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User Guide: simpleRTK2B Micro
Overview
Let simpleRTK2B Micro (featuring u-blox ZED-F9P and ZED-F9R modules) accelerate your RTK project thanks to its easy to integrate footprint, integrated RF connector and high availability. We take care of the RF design and complex module integration so you can focus on your PCB design and the application.
Variants
The board is available in several formats. The options are:
- Receiver.
- ZED-F9P: For high-precision applications where you need centimeter-level accuracy in open-sky environments.
- ZED-F9R: For automotive or robotics projects, which uses dead reckoning sensors to maintain centimeter-level accurate positioning even when the signal is lost in tunnels or urban canyons.
- Antenna connector.
- SMA: durable threaded antenna connection that can withstand frequent handling and suitable for external mounts.
- uFL: an ultra-small and lightweight option for compact internal designs, but it is meant for permanent setups because it can wear out or break if plugged and unplugged too many times.
- Soldering to motherboard.
- Through Hole: The board includes soldered pins to be inserted in a XBee socket or pin holes of your PCB. In this case you can choose between uFL and SMA as antenna connectors.
- Surface Mount: The board is expected to be soldered directly to corresponding pins present on your PCB. In this case only uFL is available as the antenna connector.
Installation
When installing the simpleRTK2B Micro with the Through Hole configuration you have several options with pros and cons.
- Using a motherboard socket: This option makes very easy to plug and un-plug the board, but on the other hand this installation is weak and prone to failure in case of vibrations.
- Soldering through motherboard pin holes: This method is way more resistant to vibrations and hence suitable for long-term applications but still allows relatively easy desoldering.
On the other hand, the Surface Mount option is less flexible and challenging to mount.
- Use this method for final production of embedded systems or if the board is not planned to be reused or repaired.
- This installation method adds an extra amount of resistance to shock and vibrations, and hence it is recommended for heavy-duty applications where reliability of components is a must.
Integration considerations
Installation of GNSS systems have their own specifications to have into consideration for optimal performance. The main source of issues is the fact that the RF signals involved are very weak (down to -170dBm), and hence easily affected by noise interference. Here are some integration tips:
- On the GNSS receiver it is important to avoid direct airflow, fast temperature changes and shock-vibration. So, place it as far as possible from fans, processors and memory chips, and consider putting it inside a case and use a vibration damping mount.
- The most critical part for a GNSS system is the antenna installation, so we have for this subject a specific Antenna Installation Guide. Note that the simpleRTK2B Micro provides up to 100mA@3V for active antennas.
Hardware
Pinout
PCB Footprint
The simpleRTK2B Micro uses the common 2mm pin separation in 2 rows/10 pins distribution. Please find here the PCB Footprint and if in doubt contact us.
Configuration
With this product you have direct access to ZED-F9P functionalities. The easiest way to configure the receiver is by inserting it into a USB-C Carrier Board for XBee Plugins, connect to a PC and use the u-center software.
Please follow our guide how to configure ZED-F9P, and use one of our configuration files as a starting point for your project. If you need any help, do not hesitate to contact us.
Accesories
Here you can find affordable accessories for your simpleRTK2B Micro board.
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CablesSMA antenna RF cable extender
From 13,00€ This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
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- Bulk
simpleRTK2B Micro (Bulk Pack 50 units)
From 152,00€ This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page - RTK2B Boards
simpleRTK2B Micro
From 199,00€ This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
