Question on OEM GPS modules

edrex · 03-04-2005, 11:13 AM

I am looking at ordering the Garmin OEM module. Does anyone know the difference between the 15H and the 15L? I would like to avoid soldering if possible as I'm not very good with those types of things. I would prefer the closet thing to plug and play with this mod.
Thanks for the help.

Scouse Monkey · 03-04-2005, 11:37 AM

isnt the L low voltage or summit? and the H high voltage. You want the L i think

www.maplin.co.uk has them i think if you want to check - that is were i seem to remeber reading it.

edikp · 03-04-2005, 11:41 AM

The difference is in the voltage requirement. Download its manual on Garmin's website for more info.

Once you plunge yourself into OEM GPS module, soldering is pretty much unavoidable.

ddn · 03-04-2005, 12:25 PM

The H and L are high and low voltage. Which one you want really depends on your application. HOWEVER, there are 2 different H and L models too, the "Flex" and "Wired". You want the wired, because the flex is a ribbon cable and imagine the hassle. Order from GPS City where it is clearly defined which is which.

More than likely you should get a BU-303 or similiar though. If you don't want to solder, OEM GPS is the wrong path for you.

edrex · 03-04-2005, 12:30 PM

Thanks for the input.
I am definately getting the OEM because of the reviews on them... I will just figure out the soldering I guess.
Placing my order right now for this one (Price: $79.99): http://www.guaranteedmerchandise.com...L/010-00240-02
Thanks again.

DaRacerz · 03-04-2005, 07:20 PM

The differences are

H:
Input Volt: 8.0 VDC - 40 VDC unregulated (less then 100mV PtP Ripple)
Output to Antenna: 3.3 VDC

L:
Input Volt: 3.3 VDC - 5.4VDC (less then 100mV PtP Ripple)
Output to Antenna: 3.0 VDC

Btw, output voltage to antenna is adjustable on certain models. only way to check is via serial number if memory serves me right. all new models should have this feature built in.

emumanXM · 03-06-2005, 01:01 AM

I have three motorola oncore modules, a trimble ACE III module and a Lassen SK2 module and I love all of them. The trimble modules use a lot less power than the motorola ones. I prefer OEM modules because you place the antenna on your roof and you are good to go. Placing the mouse on your roof I'd imagine wouldn't be a good idea if the mouse isn't protected from the environment with a waterproof seal, etc. Also, I'd imagine a long usb cable isn't a good idea either. 25ft of antenna cable is fine. Here is a pic of the interface I built with a LM7805, protection diode and filter cap, as well as MAX232 utilizing both RS232 channels for both serial ports. The button battery is used for the 3V battery backup so it's always a warm or hot start and almanac and ephimeris is retained and a fix can be aquired pretty quickly. This interface should last through cold and hot weather, and both the module and interface can be put in a small case easily if you want. The other unused connector is for connecting a motorola oncore, but either one or the other can be used at one time because they both share the same serial lines. I have no schematic because it's really easy to put together. A 7805, protection diode (1N4001 can be used), and some filter caps. Wire up a MAX232 and a button battery holder and you are good to go.

ITL · 03-08-2005, 12:16 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by emumanXM

I have no schematic because it's really easy to put together.

well, you make it look simple

ddn · 03-08-2005, 01:16 PM

Thats because it IS simple. The MAX232 has hundreds of schematics on the internet, and they are almost all identical because it is a simple device that is generally used for the same things. The 7805 is trivial, just google for 7805 (or 7812 if you want 12V for something) voltage regulator.

The bad news: Trimble and their distributors are sold out of Lassen SK II's until the end of March. I didn't ask about the Lassen LP (Low-Power) but it could work just as well (if not better). I'll send another email about that.

ddn · 03-09-2005, 01:33 PM

Trimble has the LP in stock. I ended up ordering a Motorola OnCore M12+, finding only afterwards they don't support WAAS. Oh well, I'm not impressed with the WAAS improvements anyway.