Overview

The TOXU TX-ZED-F9P-04B-RTK is a dual-frequency GNSS development board for teams building RTK positioning into their own equipment. It combines a u-blox ZED-F9P-04B-01 module with a USB-C port, a six-pin serial connector and two rows of labeled breakout pads.

The module can operate as an RTK rover or be configured to generate RTCM corrections as a base station. In rover operation, centimeter-level positioning depends on a compatible correction stream, a suitable external active antenna and satellite reception sufficient for a fixed RTK solution.

The board gives engineers access to serial, timing and status signals during development. A host can consume NMEA or UBX position messages, while a compatible timing input can use the PPS signal to align measurements with the receiver time base.

Key Features

Dual-Frequency GNSS Tracking

The ZED-F9P-04B-01 processes observations from two frequency ranges. An active antenna matched to the signals used in the project allows the receiver to use both ranges for RTK processing.

RTK Rover and Base Station Configuration

The module accepts supported RTCM 3.3 messages as a rover and can generate correction messages in base station mode. This lets engineers evaluate each role using the appropriate antenna installation and data link.

Separate USB-C and Serial Connections

Use the USB-C connection for bench access and the six-pin TXD/RXD connector when developing a dedicated host harness. The breakout rows also carry separately labeled TX2 and RX2 pads.

PPS and RTK Status Access

The PPS breakout provides a timing reference for compatible logging or acquisition hardware. The board also has labeled PPS and RTK indicators for visual checks during setup.

Labeled Expansion Pads

Through-hole rows provide access points for serial, timing and control signals. On the ZED-F9P-04B module, SPI shares signal pins with the host UART and I²C, so interface availability depends on the selected mode.

External RF Connection and Four Mounting Points

An edge-mounted threaded RF connector allows coaxial cable routing away from the PCB. Four corner holes provide mounting points for standoffs or a carrier plate.

Technical Specifications

The accuracy figures are published by u-blox for the ZED-F9P-04B module under specified test conditions. Installed performance depends on the antenna, satellite visibility, multipath, reference-station distance and correction quality.

Hardware Structure

The USB-C port and six-pin serial connector sit along one edge of the square PCB. The two through-hole breakout rows flank the GNSS module. The opposite edge carries the threaded RF connector, with a miniature coaxial connector next to it. Allow room for the mating plugs, coaxial cable bend radius and mounting hardware when laying out the enclosure.

Applications

OEM Navigation Development

Evaluate GNSS position messages and RTCM delivery before incorporating the receiver into a vehicle, robot or industrial controller.

UAV and Mobile Robot Prototypes

Feed position updates into compatible navigation software and check RTK solution status during outdoor testing.

Surveying and Mapping Instruments

Pair rover position data with survey observations, sensor records or mapping data on an embedded host.

GNSS-Synchronized Data Acquisition

Use PPS with a compatible logger or controller to align sensor samples with GNSS time.

System Integration

Active GNSS antenna → TX-ZED-F9P-04B-RTK → Host controller

Connect a compatible active antenna to the designated RF connection. Match the board pinout, supply and signal levels to the host before wiring. Configure the receiver to deliver the required NMEA or UBX messages and connect PPS to a compatible timing input where needed.

For rover operation, forward RTCM data from a reference station or from a host running an NTRIP client. For base station operation, configure the module with the reference position and route the generated RTCM messages through the system's data link.

Complete RF / GNSS Hardware Solution Support

TOXU can help select a matching active GNSS antenna and RF cable assembly based on the supported signals, antenna location and enclosure layout. Share the host interface and harness requirements for a review of the receiver and interconnects.

Why Choose TOXU

Receiver, Antenna and Cable Integration

Review antenna placement, connector clearance and RF cable routing together with the receiver board layout before finalizing the equipment design.

OEM / ODM Manufacturing Support

Discuss project-specific RF assemblies and PCBA integration for prototypes and volume production.

About TOXU

TOXU Tech supplies GNSS positioning hardware, GNSS and communication antennas, RF connectors and coaxial cable assemblies for OEM equipment manufacturers and system integrators.

TOXU also provides PCBA manufacturing and OEM / ODM integration services for the development and production of RF and GNSS hardware.

FAQ

Which module is installed on the board?

The TX-ZED-F9P-04B-RTK uses the u-blox ZED-F9P-04B-01 dual-frequency GNSS module.

Can the module be used as both an RTK rover and a base station?

Yes. In rover mode, the module uses compatible RTCM input to compute an RTK position. In base station mode, it can generate RTCM messages after the reference position is established.

What is the PPS breakout used for?

PPS provides a timing reference for compatible controllers and data loggers. Match the signal level and timing configuration to the host input.

Can the host UART, I²C and SPI be used at the same time?

The ZED-F9P-04B module uses shared pins for SPI and for host UART and I²C signals. The module interface selection and board configuration determine which functions are available.

Which antenna should I use?

Use an external active antenna that covers the dual-frequency signals required for your application. Check the mating connector and antenna bias requirements when selecting the RF cable.

How do I feed NTRIP corrections to the receiver?

Use an NTRIP client on a host or communications device to receive the correction stream, then forward compatible RTCM messages through the configured receiver interface.