In each of the Hardware Overview sections we laid out the characteristics of the two GPS boards. Let's begin with
the more obvious differences between the boards. The SAM-M8Q is a larger board with dimensions of 1.6 x 1.6
inches. The relative larger size of the board helps to enhance the product's GNSS antenna that houses the GPS
unit
inside
. The ZOE-M8Q is 1 x 1 inch board that does
not
have an onboard GNSS antenna, and instead has a
U.FL connector to connect to an external one. This gives you the option to use something that can be attached
outside while the GPS unit is inside connected to your microcontroller. If you want to try out a number of different
antenna shapes and sizes, we have a GNSS Evaluation Board for the purpose of finding the best antenna that
works for your project.
GPS Capability Comparison
These two GPS units are so similar in their capabilities that the difference is negligible. The one difference
between the two is that the SAM-M8Q does not connect to the Chinese GNSS constellation BeiDou.
NMEA Data
Both have I C and serial capabilities to receive your NMEA data, but only the ZOE-M8Q has SPI capabilities.
Enable SPI by closing the jumper on the underside of the product labeled
SPI
.
Hardware Assembly
For this example, I used a Qwiic capable RedBoard and associated USB cable. With that and a Qwiic cable, the
assembly is very simple. Plug a Qwiic cable between the RedBoard and the GPS unit, and attach the antenna to
the U.FL connector. If you need tips on plugging in the U.FL connector, then check out our U.FL tutorial. If you're
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