EDN -- 04.25.96 Tiny module embeds GPS capability

Out in Front: April 25, 1996

Tiny module embeds GPS capability

Designing "location-aware" products has just become easier, thanks to a tiny, embeddable module that receives and processes signals from Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites. The 0.7-oz, 3.253 1.2530.40-in. Lassen-SK8 board from Trimble Navigation Ltd operates on 5V, uses 0.75W of power, and determines location as accurately as 2m. It can also serve as a time reference with nominal accuracy of ±500 nsec.

The new GPS module is also fast. After a "hot" start (using previously acquired GPS data), it can usually determine a location within 20 sec. With a cold start, location determination typically takes 2 minutes. The module has two serial I/O ports—one that outputs the Trimble Standard Interface Protocol (TSIP) and one that outputs the National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) 0183 protocol. The NMEA port also receives GPS differential corrections, which make possible the 2m location accuracy.

Several optional antennas are available for the $300 Lassen-SK8 board. Another new Trimble product, the $995 Palisade, embeds the GPS receiver in a small, dome-shaped antenna to create a precision time source.
—by Gary Legg

Trimble Navigation Ltd, Sunnyvale, CA. (800) 827-8000, fax (408) 481-7781.