SparkFun's NEO-M8U Breakout Brings Untethered Dead Reckoning GNSS to the Qwiic Ecosystem
The breakout board includes compatibility with global GNSS platforms, an internal IMU, and two Qwiic ports for solder-free hookup.
SparkFun has launched a new Qwiic-compatible GPS board, based on the NEO-M8U module, with support for u-blox's Untethered Dead Reckoning (UDR) technology — combining GPS or other global navigation satellite system (GNSS) with data from inertial sensors to boost accuracy under weak signal conditions
"The NEO-M8U module is a 72-channel u-blox M8 engine GNSS receiver, meaning it can receive signals from the GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou constellations with ~2.5 meter accuracy," SparkFun explains of its latest product design. "The module supports concurrent reception of three GNSS systems. The combination of GNSS and integrated 3D sensor measurements on the NEO-M8U provide accurate, real-time positioning rates of up to 30Hz.
"Compared to other GPS modules, this breakout maximises position accuracy in dense cities or covered areas. Even under poor signal conditions, continuous positioning is provided in urban environments and is also available during complete signal loss (e.g. short tunnels and parking garages). With UDR, position begins as soon as power is applied to the board even before the first GNSS fix is available! Lock time is further reduced with on-board rechargeable battery; you'll have backup power enabling the GPS to get a hot lock within seconds!"
The board includes unpopulated pin headers for breadboard or wired use, along with two Qwiic connectors for SparkFun's I2C ecosystem. A USB Type-C connector is included to one side of the board, while a Hirose U.FL connector allows for connection to an external antenna - not included.
The SparkFun GPS Dead Reckoning Breakout is now available priced at $69.95 per unit on the SparkFun store, and the company has also published a hookup guide to get buyers started with their new device.
