gps external antenna

GPS External Antenna for special location

A GPS is a wonderful device, which works reliably most of the time on its own. This device has a built-in internal antenna, which read satellite signals and translate them automatically into the tracking data or maps where you see on your screen. But there are times, where in off-location an ideal GPS reception location can not be found such as traveling in the woods, inside your house or in some cars, GPS signal reception may be compromised. An external GPS Antenna may be needed to improve the satellite signals. However there are many different type of antenna on the market which are built to meet a certain needs and circumstances. Hence depending on your situation, you needs to select a particular type of GPS antenna for your needs.

Select a “passive antenna” when you can see the sky but your GPS receiver’s view is somewhat impeded. A common example of this is when you are driving in the car. Sometimes the windshield can block signals from reaching the GPS, but placing a passive antenna on top of the car can help.

Use an “active external antenna” when you and your GPS are in a place that is closed off from the view of the sky, like a mountainous or wooded area. This antenna is similar to a passive antenna but requires an electrical power source.

Inter-connect an active and a passive antenna to create a “re-radial antenna”. This option is used when the GPS needs an active antenna but does not have the required connector for an external antenna. The active component reads signals that are passed through to the passive component, which then amplifies the signals so they can be picked up by the GPS.

Install a “smart antenna” if you will be using the GPS to manipulate or store data on your computer. This type of external antenna functions as a GPS receiver without a screen and must be attached to a computer in order to read the data it receives.

As new and more powerful GPS External Antenna entering the market constantly, we will continue listing them there for your benefits.

Tech Tip – Assembling External Antenna