NetBurner Community Forum

Has anyone attempted to use a nautical or other external antenna with the PK70? Would be interested in which antennas work or do not work. I'm not positive but think most antenna require a small voltage to work properly -- does anyone know the specs for the antenna connection of the PK70?

Here are the specifications:

UBLOX MAX-M8C-0-10

ANTENNA INFORMATION
-------------------
Standard SMA connector, length: 11.40 mm
PK70EX (GPS Blade Board) supplies 3.3VDC to the antenna SMA connector

Reference: UBLOX Max-M8 Datasheet: UBX-15031506, Rev R02
Active Antenna Recommendations:
Minimum gain 15 dB (to compensate signal loss in RF cable)
Maximum gain 50dB
Maximum noise figure 1.5 dB
Maximum antenna current: 100mA

Here is a page of their recommended antennas:
https://www.u-blox.com/en/product/ann-ms

Thank you Tom,

That information was very helpful. Just to be clear the GPS antenna I purchased from Netburner works perfectly fine and it will see about 2-3 satellites even indoors.

My ultimate solution requires I run a mast mounted GPS antenna with ~75 feet of cable. This is to position the antenna remotely on the building roof. I am going to assume if I stay under 100mA total draw at 3.3v that should be safe.

I've a couple of GPS antenna which I purchased for a Garmin unit. Will give them a try.

Will post my findings after my testing is complete should anyone be interested.

Thank you for the update. Yes, that would be great if you don't mind sharing your solution.