MX421 Installation Manual

MX421 High Precision GPS/DGPS Sensor
Installation
Manual
l
MX421
High Precision GPS Sensor
INSTALLATION MANUAL
Models Covered:
MX421
MX421B
MX421-10
MX421B-10
MX Marine.
23868 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 201
Torrance, CA 90505-5908
U.S.A.
www.mx-marine.com
P/N 723594
Rev. D
April, 2004
By: GTD
MX Marine
MX Marine reserves the right to make changes to its products and specifications
without notice.
How To Contact Us?
Contact your local Leica dealer for:

• Installation, Service, & Technical Support
• Sales of Accessories
• Hardware and Software Upgrades
Unlike many other consumer electronics industries which only sell consumer elec-
tronic devices, your marine dealer is often your best advisor for installation and
service of your new GPS receiver. MX Marine strongly encourages you to utilize the
knowledge and experience of your sales and service dealer.
Should you need to contact us directly for new sales, upgrades, repair service, or
technical support, we can be reached at the following:
International:
MX Marine, Leica Geosystems (USA)
Torrance, California 90505
USA
+1-310-791-8213 Telephone (International)

+1-310-791-6108 Fax
[email protected]
In Europe:
MX Marine, Leica Geosystems (UK)
Ocean Quay
Southampton
SO14 5QY
United Kingdom
Phone: +44 (2380) 33-99-22

Fax: +44 (2380) 33-03-45
This page was left blank intentionally.
Table of Contents
Introduction .................................................................................................... 1
MX421 Operation ........................................................................................... 2
Antenna Connector ................................................................................... 3
Supplied Equipment ...................................................................................... 4
MX421 Mounting Guidelines ......................................................................... 6
Installation Procedure .................................................................................... 6
Antenna Mounting ......................................................................................... 6
Bracket Mount ........................................................................................... 6
Surface Mount ........................................................................................... 6
Figure 2 - MX421 Bracket Mount ......................................................... 7
Figure 3 - MX421 Surface Mount ......................................................... 7
MX421 Installation Section ............................................................................ 9
Power Requirement ................................................................................. 10
MX421 Connector Configuration ............................................................. 11
Figure 4 - Interface Cable Pin Configuration for MX421..................... 11
MX421B Connector Configuration .......................................................... 12
Figure 5 - Interface Cable Configuration for MX421B ....................... 12
Data Interface to MK40 Chartplotter ........................................................ 13
Figure 6 - MX421 Interface to the MK40 Chartplotter ......................... 13
Data Interface to PC or Non-Leica Navigation Systems .......................... 14
Figure 7 - MX421 Interface to PC or other Non-Leica Navigation
Systems ............................................................................................. 14
PC Interface Cable .................................................................................. 15
Figure 8 - MX421 to PC Interface Cable (P/N 722206) ...................... 15
MX421-10 Installation Section ..................................................................... 17
Power Requirement ................................................................................ 18
MX421-10 Connector Configuration ....................................................... 19
Figure 9 - Interface Cable Pin Configuration for
MX421-10............................................................................................ 19
External Differential Beacon Receiver Connection ............................... 19
MX421B-10 & MX421SB-10 Connector Configuration ........................... 20
Figure 10 - Interface Cable Configuration for MX421B-10 and
MX421SB-10 ....................................................................................... 20
Data Interface to MK40 Chartplotter ...................................................... 21
Figure 11 - MX421-10 Interface to the MK40
Chartplotter........................................................................................ 21
Data Interface to MX420/2 or MK12 CDU ................................................. 22
Figure 12 - MX421-10 Interface to a MX420/2 and MK12 CDUs ......... 22
Data Interface to MX420/8 or MX420/AIS CDU ........................................ 23
Figure 13 - MX421-10 Interface to MX420/8 or MX420/AIS CDUs ....... 23
Data Interface to PC or Non-Leica Navigation Systems .......................... 24
Figure 14 - MX421-10 Interface to a PC chartplotter or Other Non-
Leica Navigation Systems ................................................................. 24
Specifications .............................................................................................. 25
Data Output ................................................................................................. 27
PRODUCT WARRANTY AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY ........................... 30
How Are We Doing? .................................................................................... 32
MX421 Installation Manual
Introduction
This manual describes the operation and installation of the MX421 family of high-
precision smart antennas.
The MX421 GPS and DGPS smart antennas were designed to work with the latest
MX Marine Control and Display Units (CDU) or other NMEA 0183 compatible navi-
gation devices. The MX421 can achieve position fix accuracies of better than 1
meter with differential correction or better than 3 meters without correction.
Antenna models covered in this manual are:
MX421 - a GPS only smart antenna with an 8-pin power/data connector.
MX421B - a combined GPS and Differential beacon smart antenna with an 8-pin
power/data connector. The beacon receiver operates in automatic mode
only.
MX421-10 - a GPS only smart antenna with a 10-pin power/data connector. This
antenna can accept differential corrections from an external beacon re-
ceiver. A 1 PPS timing output is optionally available.
MX421B-10 - a combined GPS and Differential beacon smart antenna with a 10-pin
power/data connector. The built-in beacon receiver operates in auto mode.
These models use identical housing styles. To determine the particular model of
antenna you have, please check the number of connector pins and the model num-
ber inscribed on the serial number tag located at the underside of the antenna
housing and consult the section in this manual that refers to it.
Before installing the MX421, please read this manual carefully to ensure proper
installation and operation of the unit.
1
MX421 Operation
The MX421 and MX421B sensors are highly integrated antenna and GPS/DGPS
receiver units that are fully automatic and does not require user intervention. They
will automatically search for available satellites as soon as power is applied. The
internal 2-channel beacon receiver in the MX421B and MX421B-10 continuously
monitors all beacon signals available in your location. The first channel tracks the
primary station while the second channel searches for other available beacons.
Should it find a superior signal it will automatically switch the primary channel to the
new station. The combined performance of the high-precision 12-channel GPS and
2-channel beacon receivers provide a more accurate and reliable position fix, usu-
ally within 1 meter or less.
The MX421SB-10 is an enhanced MX421B-10 DGPS smart antenna unit that can
either automatically tune to the beacon frequency or can be controlled by a MX
Marine MX420 CDU to manually select the beacon frequency.
The MX421 DGPS was designed with an H-Field beacon antenna for better on-
board electrical noise immunity and requires no grounding.
Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring (RAIM)
RAIM is a special software algorithm in the MX421 program which gives the opera-
tor timely warnings when the system should not be used for navigation. This feature
requires at least five or more GPS satellites to operate properly. If the position
solution error exceeds a preset limit a “RAIM Unsafe (R-)” or ”RAIM Caution (R?)
alarm will be indicated in the MX CDU. This means that the accuracy of the position
can not be guaranteed at that point in time. The operator is advised to take precau-
tionary measures until the RAIM indicator switches to (R+) denoting safe RAIM
condition.
Position errors may be caused by unhealthy satellites, incorrect pseudoranges,

poor DGPS corrections, excessive atmospheric interference and problems at par-
ticular reference stations.
Note:
To use the RAIM feature, the following conditions must be met:
1) The MX CDU requires a special RAIM option “RAIM license”.
2) The MX421 must have the program version V4.846. Older versions of the MX421
are not capable of doing RAIM calculations.
Refer to the MX CDU Operator Manual for RAIM setup procedure.
2
MX421 Mounting
The MX421 antenna housing is weather-resistant and must be located outside where
it will have a good view of the sky around it. Use a standard 1”-14 TPI bracket for
mounting.
Antenna Connector
The multi-pin connector at the bottom of the antenna housing provides the neces-
sary interfacing between the MX421 smart antenna and the latest MX Marine CDU
or other NMEA compatible devices. Older production MX421 antennas use 8-pin
connectors while new build units (MX421-10) use 10-pin connectors. The interface
connections from pins 1 through 6 are similar for all MX421 models. There are
slight differences in Pins 7 & 10 for each model, which are indicated in Table 1. The
two additional pins (9 & 10) on the newer production MX421 are used to output the
1 PPS signal.
Table 1 - MX421 Smart Antenna Configuration

8-Pin Conn. (old) 10-Pin Conn. (new)
Pin Wire
# Color MX421 MX421B MX421-10 MX421B-10
GPS DGPS GPS DGPS
BLK/
1 Negative Ground
SHIELD
2 RED +10.5 ~ 32 VDC
3 BLU Leica Proprietary Message (LPM) In (-)

4 BRN Leica Proprietary Message (LPM) In (+)
5 ORG GPS Out (-)
6 GRN GPS Out (+)
Beacon Status Beacon Status
7 YEL N/C RTCM In (-)
Out (-) Out (-)
Beacon Status Beacon Status
8 WHT N/C RTCM In (+)
Out (+) Out (+)
9 PRPL N/A N/A 1 PPS (+)
PRPL/
10 N/A N/A 1 PPS (-)
GRY
3
Supplied Equipment
The following items are supplied with the MX421 Sensor:
Description Part Number
(8-Pin Connector type)
MX421 723240
or,
MX421B 723241
MX421 Installation Manual 723594
10 mtr. Antenna Cable Assy. (not included in the kit)
(8-wire cable) 722569
(10-Pin Connector type)

MX421-10 9525 200 80100
or,
MX421B-10 9525 200 80110
or,
The antenna cable assembly is not included and must be ordered separately.
Please specify the cable length required. Below are available lengths in stock:
20 meters 3508 102 70170
40 meters 3508 102 70180
60 meters 3508 102 70640
80 meters (special order only)
4
MX421 High Precision GPS Sensor
Installation
Manual
Figure 1 - MX421 Sensor Standard Package
5
MX421 Mounting Guidelines

• Install the MX421 where it has a clear view of the sky around it.
• Locate the antenna for an easy access and maintenance.
• Stay away from high-power energy sources such as radar, SSB, INMARSAT
and other transmitting radio antennas by 5 meters or more.
• Locate the antenna at least 10 feet (about 3 meters) away from and out of
the transmitting beam of radar and other high-power transmitters.
• Mount the antenna low to avoid excessive position and speed errors while
underway (see Figure 1 below).
RADAR ANT.
INMARSAT
ANT.
MAIN
MAST
VHF OR MF .)
(min
ANT. eter
MX MARINE 10 M
ANT.
10 M.
3 M. 1 M.
MOUNT THE MX521/421
10 M. (Min) FORWARD OF MAIN MAST
Figure 1 - Antenna Location Diagram

Note: If you are not sure if the chosen location is appropriate, you can mount
the antenna temporarily and operate the unit. Monitor the operation of
the MX421 while you turn on other on-board electronic equipment. Move
the antenna around until the MX421 operates satisfactorily then mount
it permanently.
6
Installation Procedure
Antenna Mounting
Bracket Mount
The MX421 mounting thread is an industry standard fitting for VHF antenna mount-
ing (1.0 inch, 14 TPI) . This enables the antenna to be mounted on a wide range of
mounting brackets, including the swivel joints, commonly used for angled surface.
Refer to Fig. 2 for bracket mounting illustration.
Note: Hand-tighten the antenna onto the bracket until snug. Do not over-
tighten.
Surface Mount
The MX421 may also be surface-mounted. A template is provided to help you cut
the mounting holes. There must be at least a 3 inch clearance at the bottom of the
antenna to accommodate the lower section of the MX421 housing and connector.
Refer to Fig. 3 for surface mounting considerations.
An 8 or 10 pin (male) plastic connector is mounted at the underside of the antenna
for power and data connection.
The supplied cable assembly is 10 meters (33 feet) long, with an 8 or 10-pin
(female) connector on one end. This connector plugs into the MX421. When used
with the MK40 chartplotter or MX420 CDU, the other end of the cable (with loose
wires) connects to the antenna junction box as shown in Figure 4. If the MX421 is
to be used with other navigation system, refer to Figure 7 (Connection to Non-MX
Marine Navigation Systems).
Choose a location for the antenna that has a clear view of the sky. Make sure there
are no major obstructions or metal fixtures in the immediate proximity to the an-
tenna. The GPS antenna relies on direct ‘line-of-sight’ signal reception. If you are
unsure that the chosen location is suitable, it is advisable to mount the antenna in
a temporary manner to verify correct operation.
7
1” Diameter/14 TPI
Metal Mounting
Bracket
(not supplied)
Secure cable
with plastic
tie-wraps
(not supplied)
Mounting
Surface
Drill 1/4” diameter hole

for cable access
Figure 2 - MX421 Bracket Mount
Mounting
Surface
Recommended
3.0”
Mounting clearance under

screws (4 places) the antenna
Figure 3 - MX421 Surface Mount
8
MX421 Installation Section
(Use this section when installing the MX421 or the MX421B

with 8-pin connector)
9
Power Requirement
External power supplied to the MX421 must be within 10.5-32 VDC for best operation.
To protect the circuitry in the antenna, the voltage level must be within these limits.
Negative grounding is required. The MX421B draws about 230 mA. at 12 VDC. An
in-line fuse or circuit breaker rated at 2 amp. is recommended for overload protection.
When the MX421 is connected to a MX Marine control display unit (CDU), the
antenna power can be supplied by the CDU unit.
The red wire connects to the +12 VDC power, while the black wire is the negative
return. Although the MX421 has a reverse polarity protection, it is prudent to make
sure that proper polarity is observed before making the connection.
Note: Reverse polarity connection may damage the unit.
10
MX421 Connector Configuration

The MX421 is a smart GPS only antenna configuration. It transmits the NMEA data
at 4800 baud, 8 bits, 1 stop, no parity. Figure 4 shows the MX421 connector pin
assignments.
Pin# Wire Signal

8 White N/C
1
7 Yellow N/C
7
6 Green GPS Out +
6 2
8 5 Orange GPS Out -
5 3 4 Brown LPM IN+
4 3 Blue LPM IN-
2 Red +12 VDC
1 Black GND.
Figure 4 - Interface Cable Pin Configuration for MX421

Where:
Pins 1 & 2: are used for GND and 12 VDC input.
Pins 3 & 4: MX Marine proprietary message (MPM) input port.
Pins 5 & 6: GPS output to the MK40, MX420 (CDU) or other NMEA 183 compatible
devices.
Pins 7 & 8: Not connected.
11
MX421B Connector Configuration
The MX421B antenna configuration is a combination GPS and beacon receiver in

one. The built-in differential receiver operates in auto-search mode. It enhances the
accuracy of the GPS receiver to provide a more accurate position solution. Position
accuracy better than 1 meter is possible with this configuration.
It transmits the NMEA data at 4800 bauds, 8 bits, 1 stop, no parity. Figure 5 shows
the wiring and pin assignments for the MX421B antenna. The output on pins 5 and
6 can be optionally set to output GGA at 5 Hz. The standard NMEA 0183 protocol is
the factory default setting.
Data output change may be done only in the factory.
Pin# Wire Signal

8 White Beacon OUT+
7 1
7 Yellow Beacon OUT-
6 Green GPS Out +
6 2 5 Orange GPS Out -
8
5 3 4 Brown LPM IN+
4 3 Blue LPM IN-
2 Red +12 VDC
1 Black GND.
Figure 5 - Interface Cable Configuration for MX421B

Where:
Pins 1 & 2: are the GND and 12 VDC power input.
Pins 3 & 4: MX Marine proprietary message (LPM) input port.
Pins 5 & 6: GPS output to the MK40, MX420 or other NMEA 0183 compatible
devices.
Pins 7 & 8: Beacon monitoring signal output.
12
Data Interface to MK40 Chartplotter

The MX421 and MX421B connection to the MK40 antenna terminal box is shown
below. Only three wires from the MX421 or MX421B cable are used, namely;
RED ------------------ +12 VDC
Black/Shield -------- Negative Return and Signal GND
GREEN ------------- GPS Data +
MX421
MX421B
TxD (BRW)
N.C.(WHT) Pin 6 (Green) GPS OUT
RxD (GRN) Pin 1 (Black/Shield) GND
+12 V (RED) CN1
Pin 2 (Red) +12 VDC
GND
12V
TXD
DG
RX
GND (SHD)
To MK40
Figure 6 - MX421 Interface to the MK40 Chartplotter
13
Data Interface to a PC or Non-MX Marine Navigation Systems

Figure 7 shows the power and data input/output connections to a PC or other non-
MX Marine navigation systems using a terminal strip and DB9 connector (user
supplied items) to terminate the wires. This configuration is also used for uploading
the MX421 software.
Pin 6 (Green) GPS OUT

Pin 1 (Shield) Gnd
Pin 2 (Red) +12 VDC
Pin 4 (Brown) LPM In (+)
Pin 3 (Blue) LPM In(-)
Shield
Green
Blue
Red
Brown
Terminal
Strip
1 2 4 6
DB9 Connector
(Female)
Data Out
1
2 Amp 2
Data In
Fuse 3
4
Common GND To Navigation
5
6 PC
7
8
9
Figure 7 - MX421 Interface to PC or other Non-MX Marine Navigation

Systems
14
PC Interface Cable
An optional PC interface cable (P/N 722206) is available shown in Figure 8. The
cable and connectors are pre-assembled to simplify equipment hookup between
the PC and MX421. Antenna power can be connected to a 12 volt battery through
the cigarette lighter adapter. This cable assembly can be purchased from any MX
Marine authorized representatives.
Figure 8 - MX421 to PC Interface Cable (P/N 722206)
15
16
MX421-10 Installation Section
(Use this section when installing the MX421 antenna with the 10-Pin
connector only)
17
Power Requirement
External power supplied to the MX421 must be within 10.5-32 VDC for best operation.
To protect the circuitry in the antenna, the voltage level must be within these limits.
Negative grounding is required. The MX421B-10 draws about 230 mA. at 12 VDC.
An in-line fuse or circuit breaker rated at 2 amp. is recommended for overload
protection.
When the MX421 is connected to a MX Marine control display unit (CDU), the
antenna power can be supplied by the CDU unit.
The red wire connects to the +12 VDC power, while the Black wire is the negative
return. Although the MX421 has a reverse polarity protection, it is prudent to make
sure that proper polarity is observed before making the connection.
Note: Reverse polarity connection may damage the unit.
18
MX421-10 Connector Configuration

The MX421-10 is a smart GPS only antenna configuration. It transmits the NMEA
data at 4800 baud, 8 bits, 1 stop, no parity. Figure 9 shows the MX421-10 connector
pin assignments.
Pin# Wire Signal

10 Prpl/Gry 1 PPS -
10 1 9 Purple 1 PPS +
8 White RTCM In +
9 2 7 Yellow RTCM In -
8 3 6 Green GPS Out +
6 5 4 Brown LPM In+
3 Blue LPM In-
2 Red +12~32 VDC
1 Black Negative GND.
Figure 9 - Interface Cable Pin Configuration for MX421-10

Where:
Pins 1 & 2: are used for GND and 12 VDC input.
Pins 5 & 6: GPS output to the MK12, MX420 (CDU) or other NMEA 183 compatible
devices.
Pins 7 & 8: connect to an external beacon receiver like the MX Marine MX41R.
Pins 9 & 10: 1 Pulse Per Second (PPS) output
External Differential Beacon Receiver Connection

Differential corrections from an external beacon receiver can be connected to
the MX421-10 (GPS only) model. Connections are done directly to yellow (Pin
7) and white (Pin 8) wires of the MX421-10 I/O cable. It will accept RTCM SC-
104 signal at 4800 baud.
19
MX421B-10 & MX421SB-10 Connector Configuration
The MX421B-10 and MX421SB-10 antenna configuration is a combination GPS and

beacon receiver in one. The built-in differential receiver operates in auto-search mode
in the MX421B-10, while the MX421SB-10 can either be auto or manual mode. It
enhances the accuracy of the GPS receiver to provide a more accurate position
solution. Position accuracy better than 1 meter is possible with this configuration.
Pin# Wire Signal

10 Prpl/Gry 1 PPS -
10 1 9 Purple 1 PPS +
8 White Beacon Status Out +
9 2 7 Yellow Beacon- Status Out -
8 3 6 Green GPS Out +
6 5 4 Brown LPM IN+
3 Blue LPM IN-
2 Red +12~32 VDC
1 Black Negative GND.
Figure 10 - Interface Cable Configuration for MX421B-10 and MX421SB-10

Where:
Pins 1 & 2: are the GND and 12 VDC power input.
Pins 5 & 6: GPS output to the MK40, MX420 or other NMEA 0183 compatible
devices.
Pins 7 & 8: Beacon monitoring signal output. Sends the SNR, Signal and
Frequency to the MX Marine MX420/8 CDU. Connects to Cable B of
the MX420/8 CDU.
Pins 9 & 10: 1 PPS output
20
Data Interface to MK40 Chartplotter

Follow the diagram in Figure 11 to interface the MX421 antenna to the MK40
chartplotter. The MX421-10 and MX421B-10 connection to the MK40 terminal box
is shown below. Only three wires from the MX421 or MX421B cable are used,
namely;
RED ------------------ +12 ~32 VDC
Black ----------------- Negative Return and Signal GND
GREEN ------------- GPS Data +
MX421-10
MX421B-10
TxD (BRW)
N.C.(WHT) Pin 6 (Green) GPS OUT +
RxD (GRN) Pin 1 (Black) Gnd.
+12 V (RED) CN1
Pin 2 (Red) +12 VDC
GND
12V
TXD
RX
DG
GND (SHD)
To MK40
Figure 11 - MX421-10 Interface to the MK40 Chartplotter
21
Data Interface to MX420/2 or MK12 CDU
Use the diagram in Figure 12 to interface the MX421-10 to a MX Marine MX420/2 or

the MK12 CDU.
MX421-10
MX421B-10
(16) Red/Wht Red (+12 VDC)

MX420/2 or (1) Shield Blk/Shield (GND)
Mk12 CDU (8) Org
(9) Org/Wht
Grn (GPS Out +)
Org (GPS Out -)
(10) Yel Brn (LPM In +)
(11) Yel/Blk Blu (LPM In -)
(4) Brn In (A)
(5) Brn/Wht In (B)
(6) Prpl NMEA1 I/O
Out (A)
(7) Prpl/Wht
Out (B)
(12) Grn
Cable A
In (A)
(13) Grn/Wht
In (B) NMEA2 I/O
(14) Blu Out (A)
(15) Blu/wht Out (B)
(17) Gry NMEA2 Tx (RS-232)
(18) Blk/Wht
Ext. Alarm
(3) Blk
(2) Red
Terminal
Strip + -
(User Supplied) 12~32 VDC
Supply
Figure 12 - MX421-10 Interface to a MX420/2 and MK12 CDUs
22
Data Interface to MX420/8 or MX420/AIS CDU
Use the diagram in Figure 13 to interface the MX421B-10 to a MX Marine MX420/8

or MX420/AIS CDU.
MX421B-10
(16) Red/Wht Red (+12 VDC)

MX420/8 (1) Shield Blk/Shield (GND)
(8) Org Grn (GPS Out +)
or MX420/AIS (9) Org/Wht Org (GPS Out -)
(10) Yel Brn (LPM In +)
(11) Yel/Blk Blu (LPM In -)
(4) Brn In (A)
(5) Brn/Wht In (B)
(6) Prpl NMEA1 I/O
Out (A)
(7) Prpl/Wht
Out (B)
(12) Grn
Cable A
In (A)
(13) Grn/Wht
In (B)
Cable B
(14) Blu NMEA2 I/O

Out (A)
(15) Blu/wht Out (B)
(17) Gry NMEA2 Tx (RS-232)
(18) Blk/Wht
Ext. Alarm
(3) Blk
(2) Red
Terminal
Strip + -
(User Supplied) 12~32 VDC
Supply
(4) Brn White (Beacon Status Out +)
(5) Brn/Wht Yellow (Beacon Status Out -)
(17) Gray Purple (1 PPS +)
(18) Gray/Blk Purple/Gray (1 PPS -)
Figure 13 - MX421-10 Interface to MX420/8 or MX420/AIS CDUs
23
Data Interface to PC or Non-MX Marine Navigation Systems

Figure 14 shows the power and data input/output connections to a PC of other non-
MX Marine navigation systems using a terminal strip and DB9 connector (user
supplied items) to terminate the wires. This configuration is also used for uploading
the MX421-10 software.
Pin 6 (Green) GPS OUT

Pin 1 (Black) GNDT
Pin 2 (Red) +12 VDC
Pin 4 (Brown) LPM In (+)
Pin 3 (Blue) LPM In (-)
Green
Brown
Black
Red
Blue
Terminal
Strip
1 2 4 6
DB9 Connector
(Female)
1
Data Out
2 Amp 2
Data In
Fuse 3
4
Common GND
5 To Navigation
6 PC
7
8
9
Figure 14 - MX421-10 Interface to a PC chartplotter or Other Non-MX Marine

Navigation Systems
24
Specifications
GPS Receiver
Type: L1, C/A Code (SPS), 12-channel
continuous Tracking.
Frequency: 1575.42 MHz (L1 band)
Receiver sensitivity: -143 dBm Costas threshold
Update rate: 1 Hz to 5 Hz
DGPS Input: RTCM SC-104 format
Receiver maximum input signal: -10 dBW
Satellite measurement use: 12 channel parallel automatic selection
Antenna type: Ceramic Patch
Maximum navigation dynamics:
Maximum receiver dynamics: 2125 m.p.h. (950 m/s) 4G (39.2 m/s/s)
Time to first fix:
Cold start (no almanac or other data): 120 sec. Typical, 150 sec 90% prob
able
Warm start (almanac, last fix-position
and time known) 48 sec (typical), 60 sec 90% probable
Reacquisition time: <40 sec. Blockage: 2 sec. (Typical)
Position accuracy:
With differential corrections <1 meters 2D-RMS depending on
distance from differential base station.
Without differential corrections <3 meter 2D-RMS CEP (SA off)
Input/Output interface: NMEA 0183 signal levels (optically
isolated input) at 4800 baud.
Datum: WGS84
Output messages: NMEA V3.0, GGA, GRS, GSA, GSV,
GST, RMC, VTG, ZDA & PMVXG,GBS
(MX Marine proprietary)
Complies with CE emissions: CE EMC Standard EN50081-1
EN50082-1
25
Beacon Receiver
(For MX421B model)
Frequency: 283.5 to 325.0 kHz. 2-channel Auto or
Manual selection (500 Hz steps)
Minimum Signal: 15 uV/m
Station Selection: Automatic or Manual on two indepen-
dent receiver channels
Dynamic Range: 90 dB
Adjacent Channel Rejection: 40 dB (500 Hz)
Channel spacing: 500 Hz
Frequency offset tolerance: + 5 Hz
Antenna type: H-Field
Sensitivity: This is strongly influenced by the
atmospheric noise level. Typically a
level of 40 dBuV/m will provide a
usable signal with a 10 dB signal to
noise ratio at 200 bps data rate. In
very quite locations and with a data
rate of 50 bps, a level of 20 dbuV/m will
provide a usable signal.
Input/Output interface: NMEA 0183 signal levels (optically
isolated input) at 4800 baud.
MSK rates: 100 and 200 (automatic or manual
selection).
Physical Characteristics
Size: Height 3 1/2 in. (89 mm.)
Diameter 7 1/8 in. (182 mm.)
Weigh: MX421 1.1 lbs. (500 gm. without cable)
MX421B 1.9 lbs. (860 gm. without cable)
UV stable plastic radome, waterproof
Mount: 1”- 14 tpi
Supply voltage range 10.5 to 32 VDC
Operating current: MX421 Typically 200 mA at 12.0 VDC,
MX421B Typically 280 mA at 12.0 VDC
Operating temperature range: -25 to +60 Degrees. C
MX Marine reserves the right to make changes in its products and specifications
without notice.
26
7 1/8” (182 mm)

3 ½" (89 mm)
1 in.- 14 TPI Mount
27
Data Output
The MX421 GPS and DGPS can be configured in the factory to output any one of
the following data formats:
• NMEA: GGA, GLL, GRS, GSA, GSV, GST, VTG, RMC, ZDA, MSS
• MX Marine proprietary messages (TBD)
NMEA 0183 Data Output Sentences

(1) GGA - Global Positioning System Fix Data
Time, position and fix related data for a GPS receiver.
$GPGGA,hhmmss,llll.llll,a,yyyyy.yyyy,a,x,xx,x.x,x.x,M,x.x,M,x.x,xxxx*hh<CR><LF>
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Notes:
1 ----- UTC of position
2,3 --- Latitude - N/S
4,5 --- Longitude - E/W
6 ----- GPS Quality Indicator:
0=Fix not available or invalid
1=GPS SPS Mode, fix valid
2=Differential GPS, SPS Mode, fix valid
3= GPS PPS Mode, fix valid
7 ----- Number of Satellites in use, 00-12, may be different from the
number in view
8 ----- Horizontal Dilution of Precision (HDOP)
9 -----Antenna altitude/mean-sea-level (geoid)
10-----Units of antenna altitude, Meters
11,12-Geoidal Height, Meters
13---- Age of Differential GPS Data
14 ----Differential Reference Station ID
(2) GSA - GPS DOP and Active Satellites
GPS receiver operating mode, satellites used in the navigation solution
reported by the $GPGGA sentence, and DOP values.
$GPGSA,a,x,xx,xx,xx,xx,xx,xx,xx,xx,xx,xx,xx,xx,x.x,x.x,x.x*hh<CR><LF>
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
Notes:
1----- Mode: M = Manual, forced to operate in 2D or 3D Mode
A = Automatic, allowed to automatically switch 2D/3D
28
2 ------ Mode: 1 = Fix not available, 2 = 2D, 3 = 3D

3-14 -- PRN numbers of satellites used in solution (null for unused
fields)
15 ---- PDOP
16 ---- HDOP
17 -----VDOP
(3) GSV - GPS Satellite in View

Number of satellites (SV) in view, PRN numbers, elevation, azimuth and SNR
values. Four satellites maximum per transmission, additional satellite data
sent in second or third message. Total number of messages being
transmitted and the number of the message transmitted are indicated in the
first two fields.
$GPGSV,x,x,xx,xx,xx,xxx,xx,....................,xx,xx,xxx,xx*hh<CR><LF>
1 23 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Notes:
1 ------Total number of messages, 1 to 3
2 ----- Message number, 1 to 3
3 ----- Total number of satellites in view
4 ----- Satellite PRN number
5 ----- Elevation, degrees, 90 degrees maximum
6 ------Azimuth, degrees True, 000 to 359
7 ------SNR (C/No) 00-99 dB, null when not tracking
8 ------2nd and 3rd SV
9,10,11,12 - 4th SV
(4) RMC - Recommended Minimum Specific GPS Data

Time, date, position, course and speed data provided by a GPS navigation
receiver. This sentence is transmitted at intervals not exceeding 2 seconds
and is always accompanied by RMB when a destination waypoint is active.
RMC and RMB are the recommended minimum data to be provided by a
GPS receiver. All data fields must be provided: null fields used only when
data is temporarily unavailable.
$GPRMC,hhmmss.ss,A,llll.llll,a,yyyyy.yyyy,a,x.x,x.x,xxxxxx,x.x,a*hh<CR><LF>
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Notes:
1 ---- UTC of Position fix
2 ---- Status: A = data valid
V = Navigation receiver warning
3,4 -- Latitude, N/S
5,6 -- Longitude, E/W
29
7 ---- Speed over ground, knots

8 ------ Course Over Ground, True
9 ------ Date: dd/mm/yy
10,11 - Magnetic variation, degrees E/W. Easterly variation (E)
subtracts from True course, Westerly variation (W) adds to
True course.
(6) GST - GNSS Pseudorange Error Statistics
This message is used to support Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring (RAIM).
Pseudorange measurement error statistics can be translated in the position domain
in order to give statistical measures of the quality of the position solution.
If only GPS, GLONASS, etc. is used for the reported position solution, the talker ID
is GP, GL, etc., and the error data pertains to the individual system. If satellites
from multiple systems are used to obtain the reported position solution, the talker
ID is GN and the errors pertain to the combined solution.
$GPGST,hhmmss.ss,x.x,x.x,x.x,x.x,x.x,x.x,x.x*hh<CR><LF>
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Notes: 1 --------- UTC time of the GGA or GNS fix associated with this sentence.
2 --------- RMS value of the standard deviation of the range inputs to the
navigation process. Range inputs include preudoranges &
DGNSS corrections.
3 --------- Standard deviation of semi-major axis of error ellipse (meters)
4 --------- Standard deviation of semi-minor axis of error ellipse (meters)
5 --------- Orientation of semi-major axis of error ellipse (degrees from true
north)
6 --------- Standard deviation of latitude error (meters)
7 --------- Standard deviation of longitude error (meters)
8 --------- Standard deviation of altitude error (meters)
(7) VTG - Course Over Ground and Ground Speed

The actual course and speed relative to the ground.
$GPVTG,x.x,T,x.x,M,x.x,N,x.x,K,a*hh<CR><LF>
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 89
Notes: 1,2 ------ Course over ground, degrees True
2,3 ------ Course over ground, degrees Magnetic
5,6 ------ Speed over ground, knots
7,8 ------ Speed over ground, km/hr
9 --------- Mode indicator: A = Autonomous mode
30
D = Differential mode
E = Estimated (DR)
M = Manual input mode
S = Simulator mode
N = Data not valid
(8) ZDA -Time and Date
UTC, day, month, year and local time zone
$GPZDA,hhmmss,xx,xx,xxxx,xx,xx*hh<CR><LF>
1 2 3 4 5 6
Notes: 1 --- UTC
2, 3, 4 --- Day, month & year
5 --- Local zone hours, 00 to + 13 hrs.
6 --- Local zone in minutes, 00 to +59.
(9) GBS - GNSS Satellite Fault Detection (Modified MX Marine version)
This message is used to support Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring (RAIM)
feature in the MX420 CDU. A special character flag was added for proper RAIM
status determination
$PMVXG,GBS,hhmmss.ss,x.x, x.x,x.x,xx,x.x,x.x,x.x,x*hh<CR><LF>
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Notes: 1 ----- UTC time of the GGA or GNS fix associated with this sentence.
2 ----- Expected error in Latitude (meters)
3 ----- Expected error in Longitude (meters)
4 ----- Expected error in Altitude (meters)
5 ----- ID number of most likely failed satellite
6 ----- Probability of missed detection for most likely failed satellite
7 ----- Estimate of bias in meters on most likely failed satellite
8 ----- Standard deviation of bias estimate
9 ----- RAIM status mode; 0=safe, 1=caution, 2=unsafe
31
PRODUCT WARRANTY AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

MX marine products are warranted by MX Marine (the “Seller”) to original purchaser
(the “buyer”) for use only to be free of all defects in material and workmanship for a
period of twelve (12) months from date of purchase by Buyer.
If during the warranty period, the MX Marine products or parts thereof (“Product”) are
found to be defective in material or workmanship, Seller shall repair or replace the
defective Product, at the discretion of the Seller.
In order to claim this warranty service, Buyer shall return the defective Product,
together with proof of purchase to Seller or its authorized service representative and
pay all transportation charges, duties, and taxes associated with the return of the
Product to Seller. Seller shall reimburse Buyer for costs of the return to Buyer of
Product found to be defective and covered by this warranty. Product which is
repaired or replaced under the warranty is covered by this warranty for the remain-
der of the original warranty period or for a period of ninety (90) days after return
shipment to Buyer, whichever is longer.
SELLER’S MAXIMUM LIABILITY ARISING FROM USE OF SELLER’S PRODUCT

SHALL NOT EXCEED AND BUYER’S REMEDY IS LIMITED IN ANY EVENT TO
REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT AND REIMBURSEMENT FOR COSTS ASSOCIATED
WITH THE RETURN OF THE DEFECTIVE PRODUCT AS PROVIDED HEREIN;
AND SUCH REMEDY SHALL BE THE BUYER’S ENTIRE AND EXCLUSIVE REM-
EDY.
This warranty does not apply to failure of any equipment not sold to Buyer by Seller,
or to any Product which has been subjected to misuse, lightning strike, an acci-
dent, or improper installation, maintenance or application, nor does it extend to any
Product which has been repaired or altered by anybody other than the Seller or its
authorized service representative, unless such repair or alteration was authorized in
writing by Seller. This warranty also does not apply to batteries and losses or
damage due to the batteries. Since the GPS system on which the Product oper-
ates is furnished by the U.S. Government, not Seller, the Seller shall not be respon-
sible for the GPS system or changes in the GPS System availability, coverage or
accuracy.
THIS PRINTED LIMITED WARRANTY IS ACCEPTED BY BUYER IN LIEU OF ANY

OTHER WARRANTY FOR THE PRODUCT, WHETHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED,
INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANT-
ABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
32
IN NO EVENT SHALL SELLER BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUEN-

TIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND OR NATURE, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO
LOSS OF PROFIT OR REVENUE, COMMERCIAL LOSS, DAMAGE TO OR LOSS
OF PROPERTY, ARISING FROM OR RELATED TO THE USE OF THE PRODUCT.
33
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Please Help Us To Help You And Our Other
Valued Customers By
sending us your evaluation of this manual. We need to know such things as:
• is the manual complete, or do you need more (or less) information?
• can you find the information you need easily?
• is the information easy to understand, or could we be clearer?
• are there any errors and, if so, where and what are they?
Be sure to reference the title and identification number of this manual:

Installation Manual
P/N 723594
and include your name, address and telephone number. We look forward to finding
out how we can improve our information services.
All of your comments and suggestions become the property of MX Marine.
Please send them to:

MX Marine
Torrance, CA 90505
United States of America
or write your comments on the Reader Comment Sheet on the next page and
mail it to us.
34
Reader Comment Sheet

Installation Manual P/N 723594
MX Marine welcomes your evaluation of this manual. Please note errors, suggest
additions, or make general comments below. Use extra pages if you like. All com-
ments and suggestions become the property of MX Marine.
Do not use this form to request purchases, maintenance assistance, or additional
publications. Please contact your MX Marine marketing representative for purchases
or additional publications, and your nearest authorized service representative for
maintenance assistance.
Thank you.
_____________________________________________________________________
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35
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36
MX Marine (USA) MX Marine, Leica Geosystems (UK)
23868 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 200 Ocean Quay
Torrance, CA 90505 Southampton
USA SO14 5QY
+1 310 791 8213 Telephone United Kingdom
+1 310 791 6108 Fax
Phone: +44 (2380) 33-99-22
Fax: +44 (2380) 33-03-45
Internet: www.mx-marine.com

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MX421 High Precision GPS/DGPS Sensor

Contact your local Leica dealer for:

+1-310-791-8213 Telephone (International)

Phone: +44 (2380) 33-99-22

Position errors may be caused by unhealthy satellites, incorrect pseudoranges,

Refer to the MX CDU Operator Manual for RAIM setup procedure.

Table 1 - MX421 Smart Antenna Configuration

3 BLU Leica Proprietary Message (LPM) In (-)

(10-Pin Connector type)

MX421 High Precision GPS Sensor

Figure 1 - MX421 Sensor Standard Package

MX421 Mounting Guidelines

Figure 1 - Antenna Location Diagram

Drill 1/4” diameter hole

Figure 2 - MX421 Bracket Mount

Mounting clearance under

Figure 3 - MX421 Surface Mount

MX421 Installation Section

(Use this section when installing the MX421 or the MX421B

Note: Reverse polarity connection may damage the unit.

MX421 Connector Configuration

Pin# Wire Signal

Figure 4 - Interface Cable Pin Configuration for MX421

MX421B Connector Configuration

The MX421B antenna configuration is a combination GPS and beacon receiver in

Data output change may be done only in the factory.

Pin# Wire Signal

Figure 5 - Interface Cable Configuration for MX421B

Data Interface to MK40 Chartplotter

Figure 6 - MX421 Interface to the MK40 Chartplotter

Data Interface to a PC or Non-MX Marine Navigation Systems

Pin 6 (Green) GPS OUT

Figure 7 - MX421 Interface to PC or other Non-MX Marine Navigation

Figure 8 - MX421 to PC Interface Cable (P/N 722206)

MX421-10 Installation Section

MX421-10 Connector Configuration

Pin# Wire Signal

Figure 9 - Interface Cable Pin Configuration for MX421-10

External Differential Beacon Receiver Connection

MX421B-10 & MX421SB-10 Connector Configuration

The MX421B-10 and MX421SB-10 antenna configuration is a combination GPS and

Pin# Wire Signal

Figure 10 - Interface Cable Configuration for MX421B-10 and MX421SB-10

Data Interface to MK40 Chartplotter

Figure 11 - MX421-10 Interface to the MK40 Chartplotter

Data Interface to MX420/2 or MK12 CDU

Use the diagram in Figure 12 to interface the MX421-10 to a MX Marine MX420/2 or

(16) Red/Wht Red (+12 VDC)

Figure 12 - MX421-10 Interface to a MX420/2 and MK12 CDUs

Data Interface to MX420/8 or MX420/AIS CDU

Use the diagram in Figure 13 to interface the MX421B-10 to a MX Marine MX420/8

(16) Red/Wht Red (+12 VDC)

(14) Blu NMEA2 I/O

Figure 13 - MX421-10 Interface to MX420/8 or MX420/AIS CDUs

Data Interface to PC or Non-MX Marine Navigation Systems

Pin 6 (Green) GPS OUT

Figure 14 - MX421-10 Interface to a PC chartplotter or Other Non-MX Marine

7 1/8” (182 mm)

1 in.- 14 TPI Mount