GPS Units Compared - BN-220 vs BN-880 vs BN-880Q for iNav, Ardupilot or Betaflight

[@RagTheNutsOff]

UPDATE: I learned something too because of YOUR feedback. The BN-180 here bit.ly/3f3PHW4 does have a battery (so a faster fix potentially) and does also come recommended for those looking for a light weight GPS from other pilots. For me, as seen, I'll stick the biggest one possible into a smaller model due to the dynamics I have where I fly frequently (I have issues getting a lock before launch). Matt

[@shotbyarian]

would you recommend the bn-180 over the bn-220? thank you!

[@t413com]

Hey Matt! The battery isn't to remember the sats for the same location, it's for any location you can still 'see' the same sat. Having the battery is the most useful for when you land and swap batteries- without one it would take the full 1-5 mins to get a fix. The fun detailed answer: (I've worked extensively on low-level GPS software) Your GPS unit needs to know where the sats in space are. It takes time to receive all of what's called ephemeris data which are the orbital parameters for a satellite and is only valid for a few hours (hence being ephemeral). Once it's received ephemeris data for 4+ sats it can calculate your 3d position. It also, slowly, receives what's called almanac data that's valid for many days but gives a less-accurate sat position. Having the battery lets your GPS receiver store ephemeris, almanac, and often keep its clock running- all so power-cycles can get near-instant fixes. The reason your smartphones can get instant fixes anytime anywhere? It asks the internet for that ephemeris data and never waits to load it from the sats themselves!

[@loc4725]

That was really interesting. Thanks!

[@anti4354]

Thanks a lot for that explanation!

[@SteveGoral]

Love the comments section for stuff like this.

[@flat-earther]

how does a GPS module like in this video get it's time synchronized? Because if I comprehended right, the satellites send a signal with their position(coordinates/location above earth) and exact time of transmission, and the receiver receives this signal and compares the time of transmission to the current time to calculate how far the satellite is(the more time difference the more far the satellite is, and vice versa), but if the receiver doesn't have synchronized time how can it know how long it took for the signal from the satellite to be received?! could it be that the manufacturer of a GPS unit synchronizes the time of the unit at the factory and the small battery mentioned at 1:12 is like a CMOS battery on a computer to always remember the time? But I don't think that is the answer because the battery can become empty in storage.

[@t413com]

Good question@@flat-earther, time is vitally important for this system to work. Time is a variable to solve for, just like position, and the reason four satellites are needed for a 3d fix. Initially the GPS receiver can guess it’s rough time from the timestamp in Ephemeris packets. Then, from the delay it measures, it can calculate the distance to each satellite. Because the receiver’s time is a rough estimate these distances are called pseudo-ranges and the actual ranges are all off by a single delay to all satellites.. that’s the delay the receiver can solve-for and get an extremely accurate time.

[@Gosuminer]

Some notes: iNav supports a magnetometer for multirotors, Betaflight detects it but Betaflight's rescue mode does not require a magnetometer (in fact it seems to work better without one). There is a variant of the BN-220 called BN-220T which seems to get the initial position fix slightly faster. The provided cables are of the cheap plasticky kind so if you happen to have silicon wires with a 4-pin JST-SH connector (or a crimping tool) you are much better off using that.

[@alasdair4161]

Hi Matt, don't forget the BN220's BIG antenna brother the BN280.. And don't place it under too much foam, despite being an insulator, it (and plastic) has a tuning effect that can degrade the performance, with some EPO and EPP foam it's quite a bit. It doesn't block the signal, it just alters the resonant frequency of the antenna when placed very close.. Cheers.

[@Sam-gr8pl]

Just want to confirm you that BN 880Q does have compass..the difference is BN880 have separate and 880Q on same board with less weight...

[@MrStevegibb]

the 880 has an active antenna from where as the 880q is just a passive antenna. I however think the extra durability outweighs any loss in sensitivity i get 18 sats solid most of the time in inav. Be careful some FC boards 5v supply can fry the compass chips i would power these gps units from a known 3.3v supply on the board. Plus of this is you can get your gps a fix via usb power.

[@helloitsme8884]

THANK YOU! I was wondering what the real difference was between the q and non-q versions. How did you find this out?

[@ramus9]

The 880Q also has an active antenna.

[@mikeboon55]

Hi Matt, You totally killed the pronunciation of the brand "Beitian". You made it sounds like its from another planet like martian! It should be pronounced as "Bei-T-an", "Bei" as in Bei-jing, "T" as in the letter T, "an" as in the english word "an". If properly translated it means Northern Sky. Cheers mate!

[@richaubele4517]

Thanks for the lesson in pronunciation. I was more interested in the topic at hand. Just sayin...

[@armadynepan9571]

It's a Chinese brand, so the name uses chinese pinyin.

[@LeRainbow]

These key details saved my life: those boards with i2c pins (SDA and SCL) have a compass, RX from the GPS needs to go to TX on your FC and vice versa and quadrotors needing a compass to navigate. Also: i2c is just a network, so you can connect more than one device to the same i2c port, just make sure their addresses are different. :)

[@iforce2d]

I use the BN220 for just about everything these days. It often detects up to 23 satellites, it's cheap, and light enough to use even on a high-altitude balloon where every gram counts. The BN180 is only half a gram lighter at 5.0g vs 5.5g and only a few mm smaller so I'm not seeing any major advantage over the 220. As far as I can tell performance of 180 and 220 is the same.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Hey Chris, oh yea every gram would really count for a balloon. Matt

[@ismzaxxon]

Loved your balloon series. Was waiting for you to look for your first one using your quad.

[@marianofpv]

I have a BN880Q, and for some time now, it's taking 7 minutes to get 4 sats, and more than 11 minutes for 8 sats. It hardly surpasses 9 sats. A year ago it locked 21 sats easily and in less than a minute. Could that be the battery? Could it be a past crash? I'm clueless.

[@MessingWithCode]

thanks for such a clear explanation , this video was what i needed

[@brubakerjm]

Thanks for this video! Poked around Aliexpress after watching and found the BN-250, which looks like a 3mm larger BN-220 but with the 880's antenna. Going to give that one a shot as I definitely don't need the compass on any 880 model. Looking forward to your performance tests.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Yea I'm curious on that too. Waiting for the weather to clear to do the tests. Matt

[@Thunderbyrd.]

Very informative, thanks! I've been waiting for someone to compare these units. Thank you for posting this video.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Good morning, I'm glad you found it useful. Matt

[@AndrewNewton]

Great tutorial thanks Matt. Very clearly explained

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Hey Andrew, thank you! 🤩

[@dungadumbs428]

Weight is always relevant in Fpv reviews... #Breakoutthescale! Thought the 880q has a compass which does not seem to function well with INAV... Love your enthusiasm and the way you communicate the joy of model aviation.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Ah point noted, I'll makes sure I get that done next time! Matt

[@davidsettles5706]

Matt, nice as always however the real difference is the 880 has an active antenna and the 220 does not.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Host David, ah ha yea, a good point!

[@mathewemy]

That also maybe the case between the 880 and the 880Q which both appear to have a compass (HMC5883L 880), (QMC5883 880q).

[@RobisonRacing68]

This was really good Mattie... I learned a couple of things. Mucho appreciative!

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Hey Lauren, I'm glad you enjoyed it 👍 Matt

[@fragmaster76]

Hi Matt, would you be able to do a comparison in regards to signal strength? For these devices there is a PC software called u-center that is capable to get raw data from these GPS units and compare signal quality and strength.

[@RCwithAdam1]

Super helpful! Thank you! 👍

[@tedhancock68]

Not boring at all. Pretty helpful. It's tempting to get the 880Q when BG has them for 11 USD, but most of the reviews/Q&A say the compass is fake and doesn't work. After hearing that bigger is better with antennas, the 880Q might still be a viable option at that price.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Hey Ted, I don't ever use the compass, it's the size of the antenna that really does make a difference. Did you see the size of the one rammed in the Dart 250g lol!

[@FraggsUK]

Hi Ted, I believe it was the earlier models of the BN880Q that had issues with the compass, I have a recent one (withinn the last 5 months) and have not had any problem with the compass, saying all that you dont need it for aircraft so just disable it in Inav unless you are using it on a multirotor 😎

[@tedhancock68]

Interesting, I might pick up one on the next big sale.I never know what I will build next.

[@iforce2d]

The 880Q uses the newer QMC5883L instead of a HMC5883L compass. The chip pinout for these two compasses is compatible but the data registers are different so you can't just use the same communication code. Most likely the people saying the Q was fake were using firmware that simply did not support it.

[@davdaya]

Now.. ur gps module is getting interesting.. very good updated info.. matt.. tqs.. 😁👍

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Thanks 👍

[@abidikar]

Nicely Explained. Thanks. 🙏

[@winandd8649]

So what are the typical COLD start to fix/lock times of the small antenna one compared to the bigger antenna one?

[@tfssid]

Awesome video! Thanks for your work!

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Thank you Sid 👍

[@jasonkeiter2700]

Measure the voltage on the 3.3V button battery. I got 0.8V on a gps less than 6 months old. The uBlox data sheet spec the backup current at 15uA. That would give you a month on a 10mAh battery. I used a razor blade and broke the tab spot welds by gently tapping razor blade to cut through. 3d printed a cr2032 battery case to solder up to gps. Should give about 6 months based on 15uA. I guess most people just wait for cold start every time the put a new flight pack on. Ugh!

[@warmiceUT]

Hi, great video! May I ask a few questions? I have the Kopilot Lite the bundle with my ZHOD 250 wing; recently I ordered the BN-880Q GPS module. May I know, does the BN-880Q can work with the Kopilot Lite? Do you have the pins configuration of how to connect the BN-880Q with the Kopilot Lite ? Also, I am not able to find pins assignment of the BN-880Q, is BN-880Q and BN-880 same pins assignment? Btw, I do understand Kopilot Lite will not support compass, I will not connect the compass wires. Sorry for asking so many questions.... appreciate your helps Thanks in advanced.

[@solarstrategy9967]

From Hubby Paul (newbie) - Thanks Matt, very well explained. I have started installing ZOHD Kopilot Lite (fixed wing ) and they all come with the BN-220. It can take forever to lock in GPS. I would like to try out the BN-880Q but how will I connect it to the ZOHD controller as the wire is different?

[@warmiceUT]

Hi, I am in the same situation as yours. I am also have units of BN-880Q, but aren't able to find any information on how to DIY the wires to have it connecting to Kopilot Lite. Wish you can share if happened that you had this information by now. Thanks in advanced.

[@lasersbee]

1:15... I have a BN-180 in front of me and it DOES have a battery. I would however still like to know the difference between the BN-180 and the BN-220.

[@goku445]

Size only maybe?

[@lasersbee]

@@goku445 2 days ago we put this up on our website.... www.laserbeelpm.com/gps-ms.html

[@goku445]

@@lasersbee I see no info;

[@lasersbee]

@@goku445 Takes me right to the GPS-Max Speed Module page. Google J.BAUER Electronics GPS-MS or see the Y/T review here... kzbin.info/www/bejne/o3KlfWOXaqdqabc links in the description.

[@Glenn.J]

Great video. Was wondering how the BN 220 would go with the matek F411 WSE.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Would be perfect Keith. Just disable the compass if it gets detected as it's not needed with a fixed wing model 👍. Matt

[@Glenn.J]

Awesome will do. This would be for a ZoHd orbit. Appreciate it

[@RaynerGS]

I strongly do not recommend the BN-880 GPS module. Motos highly influence its magnetometer. Recently, I have lost my drone, and I have switched the BN-220 to BN-880. Before the change, the GPS Rescue was working properly. After the change, my drone does not go back to me when GPS Rescue mode is activated. Apparently, the Drone gets crazy, and it does not manage to fly direct to me. I am using BN-220T, this version has a hot start. Salute from Brazil. Way to go!

[@ericcartman6376]

M8N GPS can you use this one with inav? i know its older but i have a new build and i remembered that i still have one and since its small????

[@martinmacko7297]

Hi, I am setting up F405 WING with iNAV. Why should I not use compass? In Pixhawk I used it without issues. Thx!

[@theproud77]

Very helpful!👍🏻

[@nictimoulete7651]

I've a Matek 765-wing with Inav and GPS BN-880, I need some spare cable to solder Dupont to the GPS. What kind of connector is it ? (6 wires) thanks for tip answer if you can.

[@shard7086]

which way is the module supposed to face when mounted (or what way is "forward" on the 880?) and does the antenna side always have to face upward toward to sky?

[@tomrandom7091]

I'm about to made a motorbike telemetry app, and i want to know if the BN880 is precise enough for road navigation, and if the compass + an accelerometer could be a nice combo for getting precise telemetry. Thanks and nice video!

[@mimmogim5281]

Posso montarlo sul mio drone VISUO XS816?

[@SteveGoral]

Mate was exactly the info I needed. Is the choice between the 880 and the 880Q purely a size thing then? They both seem to have a compass.

[@sarunasvebra8413]

ok, so you are telling me that the 880q doesn't have a compas. Why does it have 6 pins ? what are they for ?

[@richaubele4517]

Would it help to have a shield (metal foil tape, for example), under the gps mod. to shield it from an esc, ( or other radiation ) or would it cause a "reflection" with the gps antenna. Also, can i use the 880Q with the Zhod Kopilot ?

[@yoyo_men2661]

I'm wondering how close is too close for these gps antenna to be inorder for the esc or rx antenna to cause interference with the gps module?

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Hey Ian, depends upon the components. As always try and spread them out as much as possible and especially away from any VTX modules antenna. Matt

[@jacekheli1]

Hi, just trying to connect BN-220 with APM 2.5, but no success. Can you advice what is the problem?

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Howdy Jacek, absolutely no idea with a APM, Matt

[@jzflmr6089]

Just used bestar BS-280 on my nano talon with Inav untill bn880 comes but 280 works good i just my save 880 for zeta wing.

[@ayhankaraca3224]

Can I use return to home mode with beitian bn220 module. I think there is no compass in this module. Do you need a compass for return to home mode?

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Howdy, probably best you research INAV. A compass is not needed for fixed wing models. See their wiki pages on its setup. Matt

[@jackevans2386]

0:04 and 6:46 "Benetian" ??? There's only one 'N' in 'Beitian'

[@charlesk44]

Ty

[@ciscocalderon5436]

What is the baud rate for the 220?

[@maximilianfaust9378]

Would be interesting to compare to the bn180!

[@TM_river]

What a useful video it is! Although I use BN-880 for airplane, I also have wanted to use BN-220 in terms of price and size. Next time, I will try BN-220. But GPS which doesn't has compass may not be useful enough for rover and boat, may it?? Because it is possible to stop it.

[@k1ortia]

Im still rocking a Bn-180 on my Ar900, no problems at all. Would i need to upgrade for my mini talon or keep the same? Much appreciated.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Hey Kyle, if you have the space, a bigger active antenna is always going to be better. Matt

[@irwan_rc2416]

I had some kind of corotion on antenna (patch) side. Is this normal?

[@Matt-re8bt]

Hey Matt! Sorry for the off-topic question, but your shot of the Dart 250G prompted a question. I noticed that you're using a standoff between the motor and plane. How did you attach that? Did you use a screw that went all the way from the plane body, through the standoff, into the motor?

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Ah ha Matt, what you need is a video, like this one! kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4ulg5ybr5iVjtU Matt

[@Matt-re8bt]

@@RagTheNutsOff Thank you very much, Matt!

[@alphaadhito]

There's the 180, 220, 280, 880 and now 880Q. Yeah, back then I was confused as hell what to choose, lol

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Yea such a good choice. Plus if fixed wing, we don't care about the compass either. Matt

[@alphaadhito]

@@RagTheNutsOff Absolutely. I prefer the 280, it's literally if 220 and 880 had a kid haha. And also almost as cheap as the 220 :p

[@adinow6264]

How many Volt musst have the Battery???

[@RagTheNutsOff]

No idea, see their specifications.

[@adinow6264]

@@RagTheNutsOff I don't find ... The GPS is taking too long to start :(

[@usarmyfl1]

Will the older big NEO-M8N work with newer boards like the F411 wing? Thanks for the video!

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Howdy Matt, yes it'll be fab!

[@usarmyfl1]

@@RagTheNutsOff Thanks!

[@julianhumphrey4843]

nice one matt

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Thanks Julian 👍

[@EddieVichta]

Is compass needed for fixed wing in Ardupilot (Arduplane), please?

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Hey Eddie, absolutely no idea on Ardupilot I'm afraid, Matt

[@FunBitesTV]

Not required, but i like to use it , although plenty of people don't bother.

[@mihumono]

bn-880 has active antenna and better accelerometer. bn880q has passive antenna and flaky accelerometer that is not supported by every software.

[@mihumono]

I meant magnetometer not accelerometer.

[@sams9716]

Love my 220's. Get a lock before I can get my velcro strap tightned. I get mine from amazon not banggood.

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Hey Sam, fab to hear! Matt

[@ismzaxxon]

Has anyone managed to "talk" to these using arduino? Just to change settings. I have looked on the web, but nothing so far. I want to set the "pedestrian mode" and baud rate.

[@marianofpv]

You can change the configuration using u-center from ublox. You can even enable gps passthrough in iNav and connect through the drone.

[@senseisecurityschool9337]

Yep, I wired the 880 and 800 to my Arduino ESP32 and the popular libraries worked just fine. Both for reading GPS data and reconfiguring.

[@ayhankaraca3224]

This GPS module has compass?

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Not sure which one you mean. See the specifications for the one you're looking at on BG. Matt

[@ayhankaraca3224]

Bn 220

[@loc4725]

Interesting video, thanks! Now all I need to do is work out why my BN-220 thinks my altitude keeps changing by +/- 25 meters. Even with 12 sat's it's not reliable (thank fu*k for barometers!). And no, I don't live on or fly from a boat. ☺

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Howdy Loc, how odd. Maybe move it away from everythign else that might be making noise? Matt

[@FunBitesTV]

My 433mhz telemetry radio plays hell with the gps

[@mikelinton8011]

Hi Matt. I'm wondering about the compass in a fixed wing. I plan to use a Matek F405 in a model. I have no experience of inav or flight controllers. In the case of a return to home function how does the FC compensate for drift due to wind? Does it lay off for drift or just keep pointing to home so flying an arc rather than a straight line. Would a compass be useful for setting a particular heading in order to achieve the desired track? I live in Tasmania which is in the Roaring Forties so it is windy a lot of the time. Keep up the good work.

[@MessingWithCode]

hahahaha is not boring i gess that some times you need to do your homework to be able to have a nice flight , i have lost 2 models before i understood that if you want to have a nice flight you need to make sure that each of the componets from your model no matter if is a fixed wings or just a quadcopter is working as is suposed to due to a simple mistake could get your model flying where you will never see it again or hurt sombody.

[@code0303456]

Nice...

[@RagTheNutsOff]

Thanks Mauricio!

[@nuhbiwan]

Beneeshien? Wtf?