NEO-6M GPS Module with EPROM – Normal Quality

Description

NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM

🔍 Overview:

The NEO-6M GPS Module with EPROM is a budget-friendly, entry-level GNSS receiver designed for accurate positioning, time synchronization, and navigation in embedded systems. Featuring the u-blox NEO-6M chipset, this module includes onboard EEPROM/EPROM memory for storing configuration settings, making it ideal for Arduino, Raspberry Pi, ESP32, and STM32 microcontroller projects.

It delivers precise location data using the GPS L1 band (1575.42 MHz) and communicates via UART serial using the NMEA protocol. Though labeled “normal quality,” this version is suitable for indoor learning, basic robotics, and location tracking projects that don’t demand high sensitivity or advanced multi-GNSS support.

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✅ Key Features:

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🧠 EEPROM Functionality:

The onboard EEPROM allows users to:

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM Save GPS settings like baud rate or update rate

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM Configure output message types

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM Retain last configuration even after power-off
  This is especially useful in autonomous applications where you don’t want to reconfigure the module on every boot.

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📈 Use Cases:

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM Basic Arduino-based GPS trackers

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM Educational projects and GNSS experiments

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM  Time synchronization for NTP/GPS servers

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM GPS logging systems

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM Location-based automation and robotics

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⚙️ Compatibility:

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM Microcontrollers: Arduino UNO/Mega/Nano, ESP8266, ESP32, STM32, Raspberry Pi

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM GNSS Libraries: TinyGPS++, u-blox u-center, NeoGPS, GPSD (Linux)

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⚠️ Considerations (“Normal Quality” Version):

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM May have lower-grade components (capacitors, patch antenna, or connectors)

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM Suitable for learning and prototyping, but not ideal for precision or critical navigation

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM May lack shielding or EMI protection compared to premium modules

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM No support for GLONASS, Galileo, or BeiDou (GPS-only)

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🏁 Conclusion:

The NEO-6M GPS Module with EPROM – Normal Quality offers a solid starting point for developers and learners exploring GPS functionality. With basic performance, built-in EEPROM for setting retention, and broad microcontroller compatibility, it’s perfect for simple GPS tracking, robotics, or IoT projects. While it doesn’t support advanced multi-GNSS or sub-meter accuracy, its affordability and ease of use make it a great value for general-purpose GPS tasks.

Overview of NEO-6M GPS Module. The heart of the module is a NEO-6M GPS chip from u-blox. It can track up to 22 satellites on 50 channels and achieves the industry’s highest level of sensitivity i.e. -161 dB tracking, while consuming only 45mA supply current

The NEO-6M GPS module is a well-performing complete GPS receiver with a built-in 25 x 25 x 4mm ceramic antenna, which provides a strong satellite search capability. With the power and signal indicators, you can monitor the status of the module. Thanks to the data backup battery, the module can save the data when the main power is shut down accidentally. Its 3mm mounting holes can ensure easy assembly on your aircraft, which thus can fly steadily at a fixed position, return to Home automatically, and automatic waypoint flying, etc. Or you can apply it on your smart robot car for automatic returning or be heading to a certain destination, making it a real “smart” bot! Features/Specs: 1. The default baud rate: 9600 2. Mounting Hole 3mm 3. Module size 23mm x 30mm 4. Antenna size 12 x 12mm 5. Cable:20mm Note: Product Images are shown for illustrative purposes only and may differ from actual product  NEO-6M GPS Module with EPROM

This article demonstrates how to play with the u-blox NEO-6M global positioning system (GPS) module, a very popular, cost-effective, high-performance GPS module with a ceramic patch antenna, an on-board memory chip, and a backup battery that can be conveniently integrated with a broad range of microcontrollers. Nowadays, two NEO-6M GPS modules are extremely popular — the GY-GPS6MV2 and the GY-GPSV3-NEO

As indicated, the GPS modules are based on the u-blox NEO-6M GPS engine. The type number of the NEO-6M is NEO-6M-0-001, and its ROM/FLASH version is ROM 7.0.3 (PCN reference UBX-TN-11047-1). The NEO-6M module includes one configurable UART interface for serial communication, but the default UART (TTL) baud rate here is 9,600. Because the GPS signal is right-hand circular-polarized (RHCP), the style of the GPS antenna will be different from the common whip antennas used for linear polarized signals. The most popular antenna type is the patch antenna. Patch antennas are flat, generally have a ceramic and metal body, and are mounted on a metal base plate. They are often cast in a housing. For more information about u-blox reference designs, see their website. Remember, the position of the antenna mounting is very crucial for optimal performance of the GPS receiver. When using the patch antenna, it should be oriented parallel to the geographic horizon. The antenna must have full view of the sky, ensuring a direct line of sight with as many visible satellites as possible

If you are wandering to navigate the distance with a drone then this GPS Module is needed for you. GPS drones are equipped with a GPS module that allows them to know their location relative to a network of orbiting satellites. Connecting to signals from these satellites allows the drone to perform functions such as position hold, autonomous flight, return to home, and waypoint navigation.

This is a complete GPS module that is based on the NEO 6M GPS. This unit uses the latest technology to give the best possible positioning information and includes a larger built-in 25 x 25mm active GPS antenna with a UART TTL socket. A battery is also included so that you can obtain a GPS lock faster. This is an updated GPS module that can be used with ardupilot mega v2. This GPS module gives the best possible position information, allowing for better performance with your Ardupilot or other Multirotor control platform.

The GPS module has serial TTL output, it has four pins: TX, RX, VCC, and GND. You can download the u-center software for configuring the GPS and changing the settings and much more. It is really good software (see link below).

 NOTE:  

NEO-6M GPS Module is not compatible with APM 2.8 Flight Controller

To Explore more GPS modules, Click here

Interfacing NEO-6M with Arduino:

The NEO-6M GPS Module with EPROM – Normal Quality is a compact and cost-effective GPS receiver module that delivers real-time position tracking and timing using the u-blox NEO-6M chip, widely used in embedded systems and electronics projects. Designed to support hobbyists, students, and DIY developers, this version includes a built-in EEPROM memory that allows for custom configurations to be saved—even after the module is powered off.

Operating on the standard GPS L1 frequency (1575.42 MHz), the NEO-6M provides reliable global positioning data with an accuracy of about 2.5 meters under open-sky conditions. It outputs data in NMEA format via a standard UART (serial) interface, making it compatible with a wide range of development boards like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, STM32, ESP8266, and ESP32.

The module is equipped with a high-sensitivity ceramic patch antenna for strong signal reception, and a u.FL or SMA connector depending on the board layout. Its onboard 3.3V voltage regulator ensures compatibility with both 3.3V and 5V logic levels, simplifying integration with various microcontrollers.

A backup CR1220 coin cell battery (usually preinstalled) helps the module retain satellite data and RTC information, drastically improving satellite acquisition times on reboot (hot start).

Though this is a “normal quality” version, it still performs well for many standard applications. However, it may lack the shielding, filtering, or durability of higher-end modules, making it better suited for educational, non-critical, or experimental projects.

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📍 Real-World Applications:

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM DIY GPS vehicle trackers

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM Student robotics and navigation projects

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM Time-based automation using GPS clock

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM Geographic data logging and route plotting

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM GPS-controlled outdoor lighting or alarms

•  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM Teaching tools for satellite navigation and embedded systems

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Whether you’re building a basic GPS tracker or experimenting with geo-fencing, the NEO-6M GPS Module with EPROM – Normal Quality gives you all the essentials to get started with satellite positioning in your electronics projects. Its EEPROM-based configuration, compatibility with popular platforms, and ease of integration make it a smart choice for learning and light-duty deployment.

 

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Useful Links:

For Arduino code Click here

6 GPS Receiver and Protocol Description

Onboard M24C32-R (432RP marking) EEPROM datasheet

Onboard voltage regulator MIC5205 (marked KB33) datasheet

Arduino NEO-6M library

To connect the Neo GPS module with Raspberry Pi Click here

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Features:

1.  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM 5Hz position update rate
2.  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM Operating temperature range: -40 TO 85°CUART TTL socket
3.  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM EEPROM to save configuration settings
4.  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM Rechargeable battery for Backup
5.  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM The cold start time of 38 s and Hot start time of 1 s
6.  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM Supply voltage: 3.3 V
7.  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM Configurable from 4800 Baud to 115200 Baud rates. (default 9600)
8.  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM Super Sense  Indoor GPS: -162 dBm tracking sensitivity
9.  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM Support SBAS (WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS, GAGAN)
10.  NEO-6M GPS Module with EEPROM Separated 18X18mm GPS antenna

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Packages Includes:

1 x NEO-6M GPS Module with EPROM

🔍 How the NEO-6M GPS Module Works

The NEO-6M is a standalone GPS receiver based on u-blox’s 6th generation GNSS architecture. It continuously listens to GPS satellite signals and calculates your latitude, longitude, altitude, speed, and UTC time. It does this by decoding data from multiple satellites (up to 22 channels simultaneously) and performing triangulation.

The module communicates using NMEA sentences (like $GPRMC, $GPGGA, etc.) through UART, which can be read easily by microcontrollers like Arduino using libraries such as TinyGPS++.

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🧠 EEPROM – What Makes This Version Special

Most cheaper GPS modules lose their settings when powered off. This version includes an EEPROM (or EPROM) chip that stores configuration data, such as:

• Baud rate changes

• Update rate (e.g., 1 Hz → 5 Hz)

• Enabled/disabled NMEA sentences

• SBAS or WAAS support toggle

These settings persist after power loss, making it ideal for embedded systems that restart frequently or for remote devices where reconfiguration isn’t practical.

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⚙️ Hardware Components Breakdown

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🛰️ Performance in Real Use

In open sky, it usually:

• Locks GPS fix in 30–40 seconds (cold start)

• Achieves hot start in 1–3 seconds

• Delivers position accuracy of ~2.5m CEP

Indoor performance varies depending on interference and structure—best used near windows or outdoors.

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📌 Common Use Cases & DIY Projects

• Arduino GPS Tracker: Use with SD card module or GSM to log/send location

• GPS Clock or Time Sync: Extract UTC time for accurate timekeeping

• Weather Balloon: Lightweight GPS tracker for altitude and location

• Geo-fencing: Trigger actions when entering or exiting predefined areas

• Outdoor Robots: Provide location awareness for navigation or mapping

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🧰 Integration Tips

• Use SoftwareSerial on Arduino for RX/TX if main UART is occupied

• Use u-blox u-center software to fine-tune settings via USB-TTL adapter

• Power with 5V on VCC pin (module regulates to 3.3V internally)

• Use with TinyGPS++ or NeoGPS library for data parsing

• Mount antenna upright and away from motors or metal objects for best signal

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⚠️ Limitations of “Normal Quality” Version

• May lack metal shielding (affects signal purity)

• May use cheaper passive components or low-quality soldering

• Basic ceramic antenna — not as strong as external SMA-based active ones

• Not suitable for high-vibration or industrial-grade applications

• GPS-only (no GLONASS, Galileo, or BeiDou)

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✅ Summary

The NEO-6M GPS Module with EPROM – Normal Quality strikes a balance between affordability and core GPS functionality. While it’s not designed for professional-grade GNSS applications, it offers solid performance for learning, prototyping, and basic location tracking. EEPROM support adds great value by retaining custom settings, which is rarely found at this price point.

Why Choose Lofty AgroTech?

When building or servicing agricultural drones in India, Lofty AgroTech stands out as a reliable and innovative partner. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of why we choose Lofty AgroTech:

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1️⃣ DPIIT-Recognized Innovation

• Lofty AgroTech is officially recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Govt. of India.
  🏅 This certification ensures quality, credibility, and government endorsement as a genuine Indian AgriTech innovator.

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2️⃣ Tailored for Indian Farming Conditions

• Their drone components—including GPS modules, landing gear, frames, and spraying systems—are designed and tested for Indian climates:

  • Heat, dust, and humidity-resistant

  • Compatible with crops like paddy, cotton, and sugarcane

• Engineered specifically for Indian fields, not generic imports.

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3️⃣ Complete Hardware Ecosystem

• Lofty AgroTech provides GPS modules, drone frames, landing gear, sprayer accessories, flight controllers, and telemetry—all under one roof.

• Ideal for building integrated systems that work seamlessly together from day one.

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4️⃣ Plug-and-Play Convenience

• Products like the NZ Mini GPS Module are pre-configured for Betaflight/Cleanflight, and hardware parts fit standard UAV systems perfectly.

• No firmware flashing or awkward adapters—just plug, play, and fly.

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5️⃣ Strong Local Support & Spare Parts

• Fast shipping across India without customs delays.

• Dedicated after-sales support via phone or chat—real help when you’re in the field or repairing.

• Access to common spares, making downtime less likely.

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6️⃣ Academic & Startup Partnerships

• Lofty AgroTech collaborates with colleges, R&D centers, and agri-tech startups, providing drone kits, hardware training, and workshops.

• Their products are trusted in STEM labs, contests, innovator incubators, and proof-of-concept tests.

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7️⃣ Proven Quality & Real-World Performance

• Uses industrial-grade components like u‑blox GPS chips, carbon fiber, and rugged nylon.

• Field-tested in Indian conditions to ensure reliability for crop spraying, mapping, and monitoring.

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8️⃣ Educator & Builder-Friendly

• Their hardware encourages hands-on learning and experimentation without requiring advanced drone expertise.

• Ideal for drone clubs, agricultural training, hobbyist builders—even first-time users.