How To Add GPS To Your Meshtastic Node

In this guide, we'll walk you through adding a GPS module to your existing Heltec V3 Lora ESP32 Meshtastic Node. This guide will work also for any other ESP32-based board like Heltec V3 Lora, TTGo, or T-Beam but slight changes might be required.

Hardware

Now let's get started with the hardware you need:

1x GY-NEO6MV2 GPS Module - AliExpress Price: 2.21USD | Amazon US Price 6.09USD
2x 17 Pins(Get 20 Pins and Trim It) 2.54mm Header Pin - AliExpress Price: 0.94USD | Amazon US Price 5.49USD
1x 4 Pins 2.54mm Header Pin- AliExpress Price: 0.94USD | Amazon US Price 5.49USD
4x Female to Female Pin Connector AliExpress Price: 0.42USD | Amazon US Price 5.49USD
1x Soldering Iron + 60/40 Solder Wire (Optional - You can go to a nearby electronic shop to solder the headers on the board)

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When ordering from AliExpress, consider consolidating your purchases from a single seller to maximize savings. For instance, if you're purchasing an antenna from seller X, check if they also offer an IPEX to SMA-K cable. By sourcing all your items from one seller, you can significantly reduce shipping costs.

The hardware selection can be changed but we went with easy-to-get parts. One thing to note here is that soldering will be needed only to solder headers to the Heltec and the GPS module. This task can be outsourced to any nearby electronic shop and save you the money and the hassle.

Assembly

The hardware is all ready and set now to the wiring. For this, we will follow the following Schematics.

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Please keep in mind we are assuming here you already soldered the headers on the board so it will be a matter of connecting pins to the right place.

GY-NEO6MV2 GPS Module - Heltec V3 Lora ESP32

VCC -> 3v3
RX -> PIN 46
TX -> PIN 45
GND -> GND

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If you're using a different ESP32-based board like DIY ESP32, TTGo, or T-Beam, simply select an available GPIO pin that accepts digital signals, and isn't already in use. Then, follow the guide using the chosen pin, disregarding the specific pin number mentioned in the instructions

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After Completing The Wiring, It's Crucial Not To Overlook The Final Step – Connect Your Antenna

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Capacitors are good practice for decoupling one part of a circuit from another

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It's Important To Note That The Order Of The Connections Might Vary. Follow The Labels And Io Ports On Your Specific Components And The Provided Schematics To Ensure Accurate Wiring. Paying Attention To These Details Ensures That You Establish The Correct Connections And Avoid Potential Issues or Damaging Your Components

Once all the wiring is completed. Double-check your connections and ensure they match the suggested layout before proceeding to the next steps.

Meshtastic Settings

Open Meshtastic App (IOS for this guide)
Go to the Settings page
In the radio configuration section go to Position
Scroll down to the Advanced Device GPS
For GPS Receive GPIO choose 45, For GPS Transmit GPIO choose 46

In conclusion, adding a GPS module to your existing Heltec V3 Lora ESP32 Meshtastic Node is a straightforward process that enhances the functionality of your device. The chosen hardware components, including the GY-NEO6MV2 GPS Module and header pins, provide a reliable and readily available solution. Soldering may be required, but it can be outsourced to electronic shops for convenience. By following this guide, users can easily integrate a GPS module into their Meshtastic Node, expanding its capabilities for location tracking and enhancing overall functionality.