Cellular and GPS Antennas

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 Buick Verano. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

This vehicle will be equipped with one of the following types of antennas:

Separate, standalone cellular and navigation antennas
A combination cellular and navigation antenna, which brings the functions of both into a single part
A cellular, GPS, and digital radio receiver antenna, which also incorporates the functionality of the digital radio receiver satellite antenna (XM).
A cellular, GPS, and digital radio receiver antenna, which also incorporates the AM/FM antenna.

The cellular antenna is the component that allows the OnStar® system to send and receive data over airwaves by means of cellular technology. The antenna is connected at the base to a coax cable that plugs directly into the telematics communication interface module.

The GPS antenna is used to collect the signals of the orbiting GPS satellites. Within the antenna is housed a low noise amplifier that allows for a more broad and precise reception of this data. The antenna is connected at the base to a coax cable that plugs directly into the telematics communication interface module. The cable also provides a path for DC current for powering the antenna.

The OnStar® Call Center also has the capability of communicating with the vehicle during an OnStar® call to retrieve the latest GPS location and transmit it to the OnStar® Call Center. A history location of the last recorded position of the vehicle is stored in the module and marked as aged, for as long as the module power is not removed. Actual GPS location may take up to 10 minutes to register in the event of a loss of power.

Navigation Signal Antenna Splitter

The navigation signal splitter is a component for dividing the navigation signal antenna signal into two paths without any transmission loss. It has two RF-connectors, one signal fakra connector and one double fakra connector. Port 1 is the input for connecting to the navigation signal antenna, port 2 is the output for the car OnStar navigation system, port 3 is the output for the navigation radio. Port 1 and 2 are galvanically coupled internally using a matching network. The OnStar system supplies the navigation signal antenna with power via port 2. Connectivity is made between port 1 and 3 though and internal coupling element and low noise amplifier. The navigation radio provides the amplifier with power via port 3.