SparkFun Electronics Forum

Hello,
I recently bouht EM406 GPS Sensor from Sparkfun. I used a Sirf III demo software as i read it in this forum.I made my own Interfacing board using MAX 3232 to connect it with serial port.I am using regulated 5V DC supply.
Earlier LED was flashing but i was not getting the data as stated in Manual.The software was showing only input message $PSRF103.........
When i connect ground to Pin 5 of DB9(serial port) even this message won't come.What is this??
Now LED is continuously glowing still with no output data.
Is my GPS ok?? How can i check it that it is working properly??
Please tell me what to do as i have to run this GPS with in this week.

Helimoto

Is my GPS ok?? How can i check it that it is working properly??
Please tell me what to do as i have to run this GPS with in this week.

As a start, just apply clean 5V power and then place the GPS in clear view of the sky (outdoors is best to start with). Within a few minutes you should see the LED blink. This means it has found satellites (a good sign it is alive).

Beyond that, you will need to sort out your serial connections. I find that hyperterminal (set to 4800 baud) works fine for seeing the NMEA sentences. To keep out of trouble, disconnect the GPS's pin 4 during the hyperterminal tests and let it float high. If this pin is not high, the unit may not send NMEA data.