LC29T (AA) RF and Wireless
Product Information
Specifications:
- Product: LC29T (AA) EVB
- GNSS Module Series Version: 1.0
- Date: 2024-09-20
- Status: Released
Product Usage Instructions
Legal Notices
It is important to adhere to the legal notices provided by
Quectel, including use and disclosure restrictions, license
agreements, copyright information, trademarks, third-party rights,
privacy policy, and disclaimer.
Safety Information
Follow these safety precautions during all phases of
operation:
- Ensure the product is used in the appropriate country and
environment. - Avoid using the product near explosive or flammable
materials. - Avoid extreme power supply conditions and locations with
potentially explosive atmospheres.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Question: Where can I find technical support for the
product?
Answer: For technical support, visit http://www.quectel.com/support/technical.htm
or email support@quectel.com.
Question: How can I contact Quectel headquarters?
Answer: You can contact Quectel headquarters at Building 5,
Shanghai Business Park Phase III (Area B), No.1016 Tianlin Road,
Minhang District, Shanghai 200233, China. Tel: +86 21 5108 6236,
Email: info@quectel.com.
LC29T (AA) EVB User Guide
GNSS Module Series Version: 1.0 Date: 2024-09-20 Status: Released
GNSS Module Series
At Quectel, our aim is to provide timely and comprehensive services to our customers. If you require any assistance, please contact our headquarters:
Quectel Wireless Solutions Co., Ltd. Building 5, Shanghai Business Park Phase III (Area B), No.1016 Tianlin Road, Minhang District, Shanghai 200233, China Tel: +86 21 5108 6236 Email: info@quectel.com
Or our local offices. For more information, please visit: http://www.quectel.com/support/sales.htm.
For technical support, or to report documentation errors, please visit: http://www.quectel.com/support/technical.htm. Or email us at: support@quectel.com.
Legal Notices
We offer information as a service to you. The provided information is based on your requirements and we make every effort to ensure its quality. You agree that you are responsible for using independent analysis and evaluation in designing intended products, and we provide reference designs for illustrative purposes only. Before using any hardware, software or service guided by this document, please read this notice carefully. Even though we employ commercially reasonable efforts to provide the best possible experience, you hereby acknowledge and agree that this document and related services hereunder are provided to you on an “as available” basis. We may revise or restate this document from time to time at our sole discretion without any prior notice to you.
Use and Disclosure Restrictions
License Agreements
Documents and information provided by us shall be kept confidential, unless specific permission is granted. They shall not be accessed or used for any purpose except as expressly provided herein.
Copyright
Our and third-party products hereunder may contain copyrighted material. Such copyrighted material shall not be copied, reproduced, distributed, merged, published, translated, or modified without prior written consent. We and the third party have exclusive rights over copyrighted material. No license shall be granted or conveyed under any patents, copyrights, trademarks, or service mark rights. To avoid ambiguities, purchasing in any form cannot be deemed as granting a license other than the normal nonexclusive, royalty-free license to use the material. We reserve the right to take legal action for noncompliance with abovementioned requirements, unauthorized use, or other illegal or malicious use of the material.
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
1 / 33
GNSS Module Series
Trademarks
Except as otherwise set forth herein, nothing in this document shall be construed as conferring any rights to use any trademark, trade name or name, abbreviation, or counterfeit product thereof owned by Quectel or any third party in advertising, publicity, or other aspects.
Third-Party Rights
This document may refer to hardware, software and/or documentation owned by one or more third parties (“third-party materials”). Use of such third-party materials shall be governed by all restrictions and obligations applicable thereto.
We make no warranty or representation, either express or implied, regarding the third-party materials, including but not limited to any implied or statutory, warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, quiet enjoyment, system integration, information accuracy, and non-infringement of any thirdparty intellectual property rights with regard to the licensed technology or use thereof. Nothing herein constitutes a representation or warranty by us to either develop, enhance, modify, distribute, market, sell, offer for sale, or otherwise maintain production of any our products or any other hardware, software, device, tool, information, or product. We moreover disclaim any and all warranties arising from the course of dealing or usage of trade.
Privacy Policy
To implement module functionality, certain device data are uploaded to Quectel’s or third-party’s servers, including carriers, chipset suppliers or customer-designated servers. Quectel, strictly abiding by the relevant laws and regulations, shall retain, use, disclose or otherwise process relevant data for the purpose of performing the service only or as permitted by applicable laws. Before data interaction with third parties, please be informed of their privacy and data security policy.
Disclaimer
a) We acknowledge no liability for any injury or damage arising from the reliance upon the information. b) We shall bear no liability resulting from any inaccuracies or omissions, or from the use of the
information contained herein. c) While we have made every effort to ensure that the functions and features under development are
free from errors, it is possible that they could contain errors, inaccuracies, and omissions. Unless otherwise provided by valid agreement, we make no warranties of any kind, either implied or express, and exclude all liability for any loss or damage suffered in connection with the use of features and functions under development, to the maximum extent permitted by law, regardless of whether such loss or damage may have been foreseeable. d) We are not responsible for the accessibility, safety, accuracy, availability, legality, or completeness of information, advertising, commercial offers, products, services, and materials on third-party websites and third-party resources.
Copyright © Quectel Wireless Solutions Co., Ltd. 2024. All rights reserved.
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
2 / 33
GNSS Module Series
Safety Information
The following safety precautions must be observed during all phases of operation, such as usage, service or repair of any terminal incorporating Quectel LC76G series module. Manufacturers of the terminal should distribute the following safety precautions to users and operating personnel, and incorporate them into all manuals supplied with the product. Otherwise, Quectel assumes no liability for customers’ failure to comply with these precautions.
Ensure that the product may be used in the country and the required environment, as well as that it conforms to the local safety and environmental regulations.
Keep away from explosive and flammable materials. The use of electronic products in extreme power supply conditions and locations with potentially explosive atmospheres may cause fire and explosion accidents.
The product must be powered by a stable voltage source, while the wiring must conform to security precautions and fire prevention regulations.
Proper ESD handling procedures must be followed throughout the mounting, handling and operation of any devices and equipment incorporating the module to avoid ESD damages.
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
3 / 33
GNSS Module Series
About the Document
Document Information Title Subtitle Document Type Document Status
LC29T (AA) EVB User Guide GNSS Module Series EVB User Guide Released
Revision History
Version 1.0
Date 2022-12-07 2024-09-20
Description Creation of the document First official release
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
4 / 33
GNSS Module Series
Contents
Safety Information…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 3 About the Document …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 4 Contents …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 5 Table Index……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6 Figure Index ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 7
1 Introduction ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 8
2 General Overview……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 9 2.1. EVB Kit ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 9 2.2. Connect Cable and Antenna to EVB……………………………………………………………………………. 10
3 EVB Interfaces………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 12 3.1. EVB Top View…………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 12 3.2. EVB Interfaces …………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 13
4 Test via QGNSS Tool ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 16 4.1. Test via QGNSS ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 16 4.2. QGNSS Interface Explanation ……………………………………………………………………………………. 18
5 Testing 1PPS ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 20 5.1. Testing Method…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 20 5.1.1. Testing 1PPS with GNSS Signal Simulator (Instrument) as the Reference …………….. 20 5.1.2. Testing 1PPS with Rubidium Clock (Real Network) as the Reference……………………. 21
6 EVB and Antenna Installation……………………………………………………………………………………………. 23 6.1. GNSS Antenna Installation ………………………………………………………………………………………… 23 6.2. EVB Installation………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 23
7 Measuring Power Consumption………………………………………………………………………………………… 24 7.1. Power Consumption at Different Stages………………………………………………………………………. 24 7.2. VCC Power Consumption Measurement……………………………………………………………………… 24 7.3. V_BCKP Power Consumption Measurement ……………………………………………………………….. 26
8 EVB Framework………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 28
9 Common Issues and Troubleshooting ………………………………………………………………………………. 29
10 Cautions …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 30
11 Appendix References ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 31
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
5 / 33
GNSS Module Series
Table Index
Table 1: List of Kit Components ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 9 Table 2: Detailed EVB Interfaces ………………………………………………………………………………………………… 13 Table 3: J401 Test Points …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 14 Table 4: QGNSS Interface Explanation………………………………………………………………………………………… 18 Table 5: Related Documents ………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 31 Table 6: Terms and Abbreviations ……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 31
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
6 / 33
GNSS Module Series
Figure Index
Figure 1: EVB Kit Components …………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 9 Figure 2: EVB and Components Assembly…………………………………………………………………………………… 10 Figure 3: EVB Top View …………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 12 Figure 4: COM Port and Baud Rate Setting …………………………………………………………………………………. 16 Figure 5: QGNSS Interface (Connected) ……………………………………………………………………………………… 17 Figure 6: Testing 1PPS with GNSS Signal Simulator as the Reference …………………………………………… 21 Figure 7: Testing 1PPS with Rubidium Clock as the Reference………………………………………………………. 22 Figure 8: Power Consumption at Different Stages ………………………………………………………………………… 24 Figure 9: VCC Power Consumption Measured with Ammeter ………………………………………………………… 25 Figure 10: VCC Power Consumption Measured with Power Consumption Meter ……………………………… 25 Figure 11: V_BCKP Power Consumption Measured with Ammeter …………………………………………………. 26 Figure 12: V_BCKP Power Consumption Measured with Power Consumption Meter ……………………….. 27 Figure 13: EVB Framework………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 28
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
7 / 33
GNSS Module Series
1 Introduction
This document provides information on the steps needed to evaluate the Quectel LC29T (AA) module using the Evaluation Board (EVB). The EVB is a convenient tool that allows you to become familiar with the LC29T (AA) module.
Specifically, the document is divided into several sections:
Chapter 2 provides the general overview of EVB kit. Chapter 3 describes the EVB interfaces. Chapter 4 describes how to test the module via QGNSS tool. Chapter 5 describes how to test 1PPS signal. Chapter 6 describes how to install the EVB and antenna. Chapter 7 describes how to measure power consumption for LC29T (IA) module. Chapter 8 provides the EVB framework. Chapter 9 describes the common issues and troubleshooting. Chapter 10 describes the cautions. Chapter 11 is an appendix, which summarizes the relevant documents, terms and abbreviations
appearing herein.
NOTE 1. For details about documents related to LC29T (AA) module, see Table 5: Related Documents. 2. Request the software tool QGNSS from Quectel Technical Support (support@quectel.com).
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
8 / 33
GNSS Module Series
2 General Overview
2.1. EVB Kit
The EVB kit includes: Evaluation Board (EVB), active GNSS antenna, Type-B USB cables, bolts and coupling nuts.
The EVB kit contents are shown in the figure below. See Table 1: List of Kit Components for details.
Active GNSS Antenna
EVB
Type-B USB Cables
Bolts and Coupling Nuts
Figure 1: EVB Kit Components
Table 1: List of Kit Components
Items EVB USB Cable
GNSS Antenna
Description
Evaluation Board Size: 80 mm × 120 mm
Type-B USB Cable
Active GNSS Antenna: YB0017AA Antenna Size: 61.5 mm × 56.5 mm × 23 mm Cable Length: 3000 mm
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
Quantity 1 2 1
9 / 33
Items Others
Description
The GNSS antenna supports: GPS L1 C/A GLONASS L1 Galileo E1 BDS B1I QZSS L1 C/A SBAS L1
Bolts and Coupling Nuts
GNSS Module Series Quantity
4 pairs
NOTE
Request Quectel Technical Support (support@quectel.com) for details about Quectel Active GNSS Antenna.
2.2. Connect Cable and Antenna to EVB
The connection between the EVB and its components is shown in the figure below.
Figure 2: EVB and Components Assembly
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
10 / 33
GNSS Module Series
NOTE 1. The EVB can be powered by either “POWER SUPPLY” (J201) or “USB to UART” interface (J501).
Thus, it is optional to connect PC and the “POWER SUPPLY” (J201) on the EVB via Type-B USB. For more information, see Chapter 3.2 EVB Interfaces. 2. Make sure that the active GNSS antenna is placed with a clear line of sight to the sky.
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
11 / 33
GNSS Module Series
3 EVB Interfaces
3.1. EVB Top View
EVB top view is shown in the figure below.
S201 (Power switch) D501 (POWER and VCC indication LEDs) D507 (1PPS and TXD indication LEDs)
J501 (USB to UART)
Test point 16 Test point 15
J401 (Test points)
Test point 1 Test point 30
J201 (POWER SUPPLY) EVB version U601 (LC29T (AA) module)
S502 (RESET button) S503 (BOOT button)
J503 (TP2 connector)
J101 (Antenna connector) J510 (1PPS connector)
Figure 3: EVB Top View
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
12 / 33
GNSS Module Series
3.2. EVB Interfaces
The EVB interfaces are detailed in the table below.
Table 2: Detailed EVB Interfaces
Function
Interfaces
J201 POWER SUPPLY
Description
J201: Only used as power supply to avoid the insufficient supply of J501.
Power Supply Communication Interface SMA Connector
Signal Indication
Switches and Buttons
J501 USB to UART
J501
USB to UART
J101
Antenna connector
J510
1PPS connector
J503
TP2 connector
POWER
D501
(Red)
Indication LEDs VCC
(Green)
1PPS
D507
(Red)
Indication LEDs TXD
(Green)
S201 Power switch S502 RESET button
S503 BOOT button
J501: Used for communication and power supply.
Power supply input: DC power supply: 4.55.5 V, Typ. 5.0 V Current capability should be > 400 mA Supports standard NMEA message, PSTM message and firmware upgrade. Used for connecting the GNSS antenna.
Used for testing 1PPS signal.
Used for testing CLK_OUT signal.
Bright: EVB is powered well. Extinct: EVB is not powered. Bright: Module is powered well. Extinct: Module is not powered.
1PPS indication LED.
Flashing: Data are being output from UART TXD pin. Extinct or Bright: No data are output from UART TXD pin. Powers the EVB on/off.
Short press the button to reset the module.
Press and hold the button first before EVB is powered on and then flip the power switch to ON position to set the module to Boot download mode.
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
13 / 33
The J401 test points of LC29T (AA) EVB are listed below:
GNSS Module Series
Table 3: J401 Test Points
Test Point No. Test Point Label Test Point Function I/O
1
GND
GND
–
Description Ground
2
PIN1
U601: Pin 1
DO CLK_OUT: Time pulse signal
3
PIN2
U601: Pin 2
–
Reserved
4
PIN3
U601: Pin 3
DO 1PPS: One pulse per second
5
PIN4
U601: Pin 4
–
Reserved
6
PIN5
U601: Pin 5
–
Reserved
7
PIN6
U601: Pin 6
DI
BOOT: Controls module startup mode
8
PIN7
U601: Pin 7
–
Reserved
9
PIN8
U601: Pin 8
DI RESET_N: Reset the module
10
PIN9
U601: Pin 9
PO VDD_RF: Supplies power for
external RF components
11
PIN14
U601: Pin 14
DO ANT_ON: Controls external LNA
and active antenna
12
PIN15
U601: Pin 15
DI
ANT_DET: Open circuit detection
of active antenna
13
PIN16
U601: Pin 16
DI
ANT_SHORT: Short circuit
detection of active antenna
14
PIN17
U601: Pin 17
–
Reserved
15
No label
–
–
NC (Not connected)
16
No label
–
–
NC
17
No label
–
–
NC
18
No label
–
–
NC
19
No label
–
–
NC
20
No label
–
–
NC
21
No label
–
–
NC
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
14 / 33
GNSS Module Series
Test Point No. Test Point Label Test Point Function I/O Description
22
PIN23
U601: Pin 23
PI VCC: Main power supply
23
PIN22
U601: Pin 22
PI
V_BCKP: Backup power supply
for backup domain
24
GND
–
–
Ground
25
GND
–
–
Ground
26
PIN21
U601: Pin 21
DI RXD: Receives data
27
PIN20
U601: Pin 20
DO TXD: Transmits data
28
PIN19
U601: Pin 19
–
Reserved
29
PIN18
U601: Pin 18
–
Reserved
30
No label
–
–
NC
NOTE
1. Test points of J401 are arranged clockwise, and their serial numbers are shown in Figure 3: EVB Top View.
2. A J401 test point refers to the module’s corresponding function. For detailed descriptions, see
document [1] hardware design. For more information on the reference circuits of module pins, see document [2] reference design.
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
15 / 33
GNSS Module Series
4 Test via QGNSS Tool
This chapter explains how to use the QGNSS software tool for verifying the status of a GNSS module. For more information about QGNSS use, see document [3] QGNSS user guide. In addition, you can upgrade the module firmware via QGNSS tool, see document [4] firmware upgrade guide for details.
4.1. Test via QGNSS
Step 1: Assemble the EVB components. Step 2: Connect the EVB and the PC with one or two Type-B USB cables via “USB to UART” interface,
then flip the power switch (S201) to “ON” position to power on the EVB. Step 3: Start the QGNSS and click “Set Device Information” (Default baud rate: 115200 bps 1).
Figure 4: COM Port and Baud Rate Setting
Step 4: Click the
“Connect or disconnect” button. The interface shown in the figure below appears
once the module is connected.
1 UART interface default settings may vary depending on software versions.
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
16 / 33
GNSS Module Series
Figure 5: QGNSS Interface (Connected)
NOTE 1. Ensure the CP210x driver has been installed when you use the QGNSS tool for the first time. For
more information about the driver, please contact Quectel Technical Support (support@quectel.com). 2. For more information on messages supported by the module, see document [5] protocol specification.
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
17 / 33
GNSS Module Series
4.2. QGNSS Interface Explanation
You can view GNSS information, such as C/N0 message, time, position, speed, and precision in the QGNSS interface. See the following table to find out more about these parameters.
Table 4: QGNSS Interface Explanation
Icon
Explanation This sky view interface shows the position of the satellites in use.
1) The left column icons show the satellites in use and their numbers. BDS: 12 GLO (GLONASS): 5 GPS: 9 GAL (Galileo): 6 QZSS: 0 NavIC: 0 SBAS: 0
2) The sky view on the right shows the position of the satellites in use and their PRN numbers.
The signal view shows the C/N0 values for each satellite on each supported band, with corresponding country flags for identification.
GPS satellite BDS satellite GLONASS satellite Galileo satellite QZSS satellite NavIC satellite
Visible satellites and their used status examples are shown below:
Column in bright red means that the navigation data of the
satellites are in use. Column in light red means that the navigation data of the satellites
are not in use. Examples are shown below:
PRN 30 C/N0 is 39 dB-Hz and used in solution. PRN 1 C/N0 is 21 dB-Hz and not used in solution.
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
18 / 33
Icon
GNSS Module Series
Explanation
Longitude (unit: °) (Decimal Degrees) Latitude (unit: °) (Decimal Degrees) Altitude (MSL) (Unit: m) Altitude (EPH) (Unit: m) Receiver speed (Unit: km/h) Horizontal dilution of precision Position dilution of precision Fix Mode: 2D, 3D Quality Indicator: DGNSS, DGPS, GPS SPS, Float RTK and Fixed
RTK modes Date(UTC): UTC date Time(UTC): UTC time Total Times Fixed Times RTK Fixed RTK Float Age of differential GPS data Last TTFF (Unit: second) 2D accuracy (Unit: meter) 3D accuracy (Unit: meter) DR Type IMU Status DR Status
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
19 / 33
GNSS Module Series
5 Testing 1PPS
5.1. Testing Method
The oscilloscope is used to collect the 1PPS signal of the LC29T (AA) module, and the 1PPS signal output by the GNSS Signal Simulator or the Rubidium Clock is used as the true value. The 1PPS signal of the module is compared with the true value in the PC to calculate the delay error. You can use your equipment instead of the GNSS Signal Simulator or the Rubidium Clock to achieve the appropriate functionality.
NOTE 1. For test result comparison, verify the firmware version used. Contact Quectel Technical Support
(support@quectel.com) or see document [5] protocol specification for details on the related firmware version. 2. For more information about commands related to 1PPS test, see document [5] protocol specification.
5.1.1. Testing 1PPS with GNSS Signal Simulator (Instrument) as the Reference
To test 1PPS using the GNSS Signal Simulator for reference, follow the steps below: Step 1: Connect the USB to UART interface (J501) of LC29T (AA) EVB to the PC via a Type-B USB cable. Step 2: Connect the USB cable harness of oscilloscope to your PC. Step 3: Connect the antenna connector (J101) of the LC29T (AA) EVB to the GNSS Signal Simulator via
an RF cable. After a successful connection, flip the power switch (S201) to ON to power on the EVB. Step 4: Connect channel 1 (CH1) of the oscilloscope to the 1PPS signal output interface of the GNSS signal simulator, and connect channel 2 (CH2) of the oscilloscope to the 1PPS connector (J510) of the LC29T (AA) EVB.
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
20 / 33
GNSS Module Series
USB cable harness
CH1
Oscilloscope
CH2
PC (with Plugins)
Oscilloscope test cable and probe
Standard 1PPS Signal
GNSS Signal Simulator
GNSS Signal
RF cable
Oscilloscope test cable and probe
1PPS Connector J510
Antenna Connector J101
LC29T (AA) EVB
Type-B USB cable
USB to UART J501
Collect waveform data, calculate and compare the delay error
Figure 6: Testing 1PPS with GNSS Signal Simulator as the Reference
5.1.2. Testing 1PPS with Rubidium Clock (Real Network) as the Reference
To test 1PPS using the Rubidium clock for reference, follow the steps below:
Step 1: Connect the USB to UART interface (J501) of LC29T (AA) EVB to the PC via a Type-B USB cable.
Step 2: Connect the USB cable harness of the oscilloscope to your PC.
Step 3: Connect the active GNSS antenna to the GNSS signal input interface of the Rubidium Clock and the antenna interface (J101) of the LC29T (AA) EVB respectively through the power divider. After a successful connection, flip the power switch (S201) to ON to power on the EVB.
Step 4: Connect channel 1 (CH1) of the oscilloscope to the 1PPS signal output interface of the Rubidium Clock, and connect channel 2 (CH2) of the oscilloscope to the 1PPS connector (J510) of the LC29T (AA) EVB.
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
21 / 33
GNSS Module Series
USB cable
CH1
Oscilloscope
CH2
PC (with Plugins)
Collect waveform data, calculate and compare the delay error
Active GNSS Antenna
Oscilloscope test cable and probe
Standard 1PPS Signal
Rubidium GNSS
Clock
Signal
Power Divider
Antenna Connector J101
Oscilloscope test cable and probe
1PPS
Connector LC29T (AA) EVB
J510
Type-B USB cable
USB to UART J501
Figure 7: Testing 1PPS with Rubidium Clock as the Reference
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
22 / 33
GNSS Module Series
6 EVB and Antenna Installation
6.1. GNSS Antenna Installation
The installation environment affects antenna reception performance and satellite visibility, which in turn affect the positioning performance of a GNSS receiver. In addition, antenna’s position and direction also impact its reception performance. Therefore, it is important to avoid obstacles and interference when installing antennas. Place the ceramic patch antenna horizontally and make sure it radiates toward the sky. For more information on GNSS antenna, see document [6] GNSS antenna application note. If dynamic testing is required, make sure that the antenna is firmly fixed to the device under test. No relative movement or vibration between the antenna and device is allowed.
6.2. EVB Installation
If dynamic testing is required, make sure the EVB is fixed to the device under test to avoid any movement or vibration with respect to the device.
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
23 / 33
GNSS Module Series
7 Measuring Power Consumption
7.1. Power Consumption at Different Stages
Module power consumption is measured in three stages: acquisition and tracking (including almanac update), tracking (almanac update is over) and upon entering Backup mode.
Acquisition and tracking (including almanac update): 0 s to 12.5 min Tracking (almanac update is over): > 12.5 min Entering Backup mode
Current
12.5 min
Entering Backup mode
Acquisition and Tracking
Tracking
VCC (including almanac update) (almanac update is over)
V_BCKP 0
12.5 min
Time
Figure 8: Power Consumption at Different Stages
7.2. VCC Power Consumption Measurement
Before measuring the VCC power consumption, you must connect the components to the EVB to ensure that the module can communicate and fix normally. See Chapter 4.1 Test via QGNSS Tool.
Detailed steps for measuring VCC power consumption with an ammeter:
Step 1: Switch off the power supply (S201) of the module and pull out the VCC_MODULE jumper cap (J601). Connect the ammeter in series to the pins of J601 as shown below.
Step 2: Switch on the power supply (S201) and read the ammeter.
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
24 / 33
Ammeter
GNSS Module Series
Figure 9: VCC Power Consumption Measured with Ammeter
Detailed steps for measuring VCC power consumption with a power consumption meter:
Step 1: Switch off the power supply (S201) of the module and pull out the VCC_MODULE jumper cap (J601). Make sure the positive pole of the power consumption meter is connected to pin 2 (without arrow silkscreen) of J601, and the negative pole is connected to GND.
Step 2: Switch on the power supply (S201) and power the consumption meter, and then read the power consumption meter.
Power
GND
Consumption
Meter
VCC
Figure 10: VCC Power Consumption Measured with Power Consumption Meter
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
25 / 33
GNSS Module Series
7.3. V_BCKP Power Consumption Measurement
Before measuring the V_BCKP power consumption, you must connect the components to EVB to ensure that the module can communicate and fix normally. See Chapter 4.1 Test via QGNSS. Detailed steps for measuring V_BCKP power consumption with an ammeter: Step 1: Switch off the power supply (S201) of the module and pull out the V_BACK jumper cap (J202).
Connect the ammeter in series to the pins of J202 as shown below. Step 2: Switch on the power supply (S201) and read the ammeter.
Ammeter
Figure 11: V_BCKP Power Consumption Measured with Ammeter
Detailed steps for measuring V_BCKP power consumption with a power consumption meter:
Step 1: Switch off the power supply (S201) of the module and pull out the V_BACK jumper cap (J202). Then, ensure the positive pole of the power consumption meter is connected to pin 1 (with arrow silkscreen) of J202, and the negative pole is connected to GND.
Step 2: Switch on the power consumption meter and power supply (S201) and read the power consumption meter.
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
26 / 33
GNSS Module Series
Power Consumption
Meter
GND V_BCKP
Figure 12: V_BCKP Power Consumption Measured with Power Consumption Meter
NOTE 1. Adjust the current resolution when using the power consumption meter. 2. Formula for calculating the power value: P = VSupply ×ITest. 3. When measuring the V_BCKP power consumption in Backup mode, ensure that the module has
entered Backup mode, and then remove the jumper cap of VCC_MODULE (J601) to cut off the power supply of VCC. For more information about the method to enter/exit Backup mode, see document [1] hardware design.
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
27 / 33
GNSS Module Series
8 EVB Framework
The power is supplied to EVB via a Type-B USB cable, and then to the GNSS module via a Low-dropout Regulator (LDO). GNSS module outputs the signals from the communication interface on EVB via USB to UART Bridge Chip (CP2102N). The EVB features an antenna interface and control buttons. All functions of the module are available, including debugging.
LDO 3.3 V
LDO LDO 3.3 V 3.3 V
Antenna Interface
VCC V_BCKP
Button RESET_N
Module
Button BOOT
USB to UART Bridge Chip CP2102N
Test Points
Power Switch
Type-B Interface
Type-B Interface
Figure 13: EVB Framework
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
28 / 33
GNSS Module Series
9 Common Issues and Troubleshooting
1. Unable to find COM port in the Device Manager when EVB is connected to PC with a USB cable. Check that the EVB communication interface is properly connected to the PC. Verify that CP210x Driver has been installed successfully.
2. Communication interface not outputting any messages or commands. Check that the power supply indication LED on the EVB is illuminated. Verify that the jumper cap(s) is(/are) connected correctly, as shown in Figure 3: EVB Top View. Ensure that the module’s power supply is normal.
3. Module unable to search for satellite signals. If there is no transponder indoors, test the module in an open-sky environment.
4. Module unable to enter BOOT download mode or upgrade. Verify whether the module is in BOOT download mode or normal operating mode. Check that the downloaded firmware is correct. Confirm that the correct COM port has been selected.
NOTE For the issue(s) that cannot be solved, you can contact Quectel Technical Support (support@quectel.com).
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
29 / 33
GNSS Module Series
10 Cautions
Make sure to conduct tests at the same time and under the same environment when comparing different parameters of GNSS modules.
Note that parameters, such as cold start, acquisition and tracking, may be defined differently by chip suppliers.
Ensure that the measurement method is correct. If there are significant differences between parameters tested via EVB and those provided by Quectel, please contact Quectel Technical Support.
Note that momentary data obtained from measurement cannot always be regarded as reference data, because it may be affected by various factors, such as satellite positions at different times, environmental conditions, temperature, humidity and altitude.
Keep in mind that the QGNSS tool may be updated periodically to fix bugs or improve performance. Please make sure that you are using the latest version of the tool. If a newer update is available when you open the tool, you will receive an automatic prompt to upgrade.
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
30 / 33
GNSS Module Series
11 Appendix References
Table 5: Related Documents Document Name [1] Quectel_LC29T(AA)_Hardware_Design [2] Quectel_LC29T(AA)_Reference_Design [3] Quectel_QGNSS_User_Guide [4] Quectel_LG69T(AA,AD,AF,AI,AJ,AR)&LC29T(AA)&LC99T(IA)_Firmware_Upgrade_Guide [5] Quectel_LC29T(AA)&LC99T(IA)_GNSS_Protocol_Specification [6] Quectel_GNSS_Antenna_Application_Note
Table 6: Terms and Abbreviations
Abbreviation 1PPS
Description One Pulse Per Second
2D
2 Dimension
3D
3 Dimension
BDS
BeiDou Navigation Satellite System
C/N0 COM Port
Carrier-to-noise Ratio Communication Port
DC
Direct Current
DI
Digital Input
DO
Digital Output
DR
Dead Reckoning
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
31 / 33
GNSS Module Series
Abbreviation Description
EPH
Ellipsoidal Height
ESD
Electrostatic Discharge
EVB
Evaluation Board
Galileo
Galileo Satellite Navigation System (EU)
GLONASS
Global Navigation Satellite System (Russia)
GND
Ground
GNSS
Global Navigation Satellite System
GPS
Global Positioning System
I2C
Inter-integrated Circuit
I/O
Input/Output
NavIC (IRNSS) Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System
LED
Light Emitting Diode
MSL
Mean Sea Level
NMEA
NMEA (National Marine Electronics Association) 0183 Interface Standard
PC
Personal Computer
PI
Power Input
PO
Power Output
PRN
Pseudo Random Noise
QZSS
Quasi-zenith Satellite System
RF
Radio Frequency
RTK
Real Time Kinematic
RXD
Receive Data (Pin)
SBAS
Satellite-based Augmentation System
SDA
I2C Serial Data
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
32 / 33
Abbreviation SMA SPS TTFF TXD UART USB UTC
Description SubMiniature Version A Standard Positioning Service Time to First Fix Transmit Data (Pin) Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter Universal Serial Bus Coordinated Universal Time
GNSS Module Series
LC29T(AA)_EVB_User_Guide
33 / 33
Documents / Resources
 |
QUECTEL LC29T (AA) RF and Wireless [pdf] User Guide LC29T AA RF and Wireless, LC29T AA, RF and Wireless, and Wireless, Wireless |
