GNSS GPS Antenna Guide

GNSS and GPS Antennas for IoT and Fleet UK

Active and passive GNSS antenna selection for IoT, fleet tracking, and asset management. Multi-constellation, vehicle mounting, cable length considerations.

1575 MHz

GPS L1 frequency

Active

LNA built-in for cable runs

IP67

Essential for outdoor use

28 dB

Typical active antenna gain

GNSS Constellation Frequencies

Constellation	Frequency	Operator	Coverage
GPS L1	1575.42 MHz	US DoD	Global
GLONASS L1	1598-1606 MHz	Russia	Global
Galileo E1	1575.42 MHz	EU	Global
BeiDou B1	1561 MHz	China	Global
GPS L2/L5	1176-1227 MHz	US DoD	Global (newer)

All four major constellations use frequencies between 1150 and 1610 MHz. A multi-constellation antenna covering 1559-1610 MHz handles GPS L1, GLONASS L1, Galileo E1, and BeiDou B1 simultaneously. This improves positional accuracy and availability, particularly in areas with limited sky view (urban canyons, under tree cover).

Active vs Passive: When to Choose Each

Passive antenna. No LNA. No power supply required. Simple and reliable. Use when the antenna is within 1 metre of the receiver and cable loss is negligible. Embedded PCB and FPC GNSS antennas are usually passive.

Active antenna. Built-in LNA, typically 28-35 dB gain. Requires DC power supply (3.3V or 5V) via the coaxial cable. Use for all installations where cable length exceeds 1 metre. The LNA compensates for cable loss and maintains signal quality to the receiver. Virtually all external vehicle and outdoor GNSS antennas are active.

Mounting Position and Sky View

GNSS accuracy is directly related to how much sky the antenna can see. More satellites visible means better positional geometry (lower HDOP) and better accuracy. The antenna needs to be on the highest point of the vehicle or installation with an unobstructed view of the sky.

Mounting below the vehicle body, under metalwork, or inside a metal cabinet eliminates GNSS reception entirely. Metal is impenetrable to GNSS signals. The antenna goes on the roof, or on an externally mounted bracket. No exceptions.

For fleet tracking antenna integration with cellular, see 4G LTE antenna selection for combination GNSS+cellular antenna options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between active and passive GNSS antennas?

A passive GNSS antenna is just the antenna element with no amplification. It relies on the receiver to provide signal amplification. Suitable for very short cable runs (under 1 metre). An active antenna includes a Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) built into the antenna housing. The LNA compensates for cable loss and allows longer runs. For most vehicle and outdoor IoT deployments, active antennas are the right choice.

My device says it requires 5V active antenna supply. Is that the same as all active antennas?

No. Active GNSS antennas require a DC voltage supply through the coaxial cable (bias tee) to power the LNA. Supply voltages are typically 3.3V or 5V depending on the antenna. Check your device or router specification for what voltage it supplies on the GNSS antenna port, then verify the antenna is compatible with that voltage. Applying the wrong voltage can damage the LNA in the antenna.

Can I use a GNSS antenna outdoors on a vehicle year-round?

Yes, if specified correctly. Vehicle GNSS antennas should be IP67 minimum, rated to at least -40°C to +85°C operating temperature, and mechanically suitable for vibration. The Taoglas AGGP.35F and Panorama vehicle GNSS range meet these requirements. Magnetic mount antennas are convenient but can shift on high-speed vehicles — use a through-hole or adhesive mount for permanent installations.

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