Carrier mini¶
The Carrier board is the mechanical and electrical support of the MSX system. It does not contain the GNSS module: it hosts the Main board through the mini-PCIe slot and brings its USB-C out to the host.
Purpose of the mini carrier¶
The mini carrier is the simplest, most essential version of the system. Its only purpose is to let you use the receiver entirely over USB. In practice the mini carrier serves to:
- power the Main from the USB-C port;
- receive the RTK corrections (RTCM 3.x) over USB;
- output the position in NMEA format over USB;
- record the raw-data SBF logs over USB.
Info
On the mini carrier the only connector is USB-C. There are no antenna, power or serial connectors on the carrier: RTK in, NMEA out and SBF logs all go through the USB-C cable. Future carriers (e.g. Ethernet for electrical cabinets, UART, external antenna, etc.) are made by changing only the carrier, reusing the same Main through the mini-PCIe interface slot.
The full operating flow is described in USB operation; raw-data logging in SBF logs.
Role in the system¶
- Mechanical support: hosts and secures the Main board through the mini-PCIe slot and the holes/standoffs, defining the overall footprint.
- USB interface: exposes the single USB-C connector to the host and routes power and the USB data line to the Main through the mPCIe slot.
Note
The GNSS antenna connector is not on the carrier: the antenna connects on the Main board / mosaic-X5 module (the module's RF connector). (RF connector type to be confirmed)
Why a separate board¶
Separating the carrier from the board carrying the module makes it possible to:
- mount the same GNSS module on carriers with different features;
- add external interfaces (UART, radio, modem) in the future without redesigning the RF/GNSS part;
- simplify servicing and replacement.
Coupling is via the mini-PCIe (mPCIe) slot: the Main board plugs into the slot, and any future carrier with the same slot and the same pinout will be compatible with the Main. See mini-PCIe interface.
Connectors¶
| Connector | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|
| USB-C | USB Type-C | The only external connector: 5 V power + USB data to the host. |
| mini-PCIe slot | mPCIe connector | Internal coupling with the Main board (see mini-PCIe interface). |
Mechanics¶
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Carrier / backplane for GNSS module |
| Coupling | mini-PCIe (mPCIe) slot + mounting holes/standoffs |
| External connector | USB-C only |
| Footprint | see 3D model (dimensions from mechanical drawing) |
Note
The exact dimensions (length, width, height, hole spacing) are defined in the carrier's mechanical drawing. The 3D model allows indicative measurements but does not replace the dimensioned drawing.
3D model¶
Interactive 3D model of the Carrier mini board. It rotates automatically; drag to rotate, scroll to zoom, right-click to pan.
drag rotate · scroll zoom · right-click pan