BN-880 GPS Module U8 with Flash HMC5883L Compass + GPS
Quick take
The BN-880 combines a GPS receiver and an HMC5883L electronic compass into a single module, making it a practical choice for maker builds and open-source flight-controller experiments. GPS output uses UART NMEA sentences, while the compass is delivered over I2C as separate data, so you plan for two sensor streams. The biggest buying caveat is integration, wiring, and setup, including the reality that the first daily satellite fix can take longer than some people expect.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Compass and GPS both work well, but they are separate outputs (GPS over UART NMEA, compass over I2C).
- Supports multiple constellations (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, QZSS, SBAS) and up to 72 channels.
- Flash storage for configuration, reducing the need to reconfigure every session.
- TTL UART output by default, useful for many Arduino and flight-controller style wiring setups.
Cons
- Not intended for flight control with SCM-style setups, it is positioned for open-source flight controllers.
- Integration can take effort, connector fit varies, and some buyers had to solder directly.
- Timing can be longer than expected on first fix, with subsequent fixes improving but still not instant.
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is broadly positive on acquisition and day-to-day behavior, but detailed feedback focuses more on integration than on polished “plug-and-play” performance. Many buyers report the GPS can lock in reliably, with indoor reception noted as better than some handheld units. The most consistent theme is that the compass output is separate from the GPS output, with GPS transmitted as NMEA over serial and compass data provided as I2C readings that require level orientation to translate cleanly into direction. A second recurring theme is wiring and setup, where connector compatibility and baud-rate expectations can differ from what you might assume, leading to soldering or additional configuration work. There is also limited but relevant evidence that the module may take a few minutes to get a full fix the first time out each day.
How the BN-880 works (and what that means for your build)
The BN-880 is designed around two distinct data products:
- GPS data: UART serial output with NMEA-style messages (example sentences include GNRMC, GNVTG, GNGGA, GNGSA, and others).
- Compass data: an electronic compass using the HMC5883L, delivered over I2C as magnetic field readings (not fused into a single “direction” value automatically).
This separation matters because you cannot treat it like a single integrated sensor that outputs one ready-to-use heading stream. You will need software and wiring that reads both interfaces, then converts compass readings appropriately for your use case (including paying attention to orientation, since direction calculations generally assume the unit is level).
Key specifications that affect compatibility
Power and interfaces
- Power range: DC 2.8V to 6.0V (typical operation listed at 3.3V or 5.0V).
- UART interface: TXD and RXD pins, supporting baud rates from 4800 to 115200 (with a default baud rate noted in the product information, though buyers sometimes confirm different defaults depending on the unit).
- Signal level: default TTL output. If your receiving system expects RS-232, you will need a TTL-to-RS232 converter cable.
- Compass interface: I2C signals are brought out as SCL and SDA (plus power and ground pins).
Satellite support and positioning performance
- Satellite navigation: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, QZSS, SBAS.
- Channels: 72 searching channels.
- Accuracy: positioning precision listed around 2m (the listing does not specify real-world conditions, so treat this as a baseline expectation).
- Update rate: output frequency range listed as 1Hz to 10Hz, default 1Hz.
- Fix time: cold and warm start time estimates are listed, and real-world behavior can still vary with conditions.
Pros and cons in real-world terms
When this module is a good fit
- You are building with an Arduino-style ecosystem or open-source flight-controller stack where you can work with UART NMEA and I2C sensor streams.
- You want multi-constellation support to improve satellite availability in different environments.
- You prefer configuration persistence so you are not redoing setup each time you power the module.
Who should look elsewhere
- If your setup requires an all-in-one “single heading” sensor output, the separate compass and GPS interfaces mean extra integration work.
- If you cannot handle small-pitch wiring, connector mismatch may force soldering or custom cabling.
Setup tips to avoid common integration issues
- Plan for two interfaces: UART for NMEA GPS sentences, I2C for compass readings. Make sure your controller has both available (or that your project can support I2C alongside UART).
- Verify baud rate expectations: product information lists a default, but buyer experiences suggest you should confirm what your specific unit outputs before locking your code.
- Match voltage and level requirements: the default is TTL. If your system expects RS-232, use the proper converter.
- Expect a slower first acquisition when satellites are not already “warm,” especially the first time out each day, and then improve on subsequent runs.
Price and availability
Pricing can vary by seller and timing, and availability may change quickly. If you are ready to buy now, check the current listing details to confirm stock status, delivery estimates, and any variant notes that could affect wiring or defaults.
Final verdict
The BN-880 GPS Module U8 with Flash and HMC5883L compass is a strong option for builders who want GPS plus electronic compass data in one compact unit and are comfortable integrating UART NMEA and I2C readings. It is especially compelling for open-source flight-controller experiments and Arduino projects where you can control wiring and software. If your priority is effortless, one-cable “ready-to-use heading” behavior, or you require ultra-fast serial throughput for very high-speed platforms, you may find the integration effort and interface separation less convenient.
FAQ
Does the BN-880 output compass and GPS data together?
No. The GPS and compass outputs are separate. GPS data is sent via UART as NMEA sentences, while the compass uses I2C and outputs magnetic field related integer data. Your project needs to read both interfaces and handle conversion to direction if needed.
Is the BN-880 compatible with arduino and raspberry pi?
It is commonly used with Arduino-style projects, and Raspberry Pi setups typically require software configuration rather than special drivers. Since it uses UART (TTL by default) and I2C for the compass, your wiring and code need to match those interfaces.
What serial baud rate does it use?
The product information lists a default baud rate and also indicates supported baud-rate ranges. Buyer experiences also suggest you should confirm the actual default your unit outputs before finalizing your serial configuration.
Does it save configuration in flash?
Yes. Flash storage is included for saving configuration so you do not necessarily need to reconfigure it on every power cycle.
How long does it take to get a GPS fix?
Fix time depends on conditions. The listing provides start-time estimates, and some buyers note that the first fix on a given day can take a few minutes, with faster acquisition on subsequent runs.
Can I use it for flight control?
It is positioned as suitable for open-source flight controllers, not for flight control setups using SCM. If your system has specific interface expectations, confirm that UART wiring and compass I2C access match your flight-controller requirements.
Specifications
| Product Title | BN-880 GPS Module U8 with Flash HMC5883L Compass + GPS Active Antenna Support GPS Glonass Beidou Car Navigation for Arduino Raspberry Pi Aircraft Pixhawk APM Flight Controller |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Car & Vehicle Electronics > Aviation Electronics > Aviation GPS |
| Brand | Geekstory |
| Manufacturer | Geekstory |
| Model Number | FZ2920 |
| Item Weight | 18.14 g |
| Product Dimensions | 2.8"L x 1.1"W |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car |
| Connectivity Technology | Cellular |
| Map Types | Street |
| Mounting Type | Dashboard Mount |
| Operating System | Linux |
| Display Type | LED |
| Human-Interface Input | Buttons |
| Control Method | App |
| Are Batteries Included | No |
| Supported Satellite Navigation System | GPS |
| Connectivity Protocol | Cellular |
| Built-In Media | BN-880 GPS Module, 15cm Cable |
| UPC | 702795764043 |
| Mfr Part Number | Beitian BN |
| Item Dimensions L x W x H | 2.8"L x 1.1"W |
| Vehicle Service Type | Car |
| Map Type | Street |
| Included Components | BN-880 GPS Module, 15cm Cable |
Available variants
Size
- BN-880
- DY-880
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