GPS Antennas

What are GPS antennas?

GPS antennas are terminals used to receive satellite signals, the main function is to receive signals from the satellite and then send them back to the terminal equipment to realize positioning or navigation.

GPS antenna is the reception of satellite emissions of L1 and L2 band electromagnetic wave signals (frequency of 1575.42MHz and 1228MHz, respectively), these signals through the antenna are converted into electrical signals into the RF front-end module for amplification and filtering and ultimately demodulated into digital signals to calculate the current position through the navigation data. Eventually demodulated into a digital signal, through the navigation data to calculate the current position.

Classification of GPS antennas

Classified by polarization

Vertical polarization GPS antennas

A GPS antenna with vertical polarization is a kind of polarization method, but the effect is usually better than circular polarization.

Circular polarization GPS antennas

GPS antenna with circular polarization is usually a better polarization method, the L1 signal in GPS satellite signal is circular polarization.

Classified by placement

Built-in GPS antennas

Built-in GPS antennas are Usually integrated inside the device, suitable for miniaturized and integrated electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablet PCs, etc. The built-in antenna needs to pay attention to avoid metal devices and EMI (electromagnetic interference) interference sources.

External GPS antennas

External GPS antennas are usually installed on the outside of the device, and connected to the device through the cable. External antennas are mostly seen in car navigation systems, because the car explosion-proof film may hinder signal reception, so it is necessary to use an external antenna with a magnet.

Classified by power supply mode

Active GPS antennas

Active GPS antennas require an external power supply and usually contain an LNA (Low Noise Amplifier) module to improve signal reception. External GPS antennas are mostly active antennas.

Passive GPS antennas

Passive GPS antennas do not need for external power supply, only contain the antenna body, and signal reception ability is relatively weak. The cable length of the passive antenna is generally not more than 1 meter.

GPS antenna working principle

The working principle of GPS antenna has the following specific steps
Receiving and transmitting signals.

Step-1. Receiving signals

The antenna first receives weak signals from GPS satellites.

Step-2. Signal conversion.

The GPS antenna converts the received satellite signals into electrical signals.

Step-3. Signal amplification and filtering

The electrical signal from the GPS antenna enters the RF front-end module for amplification and filtering.

Step-4. Signal demodulation

GPS antenna demodulates the amplified signal into a digital signal.

Step-5. Position calculation

GPS antenna calculates the current position according to the navigation data.

GPS antenna applications

Vehicle navigation

GPS antenna helps drivers to accurately locate and plan the path, improve driving efficiency and safety.

Logistics management

GPS antenna is used in vehicle positioning and tracking to improve management efficiency and safety.

Personal Positioning

Applied in personal locator, GPS antenna helps users to master their position in outdoor sports, traveling, and other activities.

Agricultural applications

GPS antenna realizes precise farmland operation and improves production efficiency and quality.

With the development of science and technology, GPS antenna module presents the development trend of miniaturization and lightweight. This makes the GPS antenna can be more widely used in a variety of miniaturized and integrated electronic equipment, bringing more convenience to people’s lives.

GPS antenna is one of the key components to realize GPS positioning function. Through continuous technological innovation and improvement, the GPS antenna will be further upgraded and expanded in terms of performance and application.