Pocket GPS World - SatNavs | GPS | Speed Cameras - Motorola introduces miniature A-GPS module

Motorola launched its FS Oncore module, a breakthrough miniature Global Positioning System (GPS) product. Smaller than a dime at 200 square millimeters, it is used for adding accurate location sensing to virtually any portable electronics product.

The GPS receiver, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, high performance applications is capable of supporting autonomous and assisted-GPS functionality, with applications ranging from cellular handsets and accessories to asset tracking and PDAs. Features include cameras that time and location-stamp photos, PDAs with maps that offer real time navigation and E-911 compliant cellular phones that can find friends, family members, restaurants and nearby shops with goods on sale. Physical communications are via software configurable UART or SPI. Capable of signal detection to –152dBm, the FS Oncore module offers leading-edge GPS performance in both autonomous and assisted operation modes. It is manufactured using high temperature solder, the 24 pad LGA package reflows onto the customer’s PCB, eliminating the need for RF and power connectors. The FS Oncore module can be used with non-proprietary GPS-assistance standards for compatibility with almost any cellular network. The FS Oncore module consumes an average of 70mW while providing one position fix per second. Power consumption is minimized by the on-board power management features, which will only power on the TCXO while GPS measurements are active. This module also can be placed in standby via software commands, thus reducing current consumption to less than 15µA. Together with sample quantities of FS Oncore modules, low-cost evaluation kits will be available this month from Synergy-GPS at www.synergy-gps.com. Full production parts and software support for autonomous and self-aiding operation will be available in the first quarter of 2004. Visit http://www.motorola.com/gps for more details.