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30 min

Get precise GNSS-based timing and positioning with LC26G-T (AA) and STM32G474RE

Accurate timing and precision positioning solution for advanced industrial applications

GNSS 26 Click with Nucleo 64 with STM32G474RE MCU

Published Jul 16, 2025

Click board™

GNSS 26 Click

Dev. board

Nucleo 64 with STM32G474RE MCU

Compiler

NECTO Studio

MCU

STM32G474RE

Ideal for high-precision base station timing in 5G ORAN networks, providing the synchronization accuracy demanded by next-generation infrastructure

A

A

Hardware Overview

How does it work?

GNSS 26 Click is based on the LC26G-T (AA), a single-band multi-constellation GNSS receiver module from Quectel that provides accurate timing and standard precision positioning by leveraging advanced satellite navigation capabilities (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BDS, and QZSS systems). Designed for applications requiring high stability and accuracy, the module delivers nanosecond-level synchronization with Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), making it particularly suited for precision timing use cases. The integrated low-noise amplifier ensures high sensitivity with tracking levels down to -165dBm and acquisition sensitivity of -148dBm, enabling fast and reliable signal acquisition even in urban or obstructed environments. By using multiple constellations, the LC26G-T (AA) offers improved satellite visibility and resilience, allowing for accurate positioning and consistent performance at altitudes up to 10km. The module also incorporates Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring (RAIM) and continuous phase uncertainty estimation, contributing to reliable and trustworthy timing outputs. Its high dynamic range radio architecture includes both analog and digital interference mitigation, enhancing signal robustness.

Furthermore, the AGNSS feature significantly reduces Time to First Fix (28 seconds in cold start conditions), enabling the module to quickly acquire a position even when location, time, and frequency data are initially unknown. This high-performance GNSS solution is well-suited for base station timing in emerging 5G ORAN networks and for industrial applications such as power grid monitoring and synchronization. The LC26G-T (AA) operates at a regulated voltage of 1.8V, provided by the onboard TLV70018 low-dropout (LDO) voltage regulator, ensuring stable power delivery to the main LC26G-T (AA) GNSS module. This regulator converts the selected mikroBUS™ power rail to the required 1.8V operating level, enabling proper functionality of the module. In addition to its primary power supply configuration, GNSS 26 Click supports standalone operation through a dedicated backup power circuit. A coin-cell battery mounted on the back side of the board allows the module to retain critical timing and satellite data even when the main power supply is removed. The GNSS 26 Click communicates with the host MCU through a UART interface using the standard UART RX and TX pins. The default communication speed is set at 115200bps, ensuring efficient data exchange. It

also provides an I2C interface for communication with a host MCU in the I2C Fast speed mode (400kHz). Still, it must be noted that the I2C interface can only be operated in the peripheral mode. Along with the communication and control pins, this Click board™ also includes a reset pin (RST) and a RESET button, enabling easy module resetting, a blue PPS LED indicator, which, in combination with the PPS pin, detects a synchronized pulse signal from the LC26G-T (AA) once per second. The board also features one SMA connector for GNSS antenna that MIKROE offers, like the Active GPS Antenna for flexible and efficient connectivity options. This Click board™ can operate with both 3.3V and 5V logic voltage levels selected via the VCC SEL jumper. Since the LC26G-T (AA) module operates at 1.8V, logic-level translator, the TXS0108E, is also used for proper operation and an accurate signal-level translation. This way, both 3.3V and 5V capable MCUs can use the communication lines properly. Also, this Click board™ comes equipped with a library containing easy-to-use functions and an example code that can be used as a reference for further development.

GNSS 26 Click hardware overview image

Features overview

Development board

Nucleo-64 with STM32G474R MCU offers a cost-effective and adaptable platform for developers to explore new ideas and prototype their designs. This board harnesses the versatility of the STM32 microcontroller, enabling users to select the optimal balance of performance and power consumption for their projects. It accommodates the STM32 microcontroller in the LQFP64 package and includes essential components such as a user LED, which doubles as an ARDUINO® signal, alongside user and reset push-buttons, and a 32.768kHz crystal oscillator for precise timing operations. Designed with expansion and flexibility in mind, the Nucleo-64 board features an ARDUINO® Uno V3 expansion connector and ST morpho extension pin

headers, granting complete access to the STM32's I/Os for comprehensive project integration. Power supply options are adaptable, supporting ST-LINK USB VBUS or external power sources, ensuring adaptability in various development environments. The board also has an on-board ST-LINK debugger/programmer with USB re-enumeration capability, simplifying the programming and debugging process. Moreover, the board is designed to simplify advanced development with its external SMPS for efficient Vcore logic supply, support for USB Device full speed or USB SNK/UFP full speed, and built-in cryptographic features, enhancing both the power efficiency and security of projects. Additional connectivity is

provided through dedicated connectors for external SMPS experimentation, a USB connector for the ST-LINK, and a MIPI® debug connector, expanding the possibilities for hardware interfacing and experimentation. Developers will find extensive support through comprehensive free software libraries and examples, courtesy of the STM32Cube MCU Package. This, combined with compatibility with a wide array of Integrated Development Environments (IDEs), including IAR Embedded Workbench®, MDK-ARM, and STM32CubeIDE, ensures a smooth and efficient development experience, allowing users to fully leverage the capabilities of the Nucleo-64 board in their projects.

Nucleo 64 with STM32G474RE MCU double side image

Microcontroller Overview

MCU Card / MCU

STM32G474RE front image

Architecture

ARM Cortex-M4

MCU Memory (KB)

512

Silicon Vendor

STMicroelectronics

Pin count

64

RAM (Bytes)

128k

You complete me!

Accessories

Click Shield for Nucleo-64 comes equipped with two proprietary mikroBUS™ sockets, allowing all the Click board™ devices to be interfaced with the STM32 Nucleo-64 board with no effort. This way, Mikroe allows its users to add any functionality from our ever-growing range of Click boards™, such as WiFi, GSM, GPS, Bluetooth, ZigBee, environmental sensors, LEDs, speech recognition, motor control, movement sensors, and many more. More than 1537 Click boards™, which can be stacked and integrated, are at your disposal. The STM32 Nucleo-64 boards are based on the microcontrollers in 64-pin packages, a 32-bit MCU with an ARM Cortex M4 processor operating at 84MHz, 512Kb Flash, and 96KB SRAM, divided into two regions where the top section represents the ST-Link/V2 debugger and programmer while the bottom section of the board is an actual development board. These boards are controlled and powered conveniently through a USB connection to program and efficiently debug the Nucleo-64 board out of the box, with an additional USB cable connected to the USB mini port on the board. Most of the STM32 microcontroller pins are brought to the IO pins on the left and right edge of the board, which are then connected to two existing mikroBUS™ sockets. This Click Shield also has several switches that perform functions such as selecting the logic levels of analog signals on mikroBUS™ sockets and selecting logic voltage levels of the mikroBUS™ sockets themselves. Besides, the user is offered the possibility of using any Click board™ with the help of existing bidirectional level-shifting voltage translators, regardless of whether the Click board™ operates at a 3.3V or 5V logic voltage level. Once you connect the STM32 Nucleo-64 board with our Click Shield for Nucleo-64, you can access hundreds of Click boards™, working with 3.3V or 5V logic voltage levels.

Click Shield for Nucleo-64 accessories 1 image

Active GPS antenna is designed to enhance the performance of your GPS and GNSS Click boards™. This external antenna boasts a robust construction, making it ideal for various weather conditions. With a frequency range of 1575.42MHz and a 50Ohm impedance, it ensures reliable signal reception. The antenna delivers a gain of greater than -4dBic within a wide angular range, securing over 75% coverage. The bandwidth of +/- 5MHz further guarantees precise data acquisition. Featuring a Right-Hand Circular Polarization (RHCP), this antenna offers stable signal reception. Its compact dimensions of 48.53915mm and a 2-meter cable make it easy to install. The magnetic antenna type with an SMA male connector ensures a secure and convenient connection. If you require a dependable external antenna for your locator device, our active GPS antenna is the perfect solution.

GNSS 26 Click accessories 1 image

Used MCU Pins

mikroBUS™ mapper

NC
NC
AN
Reset
PC12
RST
ID COMM
PB12
CS
NC
NC
SCK
NC
NC
MISO
NC
NC
MOSI
Power Supply
3.3V
3.3V
Ground
GND
GND
NC
NC
PWM
Timepulse Indicator
PC14
INT
UART TX
PA3
TX
UART RX
PA2
RX
I2C Clock
PB8
SCL
I2C Data
PB9
SDA
Power Supply
5V
5V
Ground
GND
GND
1

Take a closer look

Click board™ Schematic

GNSS 26 Click Schematic schematic

Step by step

Project assembly

Click Shield for Nucleo-64 accessories 1 image hardware assembly

Start by selecting your development board and Click board™. Begin with the Nucleo 64 with STM32G474RE MCU as your development board.

Click Shield for Nucleo-64 accessories 1 image hardware assembly
Nucleo 64 with STM32G474RE MCU front image hardware assembly
LTE Cat.1 6 Click front image hardware assembly
Prog-cut hardware assembly
LTE Cat.1 6 Click complete accessories setup image hardware assembly
Board mapper by product8 hardware assembly
Necto image step 2 hardware assembly
Necto image step 3 hardware assembly
Necto image step 4 hardware assembly
NECTO Compiler Selection Step Image hardware assembly
Necto image step 6 hardware assembly
Clicker 4 for STM32F4 HA MCU Step hardware assembly
Necto No Display image step 8 hardware assembly
Necto image step 9 hardware assembly
Necto image step 10 hardware assembly
Debug Image Necto Step hardware assembly

Software Support

Library Description

GNSS 26 Click demo application is developed using the NECTO Studio, ensuring compatibility with mikroSDK's open-source libraries and tools. Designed for plug-and-play implementation and testing, the demo is fully compatible with all development, starter, and mikromedia boards featuring a mikroBUS™ socket.

Example Description
This example demonstrates the use of GNSS 26 Click by reading and displaying the GNSS coordinates.

Key functions:

  • gnss26_cfg_setup - This function initializes Click configuration structure to initial values.

  • gnss26_init - This function initializes all necessary pins and peripherals used for this Click board.

  • gnss26_generic_read - This function reads a desired number of data bytes by using UART or I2C serial interface.

  • gnss26_parse_gga - This function parses the GGA data from the read response buffer.

  • gnss26_get_pps_pin - This function returns the pulse per second (PPS) pin logic state.

Application Init
Initializes the driver and logger.

Application Task
Reads the received data, parses the NMEA GGA info from it, and once it receives the position fix it will start displaying the coordinates on the USB UART.

Open Source

Code example

The complete application code and a ready-to-use project are available through the NECTO Studio Package Manager for direct installation in the NECTO Studio. The application code can also be found on the MIKROE GitHub account.

/*!
 * @file main.c
 * @brief GNSS 26 Click Example.
 *
 * # Description
 * This example demonstrates the use of GNSS 26 Click by reading and displaying
 * the GNSS coordinates.
 *
 * The demo application is composed of two sections :
 *
 * ## Application Init
 * Initializes the driver and logger.
 *
 * ## Application Task
 * Reads the received data, parses the NMEA GGA info from it, and once it receives 
 * the position fix it will start displaying the coordinates on the USB UART.
 *
 * ## Additional Function
 * - static void gnss26_clear_app_buf ( void )
 * - static void gnss26_log_app_buf ( void )
 * - static err_t gnss26_process ( gnss26_t *ctx )
 * - static void gnss26_parser_application ( uint8_t *rsp )
 *
 * @author Stefan Filipovic
 *
 */

#include "board.h"
#include "log.h"
#include "gnss26.h"

// Application buffer size
#define APP_BUFFER_SIZE             800
#define PROCESS_BUFFER_SIZE         400

static gnss26_t gnss26;
static log_t logger;

static uint8_t app_buf[ APP_BUFFER_SIZE ] = { 0 };
static int32_t app_buf_len = 0;
static uint8_t i2c_data_ready = 0;

/**
 * @brief GNSS 26 clearing application buffer.
 * @details This function clears memory of application buffer and reset its length.
 * @note None.
 */
static void gnss26_clear_app_buf ( void );

/**
 * @brief GNSS 26 log application buffer.
 * @details This function logs data from application buffer to USB UART.
 * @note None.
 */
static void gnss26_log_app_buf ( void );

/**
 * @brief GNSS 26 data reading function.
 * @details This function reads data from device and concatenates data to application buffer. 
 * @param[in] ctx : Click context object.
 * See #gnss26_t object definition for detailed explanation.
 * @return @li @c  0 - Read some data.
 *         @li @c -1 - Nothing is read.
 * See #err_t definition for detailed explanation.
 * @note None.
 */
static err_t gnss26_process ( gnss26_t *ctx );

/**
 * @brief GNSS 26 parser application.
 * @details This function logs GNSS data on the USB UART.
 * @param[in] rsp Response buffer.
 * @return None.
 * @note None.
 */
static void gnss26_parser_application ( uint8_t *rsp );

void application_init ( void ) 
{
    log_cfg_t log_cfg;  /**< Logger config object. */
    gnss26_cfg_t gnss26_cfg;  /**< Click config object. */

    /** 
     * Logger initialization.
     * Default baud rate: 115200
     * Default log level: LOG_LEVEL_DEBUG
     * @note If USB_UART_RX and USB_UART_TX 
     * are defined as HAL_PIN_NC, you will 
     * need to define them manually for log to work. 
     * See @b LOG_MAP_USB_UART macro definition for detailed explanation.
     */
    LOG_MAP_USB_UART( log_cfg );
    log_init( &logger, &log_cfg );
    log_info( &logger, " Application Init " );

    // Click initialization.
    gnss26_cfg_setup( &gnss26_cfg );
    GNSS26_MAP_MIKROBUS( gnss26_cfg, MIKROBUS_1 );
    if ( UART_ERROR == gnss26_init( &gnss26, &gnss26_cfg ) ) 
    {
        log_error( &logger, " Communication init." );
        for ( ; ; );
    }
    
    log_info( &logger, " Application Task " );
}

void application_task ( void ) 
{
    if ( GNSS26_OK == gnss26_process( &gnss26 ) ) 
    {
        gnss26_parser_application( app_buf );
    }
}

int main ( void ) 
{
    /* Do not remove this line or clock might not be set correctly. */
    #ifdef PREINIT_SUPPORTED
    preinit();
    #endif
    
    application_init( );
    
    for ( ; ; ) 
    {
        application_task( );
    }

    return 0;
}

static void gnss26_clear_app_buf ( void ) 
{
    memset( app_buf, 0, app_buf_len );
    app_buf_len = 0;
}

static void gnss26_log_app_buf ( void )
{
    for ( int32_t buf_cnt = 0; buf_cnt < app_buf_len; buf_cnt++ )
    {
        log_printf( &logger, "%c", app_buf[ buf_cnt ] );
    }
}

static err_t gnss26_process ( gnss26_t *ctx ) 
{
    uint8_t rx_buf[ PROCESS_BUFFER_SIZE ] = { 0 };
    int32_t overflow_bytes = 0;
    int32_t rx_cnt = 0;
    int32_t rx_size = 0;
    
    if ( ( GNSS26_DRV_SEL_I2C == ctx->drv_sel ) && ( !i2c_data_ready ) )
    {
        uint16_t pps_wait_log_cnt = 0;
        while ( !gnss26_get_pps_pin ( ctx ) )
        {
            if ( ++pps_wait_log_cnt > 5000 )
            {
                log_printf( &logger, " Waiting for the position fix (PPS signal)...\r\n\n" );
                pps_wait_log_cnt = 0;
            }
            Delay_ms ( 1 );
        }
        i2c_data_ready = 1;
        Delay_ms ( 500 );
    }
    rx_size = gnss26_generic_read( ctx, rx_buf, PROCESS_BUFFER_SIZE );
    if ( ( rx_size > 0 ) && ( rx_size <= APP_BUFFER_SIZE ) ) 
    {
        if ( ( app_buf_len + rx_size ) > APP_BUFFER_SIZE ) 
        {
            overflow_bytes = ( app_buf_len + rx_size ) - APP_BUFFER_SIZE;
            app_buf_len = APP_BUFFER_SIZE - rx_size;
            memmove ( app_buf, &app_buf[ overflow_bytes ], app_buf_len );
            memset ( &app_buf[ app_buf_len ], 0, overflow_bytes );
        }
        for ( rx_cnt = 0; rx_cnt < rx_size; rx_cnt++ ) 
        {
            if ( rx_buf[ rx_cnt ] && ( GNSS26_DUMMY != rx_buf[ rx_cnt ] ) ) 
            {
                app_buf[ app_buf_len++ ] = rx_buf[ rx_cnt ];
            }
        }
        return GNSS26_OK;
    }
    return GNSS26_ERROR;
}

static void gnss26_parser_application ( uint8_t *rsp )
{
    uint8_t element_buf[ 200 ] = { 0 };
    if ( GNSS26_OK == gnss26_parse_gga( rsp, GNSS26_GGA_LATITUDE, element_buf ) )
    {
        static uint8_t wait_for_fix_cnt = 0;
        if ( strlen( element_buf ) > 0 )
        {
            log_printf( &logger, "\r\n Latitude: %.2s degrees, %s minutes\r\n", element_buf, &element_buf[ 2 ] );
            memset( element_buf, 0, sizeof( element_buf ) );
            gnss26_parse_gga( rsp, GNSS26_GGA_LONGITUDE, element_buf );
            log_printf( &logger, " Longitude: %.3s degrees, %s minutes\r\n", element_buf, &element_buf[ 3 ] );
            memset( element_buf, 0, sizeof( element_buf ) );
            gnss26_parse_gga( rsp, GNSS26_GGA_ALTITUDE, element_buf );
            log_printf( &logger, " Altitude: %s m\r\n", element_buf );
            wait_for_fix_cnt = 0;
        }
        else
        {
            if ( wait_for_fix_cnt % 5 == 0 )
            {
                log_printf( &logger, " Waiting for the position fix...\r\n\n" );
                wait_for_fix_cnt = 0;
            }
            wait_for_fix_cnt++;
        }
        gnss26_clear_app_buf( );
        i2c_data_ready = 0;
    }
}

// ------------------------------------------------------------------------ END

Additional Support

Resources

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