Spektrum GPS Module: Sportsman +
Quick take
The Spektrum GPS Module: Sportsman + adds GPS functionality to compatible aircraft configurations, and buyers highlight features such as Virtual Fence and Autoland. It is a high-quality Spektrum accessory, but installation space, connector access, and first-time GPS lock and compass calibration are real considerations. If you are ready to do careful setup and secure mounting, it can be a worthwhile add-on.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Spektrum build quality that buyers describe as solid and reliable.
- Unlocks GPS-related capabilities for compatible airframes, including Virtual Fence and Autoland.
- Multiple setup signals during onboarding (GPS seeking, then compass calibration) that can help guide the process.
- Bluetooth connectivity is part of the module’s supported connectivity options.
Cons
- Installation can be fiddly when the flight-controller port is hard to access or when internal space is tight.
- Initial GPS lock and compass calibration require following the correct procedure and order.
- Price is a recurring complaint, especially when buyers feel the cost is high for the component itself.
- Wiring and plug retention can be an issue if the module is not mounted securely.
What buyers think
Buyer feedback is generally positive about the module’s overall quality and how it performs when set up correctly. Reviewers commonly describe the GPS unit as an effective add-on that supports advertised capabilities, with Virtual Fence and Autoland showing up as standout features for the right model setups. A consistent theme is that setup is not “plug-and-play,” with buyers calling out GPS seeking and compass calibration steps that must be done in the proper order. There is also limited but relevant feedback that connector access and tight mounting spots can make installation more annoying than the quality of the hardware itself.
What this module is for
The Spektrum GPS Module: Sportsman + is designed to integrate GPS capability into compatible aircraft systems. If you are building or upgrading a Spektrum-compatible aircraft airframe and want GPS-driven behaviors, this module is the kind of accessory you add specifically to enable those flight features. It is categorized as a GPS system accessory module, and it supports GPS as its satellite navigation system.
Key features that matter for buyers
GPS-driven features for aircraft
Buyers specifically mention Virtual Fence as “really cool,” and they also note Autoland as part of the appeal. If your upgrade goals include those kinds of GPS-influenced behaviors, this is the feature direction you should evaluate before purchasing.
Setup feedback during GPS lock and compass calibration
Reviewers describe an onboarding flow where the system enters GPS seeking mode first, then transitions into compass calibration. For pilots who prefer to be guided by system behavior while they follow instructions, that staged process can be helpful, as long as you follow the required sequence.
Connectivity options
The module supports Bluetooth connectivity. If your workflow uses a compatible smartphone or tablet interface, this connectivity detail can matter when planning how you will manage setup and related configuration steps.
Installation and calibration: where buyers spend most of their time
The most common practical friction points show up around installation fit and the first-time calibration workflow.
Plan for space and connector access
One theme in feedback is that installation can be harder when the flight-controller connection is on the side and not easily visible, or when the available space inside the model is tight. If you are working with a compact radio bay or an airframe with limited room, take time to verify that you can route the wire harness cleanly and seat the connector firmly.
Secure the module so the plug does not get pulled
Some buyers warn that the connector can loosen if the wire harness is pulled, especially in tight installations. A secure mount is more than cosmetic here. Use whatever method fits your airframe to prevent movement that could stress the plug over time.
Follow the GPS lock and compass calibration order
For first-time use, buyers mention performing an initial GPS lock and compass calibration before flight. They also emphasize that the calibration procedure depends on correct setup sequencing, not just completing the steps in general. If you skip ahead or vary the order, it can lead to confusion during calibration.
Pros and cons summary
- Choose it if you have a compatible Spektrum aircraft setup and want GPS-driven features like Virtual Fence and Autoland.
- Choose something else (or wait) if your airframe has extremely limited internal space and you are not comfortable troubleshooting connector access and careful calibration steps.
- Budget reality: price is a frequent buyer complaint, so make sure your feature needs justify the cost for your specific build.
Is Spektrum GPS Module: Sportsman + worth it?
It tends to be worth it when your upgrade plan is clearly GPS-feature focused and you can dedicate time to correct installation and calibration. Buyers who get through the setup properly describe it as working as expected and fitting well with Spektrum-quality expectations. If your main goal is convenience with minimal setup effort, the calibration and mounting realities are the main reasons this module may feel like too much work.
Alternatives to consider
Because GPS accessories vary heavily by platform compatibility, the best alternative depends on your aircraft controller ecosystem and which features you care about most (for example, whether you specifically need Virtual Fence and Autoland). When comparing options, prioritize:
- Compatibility with your flight controller and Spektrum components.
- Feature match (GPS behaviors you actually want in flight).
- Setup complexity, especially calibration steps and how accessible the wiring/ports are in your airframe.
- Total cost relative to how many of the GPS features you will use.
Price and availability
Pricing varies by retailer. If you are evaluating the value, consider the sticker shock buyers mention as a factor, then weigh it against the specific GPS features you plan to use and the time you are willing to spend on installation and initial calibration.
Want to check current pricing? Buy on Amazon
FAQs
How hard is the initial setup for the Spektrum GPS Module: Sportsman +?
Buyers describe it as setup-heavy compared with a simple plug-in accessory. Expect to complete GPS lock and compass calibration steps and follow the required procedure and order carefully.
Does the module work for tight radio bays?
The module can be straightforward if you have accessible mounting space. Some buyers report difficulties when the flight-controller port is on the side and not visible, so tight installations may require extra care with connector access and routing.
What GPS-based features do buyers mention most?
Buyers highlight Virtual Fence and Autoland as standout capabilities when the module is set up correctly for their aircraft configuration.
What connectivity options are supported?
The module supports Bluetooth connectivity, along with smartphone and tablet compatibility options for interacting with the ecosystem during setup and configuration workflows.
Is this module overpriced?
Price is a recurring point of dissatisfaction in reviews. Whether it feels justified depends on how many GPS features you will actually use and how comfortable you are with the installation and calibration effort.
Do I need to secure the connector/mount?
For best reliability, secure mounting matters. Some buyers note that if the plug or wire harness is pulled, it can come loose, so preventing movement in the radio bay is important.
Specifications
| Product Title | Spektrum GPS Module: Sportsman + |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > GPS, Finders & Accessories > GPS System Accessories > Traffic Message Channel (TMC) Receiver Modules |
| Brand | Spektrum |
| Manufacturer | Horizon Hobby |
| Model Name | GPS Module |
| Model Number | SPMA3173 |
| Item Weight | 0.04 Kilograms |
| Product Dimensions | 4"L x 2.6"W x 0.57"H |
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Aircraft |
| Additional Features | Voice Control |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth |
| Map Types | Worldwide |
| Mounting Type | Panel Mount |
| Operating System | Windows |
| Touch Screen Type | Resistive |
| Display Type | LCD |
| Human-Interface Input | Buttons |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphone, Tablet |
| Control Method | Voice |
| Are Batteries Included | No |
| Supported Satellite Navigation System | GPS |
| Connectivity Protocol | Bluetooth |
| Sport Type | Airsports |
| Built-In Media | Spektrum GPS Module: Sportsman |
| UPC | 605482593332 |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00605482593332 |
| Mfr Part Number | SPMA3173 |
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