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AIROPTIX DRONECAN GPS MODULE

The AIROPTIX DRONECAN GPS MODULE is a cutting-edge, high-performance positioning system built around the u-blox NEO-M9N GNSS receiver. Engineered for robust and reliable satellite navigation, this module supports concurrent reception from up to four GNSS constellations—including GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, Beidou, and SBAS augmentation systems like WAAS, EGNOS, and GAGAN.

Integrated with a high-performance STM32L4 MCU and a QMC5883L digital compass, it delivers enhanced heading data, exceptional positional accuracy down to 0.7 meters, and smooth velocity tracking with 0.05 m/s speed accuracy. Its DroneCAN communication interface allows seamless connectivity with popular autopilot systems such as ArduPilot and PX4.

Supporting 12 PWM outputs, 5 UARTs, and Designed with rugged performance and ease of integration in mind, this GPS module features a compact, circular form factor with a JST-GH-4P port, low power consumption, and a high-grade 25x25mm ceramic patch antenna. It is ideal for fixed-wing drones, multirotors, UGVs, and robotics platforms operating in both commercial and mission-critical environments.

Key Highlights

  • Concurrent GNSS Reception (4+ Constellations): Supports GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, and SBAS systems for improved accuracy and coverage.
  • DroneCAN Interface (1 Mbit/s): Enables real-time, noise-resilient data communication for UAV CAN bus networks.
  • High Refresh Rate & Precision: Default 5 Hz update rate (up to 25 Hz), 0.7 m position accuracy, and 0.05 m/s velocity accuracy.
  • Integrated Compass (QMC5883L): Ensures magnetic heading reference for onboard navigation stacks.
  • Autopilot Compatibility: Native support for ArduPilot and PX4 via DroneCAN.
  • Low Power, Compact Design:Draws less than 200 mA at 5V, weighs just 29g with a slim 16mm profile.

Parameter Specification
GNSS Receiver u-blox NEO-M9N
Concurrent Constellations 4+ (GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, Beidou, EGNOS, MSAS, WAAS)
Processor STM32L4 High-Performance MCU
Compass QMC5883L 3-Axis Magnetometer
Frequency Bands GPS: L1C/A, Galileo: E1B/C, GLONASS: L1OF, Beidou: B1I
Augmentation Systems SBAS (WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS, GAGAN), QZSS L1S (SAIF)
Correction Support RTCM 3.3
Update Rate Default 5 Hz (Up to 25 Hz max)
Position Accuracy 2.0 m (Typical), Up to 0.7 m (with augmentation)
Speed Accuracy 0.05 m/s
Max Tracked Satellites 32+
Communication Protocol DroneCAN @ 1 Mbit/s
Supported Autopilots ArduPilot, PX4
Connector Type GH1.25-4P (aka JST-GH-4P / UCANPHY-Micro)
Antenna 25 x 25 x 4 mm ceramic patch antenna
Power Consumption < 200 mA @ 5V
Input Voltage 4.7 – 5.2 V
Operating Temperature -40°C to +80°C
Dimensions Diameter: 55 mm; Thickness: 16 mm
Weight 29 g

Ideal Applications

  • Multirotor and Fixed-Wing UAVs: Where precise GNSS position, CAN-based telemetry, and magnetic heading are critical.
  • Autonomous Ground Vehicles (UGVs): For reliable path planning and navigation in GNSS-denied environments with SBAS fallback.
  • Research and Robotics: Ideal for high-frequency GNSS data acquisition and integration with ROS via DroneCAN