The StellarMate Pro utilizes a passive GPS antenna for accurate time and location data. To achieve optimal performance, adhering to the following guidelines is recommended:

Environmental Requirements

• Unobstructed View of the Sky: The GPS antenna requires a clear line of sight to satellites for reliable signal reception. Avoid placing the StellarMate Pro near structures, trees, or other obstructions.

Mitigating Electromagnetic Interference

• USB 3.0 Devices: Certain USB 3.0 devices can generate electromagnetic noise that may disrupt GPS signal acquisition. It is recommended to:
  • Utilize high-quality, double-shielded USB 3.0 cables when necessary.
  • Disconnect all USB 3.0 devices during initial GPS lock procedures.

Standalone GPS Lock Procedure

1. Power Off: Ensure the StellarMate Pro is powered off.
2. Disconnect USB 3.0 Devices: Disconnect all USB 3.0 devices from the StellarMate Pro.
3. Open Sky Placement: Position the StellarMate Pro outdoors in an open area with a clear view of the sky.
4. Power On and Wait: Power on the StellarMate Pro and allow approximately 60-90 seconds for GPS signal acquisition. A solid illumination of the USR LED indicates successful lock.
5. Reconnect USB 3.0 Devices: Once the USR LED remains solid, you may reconnect any previously disconnected USB 3.0 devices.

By performing an initial GPS lock upon startup, the StellarMate Pro establishes a time and location reference point. This allows for continued operation even if the StellarMate App is not actively running.

This procedure is intended for situations where the StellarMate App is not being used for device synchronization. When utilizing the StellarMate App, GPS data is typically acquired from the connected phone or tablet.

Using Active Antenna

By default, SM Pro is shipped with a passive GPS antenna. Due to interference issues from USB 3.0 devices and other sources, the satellite signal may not be sufficient to obtain a GPS lock. StellarMate Pro Active GPS Antenna can be used to overcome this limitation.

SM PRO hardware board revision PRO-3 or later (Release October 2024) provides support for external active GPS antennas. The GPS antenna will not work on older PRO-1 and PRO-2 revision boards. You can find your board hardware revision in the device tab.

Place the antenna at least 50 cm away from SM Pro. In StellarMate App, tap the GPS status indicator to toggle between the Passive & GPS antennas.