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Tips and questions relating to the GPS modules from SFE
By landon
#29279
I'm trying to connect an EM408 to a microcontroller and the only connectors I know of are these:

http://www.sparkfun.com/commerce/produc ... ts_id=8288

I don't really have a surface mount base I'm putting this on, I really just need a housing that I can use to extend and mate the cable to some larger pins. I tried unsuccessfully to solder some wire-wrap (very small diameter) wire to these tiny pins using a very sharp tip soldering iron, but while I've done a lot of soldering, this is just too small for my skills since it's intended for surface mount.

So, I'm wondering if anyone knows of a housing like this but something that can be more easily worked with. I have the breakout board for this device, but it's too large for what I'm trying to do - I don't need all the functionality the breakout gives, either.

Thanks for any pointers to connectors for this that are easier to work with.
By jasonharper
#29280
There does not appear to be any non-SMT version of that socket. The best you could do at that end is make your own little surface-mount breakout board.

It appears that the cable is detachable at the GPS module end, too - and matching crimp-type plugs are available (JST SH series, Digi-Key part # 455-1380, according to the module data sheet). However, you'd spend over $7 just for the pins (minimum order 100), and the proper crimp tool costs over $700!

I think the easiest thing to do for a one-off project would be to cut off one end of the supplied cable and strip the wire ends.
By landon
#29281
Thanks, I was coming to exactly the same conclusion. I can't buy these cables separately for the Sirf III with the external mmcx (408) though I can for the one without the xternal antenna (406). In any case, since the 408 comes with the interface cable, if I cut it I will end up with 2 pigtails that work per GPS purchased (both ends are the same.)

What's more is that the SMD housing connector costs as much as the 406's interface cable. If I could get a 408 cable separately, that'd be great, but SFE isn't offering it for some reason.

I've already destroyed 2 smd housing connectors trying to solder them - it's really hopeless. I'll cut the cable that came with it and move on.

Thanks again,

Landon