GPS is a popular and most widely used radio navigation system used across the world. The system has formed with 24 satellites constellation that orbits the earth continuously. Each satellite has different atomic clocks on board synchronized with UTC.
All GPS receivers contain antennas to receive signals. GPS antenna is a coffee-cup-sized device you can mount on your roof or in the window to amplify signals. As GPS signals are weak, the antenna can amplify their strength. The strength of the GPS signals usually attenuates as it travels through the cable connected to the antenna.
What is a GPS antenna and how does it work?
A GPS antenna is a popular device that receives and amplifies radio signals from GPS satellites at different frequencies. The GPS antennas are used to expand signals, then convert these into electronic signals. Consequently, it becomes easier for a GPS receiver to interpret these signals.
The GPS receiver will then use these signals to provide an accurate estimation of the location of the receiver.
In simple words, a GPS antenna is here to help you establish connectivity to the GPS system. The US Department of Defence has been owning the GPS initially. Due to this, the use of this system was limited to military use for years.
However, civilians are also now using this system since 1983.
Which antenna is used in a GPS Module?
Most GPS receiver manufacturers prefer using a microstrip antenna in a GPS module. These microstrip antennae are also familiar as patch antennae.
- A patch antenna is a flat, rectangular antenna that you can install on the surface. These antennas are usually used in navigation vehicles and equipment.
- The microstrip antennas usually have a patch for every frequency range. So it can easily receive one or all your GPS carriers.
- In addition, these microstrip/patch antennas are compact and durable. These antennas also feature simple construction with a low profile.
Another commonly used antenna in GPS modules is a dipole. This type of antenna is the macrometer, the first GPS receiver commercially. This type of antenna in a GPS module also features a simple construction and stable phase center. However, these types of antennas need a decent ground plane.
- On the other hand, GPS wi-fi antennas are also used in GPS module that aims to provide wi-fi signals for tablets, smartphones, and other devices.
- While a GPS FPC antenna is also a flexible option for some GPS modules, FPC stands for a flexible printing circuit that can be easily integrated into an equipment circuit board.
Wavelink Tech is the leading GPS antenna manufacturer.
Wavelink Tech is a top-notch GPS antenna supplier and manufacturer specializing in high-quality antenna design, development, and production. All these GPS antennas are meant to provide accurate and reliable positioning data for multiple applications. In addition, you can also find a variety of GPS antennas here, ranging from GPS FPC antennae to external GPS antennae, GPS patch antennae, GPS wi-fi antennae, and more.