Figure 26
If you decide to use the SparkFun
module, here are a few tips:
• The module does not monitor the
battery so it’s up to you to make
sure you don’t drain the batteries
completely. If you do, you will
probably corrupt the card and it will
require reformatting. For long-term
logging, you will want to use the
intermittent write method mentioned
Figure 27 previously. • You need to hit the small button on
the module to stop the logging
operation. This can be a problem if you mount the
module in any kind of enclosure. You can connect an
external button to the two outside leads on the button.
This way, you can route them to any location on your
enclosure.
• To mount the module to an enclosure, place some double
stick tape on the top of the GPS antenna and stick the
module to the underside of the top of your enclosure.
• If the power connector gets in your way, try removing the
connector completely and soldering a couple of wires to
the bottom of the board.
Final Thoughts
Figure 28
will be greatly increased.
Mode = 0
Log What = RMC;GGA;GSA
Time Between Logs = 00:10:00
Holdoff = 5
WAAS = 0
Max Time to Lock = 300
All in all, the SparkFun data logger works pretty well
and presents itself in a very small package. The output on
the SD memory card is NEMA 0183 so you won’t have
any compatibility issues. If, however, you want total control
over the output and the ability to log some of your
own messages such as A/D, you will want to stick with
the GPS Smart Logger. The cost is about the same for
both systems.
Be sure to check for updates and downloads for this
article at www.kronosrobotics.com/Projects/GPSLOG.
shtml. SV
The following is a breakdown of the sources for
all the componets referenced in this project.
SPARKFUN ELECTRONICS
EM-408 GPS Module
www.sparkfun.com/commerce/product_
info.php?products_id=8234
DF-MMC Breakout Board
www.sparkfun.com/commerce/product_
info.php?products_id=204
Nine-Pin Serial Cable
www.sparkfun.com/commerce/product_
info.php?products_id= 65
External Antenna with SMA Connector
(optional)
www.sparkfun.com/commerce/product_
info.php?products_id=464
66 SERVO 11.2008
Parts List
SMA to MMCX Adapter Cable (optional)
www.sparkfun.com/commerce/product_
info.php?products_id=285
GPS Logger v2.4
www.sparkfun.com/commerce/product_
info.php?products_id=8237
SCHMARTBOARD
5” Yellow Jumper
www.schmartboard.com/index.asp?a= 11&id= 42
KRONOS ROBOTICS
EZRS232
www.kronosrobotics.com/xcart/product.
php?productid=16167
DiosPro 28 Chip
www.kronosrobotics.com/xcart/product.
php?productid=16429
Dios Carrier 1
www.kronosrobotics.com/xcart/product.
php?productid=16170
800 ma 3.3V Regulator
www.kronosrobotics.com/xcart/product.
php?productid=16565
Six-Cell Battery Pack
www.kronosrobotics.com/xcart/product.
php?productid=16321
36-Pin Female Header
www.kronosrobotics.com/xcart/product.
php?productid=16291
Female Crimp Pins
www.kronosrobotics.com/xcart/product.
php?productid=16261
