aniker/docs/NEO-6M_SETUP.md

NEO-6M GPS Module Setup Guide

Overview

The NEO-6M is a cost-effective GPS module that provides reliable positioning data for the Aniker anchor alarm system. This guide covers the basic setup and configuration of the NEO-6M with the ESP32.

Module Features

• High sensitivity: -161 dBm tracking
• Time-To-First-Fix:
  • Cold start: 27s
  • Hot start: 1s
• Position accuracy: 2.5m CEP (Circular Error Probable)
• Velocity accuracy: 0.1m/s
• Operating temperature: -40°C to 85°C

Physical Setup

Power Requirements

• Input voltage: 3.3V DC
• Current consumption: ~45mA at continuous operation
• Backup power (optional): 2.0V to 3.6V for faster satellite acquisition

Pin Connections

1. Power Pins

   • VCC → ESP32 3.3V
   • GND → ESP32 GND

2. Communication Pins

   • TX → ESP32 GPIO16 (RX)
   • RX → ESP32 GPIO17 (TX)

Antenna Considerations

• The module comes with a ceramic patch antenna
• Place the antenna facing upward with clear view of the sky
• Avoid metal objects directly above the antenna
• Keep antenna away from sources of interference

Initial Testing

LED Indicators

• Power LED: Should be constantly on
• Signal LED: Will blink when receiving data from satellites

Expected Behavior

1. When first powered on, the module will begin searching for satellites
2. Initial position fix may take 30-60 seconds in optimal conditions
3. Signal LED will begin blinking once satellites are acquired

Troubleshooting

Common Issues

1. No Power LED

   • Check 3.3V power connection
   • Verify ground connection
   • Check for short circuits

2. No Signal Reception

   • Ensure clear view of sky
   • Check antenna connection
   • Move away from sources of interference
   • Try outdoor testing first

3. Intermittent Data

   • Check wire connections
   • Verify baud rate settings
   • Check for interference sources

Testing Tips

• First test outdoors with clear sky view
• Allow up to 5 minutes for first fix
• Use serial monitor to verify data reception
• Verify correct UART configuration

Software Configuration

Default Settings

• Baud rate: 9600bps
• Update rate: 1Hz
• NMEA messages: GGA, RMC, GSA, GSV

Serial Communication

// Example configuration in Rust
let config = uart::config::Config {
    baudrate: 9600,
    data_bits: uart::config::DataBits::DataBits8,
    parity: uart::config::Parity::ParityNone,
    stop_bits: uart::config::StopBits::STOP1,
};

Performance Expectations

Typical Performance

• Time to first fix: 30-60 seconds
• Position accuracy: 2.5m (open sky)
• Update rate: 1Hz
• Operating temperature: -40°C to 85°C

Environmental Factors

• Performance degrades under cloud cover
• Indoor operation is not reliable
• Metal objects can cause interference
• Marine environment considerations:
  • Salt spray protection needed
  • Weatherproofing recommended
  • Stable mounting required

Future Improvements

• Add power saving modes
• Implement faster update rates
• Add configuration interface
• Optimize for marine use