7 GPS Module Manufacturers in 2023
This section provides an overview for gps modules as well as their applications and principles. Also, please take a look at the list of 7 gps module manufacturers and their company rankings.
Table of Contents
What Is a GPS Module?
A GPS module is a device that receives GPS signals from numerous satellites in space and determines location information, etc. GPS is an acronym for global positioning system, a system that can provide precise location information for the entire world. If accurate location information can be obtained from a GPS module, it is possible to calculate the current speed and direction of movement, as well as the distance to the destination.
Uses of GPS Modules
GPS modules are used in devices that require position information, speed of movement, and direction of movement for operation. Depending on the product specifications of the GPS modules, it is necessary to select GPS modules considering how much the position accuracy, calculation time, and degree of error of the position information affect the product. If there are obstructions to the GPS signal, such as underground or buildings, the signal may not be received accurately, but there are high-precision GPS modules that can receive the signal by processing the signal made smaller by the obstruction.
Examples of GPS modules use are shown below.
- Position observation for use with map applications on smartphones and smartwatches　
- Calculation of vehicle position, speed, direction, and distance to destination in car navigation systems
Principle of GPS Modules
The GPS modules are composed of a GPS signal receiver and a GPS signal processor that processes the GPS signal to calculate accurate position information. Each product has its own algorithm for processing GPS signals.
GPS signals are transmitted from satellites on two frequencies, which include the time of day when the signal is transmitted and the exact position of the satellite at that time. The GPS signals from four or more satellites are received by the receiver in the GPS modules. With this GPS signal, the distance from the satellites can be calculated. If the distance from three satellites is known, the current position on the earth can be calculated, and the fourth and subsequent satellites are used to adjust for time errors and help calculate more accurate position information.
Price of GPS Modules
Until a decade ago, GPS modules were difficult to obtain, but now anyone can easily purchase one through major mail-order websites.
Even those with antennas can be obtained for less than a dollar, or as little as 40 dollars. The most expensive ones will cost around 75 dollars.
Accuracy of GPS Modules
Various factors affect the measurement accuracy of GPS modules, but the following are the main factors that cause errors.
- Ionosphere
This is a layer in the atmosphere where GPS satellite signals are slowed down as they pass through, causing errors. - Troposphere
This is another layer in the atmosphere. The refraction of radio waves in the dry atmosphere and in water vapor causes errors. - Multibus
When radio waves emitted from GPS satellites are received, they are reflected by various objects such as the ground and structures. This phenomenon, called multipath, disturbs the radio waves and causes errors.
So, what is the error level of GPS modules?
It depends on the performance of the GPS modules itself.
In an environment with good reception, it is about 30 feet in radius. In poor reception conditions, an error of about 325 feet is likely to occur.
GPS Modules of the Future
GPS modules have become quite common, but in fact, NASA is currently conducting research with an eye toward the future.
The GPS modules that can be used on the moon. It would be very useful to be able to know the position of the Moon as accurately when driving on the Moon as on Earth.
However, the distance of 250 000 miles from the earth causes a large error margin, so it will take some time before it becomes a reality.
List of 7 GPS Module Manufacturers
*Including some distributors, etc.
Sort by Features
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- Company Size: largest first
- Year Founded: oldest first
- Year Founded: earliest first
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- United States of America
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MakerFocus
GPS Module
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Dynon Avionics
GPS RECEIVER
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NOVOTECH TECHNOLOGIES
GPS Modules
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Adafruit
GPS Module
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Elekon AG
GPS module
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Phi Education Solutions Pvt Ltd.
GPS Module
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GPS Module Manufacturer Ranking
*Including some distributors, etc.Number of Employees
- SparkFun Electronics (R): 140
Newly Established Company
- SparkFun Electronics (R): 2003 (20 years ago)
Company with a History
- SparkFun Electronics (R): 2003 (20 years ago)
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