Miniature ‘spider’ brings accurate GPS to tiny devices

Paul Boughton

Acal BFi has introduce the world’s smallest GPS module from OriginGPS to the European market.

The Nano Spider is a fully integrated, highly sensitive GPS receiver module. Measuring only 4.1 x 4.1 x 2.1mm and with minimal power consumption, it is suitable for smart watches, wearable devices, trackers, and digital cameras. A double-sided circuit design reduces footprint size and makes the Nano Spider 47% smaller than previous solutions.

Offering accuracy of approximately one metre, the Nano Spider achieves a rapid time to first fix (TTFF) of less than one second, and tracking sensitivity of -163dBm. The module achieves a state of near continuous availability by detecting changes in context, temperature and satellite signals. By maintaining and opportunistically updating its internal fine time, frequency, and satellite data, the Nano Spider consumes mere microwatts of battery power.

The module also features OriginGPS’ Noise Free Zone (NFZ) system. Increasing noise immunity even under marginal signal conditions, it allows the module to provide high accuracy in dense urban areas, under thick foliage, or when the receiver rapidly changes position.