I have a Sparkfun RTK Express unit that is in need of repair. It is a Sparkfun RTK Express V13. The L1/L2 Active antenna connection has separated from the unit itself during use, and the unit can no longer be connected to the the GNSS L1/L2 Antenna via cable.
I am wondering if it is possible to repair the unit on my own? I am not sure if it simply needs to be re-soldered, or if a more complicated fix is required. I have included photos of the damage, and the unit itself to further clarify my question. Please inform me as to if I can repair on my own, and what replacement part I would need to order to do so if necessay. Thanks!
I’m sorry to hear about the damage! The SMA connector is anchored in 5 places, but if you pull hard enough, the PCB will delaminate. That footprint is not repairable - the pads have been ripped off the PCB. Our fix for this is to cut out/remove the old damaged PCB allowing us to install a SMA pig tail with the bulkhead connector anchored to the end plate. It requires some careful stripping of the RF cable and soldering some small pitch wire. You are welcome to do it or we offer the repair service for $150.
Hi! Will this repair still allow for connection to the external GNSS antenna unit? We use the GNSS Multi-Band L1/L2 Surveying Antenna - TNC (TOP106) unit I believe. Or a similar model I do not have the unit in front of me currently.
How does the return and repair process work with you if that is the direction we decide upon. And are there repair instructions if we decide on in house repair?
Yes, after the repair, the device looks and acts like before. An external antenna is attached at the same physical location, to the same connector type. The TOP106 works great!
How does the return and repair process work with you if that is the direction we decide upon.
are there repair instructions if we decide on in house repair?
Sadly no, it’s a complex enough modification that we’re concerned that users may do unrecoverable damage. But if you’re interested, we’ll walk you through it.
Thank you for the information. I believe we will go for a repair of the unit. The link you included is for returns. This is not a new purchase and I do not have any of the original order information, and the damage is from general wear and tear. I am looking for repair only, not a simple return. Is this still the correct avenue? Additionally, what exactly needs to be shipped to you for repair to ensure that the repair can be completed properly, and what is the timeline for repair? We are based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. I assume that the repair would be $150 USD? Thanks again!
Yes, returns includes units for repair. It’s just the entry point for our RMA system in general.
Since this is outside warranty claims, there is no need for the original order # - just reference this forum post so we know what you need done.
If you are confident the antenna is still good then all you need to ship us is the unit itself: no carrying case, no cables, no antenna. 99% of the time antenna is fine, and if you have other GNSS equipment, you can confirm it works but if you want to include it with the return we are happy to test that as well once we get your unit repaired.
Yes, the repair cost is $150 USD.
If you pay for shipping to us, we’ll cover the return shipping to you. The return package will be marked as ‘repair’ but any import fees will be your responsibility.
