What are the pros and cons of using an SMA connector versus MCX ?
An SMA connector has a screw thread and is quite mechanically robust. An MCX connector is much smaller and is a push fit meaning it is typically only well suited for making internal connections. Because it is often not convenient to mount the GPS module in a position where the on-board SMA connector will protrude externally from the case it is quite common to use a GPS module with the smaller MCX connector internally with an MCX to SMA cable to run an external antenna connection. For prototyping and applications where the antenna is rarely disconnected the SMA modules prove quite convenient because the antenna may be connected directly to the board.
