WisBlock GNSS GPS Location Module RAK12501

The WisBlock GNSS Location Module RAK12501 is a compact location module for RAKwireless's WisBlock ecosystem. It is based on the Quectel L76K GNSS chip and supports the satellite systems GPS, GLONASS, QZSS, and BeiDou, ensuring reliable and precise location determination. The module communicates serially over a UART port with the WisBlock Core module and is connected to a baseboard via the standardized WisBlock connector. Thanks to its high sensitivity, it provides a position accuracy typically of ±2.5 meters with a speed accuracy of ±0.1 m/s. The update rate is 1 Hz, a cold start takes about 35 seconds, and a hot start about one second. With a supply voltage of 2.8 to 4.3 V and a tracking current of around 18 mA, the module is suitable for energy-efficient IoT applications. The small size of 23×10×3 mm and the ability to switch the power supply via a control pin facilitate its use in mobile projects. A WisBlock baseboard and a WisBlock core are required for operation.

Features:

GNSS chip: The module uses the Quectel L76K, which supports GPS, GLONASS, QZSS, and BeiDou satellite systems.
Update rate: The module provides position data at a rate of 1 Hz with an accuracy of ±2.5 m and a speed accuracy of ±0.1 m/s.
Startup times: A cold start takes about 35 seconds, a hot start about one second, ensuring quick reliable fixes.
Power supply: The supply voltage ranges from 2.8 V to 4.3 V with a typical tracking current of 18 mA and a power consumption of 7 µA in power-saving mode.
Interface: Communication is via a UART interface with a standard WisBlock connector, using only UART pins, VDD, and GND.
Control pin: The module's power supply can be switched on and off via the WB_IO2 pin by software.
Form factor: The module is only 23 × 10 × 3 mm in size and weighs 9 g, including packaging, making it ideal for compact IoT devices.
Compatibility: It is designed for WisBlock projects and requires a WisBlock baseboard and a WisBlock core as the central control unit.

Application examples:

With a WisBlock core and LoRa module, an energy-efficient GPS tracker for Meshtastic networks can be built.
In combination with environmental sensors, the module can be used in mobile IoT loggers to record position and sensor data.
In autonomous robots or drones, it serves for precise navigation and waypoint tracking.
For outdoor projects like ass

Documentation:

Technical details:

Manufacturer: RAKwireless
Manufacturer SKU: RAK12501
GNSS chip: Quectel L76K
Supported constellations: GPS, GLONASS, QZSS, BeiDou
Position accuracy: ±2.5 m (typical)
Speed accuracy: ±0.1 m/s
Update rate: 1 Hz
Cold start: 35 s, Hot start: 1 s
Communication: UART (serial) via WisBlock connector
Supply voltage: 2.8 – 4.3 V (typ. 3.3 V)
Power consumption: 25 mA (acquisition), 18 mA (tracking), 7 µA (power-saving mode)
Interface pins: VDD, GND, UART-TX/RX, WB_IO2 for power control
Module size: 23 × 10 × 3 mm
Weight: 9 g