SparkFun GPS Breakout - Chip Antenna, SAM-M8Q (Qwiic)

The SparkFun SAM-M8Q GPS Breakout is a high-performance GPS module that offers an impressive array of features and configuration options. It's a 72-channel GNSS receiver, capable of receiving signals from the GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo constellations. This ability increases accuracy and reduces lock time. The onboard rechargeable battery provides backup power, enabling the GPS to achieve a hot lock within seconds. The module is compatible with I²C, making it ideal for integration with the Qwiic system, eliminating the need for soldering. However, for those who prefer traditional connections, 2.54mm-spaced pins are also available.

The SAM-M8Q GPS Breakout is highly configurable through the u-center software. It allows users to set up various functions like baud rates, update rates, geofencing, spoofing detection, external interrupts, SBAS/D-GPS, and more. All these configurations can be easily done within the SparkFun Arduino Library.

The module is equipped with an on-board rechargeable battery that powers the RTC on the SAM-M8Q. This feature significantly reduces the time-to-first fix from a cold start to a hot start. The battery can maintain RTC and GNSS orbit data for a considerable period without being connected to power.

The SparkFun Qwiic Connect System is a comprehensive ecosystem of I²C sensors, actuators, shields, and cables designed to make prototyping faster and less prone to error. All Qwiic-enabled boards use a common 1mm pitch, 4-pin JST connector, which saves PCB space and prevents incorrect connections. The SAM-M8Q GPS Breakout can be automatically detected, scanned, configured, and logged using the OpenLog Artemis datalogger system, requiring no programming, soldering, or setup.

The SparkFun SAM-M8Q GPS Breakout offers a host of features including a 72-Channel GNSS Receiver, 2.5m Horizontal Accuracy, and an 18Hz Max Update Rate. It boasts a time-to-first-fix of 26s when cold and 1s when hot. The module can operate at a max altitude of 50,000m, withstand a max G of ≤4, and achieve a max velocity of 500m/s with a velocity accuracy of 0.05m/s. Other features include heading accuracy of 0.3 degrees, time pulse accuracy of 30ns, and 3.3V VCC and I/O. The module is software configurable and supports NMEA, UBX, and RTCM protocols over UART or I2C interfaces.