GlobalSat BU-353N USB GPS Receiver Instruction Manual

Product Overview

The GlobalSat BU-353N USB GPS Receiver is a highly sensitive device designed for reliable satellite acquisition and precise positioning. It features an extremely fast Time To First Fix (TTFF) at low signal levels and supports the NMEA 0183 data protocol. With a built-in backup power source, it ensures rapid satellite re-acquisition. The receiver includes a built-in patch antenna, a super-cohesive magnetic base for secure mounting, and is water-resistant. It connects via a USB interface and is compatible with Android, Mac OS, and Windows operating systems.

Key Features:

• Android supported (app required)
• Built-In Roof Mount Magnet
• 75-Channel All-In-View Tracking
• GPS
• Newer version of BU-353-S4
• Built-In GPS Patch Antenna

Package Contents

The GlobalSat BU-353N USB GPS Receiver package includes the following items:

• GlobalSat BU-353N USB GPS Receiver
• Quick Start Guide
• Suction Cup

Image: GlobalSat BU-353N USB GPS Receiver, Quick Start Guide, and Suction Cup.

Technical Specifications

Image: Back of the product box detailing technical specifications.

Windows Setup Guide

Follow these steps to set up your GlobalSat BU-353N USB GPS Receiver on a Windows computer:

1. Connect the Device: Plug the BU-353N USB GPS Receiver into an available USB port on your computer.
2. Open Device Manager: Search for "Device Manager" in the Windows search bar and open it.
3. Check COM Port: In Device Manager, expand "Ports (COM & LPT)". You should see an entry like "Prolific PL2303GC USB Serial COM Port (COMx)", where 'x' is the assigned COM port number.
4. Install/Update Drivers: If the device is not recognized or shows an error, right-click on the device entry and select "Update driver". Choose "Search automatically for drivers" or download the latest driver from the GlobalSat website under the Support section for BU-353N.
5. Download GPS Info Tool: From the GlobalSat support page, download the "GPS Info Tool For Windows".
6. Run GPS Info Tool: Open the downloaded GPS Info Tool. Select the same COM port that your device made (e.g., COM3).
7. Set Baud Rate: Ensure the Baud Rate is set to 4800.
8. Start GPS: Click "Start GPS". You should see NMEA data scrolling and blue bars indicating satellite fixes. A blinking red light on the device indicates a GPS fix.
9. Close GPS Info Tool: Close the GPS Info Tool. The device can only communicate with one program at a time.
10. Open Navigation Software: Launch your preferred navigation software and select the BU-353N as the GPS source.

Mac Setup Guide

To set up your GlobalSat BU-353N USB GPS Receiver on a Mac, follow these instructions:

1. Check for Existing Drivers: Go to Finder > Go > Computer > Macintosh HD > Library > Extensions. Look for "ProlificUsbSerial.kext". If found, right-click and move it to Trash, then empty the Trash. Restart your Mac.
2. Download Latest Driver: Open Safari and navigate to www.globalsat.com.tw. Go to the "Support" section and find the BU-353N. Download the latest driver for Mac.
3. Install Driver: If a security preference message appears, go to Apple menu > System Preferences > Security & Privacy. Click "Open Anyway" next to the blocked driver. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation. Restart your Mac after installation.
4. Download GPS Info Tool: From the GlobalSat support page, download the "GPS Info Tool For Mac".
5. Connect Device: Plug the BU-353N USB GPS Receiver into your Mac. The red light on the device should illuminate. A solid red light means no GPS fix; a blinking red light indicates a fix. Place the device near a window or in an open area for best results.
6. Run GPS Info Tool: Open the downloaded GPS Info Tool. Select the correct device (e.g., /dev/cu.PL2303G) and set the Baud Rate to 4800. Click "Start GPS". You should see NMEA data scrolling and satellite information.
7. Close GPS Info Tool: Close the GPS Info Tool.
8. Open Navigation Software: Launch your preferred navigation software and select the BU-353N as the GPS source. Ensure the correct port and baud rate (4800) are selected within your software's settings.

Android Setup Guide

To use your GlobalSat BU-353N USB GPS Receiver with an Android tablet, follow these steps:

1. Install PL2303 GPSInfo App: Go to the Google Play Store on your Android tablet. Search for "PL2303 GPSInfo" and install the app. If the app does not appear, contact GlobalSat support for assistance. Alternatively, you can use any app that supports third-party GPS devices.
2. Enable Mock Locations: Go to your Android tablet's Settings > Developer Options. Scroll down and select "Select mock location app". Choose the "PL2303 GPSInfo" app. This enables the mock location feature.
3. Connect the Device: Plug the BU-353N USB GPS Receiver into your Android tablet using an appropriate USB OTG adapter (not included).
4. Open PL2303 GPSInfo App: When prompted, select the "PL2303 GPSInfo" app to handle the device. You can choose "Just once" or "Always".
5. Start GPS: Within the app, click "Start GPS". The tablet will now read GPS data from the BU-353N instead of its internal GPS.
6. Run in Background: Leave the PL2303 GPSInfo app running in the background.
7. Open Navigation App: Open your desired navigation application. It should now utilize the GPS data from the BU-353N receiver.

Operating Your GPS Receiver

Once your GlobalSat BU-353N USB GPS Receiver is set up, operating it is straightforward:

1. Connect the Receiver: Always ensure the BU-353N is securely connected to your device (computer or Android tablet) via its USB interface.
2. Placement for Optimal Signal: For the best performance and quickest GPS fix, place the receiver in a location with a clear view of the sky, such as near a window or on a vehicle dashboard. The super-cohesive magnetic base allows for easy mounting.
3. Indicator Light: Observe the red LED indicator on the receiver. A solid red light indicates power but no GPS fix. A blinking red light signifies that the device has acquired a GPS fix and is actively receiving satellite data.
4. Launch Software: Open your chosen navigation or GPS application on your connected device.
5. Select GPS Source: Within your application's settings, ensure that the GlobalSat BU-353N (or its corresponding COM port/device entry) is selected as the primary GPS data source.
6. Monitor Data: Your application should now display real-time GPS data, including latitude, longitude, speed, and altitude.

Image: The GlobalSat BU-353N USB GPS Receiver, ready for operation.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your GlobalSat BU-353N USB GPS Receiver, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• Device Not Recognized:
  • Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the receiver and your computer/tablet.
  • Try a different USB port on your device.
  • Verify that the necessary drivers are correctly installed for your operating system. Refer to the setup guides for Windows, Mac, or Android. If drivers are outdated or corrupted, uninstall them and reinstall the latest version from the GlobalSat website.
  • Restart your computer or tablet.
• No GPS Fix (Solid Red Light):
  • Move the receiver to a location with a clear, unobstructed view of the sky (e.g., near a window, outdoors). Obstructions like buildings, trees, or heavy roofing can block satellite signals.
  • Ensure the device has been powered on for at least 1-2 minutes to allow for initial satellite acquisition.
  • Check that no other GPS applications are running simultaneously, as the device can typically only communicate with one program at a time.
• Incorrect Data or No Data in Navigation Software:
  • Confirm that the correct COM port (Windows/Linux) or device entry (Mac/Android) is selected in your navigation software.
  • Verify that the Baud Rate in your navigation software matches the receiver's default (typically 4800).
  • Ensure that the GPS Info Tool (or similar utility) is closed before opening your navigation software.
• Intermittent Signal Loss:
  • Check for potential sources of electromagnetic interference near the receiver.
  • Ensure the magnetic mount is securely attached and the receiver is stable.

Warranty and Support

GlobalSat products are designed for reliability and performance. For specific warranty information, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official GlobalSat website. If you require technical assistance or have questions not covered in this manual, please contact GlobalSat customer support through their official website's contact page.