ANT-GPS-BD01 User Manual | Waterproof Active GPS Antenna

User Manual of ANT-GPS-BD01 Waterproof Active GPS Antenna

1. Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the ANT-GPS-BD01 Waterproof Active GPS Antenna. This high-performance navigation solution is designed for professional tracking, vehicle telematics, and IoT applications requiring reliable GPS L1 band (1575.42MHz) signal reception.

This user manual provides comprehensive instructions for installation, operation, and maintenance of your ANT-GPS-BD01 antenna. Please read this manual carefully before installation and use.

2. Safety Information

2.1 General Safety

  1. Read all instructions before installing or operating the antenna.
  2. Installation should be performed by qualified personnel familiar with GPS antenna systems and vehicle electronics.
  3. When drilling or cutting mounting surfaces, always wear safety goggles, ear protection, and a dust mask.
  4. Always check what is on the opposite side of the surface before drilling or cutting to avoid damaging vehicle components.
  5. Do not disassemble the antenna components — this may lead to poor antenna performance and void the warranty.

2.2 Electrical Safety

  1. The antenna operates on 3.0V to 5.0V DC power.
  2. Ensure the power supply provides over-current protection.
  3. Do not apply voltages outside the specified operating range.
  4. The antenna contains active electronic components — handle with care.

2.3 Environmental Safety

  1. Do not install the antenna in areas with explosive or flammable atmospheres.
  2. Ensure the antenna is not installed near heat sources exceeding the specified operating temperature range.

3. Product Overview

The ANT-GPS-BD01 is a waterproof active GPS antenna featuring an integrated low-noise amplifier (LNA) with 28dB gain and right-hand circular polarization (RHCP). It delivers exceptional GPS signal reception even in challenging environments such as urban canyons and areas with weak signal coverage.

3.1 Key Features

High-Gain Active Design: Integrated 28dB LNA ensures superior signal reception in weak signal areas and urban environments
Dual Mounting Flexibility: Magnetic base and adhesive mounting provide installation versatility for various surfaces and applications
Professional Waterproof Rating: IP67 certification ensures reliable operation in harsh weather conditions and outdoor environments
Plug-and-Play Compatibility: Includes SMA male connector and 15cm pigtail for easy connection to GPS modules and receivers
Wide Voltage Compatibility: Operates on 3V to 5V DC power, making it compatible with most tracking and telematics systems
Extended Temperature Operation: Functions reliably in extreme temperatures from -40°C to +65°C

3.2 Typical Applications

Vehicle Telematics & Tracking:
  1. 4G LTE GPS Tracker Locators
  2. Vehicle Real-Time Tracking Systems
  3. Mobile DVR Video Recorders
  4. Bus/Truck/RV/Van Security Alarm Systems
  5. Vehicle Amateur Radio Mobile Radio Systems
  6. Car Anti-theft Devices
  7. Electronic Navigation Systems
Industrial & IoT Applications:
  1. Internet of Things (IoT) Devices
  2. Machine-to-Machine (M2M) Communication Systems
  3. 4G LTE Industrial Gateway Modular Modems
  4. Mobile Routers and Cellular Terminals
  5. 4G LTE Cellular RTU/DTU Terminals
  6. Trail Cameras and Outdoor Monitoring Systems
  7. Portable Navigation Terminals

4. Package Contents

Before installation, please verify that your package contains the following items:
Item
Quantity
ANT-GPS-BD01 Waterproof Active GPS Antenna
1
15cm Pigtail Cable (SMA Male connector to IPEX)
1
Magnetic Base (integrated)
1
Adhesive Mounting Pad
1

5. Technical Specifications

5.1 GPS Antenna Characteristics

Parameter
Specification
Frequency Range
1575.42 ± 4 MHz
Antenna Gain
3.0 dBi
Coverage Angle
360° horizontal
VSWR
1.5 maximum
Polarization
Right Hand Circular Polarization (RHCP)
Impedance
50 Ω
Axis Ratio
≤ 5dB
10dB Bandwidth
± 10 MHz
Dimensions
50 × 48 × 17 mm (1.97 × 1.89 × 0.67 in)

5.2 Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) Characteristics

Parameter
Specification
Frequency Range
1575 ± 5 MHz
Gai
28 ± 2 dB
Passband Ripple
< 1 dB @ 1575.42M ± 1.023MHz
1dB Compression Point
> -15 dBm output
Noise Figure
1.8 dB typical
Out-of-band Suppression
> 35 dBc @ 100 MHz offset
Output VSWR
≤ 2:1
Output Impedance
50 Ω
Operating Voltage
3.0 - 5.0 VDC
Current Consumption
≤ 10 mA

5.3 Cable & Connector Specifications

Parameter
Specification
Main Cable Type
RG174 (3 meters standard)
Pigtail Cable
15cm / 6 inch
Connector
SMA Male (standard)

5.4 Environmental Specifications

Parameter
Specification
Operating Temperature 
-40°C to +65°C
Storage Temperature
-50°C to +85°C
Operating Humidity
40% to 95% RH

5.5 Mechanical Specifications

Parameter
Specification
Antenna Type
Active ceramic patch antenna
Mounting Options
Magnetic base + Adhesive mounting
Housing Material
ABS plastic (weather resistant)
Waterproof Rating
IP67 (100% waterproof)
Color
Black (standard)

6. Installation Guidelines

6.1 Selecting the Mounting Location

Proper antenna placement is critical for achieving optimal GPS signal reception. Follow these guidelines when selecting a mounting location:
  1. Clear Sky View: Choose a location with a clear, unobstructed view of the sky. For vehicle installations, the roof is typically the best location.
  2. Avoid Obstructions: Keep the antenna away from buildings, trees, or other structures that may block satellite signals.
  3. Minimize Interference: Mount the antenna away from reflective surfaces to reduce multipath interference. Position it away from powerful RF emitters, radars, high-powered communication links, or high-current wiring.
  4. Flat Surface: Ensure the mounting surface is flat and clean.
  5. Highest Point: For vehicle installations, place the antenna at the highest point of the vehicle, away from any obstructions that may block satellite reception.

6.2 Magnetic Base Installation

The magnetic base provides quick and simple mounting to metal surfaces:
  1. Select a flat metal surface on the vehicle, such as the roof or hood.
  2. Ensure the installation area is clean and free of debris.
  3. Directly attach the magnetic base of the antenna to the selected metal surface.
  4. Press firmly to ensure the antenna does not shake or fall off during vehicle operation.

6.3 Adhesive Mounting Installation

For non-metallic surfaces, use the adhesive mounting option:
  1. Choose a suitable installation surface that is clean, dry, flat, and free of oil stains.
  2. Clean the surface thoroughly.
  3. Peel off the protective film from the adhesive layer at the bottom of the antenna.
  4. Accurately position the antenna at the predetermined location.
  5. Press firmly for a few seconds to ensure secure adhesion.
  6. After installation, wait for a period of time to allow the adhesive to fully cure for enhanced stability.

6.4 Cable Connection

  1. Connect the pigtail cable (SMA male connector to IPEX) to the antenna and GPS receiver.
  2. Ensure the SMA connector is properly tightened.
  3. Provide 3V-5V DC power to the antenna through the pigtail cable. The antenna draws power from the GPS receiver through the coaxial cable.
  4. Secure the cable to prevent strain on connections.
  5. Route the cable carefully, avoiding moving vehicle components. Do not route cables in front of any airbag device.

6.5 Post-Installation Check

After installation:
  1. Check the GPS cable with DC to measure high resistance.
  2. Connect the GPS cable to the GPS receiver and check for satellite acquisition.
  3. Verify that the antenna is receiving satellite signals properly.

7. Operation

7.1 Power Requirements

The ANT-GPS-BD01 is an active antenna that requires external DC power:
  1. Operating Voltage: 3.0 - 5.0 VDC
  2. Current Consumption: ≤ 10 mA
The antenna receives power through the coaxial cable from the connected GPS receiver or device. Ensure your GPS receiver can provide the required voltage and current.

7.2 Signal Reception

The antenna is designed for optimal reception of GPS L1 band signals at 1575.42MHz. The integrated 28dB LNA amplifies weak GPS satellite signals, compensating for signal loss through the cable.
For best performance:
Ensure the antenna has a clear view of the sky.
Keep the antenna away from sources of electronic interference.
The antenna's RHCP polarization matches the polarization of GPS signals for maximum reception efficiency.

8. Maintenance and Care

8.1 Cleaning

  1. Clean the antenna housing with a soft, dry cloth.
  2. Do not use harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners.
  3. For stubborn dirt, use a mild soap solution and wipe dry immediately.

8.2 Inspection

  1. Periodically inspect the antenna and cable for signs of damage or wear.
  2. Check that the mounting is secure and the antenna has not shifted.
  3. Inspect the SMA connector for corrosion or damage.

8.3 Storage

  1. When not in use, store the antenna in a cool, dry place.
  2. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures outside the storage range of -50°C to +85°C.
  3. Protect the connector with a cap to prevent damage.

9. Troubleshooting

Symptom
Possible Cause
Solution
No GPS signal
Power not supplied to antenna
Verify 3V-5V DC power is provided through the pigtail cable
Weak signal reception
Poor mounting location
Relocate antenna to area with clear sky view
Weak signal reception
Obstructions blocking signal
Remove or avoid obstructions near antenna
Weak signal reception
Cable damage or poor connection
Inspect cable and SMA connector; replace if damaged
Intermittent signal
Loose connection
Tighten SMA connector securely
Intermittent signal 
Cable strain
Secure cable to prevent strain on connections
No satellite acquisition
GPS receiver not providing power
Check receiver power output specifications
Poor accuracy
Multipath interference
Move antenna away from reflective surfaces

10. Compliance and Certifications

The ANT-GPS-BD01 complies with the following standards:
  1. IP67 Waterproof Rating: 100% waterproof and dust-tight protection
  2. Operating Temperature: -40°C to +65°C for reliable operation in extreme conditions

11. Warranty and Support

11.1 Warranty Information

The ANT-GPS-BD01 is covered by a standard manufacturer's warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty terms may vary by region and supplier. Please contact your point of purchase for specific warranty details.

11.2 Support

For technical support, product inquiries, or warranty claims, please contact your authorized distributor or the manufacturer directly.
When contacting support, please have the following information ready:
  1. Product model (ANT-GPS-BD01)
  2. Date of purchase
  3. Description of the issue
  4. Photos of the installation (if applicable)

    • Related Articles

    • Datasheet of GPS Antenna ANT-GPS-BD01

      Overview High-Sensitivity Waterproof GPS Antenna for Professional Tracking and Navigation Applications This waterproof active GPS antenna is a high-performance navigation solution designed for professional tracking and IoT applications. Featuring an ...

    • FAQs: GPS of 4UD Series

      How can we possibly enable GPS if there's no working SIM? To enable GPS functionality via a 4G LTE USB Dongle without a SIM, you can follow these steps: Download the corresponding QCOM: Obtain the necessary QCOM software for your 4G LTE USB Dongle by ...

    • Datasheet of 5GD‑S‑N52G

      5G USB Dongle (Standard Edition · Plastic Enclosure · Built‑in FPC Antennas) 1. Product Overview The 5GD‑S‑N52G is a 5G USB dongle built around the Quectel RM520N‑GL 5G Sub‑6 GHz industrial‑grade module. It adopts an M.2‑to‑USB 3.1 solution, ...

    • Datasheet of 5GD‑P‑N52G

      5G USB Dongle (Pro Edition · Metal Enclosure · External Rubber Antennas) 1. Product Overview The 5GD‑P‑N52G is a 5G USB dongle built around the Quectel RM520N‑GL 5G Sub‑6 GHz industrial‑grade module. It utilises an M.2‑to‑USB 3.1 solution, includes a ...

    • 4UDEC25MX Series

      Introduction Part Number Connector 4UDEC25MX USB2.0 or 4PIN PH2.0(Optional), Micro SIM Card Slot, TTL(Optional) NOTE: Please note that this is not a plug-and-play dongle; it requires the installation of the corresponding drivers. For more details, ...