supply 
directly to the DC port it will short the GPS signal into the supply's 
capacitance and your signal will be distorted or suppressed.