Shop OBEX P1 Docs P2 Docs Learn Events
Parallax GPS device not getting a fix — Parallax Forums

Parallax GPS device not getting a fix

Leo.KLeo.K Posts: 21
edited 2008-05-20 22:01 in General Discussion
Hi All,

I have been using sucessfully a Parallax GPS receiver lately which·is only a couple of months old.

For the last week I have just not been able to get a fix with it anymore. I am in the same place as usual, the system is exactly the same as before but I'm just not having any luck [noparse]:([/noparse]

I have tried the device in 4 other locations in various weather conditions but again no luck [noparse]:([/noparse] the best I can get is a fix for around 4 seconds then it completely loses it. Sometimes it flashes the LED more quickly to suggest it is receiving something but this never carries on to a full fix.

Previously the device would get a fix very quickly and would work until switched off. Does anybody have any ideas? The device hasnt been anywhere besides on my desk. I have also taken a Car Sat-Nav kit to the same locations and that gets a fix no problem at all. Is there a way to reset the device maybe?

Any help would be much appreciated. I have to demo my work in just over·a weeks time sad.gif Btw the device is run off 4 AA batteries and I have tried new batteries and a 5V PSU

Thank you very much for any ideas.
Leo

Comments

  • Leo.KLeo.K Posts: 21
    edited 2008-05-19 22:12
    Sorry i forgot to mention, the AA batteries are rechargable and supply about 5.2 volts when full (strange seeing as they are 1.2v each) and 4.8 as they get lower on charge. It has previously been working fine on these batteries. I even tried another set but still no luck [noparse]:([/noparse]
  • LeonLeon Posts: 7,620
    edited 2008-05-20 15:28
    If you need to demo it in a week, I'd order another one just in case the original one is faulty.

    Leon

    ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔
    Amateur radio callsign: G1HSM
    Suzuki SV1000S motorcycle
  • Chris SavageChris Savage Parallax Engineering Posts: 14,406
    edited 2008-05-20 22:01
    The GPS Module requires a 5V regulated power source…Using batteries could yield voltages higher than the rated voltage and may damage the unit. Also, as the voltage goes down results will be unreliable. Wall Adapters are often unregulated meaning a 5V supply could output 9-12V unloaded. This could also damage the GPS. There should be a regulator before the GPS in either case.

    ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔
    Chris Savage
    Parallax Tech Support
Sign In or Register to comment.