Datasheet

External Antenna

New in version 3 of the Ultimate GPS breakout, we now have support for optional external

antennas!

This is not available in v1 or v2 so if you do not see the uFL connector, you have an older version of the module which

cannot support antennas

All Ultimate GPS modules have a built in patch antenna - this antenna provides -165 dBm sensitivity and is perfect for

many projects. However, if you want to place your project in a box, it might not be possible to have the antenna

pointing up, or it might be in a metal shield, or you may need more sensitivity. In these cases, you may want to use an

external active antenna.

Active antennas draw current, so they do provide more gain but at a power cost. Check the antenna datasheet for

exactly how much current they draw - its usually around 10-20mA.

Most GPS antennas use SMA connectors, which are popular and easy to use. However, an SMA connector would be

fairly big on the GPS breakout so we went with a uFL connector - which is lightweight, small and easy to manufacture. If

you don't need an external antenna it wont add significant weight or space but its easy to attach a uFL->SMA adapter

cable. Then connect the GPS antenna to the cable.

The Ultimate GPS will automagically detect an external active antenna is attached and 'switch over' - you do not need

to send any commands

uFL connectors are small, delicate and are not rated for strain or tons of connections/disconnections. Once

you attach a uFL adapter use strain relief to avoid ripping off the uFL