VersaLogic VL-MPEu-G3 User manual

Reference
Manual
REV. April 2021
VL-MPEu-G3
Mini PCIe GPS Receiver Module

ii VL-MPEu-G3 Reference Manual
WWW.VERSALOGIC.COM
12100 SW Tualatin Road
Tualatin, OR 97062-7341
[phone]
Fax [phone]
Copyright ©2017-2021 VersaLogic Corp. All rights reserved.
Notice:
Although every effort has been made to ensure this document is error-free, VersaLogic makes no
representations or warranties with respect to this product and specifically disclaims any implied warranties of
merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose.
VersaLogic reserves the right to revise this product and associated documentation at any time without
obligation to notify anyone of such changes.
* Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others.

VL-MPEu-G3 Reference Manual iii
Product Revision Notes
Revision 1.0 – Initial draft
Revision 1.1 – Added Figure 2 – J2 Pin Orientation
Support
The VL-MPEu-G3 Product Page contains additional information and resources for this product including:
•Reference Manual (PDF format)
•Device drivers
•Data sheets and manufacturers’ links for chips used in this product
•Photograph of the circuit board

iv VL-MPEu-G3 Reference Manual
Contents
Introduction .....................................................................................................................5
Description.......................................................................................................................... 5
Features and Construction ..................................................................................... 5
Technical Specifications ........................................................................................ 6
Block Diagram.................................................................................................................... 7
RoHS Compliance .............................................................................................................. 8
About RoHS........................................................................................................... 8
Warnings............................................................................................................................. 8
Electrostatic Discharge .......................................................................................... 8
Handling Care........................................................................................................ 8
Technical Support ............................................................................................................... 9
Repair Service........................................................................................................ 9
Physical Details.............................................................................................................10
Board Layout and Mounting............................................................................................. 10
VL-MPEu-G3 Mounting...................................................................................... 10
VL-MPEu-G3 Dimensions and Connectors ........................................................ 10
Jumper Summary ................................................................................................. 11
Interfaces and Connectors...........................................................................................12
GPS ................................................................................................................................... 12
Antenna Connector (J1) .................................................................................................... 12
Battery Back-up ................................................................................................................ 12
Auxiliary Connector Pinout (J2)....................................................................................... 14
LEDs ................................................................................................................................. 14

VL-MPEu-G3 Reference Manual 5
Introduction
Description
FEATURES AND CONSTRUCTION
The VL-MPEu-G3 is an extremely small and rugged GPS module based on the industry-standard
Mini PCIe module format. Mini PCIe allows the addition of I/O functions to a system with almost
no increase in overall system/package size. Mini PCIe modules provide a simple, economical, and
standardized way to add I/O functions to embedded computer products.
In a very small package, this GPS receiver board provides global positioning and time-stamp
information in embedded systems.
This GPS receiver module delivers complete position, velocity, and time (PVT) data for use in
host applications. The GPS receiver provides simultaneous 72-channel operation for stable
satellite tracking and aided GPS startup for fast initial signal acquisition. Support for GPS (United
States), GLONASS (Russian), Galileo (European Union), and BeiDou (China), systems provide
complementary coverage to enable reliable tracking in difficult environments such as cityscape /
building canyons. Additional internal augmentation systems include Satellite-Based
Augmentation System (SBAS), QZSS, IMES, and Differential GPS (D-GPS). GPS data is
available in NMEA, UBX, and RTCM protocols. The GPS data is accessed via USB.
In addition to positioning and navigation applications, GPS/GNSS signals are widely used as
accurate and low-cost precision time or frequency references used by remote or distributed
wireless communication, industrial, financial, and power-distribution equipment. The
TIMEPULSE output generates a precision time reference via a pulse train synchronized with the
GPS or UTC time grid. Linked to the satellites’ atomic clocks, this output produces intervals
configurable from 0.25 Hz to 10 MHz. The high precision time reference may be used as a low
frequency time synchronization pulse or as a high frequency reference signal. By default, the time
pulse signal is configured to one pulse per second.
The standard model includes an on-board battery to retain satellite position data and supports fast
restart of the GPS chip. Connection to an external 3.0V battery is also available at reference
designator J2.
The VL-MPEu-G3 supports OEM applications where high reliability and long-term availability
are required. From application design-in support, to a 5+ year production life guarantee, the VL-
MPEu-G3 provides a durable expansion option with an excellent cost of ownership.
This rugged product is designed and tested for full industrial temperature operation (-40º to
+85ºC). It also meets MIL-STD-202G specifications for shock and vibration.
The module supports IPC-A-610 Class 2 standards. Class 3 versions are available for extremely
high reliability applications.
11

Introduction
6VL-MPEu-G3 Reference Manual
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Specifications are subject to change without notification.
General Specifications
Board Size: 30 mm x 50.95 mm x 6.32 mm
Storage Temperature: -40° to +85°C
Operating Temperature: -40° to +85°C
Power Requirements: 3.3V @ 0.22W (supplied from the Mini
PCIe socket)
Mini PCIe Signal Type: USB 2.0
Software: Compatible with most x86 operating systems
including Windows*, Windows Embedded, and Linux
GPS Specifications
Accuracy: Autonomous Position - 2.5m
Velocity - 0.05 meters/second
Heading - 0.3 degrees
Startup Time: Aided Start - 5 seconds
Hot Start -1 second
Cold Start - 29 seconds
Timing Output: Provides a high precision output pulse train
synchronized with the GPS time grid. The default time pulse
signal is 1 pulse per second.
Sensitivity: Tracking -167 dBm
Reacquisition -153 to -160 dBm
Antenna: External Compatible with active antennas only.
Host Communication: Interface Mini PCIe – USB signaling
Protocol NMEA, UBX, RTCM
Battery: GPS receiver – On-board (VL-MPEu-G3E)
GPS receiver – no battery (VL-MPEu-G3E-Z)
Note: Customers using this product at high temperature and turning the system off and on
regularly should use VL-MPEu-G3E-Z and purchase an external battery.

Introduction
VL-MPEu-G3 Reference Manual 7
Block Diagram
MiniPCIe
Connector
Page 4 (P1)
NEO-M8T GPS
Page 03 (U2)
I/O & Battery Connector
Page 03 (J2)
Active Antenna
Connector
Page 03 (J1)
ctive Antenna
Connector
Page 03 (J1)
ctive Antenna
Connector
Page 03 (J1)

Introduction
8VL-MPEu-G3 Reference Manual
RoHS Compliance
The VL-MPEu-G3E/VL-MPEu-G3E-Z are RoHS-compliant.
ABOUT ROHS
In 2003, the European Union issued Directive 2002/95/EC regarding the Restriction of the use of
certain Hazardous Substances (RoHS) in electrical and electronic equipment.
The RoHS directive requires producers of electrical and electronic equipment to reduce to
acceptable levels the presence of six environmentally sensitive substances: lead, mercury,
cadmium, hexavalent chromium, and the presence of polybrominated biphenyls (PBB) and
polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) flame-retardants, in certain electrical and electronic
products sold in the European Union (EU) beginning July 1, 2006.
VersaLogic Corp. is committed to supporting customers with high-quality products and services
meeting the European Union’s RoHS directive.
Warnings
ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE
Warning! Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage circuit boards, disk drives, and other
components. The circuit board must only be handled at an ESD workstation. If an
approved station is not available, some measure of protection can be provided by
wearing a grounded antistatic wrist strap. Keep all plastic away from the board, and
do not slide the board over any surface.
After removing the board from its protective wrapper, place the board on a
grounded, static-free surface, component side up. Use an antistatic foam pad if
available.
The board should also be protected inside a closed metallic antistatic envelope
during shipment or storage.
Note: The exterior coating on some metallic antistatic bags is sufficiently conductive to
cause excessive battery drain if the bag comes in contact with the bottom side of
the board.
HANDLING CARE
Warning! Care must be taken when handling the board not to touch the exposed circuitry
with your fingers.

Introduction
VL-MPEu-G3 Reference Manual 9
Technical Support
If you are unable to solve a problem after reading this manual, please visit the VL-MPEu-G3
product page. This page provides links to component datasheets and device drivers.
If you have further questions, contact VersaLogic Technical Support at [phone].
VersaLogic support engineers are also available via e-mail at [e-mail].
REPAIR SERVICE
If your product requires service, you must obtain a Returned Material Authorization (RMA)
number by calling [phone]. Please provide the following information:
•Your name, the name of your company, your phone number, and e-mail address
•The name of a technician or engineer that can be contacted if any questions arise
•Quantity of items being returned
•The model and serial number (barcode) of each item
•A detailed description of the problem
•Steps you have taken to resolve or recreate the problem
•The return shipping address
Warranty Repair All parts and labor charges are covered, including return shipping
charges for UPS Ground delivery to United States addresses.
Non-warranty Repair All approved non-warranty repairs are subject to diagnosis and labor
charges, parts charges, and return shipping fees. Please specify the
shipping method you prefer and provide a purchase order number for
invoicing the repair.
Note: Please mark the RMA number clearly on the outside of the box before
returning.

10 VL-MPEu-G3 Reference Manual
Physical Details
Board Layout and Mounting
VL-MPEU-G3 MOUNTING
The VL-MPEu-G3 is a full size Mini PCIe card and needs to be mounted into a full size Mini
PCIe site. On VersaLogic CPU boards, the module is secured using two nylon screws.
VersaLogic supplies 2 mm nylon screws (VL-HDW-110) and 2.5 mm nylon screws (VL-HDW-
108). On non-VersaLogic CPU boards, mounting might be accomplished using a latching system.
Note: Be careful not to over tighten the nylon mounting screws. Optimum tightness is 1 lbf·in
(0.1 N·m).
VL-MPEU-G3 DIMENSIONS AND CONNECTORS
Figure 1. VL-MPEu-G3 Dimensions and Connectors
(Not to scale. All dimensions in millimeters.)
22

Physical Details
VL-MPEu-G3 Reference Manual 11
The table below provides information about the function, mating connectors, and transition cables
for VL-MPEu-G3 connectors.
Table 1: Connector Functions and Interface Cables
Connector Function Cable/Hardware Description
J1
Antenna jack
VL-CBR-ANT02
VL-CBR-ANT03
GPS antenna with SMA connector
Active antenna with SMA connector
J2
External battery and I/O
Molex 501330-1100
JUMPER SUMMARY
Jumper
Block
Description
As
Shipped
V1 Battery disconnect. Out

12 VL-MPEu-G3 Reference Manual
Interfaces and Connectors
GPS
The VL-MPEu-G3 incorporates the u-blox NEO-M8T GPS/GNSS receiver using the Mini PCIe
USB 2.0 interface. The NEO- M8T is a low power, high sensitivity receiver suitable for a variety
of embedded applications. See the following u-blox documents at the VL-MPEu-G3 Product
Page for complete information on the NEO-M8T:
It is recommended that you consult the u-blox NEO-M8T Series product page for periodic
updates to these documents.
The latest drivers can be found on the VL-MPEu-G3 Product Page.
Antenna Connector (J1)
A single U-FL antenna jack accommodates active antenna types only. Antenna power from the
GPS module is routed through this connector. Output short circuit protection is also provided.
Two antenna models are available from VersaLogic:
•VL-CBR-ANT02 – GPS antenna with SMA connector (supports GPS signals) or
•VL-CBR-ANT03 – active antenna with SMA connector (supports GPS and GLONASS
signals)
Contact VersaLogic Sales for information.
Battery Back-up
The VL-MPEu-G3 features a soldered-in 3.0V 255 mAh lithium battery. The battery (or an
optional external battery) provides memory retention for the GPS almanac, ephemeris, and last
position.
Note: VL-MPEu-G3E-Z is shipped without a battery
Warning! To prevent shorting, premature failure, or damage to the lithium battery, do not
place the board on a conductive surface such as metal, black conductive foam, or
the outside surface of a metalized ESD protective pouch. The lithium battery may
explode if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble or dispose of in fire. Dispose
of used batteries promptly.
When using battery power, the time to first-fix in a hot start scenario is reduced to 1-2 seconds
(typical) if the unit has been powered off for less than 2 minutes. Without the battery (or if the
unit has been off for more than 2 minutes), the time to first-fix is approximately 29 seconds
(typical). These first-fix times are based on –130 dBm (approximately 42 db-Hz) or higher
satellite signal levels and will increase as the satellite signal levels drop. In low-signal scenarios,
the first-fix times with a battery can typically range from 2-15 seconds, and without a battery can
typically range from 30-180 seconds.
3

Interfaces and Connectors
VL-MPEu-G3 Reference Manual 13
The on-board battery disconnect jumper (V1) is not installed by default. The battery jumper
should not be installed until the module is put into service so the battery does not discharge while
on the shelf. When V1 is not installed, the battery life will be at least 10 years.
Estimated average power-off battery life when the jumper V1 is installed is 2 years (based on a
15 µA typical battery current at 25°C). At higher temperatures, the battery current linearly
increases to 24 µA typical at 85°C so battery life is derated above 25°C based on an average
temperature over the lifetime of the product:
Battery Life (yrs) = 30 / [15 + (Tavg – 25) x 0.15]
Where, Tavg is the average temperature over the battery lifetime and 25°C ≤Tavg ≤85°C.
Derating for Tavg < 25°C is not required.
The nominal battery voltage is +3.0V. If the voltage drops below +2.0V, contact VersaLogic for a
replacement (part number HB3/0-1) or obtain a replacement battery from Digi-Key (part number
P224-ND).
An external 3.0V battery back-up input is also provided via connector J2. If this external battery
is used, then the jumper V1 should be removed if the on-board battery is installed. (However, the
jumper is not required to be removed, because both the on board and external battery are diode-
isolated). See the “V_BATT” section for more information.

Interfaces and Connectors
14 VL-MPEu-G3 Reference Manual
Auxiliary Connector Pinout (J2)
The auxiliary connector at location J2 provides signals used by the NEO-M8T. The table below
shows the J2 connector pinout.
Table 2: J2 Connector Pinout
Pin Signal Name Description
1 EXTINT Interrupt input
2 TIMEPULSE External monitoring
output
3 GND Ground
4 V_BATT_IN External battery
input
5 GND Ground
Figure 2. J2 Pin Orientation
LEDs
There are two blue LED (D1 & D3) that indicate the status of the module power (D1 is on when
enabled and power is on) and the TIMEPULSE output (D3).