On 05/02/2013 03:26 PM, Paul wrote:
Is it reasonable to to use a GPS distribution amplifier (viz. HP 58516A) to power a five volt antenna feeding three volt receivers or should I get a "bias tee"? The internal operation of my electronics is largely a mystery to me.
Bias tee would be best because it does exactly the thing you need and no more, so it is difficult to miss some small detail and end up in a bad configuration. Bias tees have a DC connector to supply power so it will be easier to hook up. Look for models that block DC, so you don't expose your 3V GPS receiver to 5V power.
A distribution amplifier (like the 58516A) should also be OK. If you are going to have a GPS receiver that can provide 5V to the antenna and amplifier, that would be ideal. Otherwise you will need to make a connector to put 5V on the DC port of the amplifier.
What you don't want is a passive splitter. If you connect a power supply directly to the DC port it will short the GPS signal into the supply's capacitance and your signal will be distorted or suppressed.
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