Overview
If you are experimenting with monitoring fleets, high-altitude scientific experiments, or any kind of project requiring localization of devices, the MKR GPS Shield will offer you the functionality you need, and it is plug 'n' play!
The MKR GPS Shield is based on the u-blox SAM-M8Q GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) module. It is meant to be used on top of boards in the MKR format, but thanks to its Eslov connector, it is also possible to hook it up to any board having that kind of connector available using a cable.
This module is designed to operate with different positioning services concurrently. It receives and processes the signals from GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo. It interfaces with Arduino boards either through a serial interface, when used with headers and put on top of a MKR board, or through an I2C interface and a dedicated ESLOV cable supplied as bundle.
Configuration Commands and Backup
The GPS module can be configured via special commands. We have included an on-board battery holder for the system to keep the configurations made via software. This can be convenient when e.g. changing the operation mode of the GPS to 1g, something common in high altitude experiments, where specific settings away from the default ones are needed for the device.
Another example is the use of Galileo's localization option, which is disabled by default, but can be enabled by sending a configuration message (UBXCFG-GNSS) to the receiver. You can find a detailed description of all of the commands in the protocol here.
Getting Started
Our Arduino_MKRGPS library handles the two different interfaces and offer a consistent set of APIs designed for a full usage of the GPS acquired information
Need Help?
Check the Arduino Forum for questions about the Arduino Language, or how to make your own Projects with Arduino. Need any help with your board please get in touch with the official Arduino User Support as explained in our Contact Us page.
Warranty
You can find here your board warranty information.
Tech specs
| GNSS receiver | u-blox module SAM-M8Q (datasheet) |
| Connectors | MKR headers / Eslov |
| Input Voltage | 3.3V |
| Operating Voltage | 3.3V |
| Backup battery | CR1216 |
| Communication | Serial / I2C / DCC |
| Length | 45 mm |
| Width | 25 mm |
| Weight | 14 gr. |
Conformities
Resources for Safety and Products
Manufacturer Information
The production information includes the address and related details of the product manufacturer.
Arduino S.r.l.
Via Andrea Appiani, 25
Monza, MB, IT, 20900
https://www.arduino.cc/
Responsible Person in the EU
An EU-based economic operator who ensures the product's compliance with the required regulations.
Arduino S.r.l.
Via Andrea Appiani, 25
Monza, MB, IT, 20900
Phone: +39 0113157477
Email: support@arduino.cc
Documentation
OSH: Schematics
The Arduino MKR GPS Shield is open-source hardware! You can build your own board using the following files:
EAGLE FILES IN .ZIP SCHEMATICS IN .PDF
Additional I2C Port
The MKR GPS Shield has an additional connector meant as an extension of the I2C bus. It's a small form factor 5-pin connector with 1.0 mm pitch. The mechanical details of the connector can be found in the connector's datasheet.
The I2C port, also referred to as the Eslov self-identification port within Arduino, comes with: SDA, SCL, GND, +5V, and an extra digital pin meant to send an alarm to the otherwise plain I2C devices connected to it. The pinout is shown in the following image:
If you are interested in designing your own modules for Arduino boards with this expansion port, the connector we suggest using is code: SHR-05V-S-B, also in the picture.
Learn more
Get Inspired
During Bett Show 2020, Arduino will launch the Arduino Education learning evolution: four new STEAM products for students in lower secondary school through to university. Arduino Education will also announce a partnership with the Fraunhofer Initiative: “Roberta – Learning with Robots” in Germany. Arduino Education's latest products — CTC GO! Motions Expansion Pack, Engineering Kit Rev2, Arduino Education Starter Kit, and IoT Starter Kit — will be unveiled at Bett and available in Q1. These new products complement the existing portfolio, which includes the Science Kit, CTC GO!, CTC 101, Arduino Starter Kit, and Certification program. Arduino CEO Fabio Violante comments: “We are delighted to announce four new products which will expand STEAM learning for lower secondary to university students. Our technology, programming, and curriculum content are creative tools — just like brushes and paint — that students can use as they become part of our next generation of scientists and artists.” CTC GO! Motions Expansion Pack (Age: 14+) Build on your secondary school students’ STEAM knowledge with more complex programming concepts that develop computational thinking and 21st-century skills. For educators who have taken their students through the CTC GO! – Core Module, the Motions Expansion Pack builds on what they have already learned about how to use technology as a tool and how to apply that knowledge in the real world. The Motions Expansion Pack challenges students to go a step further in computing and design while introducing them to motors and transmission mechanisms such as pulleys and gear concepts that develop their logical reasoning, hands-on building skills, and problem-solving skills. Educators get all the teaching support they need with webinars, videos, guides, and direct contact with an expert. Engineering Kit Rev2 (Age: 17+) Challenge upper secondary school and university students and help them develop hands-on
