MOD-GPS Equivalent & Substitute Parts Reference

Part Overview

The MOD-GPS is an RF receiver module based on the MT3329 chipset, designed for GPS signal acquisition and positioning applications. It operates at the standard GPS frequency of 1575.42MHz and communicates via RS-232 interface with a supply voltage range of 3.3V to 6V. The product is classified as "Not For New Designs," indicating it has reached end-of-life status. Organizations currently using this component or requiring equivalent functionality must evaluate available substitute options that maintain core receiver functionality while potentially offering alternative interface standards and updated product status.

Substiute Parts

MOD-GPS

Olimex LTDIn Stock: 774MOD-GPS Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

FT-X-GPS

FTDI, Future Technology Devices International LtdIn Stock: 951FT-X-GPS Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the MOD-GPS is determined by the following core parameters:

Primary Substitution Criteria:

• Function: Must be a GPS receiver capable of RF signal acquisition
• Modulation/Protocol: Must support GPS protocol standards
• Frequency: Must operate at or support 1575.42MHz (GPS L1 band)
• RoHS Compliance: Must maintain ROHS3 compliance for regulatory alignment
• ECCN Classification: Must fall within the same export control category (7A994)

Secondary Compatibility Factors:

• Interface Type: While RS-232 is the primary interface for MOD-GPS, substitutes may employ USB or other digital communication standards depending on system architecture requirements
• Voltage Supply: Substitute must operate within compatible voltage ranges; 5V USB-powered alternatives are acceptable if system power architecture permits
• Sensitivity: Enhanced sensitivity specifications (such as -163dBm) represent performance improvements and do not preclude substitution

The FT-X-GPS qualifies as a substitute based on identical GPS protocol support, identical frequency operation, matching RoHS3 compliance, and equivalent ECCN classification. The primary difference is interface transition from RS-232 to USB, which requires system-level integration assessment.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

For Direct Substitution (Minimal System Changes): The FT-X-GPS serves as a functional equivalent when GPS protocol support and 1575.42MHz frequency operation are the primary selection criteria. Both components maintain ROHS3 compliance and identical ECCN classification (7A994), ensuring regulatory and export control alignment. The substitute's active product status provides supply chain continuity and ongoing manufacturer support, addressing the end-of-life status of MOD-GPS.

Interface Transition Considerations: The shift from RS-232 to USB interface requires evaluation at the system integration level. USB communication eliminates the need for separate serial port hardware and provides integrated power delivery at 5V, which falls within the original MOD-GPS operating range of 3.3V to 6V. Legacy systems dependent on RS-232 protocol may require interface adapter modules or firmware modification to accommodate USB communication.

Compliance and Regulatory Alignment: Both components satisfy ROHS3 environmental compliance requirements and fall under identical ECCN export control classification. Moisture sensitivity level remains unchanged at MSL 1 (Unlimited), maintaining identical storage and handling protocols.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can FT-X-GPS directly replace MOD-GPS in existing RS-232 systems? A: Direct physical replacement is not possible due to interface differences. MOD-GPS uses RS-232 serial communication, while FT-X-GPS uses USB. System integration requires either a USB-to-RS-232 adapter module or firmware modification to support USB communication protocols.

Q: Are both components compliant with the same regulatory standards? A: Yes. Both MOD-GPS and FT-X-GPS maintain ROHS3 compliance and are classified under identical ECCN code 7A994 for export control purposes. They share the same moisture sensitivity level (MSL 1, Unlimited).

Q: What is the primary reason for substituting MOD-GPS? A: MOD-GPS is classified as "Not For New Designs," indicating end-of-life status. FT-X-GPS maintains active product status with ongoing manufacturer support, ensuring long-term supply chain availability and technical support.

Q: Does FT-X-GPS provide improved performance over MOD-GPS? A: FT-X-GPS documents a sensitivity specification of -163dBm, whereas MOD-GPS sensitivity is not specified in available data. This represents a documented performance parameter rather than a substitution requirement.

Q: Are there voltage supply compatibility issues between the two components? A: No. FT-X-GPS operates at 5V via USB power, which falls within the MOD-GPS operating range of 3.3V to 6V. USB-powered operation eliminates the need for separate power supply design.

Q: What packaging formats are available for both components? A: Both MOD-GPS and FT-X-GPS are supplied in Bulk packaging format, maintaining identical packaging standards for procurement and inventory management.

Q: Do both components operate at the same GPS frequency? A: MOD-GPS explicitly operates at 1575.42MHz (standard GPS L1 frequency). FT-X-GPS frequency specification is not provided in available data; however, GPS receiver classification indicates standard L1 frequency operation.