I used Arduino digital output (D2) to supply the 5V on the Adafruit Ultimate GPS. The system function. However, I found that it's very difficult to get a fixed. The GPS can found fixed much better if connect to 5V directly. In my application, I turn off power to the GPS once a location is found to save power.
The question are:
Can we use Arduino digital output as GPS power source ?
Is there any particular reason that power from Digital output cause some issue with GPS operation?
Thanks in advance for your thoughts,
Terry
Adafruit Ultimate GPS power by arduino digital output Issues
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- terry01000
- Posts: 2
- Joined: Mon Jul 08, 2019 2:51 pm
- adafruit_support_mike
- Posts: 67485
- Joined: Thu Feb 11, 2010 2:51 pm
Re: Adafruit Ultimate GPS power by arduino digital output Is
The GPS module needs more current than an Arduino pin can supply.
The GPS module can boot, but the radio won't have enough current to get a fix.
The GPS module can boot, but the radio won't have enough current to get a fix.
- terry01000
- Posts: 2
- Joined: Mon Jul 08, 2019 2:51 pm
Re: Adafruit Ultimate GPS power by arduino digital output Is
Thanks for the input.
If I understand correctly, this GPS use 20ma. The arduino digital I/O can supply 100 ma.
Did I make the wrong assumption ?
What is the proper way to power the GPS ?
To conserve battery,
Should I use an relay ?
Is setting GPS to standby mode a good option?
Thanks,
If I understand correctly, this GPS use 20ma. The arduino digital I/O can supply 100 ma.
Did I make the wrong assumption ?
What is the proper way to power the GPS ?
To conserve battery,
Should I use an relay ?
Is setting GPS to standby mode a good option?
Thanks,
- adafruit_support_mike
- Posts: 67485
- Joined: Thu Feb 11, 2010 2:51 pm
Re: Adafruit Ultimate GPS power by arduino digital output Is
An Arduino’s GPIO pin has an absolute maximum current of 40mA. The limit for the entire microcontroller is 200mA. It’s generally best to avoid drawing more than 30mA from a pin, because ‘absolute maximum’ means “if you exceed the limit and the chip dies, don’t blame the manufacturer.”
The GPS module uses about 20mA when it has a fix, but needs 40mA to 45mA to acquire a fix.
The GPS module uses about 20mA when it has a fix, but needs 40mA to 45mA to acquire a fix.
Please be positive and constructive with your questions and comments.