NEO 7M GPS With Compass for APM 2.6/2.8 and Pixhawk 2.4.6/2.4.8

Description

NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer

NEO-7M GPS Module with Compass – Overview

🔍 Overview:

This module combines the u-blox NEO-7M GPS receiver with a built-in 3-axis digital compass (typically HMC5883L or QMC5883L), designed specifically for drone flight controllers like APM and Pixhawk. It delivers precise global positioning and magnetic heading essential for autonomous flight modes such as Return to Home (RTH), Waypoint Navigation, and Position Hold.

✅ Key Features:

📈 Performance Specs:

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Horizontal Accuracy: ±2.5 meters

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Cold Start Time: ~27 seconds

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Hot Start Time: ~1 second

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Update Rate: Default 1 Hz (configurable to 5 Hz)

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Antenna Type: Integrated ceramic patch with active amplifier

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Backup Battery: Yes – retains ephemeris data for fast hot starts

🎯 Ideal Applications:

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Multirotor and fixed-wing drones using ArduPilot or PX4

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer FPV drones needing reliable GPS failsafe and position hold

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer  DIY UAVs with autonomous navigation and RTL functions

•  NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Educational drone kits for learning GNSS and compass integration

🔌 Connection Summary:

For Pixhawk:

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Use 6-pin GPS/I2C cable directly into GPS port

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Pixhawk auto-detects compass via I2C

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Calibrate via Mission Planner → Compass Setup

For APM:

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Connect GPS (TX/RX) to GPS UART port

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Connect Compass (SDA/SCL/VCC/GND) to separate I2C port

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Enable “External Compass” in Mission Planner settings

⚠️ Important Notes:

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Mount GPS module away from power wires and ESCs to reduce interference

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Compass calibration is essential before flight

• NEO-7M is GPS-only; for multi-constellation support, consider NEO-M8N

If you’re looking to navigate long distances with a drone or ensure reliable autonomous flight, the NEO-7M GPS Module with Compass is the perfect tool for the job. Designed specifically for drone enthusiasts and professionals, this module allows your drone to determine its exact location relative to GPS satellites—enabling essential features such as position hold, autonomous flight, return to home, and waypoint navigation.

This module features the advanced u-blox NEO-7M GPS chip along with an HMC5883L digital compass, offering precise and fast location updates. With a built-in ceramic patch antenna and protective molded plastic casing, it’s built to perform reliably even in challenging environments—making it ideal for aircraft, quadcopters, and other outdoor robotic applications.

Out of the box, the module is pre-configured for APM and Pixhawk systems, supporting quick plug-and-play use. It operates at a default 38400 baud rate, with upgrade support up to 115200 baud for faster data transmission. Thanks to its EEPROM storage, it retains settings permanently, and the backup battery enables quick HOT starts after shutdown.

Key Features

•  NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer High-Performance GPS – Utilizes the u-blox NEO-7M chip with 56-channel tracking and high sensitivity

•  NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Digital Compass – Integrated HMC5883L compass module for accurate heading data

•  NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Active Patch Antenna – Ceramic patch antenna with active circuitry delivers reliable GPS signals

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer HOT Start Capability – Built-in rechargeable battery supports quick satellite lock

•  NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Pre-Configured for Plug & Play – Flashed with correct settings for APM/Pixhawk systems

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Adjustable Baud Rate – Default 38400 bps, configurable up to 115200 bps

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Multiple Output Formats – Supports GGA, GSA, and RMC frames

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Increased Refresh Rate – 1Hz default, configurable up to 5Hz for smoother data

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Rugged Design – Comes in a molded plastic casing for protection against elements

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Versatile Connectors – Includes 6-pin GPS connector and 4-pin compass-only/GPS-only connectors

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Mounting Ready – 45mm x 45mm standard MK-style hole layout

Specifications

•  NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Chipset: u-blox NEO-7M

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Compass: HMC5883L (Digital)

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Baud Rate: Default 38400 bps (Adjustable to 115200 bps)

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Update Rate: 1Hz (Default), Configurable to 5Hz

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Mounting Hole Spacing: 45mm x 45mm

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Communication Interface: UART TTL for GPS, I2C for Compass

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer LED Indicator: Super bright status LED

•  NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Permanent Configuration: EEPROM for saving custom settings

• NEO-7M GNSS with Magnetometer Compatibility: APM 2.6 and Pixhawk (APM 2.5/2.0 requires internal compass to be disabled manually)

Package Includes

• 1 x NEO-7M GPS Module with Compass

• 1 x 6-pin GPS connection cable

• 1 x 4-pin compass cable

Note:
APM 2.5 and 2.0 have internal compasses that must be disabled before using this external GPS+Compass module.
This module is not compatible with APM 2.8 without modification.

Perfect for autonomous drone navigation and GPS-enabled robotics, the NEO-7M GPS Module delivers dependable, precise performance right out of the box.

The NEO-7M GPS with Compass module is a high-precision, dual-function navigation unit specifically designed for use with APM 2.6/2.8 and Pixhawk 2.4.6/2.4.8 flight controllers. It integrates the u-blox NEO-7M GPS receiver with a 3-axis digital compass (commonly HMC5883L or QMC5883L), offering both accurate positioning and magnetic heading—essential for fully autonomous drone flight.

The NEO-7M GPS engine is known for its fast satellite acquisition, low power consumption, and robust signal tracking capabilities. It supports 56 channels, enabling it to lock onto multiple GPS satellites simultaneously to deliver accurate real-time position data with horizontal accuracy up to ±2.5 meters. The onboard active antenna and built-in battery-backed RAM allow for faster hot starts, significantly reducing wait time before flight.

The digital compass provides reliable yaw (heading) information, which is critical for maintaining orientation during features like Loiter, Waypoint Navigation, Auto Missions, and Return to Home (RTL). Since APM 2.6 lacks an onboard compass, this external compass is mandatory for proper navigation. In Pixhawk, the compass can be auto-detected via the GPS port, streamlining the setup process.

The module communicates with the flight controller via:

• UART (TX/RX) for GPS data output (NMEA format, 9600 bps default)

• I2C for compass data

It typically comes with a 6-pin connector compatible with Pixhawk and a separate I2C cable for APM boards. The module also includes an LED indicator that shows GPS lock status.

Physically, the module is housed in a compact plastic casing and marked with an orientation arrow. It is often mounted on a mast or elevated stand to reduce electromagnetic interference from motors and power components.

🧠 Key Advantages:

• Plug-and-play compatibility with both ArduPilot and PX4 systems

• Fast GPS fix times and consistent satellite tracking

• Stable compass data for smooth yaw control and autonomous flight modes

• Ideal for hobby drones, DIY UAVs, robotics, and academic drone projects

  🛰️ Why GPS + Compass Is Essential in Drones

  In autonomous drone flight, simply knowing where the drone is (GPS) isn’t enough—it must also know which direction it’s facing (compass). This combination allows for:

  • Accurate Loiter (hover-in-place) mode

  • Waypoint missions (the drone can turn toward a GPS point)

  • Return-to-Launch (RTL) with the correct heading

  • Yaw control when stationary (since GPS heading only works when moving)

  That’s why this module combines:

  • NEO-7M GPS receiver (for satellite-based position and speed)

  • HMC5883L/QMC5883L magnetometer (for magnetic heading/yaw)

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  📡 How the NEO-7M GPS Works

  The u-blox NEO-7M chip is a 56-channel GNSS receiver that listens to GPS satellites (and QZSS). It:

  • Calculates your drone’s latitude, longitude, altitude, speed, and time

  • Uses NMEA 0183 protocol to communicate with the flight controller (via TX/RX)

  • Offers up to 5Hz update rates (1Hz default)

  • Features hot-start capability via an onboard battery to reduce GPS lock time after reboot

  • LED indicator blinks during satellite acquisition and stays solid when a fix is achieved

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  🧭 How the Compass Works

  The digital magnetometer (compass) senses the Earth’s magnetic field in 3 axes (X, Y, Z) to determine the drone’s orientation or yaw.

  • It communicates using I2C (SDA/SCL) to the flight controller

  • Without movement, GPS cannot determine direction, so compass data is crucial for yaw stability

  • Proper compass calibration in software (like Mission Planner) is required before flight

  • Placement away from power lines and motors is essential to avoid magnetic interference

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  🔌 Connection and Use

  Pixhawk 2.4.6 / 2.4.8:

  • Plug the 6-pin cable into the GPS port

  • This includes both GPS (UART) and Compass (I2C) lines

  • Pixhawk auto-detects and configures compass during setup

  APM 2.6 / 2.8:

  • APM 2.6 requires an external compass; connect the I2C cable to the I2C port

  • Connect GPS TX/RX wires to the GPS UART port

  • Use Mission Planner to enable External Compass and run compass + GPS calibration

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  🚁 Flight Benefits in Real Time

  When in flight, this module allows your drone to:

  • Maintain a stable heading even if hovering (due to compass)

  • Fly to multiple waypoints with precise directional adjustments

  • Correctly align itself when returning home (RTL)

  • Hover accurately even in wind or with GPS drift

  • React immediately to pilot or autopilot yaw inputs, even when stationary

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  ⚙️ Calibration Tips

  To ensure optimal performance:

  • Always calibrate compass before first flight or after relocation

  • Keep GPS module elevated and away from ESCs, motors, or high-current wires

  • Use non-metallic mounts (carbon fiber can affect compass accuracy)

  • Check the orientation arrow on the module and mount it forward-facing

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  ✅ Summary

  The NEO-7M GPS with Compass is not just a position sensor—it’s a critical part of your drone’s brain. With it, the drone can:

  • Know where it is

  • Know where it’s facing

  • Execute autonomous maneuvers with precision

  It’s reliable, budget-friendly, and easy to set up—making it an ideal choice for DIY drone builders, hobbyists, and learners using APM or Pixhawk flight controllers.

  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.

  Feature	Why It Matters
  ✅ DPIIT-recognition	Official credibility and national support
  ✅ India-ready design	Handles dust, heat, and rugged farm terrain
  ✅ Full ecosystem of parts	One-stop for drone assembly & upgrading
  ✅ Pre-tuned hardware	Speeds up deployment without tech hassles
  ✅ Quick support & spares	Minimized downtime in remote locations
  ✅ Academic collaborations	Builds future tech, research, and innovation
  ✅ High-grade materials	Long-lasting and dependable in tough use
  ✅ User-friendly for all levels	Great for experts, educators, and first-timers

  .

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  💥 Ready to Get the Best Value for Your Drone Builds?

  Whether you’re assembling your first quad or leading a drone R&D lab, Lofty Agrotech ensures your investment goes into quality, not confusion.

  💬 Still unsure what fits your budget and performance needs? Talk to our experts—we’ll help you decide without upselling.

  🎁 Institutional Support & Educational Offer

  

  At Lofty Agrotech, we believe in empowering innovation through education. As drone technology becomes a cornerstone of engineering, agriculture, and automation studies, we’re committed to supporting students, educators, and institutions with resources that go far beyond commercial transactions.

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  🎓 Designed for Academia & R&D

  We actively collaborate with:

  • Engineering colleges for final year drone and mechatronics projects

  • Technical universities integrating UAVs into curriculum

  • Research institutions and innovation labs exploring drone-based solutions

  • Polytechnic and diploma-level institutions for hands-on drone skill-building

  🏫 We’ve supported 70+ institutions across India with high-quality parts, build assistance, and curriculum alignment.

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  🧑‍🏫 Exclusive Educational Discounts

  We offer special pricing structures tailored for learning environments:

  • Flat % discounts for verified student and faculty orders

  • Price waivers or bundle deals on bulk quantities and lab kits

  • Custom billing for college purchase departments and project grants

  • GST-compliant invoicing for smooth procurement workflows

  💡 Every rupee saved can be invested back into your learning journey.

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  🧰 Build Kits for Projects, Labs & Hackathons

  We supply custom FPV and drone kits designed for:

  • Final year projects on AI, computer vision, agriculture drones, etc.

  • Hackathons and technical fests where fast assembly and reliable parts matter

  • Drone training labs needing repeatable, standard setups for multiple students

  • Demo-ready prototypes for academic exhibitions and competitions

  Each kit can include:

  • Frame + motors + ESCs + flight controller + camera

  • GPS + battery straps + antennas + GoPro mounts

  • Wiring, build guide PDFs, and phone-based setup assistance

  🧩 Tell us your use-case — we’ll build the right kit for your classroom or competition.

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  🧑‍🔬 Documentation & Tech Support for Reports

  We assist students and mentors with:

  • Detailed datasheets and specs for every part purchased

  • Pre-filled or editable bill of materials (BOM) for submission

  • Reference photos, connection diagrams, and PID tuning guides

  • Help with design justification, component selection, and technical write-ups

  📘 Save time, avoid confusion, and meet academic documentation standards with our help.

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  🤝 Long-Term Collaboration Opportunities

  For colleges looking to scale their UAV programs, we provide:

  • Campus-wide drone lab setup consultations

  • Mentorship tie-ups with our engineering team

  • Joint research support in AI-agriculture, delivery drones, and aerial surveillance

  • Feature coverage of college builds and success stories on our platforms

  📢 Let’s build visibility for your institution while equipping students for tomorrow’s UAV jobs.

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  🧠 Ready to Partner With Us?

  Whether you’re representing a college, lab, startup incubator, or student club, Lofty Agrotech is ready to support your vision with:

  ✅ Verified brand components
  ✅ Discounted educational pricing
  ✅ Technical mentorship
  ✅ Hassle-free procurement

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  📩 Contact us today via WhatsApp or email with your institution name, project scope, and component list. We’ll take it from there—professionally and promptly.

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  ✅ Your Trusted FPV Partner in India

  At Lofty Agrotech, we’re not just another online drone store—we’re your go-to partner for everything FPV and drone-related. From high-performance gear to educational guidance, we’re here to help you build, fly, learn, and evolve with confidence.

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   Made for the Indian FPV Scene

  We understand the unique challenges Indian drone pilots and builders face:

  • Import restrictions and part availability

  • Delivery delays from international suppliers

  • Lack of after-sale guidance from foreign retailers

  That’s why we built Lofty Agrotech—to provide a local, reliable, and technically strong alternative that delivers both speed and trust.

  📦 From Tamil Nadu to Tripura, we’ve shipped high-quality drone parts to over 1200+ Indian locations and counting.

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  🧠 One-Stop Drone Knowledge Hub

  We are more than sellers—we are curators, educators, and enthusiasts who live the drone lifestyle.

  • Frequent product launches & detailed guides

  • Real-world compatibility checks before shipping

  • WhatsApp & email support with actual drone engineers

  • No clones, no confusion—just clean, build-ready components

  🛠️ Whether it’s your first drone or your fiftieth, we have something valuable for your journey.

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  💬 Community Over Commerce

  We’ve grown not by pushing sales—but by earning trust:

  • 5-star reviews from students, builders, and professionals

  • Trusted supplier for drone competitions, hackathons, and R&D grants

  • Regularly featured by YouTubers, FPV pilots, and institutions across India

  🧑‍🤝‍🧑 At Lofty, you’re not just a customer—you’re part of a mission.

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  • 🛡️ We Fly What We Sell

    Every product listed has been tested, reviewed, or recommended by our team. We build our own drones, fly with the same gear, and know what works best for:

    • Freestyle FPV

    • Long-range drones

    • Survey drones for agriculture

    • Academic R&D projects

    🎯 Our credibility comes from hands-on experience, not marketing fluff.

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    🔚 Ready to Elevate Your FPV Experience?

    Join the growing tribe of Indian drone builders who trust Lofty Agrotech for quality, clarity, and consistent support. Whether you’re ordering the HGLRC Sector D5, DJI O3 units, or assembling a custom FPV rig—we’ve got your back.

    ✅ Lofty Agrotech – Built by flyers, trusted by builders, and loved by learners.
    💬 Order today, message us anytime, and experience India’s most reliable drone parts platform.

    With thousands of satisfied customers and a growing footprint in India’s drone ecosystem, Lofty Agrotech has become the go-to source for authentic, high-performance, and expertly supported FPV gear.

    From your first flight to your next freestyle banger—we’ve got your back.

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    🚀 Ready to Build Like a Pro?

    Take your drone-building journey to the next level with the HGLRC Sector D5 FR 5-Inch Freestyle FPV Frame, now available at Lofty Agrotech—India’s most trusted FPV and drone component partner.

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    🛠️ Built for Freestyle. Backed by Professionals.

    Whether you’re a beginner FPV enthusiast or a seasoned pilot looking to upgrade, the Sector D5 offers:

    • Crash-resilient 5mm arms

    • DJI O3 VTX compatibility

    • CNC aluminum side panels

    • Full TPU accessory kit

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    All from a verified brand. Delivered by experts. Supported by flyers like you.

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    🛒 Order Today from Lofty Agrotech

    When you buy from Lofty Agrotech, you’re choosing:

    • 💯 Original components

    • 🔧 Expert support at every step

    • 📦 Fast, secure delivery across India

    • 💬 Free consultation for part compatibility & build advice

    • 🎓 Special support for students and academic builds

    ✅ In stock now. Limited quantities available. Ships within 24 hours.

  Explore more in our camera drone collection and find the right aerial companion.

  Before flying, ensure you’re compliant with India’s drone regulations (DGCA DigitalSky Portal).

  🎥 Lofty Agrotech YouTube Channel

  Explore Lofty Agrotech’s official YouTube channel for videos showcasing their drone technologies and applications:(Southern Drone OPS)

  • Lofty Agrotech YouTube Channel

  Certainly! Here’s a comprehensive overview of Lofty Agrotech’s drone offerings and available drone parts: