Tag: Emcore

Launchpad: New GNSS receivers, antennas and PPK software

A roundup of recent products in the GNSS and inertial positioning industry from the November 2023 issue of GPS World magazine.

SURVEYING & MAPPING

MEMS IMU
Suitable for rugged environments

The TAC-440 MEMS inertial measurement unit (IMU) is designed for demanding, mission-critical, rugged environments in a wide variety of defense, commercial, industrial, and marine applications. The TAC-440 features 1°/hr gyro bias and 1 mg accelerometer bias stability with 0.05°/√hr angle random walk over a wide temperature range. The solid-state quartz sensors and hermetically sealed IMU construction provide reliable MTBF and storage life, EMCORE stated. The TAC-440 supports four data message synchronization methods with either input synchronization pulse capability or an output time of validity capability. The user can choose whether the synchronization pulse is internally generated and output as a time of validity of the output data or whether the TAC-440 software will identify the synchronization pulse input and synchronize the output data to the input pulse.
EMCORE Corporation, emcore.com

RTK GNSS Tablet
A rugged device designed for geospatial and mapping operations in the field

The LT800H offers users robust outdoor performance, data security and centimeter-level accuracy for a variety of applications, including construction, environmental surveying and any industry in which Android tablets are used. Featuring a high-performance 1,408-channel GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou module and a tracking GNSS helix antenna, the LT800H RTK Android tablet offers centimeter-to-decimeter positioning accuracy in challenging environments. It also comes equipped with a 4G modem to simplify connectivity to GNSS RTK network corrections. The technology also offers an eight-hour battery life, allowing users to collect data in the field uninterrupted.
CHC Navigation, chcnav.com

PPK Software
For land surveying, hydrography, airborne surveys, construction, and applications that require precise positioning

The Qinertia 4 contains an enhanced geodesy engine that has an extensive selection of preconfigured coordinate reference systems (CRS) and transformations, making it a suitable solution for applications that use diverse geodetic data. To tackle the challenges of variable ionospheric activity, Qinertia 4 features an Ionoshield post-processed kinematic (PPK) mode. This feature compensates for ionospheric conditions and baseline distances, enabling users to perform PPK even for long baselines and/or harsh ionospheric conditions. This ensures surveyors can achieve centimeter accuracy even in regions with unpredictable ionospheric disturbances. Another addition to the Qinertia 4 is an extended network support for continuously operating reference stations (CORS). This feature gives users access to a network of 5,000 SmartNet CORS for reliable GNSS data processing. These base stations add to the network of base stations directly available in Qinertia, bringing the total to more than 10,000 bases in 164 countries.

For data that cannot be processed using PPK, Qinertia 4 offers an alternative solution with its tightly coupled precise point positioning algorithm. This new processing mode, available for all users with active Qinertia maintenance, provides post-processing anywhere in the world without a base station, with a horizontal accuracy of 4 cm and a vertical accuracy of 8 cm.
SBG Systems, sbg-systems.com

Airborne Lidar + RGB System
Designed to enhance the details of aerial mapping operations

The AlphaAir 10 (AA10) features a high-precision navigation algorithm that provides 5 mm repeated range accuracy and achieves absolute precision in the 2 cm to 5 cm range, even in complex environments. The AA10 is capable of long-range measurements of up to 800 m, rapid scanning at 500,000 points per second, and features a continuously rotating mirror that enables scanning speeds of 250 scans per second. The AA10 enables the creation of mesh models by generating high-quality point clouds. It is powered by a 45 MP orthographic internal camera that provides high-resolution image mapping textures for 3D model reconstruction with realistic point cloud colorization. The AA10 also supports automated reality capture and real-time data visualization accessible directly from the UAV controller. The AA10 lidar system is lightweight and compact, weighing 1.55 kg, and provides a 30 min operating time when integrated with UAVs such as the DJI M350. The system is also IP64-rated.
CHC Navigation, chcnav.com

GNSS Receiver
Designed for survey projects

The Reach RS3 is a GNSS receiver that features inertial measurement unit (IMU) tilt compensation and a dual-band radio for enhanced compatibility with third-party receivers. The Reach RS3 enables users to survey at large tilt angles while maintaining survey-grade accuracy. The multi-band receiver works both as a base and a rover and comes factory calibrated. The receiver offers versatile options to get corrections from continuously operating reference stations (CORS), another Reach device, or a third-party base, so users can mix and match real-time-kinematic (RTK) receivers in a fleet. Its NTRIP connectivity enables corrections from CORS, NTRIP service, or a GNSS receiver using Emlid NTRIP Caster. When connected over NTRIP, Reach works on a baseline of more than 60 km in RTK and 100 km in post-processed kinematic.
Emlid, emlid.com

GNSS Receiver
Includes Trimble ProPoint and delivers survey precision and productivity in the field

The R580 GNSS receiver enables professionals in surveying, mapping and GIS, civil construction, and utilities to capture centimeter-level positioning. With the Trimble ProPoint GNSS engine embedded, users can measure points in challenging environments, such as under tree canopy or near buildings, while EVEREST Plus technology can identify and remove unwanted multipath signals for improved accuracy and data confidence. Using the Maxwell 7 chipset technology, the receiver provides fast processing, anti-spoofing capability and the ability to track all available GNSS constellations. The R580 supports Trimble RTX correction services for RTK-level precision without the use of a local base station or VRS network wherever correction sources are available. The receiver can be paired with all current mobile devices on a variety of operating systems and platforms —from a Trimble handheld or controller to a modern smartphone or tablet. It can also be mounted on a pole, vehicle or backpack.
Trimble, trimble.com

OEM

GNSS Module
Supports L1/L5 GNSS bands from multiple constellations, including NavIC

The NEO-F10N positioning module is based on the u-blox NEO form factor and is equipped with u-blox F10 dual-band GNSS technology. The NEO-F10N supports L1/L5 GNSS bands from multiple constellations — including NavIC — to provide meter-level position accuracy in urban areas. Its firmware is upgradeable and configurable to support several applications such as the vehicle telematics and micromobility markets or industrial applications requiring meter-level position accuracy. The NEO-F10N improves position accuracy in urban environments with its enhanced resilience against multipath interference. By leveraging signals from both the L1 and L5 bands, this module achieves better accuracy than using the L1 band alone. Users currently employing receivers based on modules such as the u-blox NEO-M8 and NEO-M9, can migrate to the new NEO-F10N generation. The module enhances accuracy, reduces power consumption, and offers an alternative solution to users who do not want to deploy dead reckoning set-ups.
u-blox, u-blox.com

Multi-Band GNSS Antenna
Designed to enhance meter-level positioning solutions

The ANN-MB5 is a multi-band (L1/L5/E5a/B2a) GNSS antenna that is optimized for the u-blox F10 platform and enables precise, reliable, and robust positioning, even in challenging environments. The antenna features concurrent reception of multiple navigation systems, including NavIC. The ANN-MB5 has a compact design with a magnetic base.
u-blox, u-blox.com

INS
A product for mobile mapping, autonomy, and more

The xRED3000 inertial navigation system (INS) offers quad-constellation GNSS support for multiple applications. The INS weighs 20 g, making it suitable for aerial payloads. At 53.6 mm x 50.6 mm x 9.5 mm in size, it can be incorporated without drastically changing a user’s design. When in a GNSS-denied area, the xRED3000 provides a position accuracy of 0.5 m even after 60 seconds. It features gx/ix tight-coupling algorithms, which improve accuracy in urban canyons and speed up real-time kinematic reacquisition after temporary GNSS outages. The xRED3000 features lidar inertial odometry, which takes data from lidar in post-processing to reduce inertial measurement unit drift and improve accuracy in areas with poor or no GNSS signal. Additionally, embedded NTRIP makes it easier to get GNSS corrections.
OxTS, oxts.com

Triple Frequency GNSS Receiver
Complete with a compact design for mobile applications

The BD990 supports triple frequency for the GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou and Galileo constellations. The receiver offers quick and reliable real-time kinematic (RTK) initializations for centimeter positioning. It features Trimble Maxwell 7 technology, which provides 336 tracking channels, Trimble Everest Plus multipath mitigation, and advanced RF spectrum monitoring and analysis. With the option of utilizing OmniSTAR or RTX services, the BD990 delivers varying levels of performance down to centimeter-level without the use of a base station. The BD992 also supports dual antenna GNSS heading while the BD992-INS supports position and orientation at high update rates.
Trimble, oemgnss.trimble.com

MACHINE CONTROL

Automated Steering System
Designed for precision agriculture applications

The SAgro150 automated steering system aims to provide farmers with an easy way to get started with auto-steering. With full-constellation tracking capability, the SAgro150 realizes ±2.5 cm auto-steering accuracy to maximize land use and yield while saving resources such as water and fertilizer. When compared to the first-generation SAgro100 system, the SAgro150 auto-steering system uses a single-antenna solution instead of a dual-antenna solution. It also features simpler integration options, only requiring a strong magnetic chuck to securely attach the antenna to the top of the tractor for satellite signal tracking. The new system also adopts dual gyroscope mode, enhancing the heading data reliability and compatibility with different tractors. The new system aids in applications such as rotary tillage, ridging, sowing and harvesting in straight line, curve, U-turn and more.
SingularXYZ, singularxyz.com

Positioning and Heading Receiver
Designed for multiple applications

AsteRx SB3 Pro+ is a housed multi-frequency GNSS receiver that uses triple-band GNSS technology for reliable centimeter-level real-time kinematic (RTK) positioning and sub-degree heading. With flexibility to be used as a rover or a base station, AsteRx SB3 Pro+ also has an ultra-high update rate and logging functionality. Enclosed in a ruggedized IP68 housing, the device is suitable for harsh environments. The AsteRx SB3 Pro+ has a high update rate and low latency for fast moving vehicles or machine parts.
Septentrio, septentrio.com

GPS Antennas
Offers enhanced navigation and tracking for automotive applications

The KP Performance vehicle GPS antennas come equipped with a gain of 28 dB to capture weak signals, even in the most challenging environments. The antennas also feature high out-of-band rejection. By minimizing signal interference and multipath effects, the antennas provide good signal quality and stability. The features of the antennas enable more precise navigation and enhanced user experiences for personal vehicles, commercial fleets, or autonomous systems. The antennas have a IPX6- or IP66-rated waterproof and dustproof design for reliable operation in harsh conditions.
KP Performance, kpperformance.com

November 13, 2023
Emcore contracted for navigation for space launch vehicles

Initial value of the contracts is expected to be more than $12 million

Emcore Corporation has been awarded new contracts for the Booster Rate Gyro (BoRG) and Tri-Axial Inertial Measurement Unit (TAIMU) programs for space launch vehicles resulting from its acquisition of the L3Harris Space and Navigation business.

The BoRG program award is a contract valued at more than $12 million for the production of IMUs used for flight stabilization of the booster stage of a multistage launch system. The TAIMU program award is a development contract for the design and qualification of IMUs deployed for navigation and flight control of the upper stage of a multistage launch system.

Pending successful demonstration of required capability and quality, Emcore expects to be awarded follow-on production contracts for TAIMU within the next 12 months.

“We are honored to supply our highest grade inertial navigation equipment for these critical space launch vehicle programs,” said Albert Lu, senior vice president and general manager, Aerospace and Defense for Emcore. ”We look to further our close partnership with L3Harris through successful on-time deliveries for both the BoRG and TAIMU programs,” Lu added.

Acquisition Closes

Emcore’s acquisition of the L3Harris Space and Navigation business closed on May 2. Emcore acquired the business for approximately $5 million in an all-cash transaction, subject to any net working capital adjustments.

The acquisition expands Emcore’s inertial navigation product portfolio with the addition of navigation-and strategic-grade gyro and inertial measurement unit products.

Emcore acquired all outstanding assets and liabilities of the L3Harris Space and Navigation business, including all L3Harris intellectual property rights primarily used in the Space and Navigation business, a 110,000-square-foot leased production facility in Budd Lake, New Jersey, and associated production equipment.

May 6, 2022
Emcore to acquire the L3Harris Space and Navigation business
Emcore Corporation has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the assets and liabilities of the L3Harris Space and Navigation business for approximately $5 million in an all-cash transaction.

“L3Harris Space and Navigation designs and builds some of the most accurate navigation products in the world,” said Jeff Rittichier, president and CEO of Emcore. “This acquisition expands our fiber-optic gyroscope (FOG) product portfolio into the strategic grade and space-qualified markets. We will also gain a technical team with a sterling track record of development and production of high-performance FOGs, ring laser gyros (RLGs) and reaction wheels.

“This acquisition further solidifies Emcore’s position as one of the largest independent inertial navigation providers in the industry. This is an excellent fit strategically for Emcore, bringing space and navigation’s strong brand, inertial technology and important program wins. It also expands Emcore’s market reach into launch vehicle and space satellite markets, both of which are seeing significant growth,” Rittichier added.

“The L3Harris Space and Navigation team will provide Emcore with the capability to accelerate expansion into a true navigation-grade FOG business with superior performance and accuracy compared to competitors,” said Albert Lu, senior vice president and general manager, Aerospace and Defense for Emcore. “Combining this business into Emcore will allow us to provide customers with an expanded product suite that serves a broader range of requirements across both the tactical and navigation grade segments of the market.”

Highlights of the transaction are as follows:
- Expands Emcore’s inertial navigation product portfolio and addressable market, accelerating growth and contributing additional revenue.
- Includes master supply agreements (MSAs) for the BoRG (Booster Rate Gyro) and TAIMU (Tri-Axial Inertial Measurement Unit) launch vehicle programs and creates partnership opportunities with L3Harris to expand mutual business.
- Adds Emcore as a preferred supplier to L3Harris divisions for future business opportunities.
- Adds a complete set of capabilities to design and test for space applications:
  - shock, vibration and thermal-shock measurement equipment
  - x-ray capability and vacuum chambers.
- Includes a large number of rate tables that can serve multiple product applications.
- Is expected to create material operating synergies in engineering, manufacturing and sales.
- Is expected to be non-GAAP EPS accretive.
Through the transaction, Emcore will acquire all the intellectual property and outstanding assets and liabilities of the L3Harris Space and Navigation business, including the 110,000-square-foot leased production facility in Budd Lake, New Jersey.

The consummation of the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is currently expected to close in the quarter ending June 30, 2022.
February 16, 2022
Launchpad: OEM, Surveying & Mapping, UAV, and Transportation

A roundup of recent products in the GNSS and inertial positioning industry from the July 2021 issue of GPS World magazine.

OEM

GNSS/INS Sensors

Photo: Septentrio

Five receivers in new product line

The AsteRx-i3 product family provides an array of next-generation receivers, from plug-and-play navigation solutions to feature-rich receivers with raw measurement access. Included are OEM boards and ruggedized receivers enclosed in a waterproof IP68 housing. The Pro receivers offer high accuracy positioning with 3D orientation and dead-reckoning for plug-and-play integrations. Pro+ receivers provide integrated positioning and orientation along with raw measurements, in single- or dual-antenna configurations, suitable for applications with sensor fusion. One of the receivers offers an off-board inertial measurement unit (IMU), which can be mounted exactly at the alignment point of interest.

Septentrio, septentrio.com

Timing Module

Photo: Trimble

Designed for 5G networks

The RES 720 GNSS dual-frequency embedded timing module provides next-generation networks with 5-nanosecond accuracy. It uses L1 and L5 GNSS signals to provide superior protection to jamming and spoofing, mitigates multipath in harsh environments, and adds security features to make it suitable for resilient networks. At 19 x 19 millimeters, the RES 720 is suitable for 5G Open Radio Access Networks (RAN)/XHaul, smart grids, data centers, industrial automation and satellite communication networks, as well as calibration services and perimeter monitoring applications.

Trimble, trimble.com

Rugged IMUs

Photo: Honeywell

Ready for commercial, defense

The new HG1125 and HG1126 IMUs are low-cost inertial measurement units that serve both commercial and military applications. They use sensors based on micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) technology to precisely measure motion. They can survive shocks up to 40,000 G-force. The HG1125 and HG1126 can be used for a variety of defense and commercial applications, such as tactical military needs, drilling, unmanned aerial vehicles or navigation systems for general aviation aircraft.

Honeywell, honeywell.com

Replacement IMU

Photo: Emcore

Plug-compatible with HG1700-AG58

The SDI170 quartz MEMS tactical-grade IMU is designed as a form-, fit- and function-compatible replacement for the HG1700-AG58 ring-laser gyroscope (RLG) IMU, but with superior overall performance, versatility and a significantly higher mean time between failures (MTBF) rating over ruggedized environments. The SDI170 IMU delivers highly linear accelerometer performance and longer life compared to the HG1700 IMU.

Emcore, emcore.com

Grandmaster Clock

Photo: Adva

Timing for edge deployments

The OSA 5405-MB is a compact outdoor precision time protocol (PTP) grandmaster clock with a multi-band GNSS receiver and an integrated antenna. It ensures timing accuracy by eliminating the impact of ionospheric delay variation, enabling communication service providers and enterprises to deliver the nanosecond precision needed for 5G fronthaul and other time-sensitive applications. A multi-constellation GNSS receiver and antenna enable the OSA 5405-MB to meet PRTC-B accuracy requirements (+/–40 nanoseconds) even in challenging conditions. It receives GNSS signals in two frequency bands, using the differences between them to calculate and compensate for ionospheric delay variation. The OSA 5405-MB is resilient against jamming and spoofing, considered critical for 5G synchronization. It can work with up to four GNSS constellations concurrently (GPS, Galileo, GLONASS and BeiDou).

Adva, adva.com

SURVEYING & MAPPING

Android Tablet

Photo: Panasonic

For field workers

The Toughbook S1 is a fully rugged 7-inch Android tablet for capturing and accessing critical information in the field. GPS and LTE come optionally. The tablet is supported by Productivity+, a comprehensive Android ecosystem that enables customers to develop, deploy and sustain the Android OS environment in the enterprise. The Toughbook S1 tablet’s compact, rugged and lightweight body is made for portability and reliability for field workers. It has a 14-hour battery life and warm swap battery. Features include a sleek outdoor-readable anti-reflection screen, patented rain mode and multi-touch performance whether using a stylus, finger or glove.

Panasonic, toughbook.com

AG Receivers

Photo: Topcon Agriculture

Combine steering and networks

The AGS-2 and AGM-1 are manual guidance and autosteering receivers. Location data enable crop optimization, including soil preparation, seeding, crop care and harvesting. Designed to suit virtually any agricultural machine type, make and model, the AGS-2 receiver and steering controller combines steering with network reception and tracking. It comes standard with DGNSS correction services and is upgradeable using NTRIP and an optional RTK radio in the Topcon CL-55 cloud connectivity device. The AGM-1 is offered as an economical entry-level manual-guidance receiver.

Topcon Agriculture, topconpositioning.com

Rugged Tablet

Photo: Trimble

Provides fast data processing for construction and surveying

The Trimble T100 high-performance tablet is suitable for both experienced and novice users. It is optimized for Trimble Siteworks Software and supporting office applications such as Trimble Business Center. Its accessories are designed to complement user workflows, enabling users to complete quality assurance and quality control before leaving the field. The tablet is designed to be flexible and usable in a variety of configurations and job sites. It is engineered to be ergonomic and portable on and off the pole. Features include a 10-inch (25.4 cm) sunlight-readable touchscreen display, a directional keypad with programmable function keys and a 92-Wh internal battery.

Trimble, trimble.com

GIS Software

Photo: Golden Software

Scientific modeling package

Surfer has new gridding, contouring and surface mapping software to make it easier for users to visualize, display and analyze complex 3D data. Surfer enables users to model data sets, apply an array of advanced analytics tools, and graphically communicate the results. The scientific modeling package is used in oil and gas exploration, environmental consulting, mining, engineering and geospatial projects. Enhancements have been made to 3D Base Maps, Contour Volume/Area Calculation, 3D PDF Exporting Options and automated features for creation of scripts and workflows.

Golden Software, goldensoftware.com

Cloud Resource

Photo: Catalyst

Provides geospatial insights

A Catalyst-AWS collaboration delivers actionable geoscience analytics to users, providing satellite-based Earth observation intelligence. The data and analytics are delivered via Amazon Web Services (AWS) Cloud. Catalyst is a PCI Geomatics brand. The initial solution, available through AWS Data Exchange, is an infrastructure risk-assessment service that uses satellite data to continuously monitor millimeter-level ground displacement over a subscriber’s area of interest anywhere on Earth. Catalyst is exploring additional risk mitigation solutions and monitoring services using AWS. Having image processing science and imagery on the cloud reduces latency and costly data transfers.

Catalyst, catalyst.earth/aws

UAV

GPS-Aided INS

Photo: Inertial Labs

For UAV, helipcopters, and lidar surveys

The GPS-aided INS-U is a fully integrated attitude and heading reference system (AHRS), IMU and air-data computer high-performance strapdown system that determines position, navigation and timing information for any device on which it is mounted. The INS-U uses a single antenna, multi-constellation u-blox GNSS receiver. With access to GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS and BeiDou, the INS-U can be used in a variety of GPS-enabled environments and is protected against spoofing and jamming. The INS-U has two barometers, a miniature gyro-compensated fluxgate compass, and tri-axis temperature-calibrated advanced MEMS accelerometers and gyroscopes. These high-performance sensors, along with Inertial Labs’ new on-board sensor-fusion filter, and state-of-the-art guidance and navigation algorithms, provide accurate position, velocity and orientation of the device under measurement.

Inertial Labs, inertiallabs.com

PPK Modules

Photo: Emlid

For CM-accurate drone mapping

The Reach M+ and Reach M2 positioning modules for UAV mapping provide centimeter-level accuracy in real-time kinematic (RTK) and post-processed kinematic (PPK) modes, enabling precise UAV mapping with fewer ground control points. The Reach M+ single-band receiver has a baseline up to 20 kilometers in PPK. The Reach M2 is a multi-band receiver with a baseline up to 100 kilometers in PPK. Reach connects directly to a camera’s hot-shoe port and is synced with the shutter. Time and coordinates of each photo are logged with a resolution of less than a microsecond. Reach captures flash sync pulses with sub-microsecond resolution and stores them in a raw data RINEX log in the internal memory. This method allows ground control points to be used only to check accuracy.

Emlid, emlid.com

Drone-In-A-Box

Photo: DroneHub

System simplifies drone inspection missions, deliveries

The Dronehub is an automated solution that can provide undisturbed drone service 24/7 in nearly any weather condition. With the integration of IBM artificial intelligence technology, Dronehub solutions can operate and automatically provide information with little human interaction. The system includes the drone and a docking station with automatic battery replacement. It can fly for 45 minutes in +/–45° C weather, up to 35 km in winds up to 15 m/s. It can carry a payload up to 5 kg as far as 15 km. It can be used for monitoring, inspection and measurement; cargo transport and parcel deliveries; and mobile ground infrastructure; and security.

Dronehub, dronehub.ai

Survey Platform

Photo: Wingrta

For construction and earthworks

The Propeller Platform and WingtraOne drone package enable construction professionals to collect survey-grade data across the worksite consistently and accurately. To operate, surveyors place Propeller AeroPoints (smart ground-control points) on their worksite, and then fly the WingtraOne drone to collect worksite survey data. Survey images are uploaded to Propeller’s cloud-based platform, where the fully automated geotagging and photogrammetry processing is completed within 24 hours of submission on the platform. Uses include mines, road and railway projects, highways and industrial complexes. Data collection with AeroPoints and Propeller PPK can serve as a reliable, single source for survey data and progress. Teams across the entire worksite can view geographically accurate and realistic 3D site models and track, inspect and report on job progress and productivity safely and accurately.

Propeller, propelleraero.com

Wingtra, wingtra.com

TRANSPORTATION

Receiver

Photo: SkyTraq

Stamp-sized module provides RTK positioning and heading

The PX1122R is a high-performance multi-band quad-GNSS real-time kinematic (RTK) receiver featuring 1 cm + 1 ppm position accuracy and under 10-second RTK convergence. It has a 12 x 16 millimeter form factor, about the size of a postage stamp. It can be configured for a base or a rover, and supports a moving base RTK for precision heading applications. The PX1122R has a maximum quad-GNSS RTK update rate of 10 Hz, providing a quick response time and more stable performance for fast-moving precision guidance applications.

SkyTraq, skytraq.com.tw

Marine Compass

Photo: Garmin

GPS-based navigation tool with multi-band GNSS

Utilizing both L1 and L5 GPS frequencies, along with multi-constellation support (GPS, Galileo, GLONASS and BeiDou), the MSC 10 marine satellite compass provides precise positioning and heading accuracy within 2 degrees. Its 10-Hz position update rate delivers detailed tracking information. It eliminates magnetic interference, which can degrade heading accuracy. The MSC 10 is easy to install and can be used as the primary position and heading sensor across multiple systems, including autopilots. If the satellite signal is lost, it will transition from GPS-based to a backup magnetometer-based heading.

Garmin International, garmin.com

August 20, 2021
Emcore SDI500/505 IMU receives non-ITAR status, company gets defense nods

The non-ITAR status greatly increases the marketability of the SDI500/SDI505 IMUs to international customers. Plus, Emcore releases new SDI170 IMU and is awarded defense contract.

Emcore’s dual-use SDI500/SDI505 Revision F inertial measurement units (IMUs) have received a determination that they are not subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) administered by the U.S. Department of State. Emcore has likewise determined that its SDN500 inertial navigation system (INS) is not subject to ITAR.

The determination of non-ITAR status is expected to dramatically increase the size of the market that Emcore can address with its quartz micro-electro-mechanical systems (QMEMs) IMU and INS devices.

Photo: Emcore

Ranked Top in Trade Study. The SDI500/505 IMU was ranked first in overall accuracy, reported Emcore, in a U.S. military-commissioned trade study of 19 IMUs being evaluated as an alternative to the Honeywell HG1700 for various weapons systems.

The objective of the third-party independent study was to deliver a comprehensive report to the government and make a recommendation supported by clear and compelling technical, financial, and other relevant data collected regarding the most advantageous IMU products and services available in the market today. 19 IMUs of various technologies, complexity, cost, and developmental status, from leading manufacturers, were evaluated in short and long flyout simulations against the HG1700.

The dual-use non-ITAR SDI500/505 IMUs are designed to achieve the demanding performance levels required in sophisticated systems, including weapons guidance and targeting, commercial and defense fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters, unmanned autonomous vehicles (UAVs), and a wide variety of other high-precision commercial, industrial, marine, defense and space applications. They leverage quartz MEMS technology to deliver angle random walk (ARW) values of 0.02°/√hr with 1°/hr bias stability.

Defense Contract Award. In March, Emcore was awarded a development contract valued at $1.1 million by a major U.S. prime contractor to design and manufacture a high-end IMU for tactical intelligence and reconnaissance systems. The prototype phase has been successfully completed and as part of the contract in this follow-on phase, Emcore will deliver initial production units that will be used for proof of manufacturing and system level qualification.

The custom IMU will be based on Emcore’s proprietary closed-loop fiber-optic gyro (FOG) technology that delivers proven CSWaP (cost, size, weight and power) and performance advantages over other FOGs and competing technologies. It is designed to deliver the highest level of performance in Emcore’s tactical IMU product line, exceeding Emcore’s EN-300. Emcore’s FOG IMU technology delivers ten times the bias performance of legacy systems in compact form-, fit- and function-compatible packages.

New SDI170 IMU. Emcore also launched a replacement IMU. The new SDI170 quartz MEMS tactical-grade IMU is designed as a form-, fit- and function-compatible replacement for the HG1700-AG58 ring-laser gyroscope (RLG) IMU, but with superior overall performance, versatility and a significantly higher mean time between failures (MTBF) rating over ruggedized environments.

The SDI170 IMU is suitable for continuous-use applications with no wear-out components and delivers highly linear accelerometer performance and longer life compared to the HG1700 IMU. It is not ITAR controlled and has completed extensive internal and external customer testing to confirm compatibility to replace legacy products.

The unit is designed for a wide range of high-precision, integrated commercial and defense applications including aircraft Attitude Heading Reference Systems (AHRS), GPS-aided navigation, ground surveying, mobile mapping, ROVs, autonomous vehicles, tactical weapons, and stabilization platforms.

Non-ITAR Determination. As a result of this Commodity Jurisdiction (CJ) determination concluded by the U.S. Department of State, EMCORE’s SDI500/SDI505 Revision F commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) offerings were confirmed to be subject to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) administered by the Department of Commerce (DOC). EAR classification typically results in fewer export-related restrictions and requirements. For this reason, this CJ determination for the SDI500/SDI505 will greatly increase the marketability of these IMUs to international customers.

The SDN500 is Emcore’s most advanced QMEMS INS/GPS tactical-grade system, combining the latest generation quartz gyros and accelerometers from the SDI500/SDI505, with high-speed signal processing and a 48-channel coarse/acquisition code GPS receiver into a powerful, tightly coupled guidance and navigation system.

“We would like to thank the U.S. Department of State for its evaluation of our commodity jurisdiction request and conclusion that our dual-use SDI500/SDI505 IMUs are not subject to ITAR,” said David Hoyh, Emcore’s director of sales and marketing for navigation products. “The determination of EAR status under the DOC enables more customers worldwide to benefit from these important, high-precision Emcore products.”

April 29, 2021
EMCORE INS achieves success in CAST Navigation ultra-high-altitude flight simulation

Photo: Systron Donner

Emcore achieved success in an ultra-high-altitude flight simulation conducted by CAST Navigation, which tested Emcore’s SDN500 inertial navigation system (INS).

Emcore is a provider of advanced mixed-signal products that serve the aerospace & defense and broadband communications markets.CAST Navigation builds simulators for testing and validating GNSS/INS performance in high-end navigation systems.

CAST used Emcore’s SDN500 inertial navigation system (INS) for the test, which required simulating performance at an altitude more than 24,000 meters and velocities over 600 m/s. Only a few aircraft in the world have such capabilities, including the SR-71 Blackbird, but it is not practical to participate in a test flight on the SR-71. Simulating the SDN500 INS test flight to specific customer profiles on a CAST system is straightforward and cost-effective.

Testing began with a stationary period on the ground while the SDN500 initialized and transitioned into air-navigation mode. Then the flight trajectory entered a series of maneuvers, speed and altitude changes that provided observability for various parameters with corresponding changes in the calculated figures.

Emcore relies on GNSS/INS simulators for hardware-in-the-loop testing to verify the expected performance of algorithms. Emcore CORE sought to validate the velocity and altitude limits of a new GNSS receiver along with the algorithm performance in a tactical-grade SDN500 system. In the final analysis, the GNSS receiver and navigation algorithm was confirmed to operate as expected throughout the operation for all three of the customer’s dynamic constraint scenarios.

“We were extremely pleased to demonstrate how Emcore takes advantage of the functionality contained in the CAST simulator to prove-out our robust product performance in customer environments,” said David Hoyh, director of sales and marketing for navigation products, Emcore..

“During the times when there was no valid solution from the GNSS receiver, the algorithm maintained an accurate solution using only the data from the IMU,” explained Andy Williams, senior field application engineer at Emcore who spearheaded the effort. “In addition, there was no algorithm instability or discontinuity when the GNSS receiver resumed, providing a solution to the algorithm. Throughout this entire profile, even when GNSS signal is lost, the SDN500 maintains an accurate navigation solution. This test is not possible without the synchronized GNSS radio frequency and trajectory matching IMU data provided by the CAST system.”

Source: “A True Reference. Theory Meets Reality in Synchronized Simulation Environments,” Inside GNSS, Volume 15/Number 5, September/October 2020, Pages 28, 29, 30.

November 30, 2020
Emcore’s EN-300 FOG IMU in high-rate production

EN-300 Precision Fiber Optic IMU/INS (Photo: Emcore)

Emcore Corp.’s EN-300 FOG (fiber optic gyro) inertial measurement unit (IMU) is now in high-rate production and is broadly available for purchase with 12-week lead times. The EN-300 was announced in April.

Based in Alhambra, California, Emcore providees advanced mixed-signal products that serve the aerospace, defense and broadband communications markets.

Emcore’s EN-300 offers up to 10 times the bias performance of legacy systems in a form, fit and function compatible package, the company said. This improved performance makes the EN-300 suitable for GPS-denied navigation, precise targeting and line-of-sight stabilization requirements for unmanned aerial vehicles as well as other demanding applications.

Emcore has successfully completed a comprehensive Design Verification Testing (DVT) regimen over tough environmental conditions and has provided numerous proof-of-technology IMUs globally to defense contractor primes and aerospace customers seeking to upgrade their platforms and systems. Emcore is now expanding production of the EN-300 with strict manufacturing process and quality controls in place to enhance on-time delivery and specification compliance.

“Given the strong market interest and demand, we are extremely pleased to announce the production ramp-up and broad availability for purchase of the EN-300,” said David Hoyh, Emcore’s director of sales & marketing for navigation products. “Emcore’s vertical integration creates unique capabilities that enable us to deliver the higher level of performance demanded by the market, coupled with greater precision and lower cost to further benefit our customers.”

According to Emcore, the EN-300 precision FOG IMU is a three-axis, closed-loop design using the Company’s proprietary, solid-state FOG transceiver with advanced integrated optics, offering improved reliability and lower cost than legacy IMUs. It can be ordered with performance options tailored to specific customer requirements.

The COTS (commercial off-the-shelf) EN-300-3 model achieves bias in-run stability as low as 0.04 degree/hr with ARW (Angle Random Walk) of 0.015 degree/rt-hr. The non-ITAR EN-300 is superior in performance to older generation such as the closed-loop LN-200 IMU or open-loop KVH 1750 series IMU units that have higher bias over temperature drift.

October 29, 2020
Emcore provides defense-ready IMUs

The SDI500 Tactical Grade IMU (Photo: Emcore)

Emcore is offering two inertial measurement units (IMUs) suitable for the defense market.

SDI500 Tactical Grade IMU. Emcore’s Systron Donner Inertial SDI500 is a high-performance MEMS-based IMU that demonstrates true tactical grade performance with 1°/hour gyro bias and 1-mg accelerometer bias stability with very low 0.02°/hr angle random walk. Its performance is based on Emcore’s quartz MEMS inertial sensor technology. The SDI500 is designed to achieve the demanding performance levels required in sophisticated systems applications. Packaged in a highly miniaturized, cylindrical configuration with a volume of 19 cubic inches, it is suitable for use by integrators and OEMs.

The SDI500 is a compact IMU constructed with SDI’s next generation quartz gyros, quartz accelerometers, and high-speed signal processing that achieves tactical grade performance. The SDI500 IMU is rated for rugged military environments.

EN-300 Precision Fiber Optic IMU/INS (Photo: Emcore)

EN-300 Precision Fiber Optic IMU/INS. The EN-300 inertial system is designed to be compatible in form, fit and function with a legacy equivalent, but with the higher accuracy and performance needed for GPS-denied navigation, precise targeting and line-of-sight stabilization.

It features navigational-grade performance with 0.04°/hr gyro bias and 0.1-mg accelerometer bias stability with ultra-low 0.007°/hr angle random walk.

Internal signal processing provides full stand-alone or aided navigation, and as an option can provide standard IMU delta velocity and delta theta.

April 30, 2020
Emcore’s new EN-2000 micro INS ready for defense, UAVs

Photo: Emcore

Emcore Corporation has launched the EN-2000 to the Emcore-Orion series of micro-inertial navigation (MINAV) systems.

The new EN-2000 will represent the pinnacle of performance in Emcore navigation systems, and realizes the company’s vision of a closed-loop, solid-state design that will deliver higher performance at lower cost than traditional RLG (ring laser gyroscope) navigation systems.

The EN-2000 expands Emcore’s navigation systems line that also includes the EN-1000 introduced in 2017. The Emcore-Orion series of inertial navigation system (INS) are designed for use in a broad range of defense, aviation and aeronautics applications.

The unit was introduced at the Paris Air Show, held June 17-20 at the Parc des Expositions Paris-le Bourget in Hall 6, Stand #C65.

Today, there is an ever-increasing premium being placed on modern navigation systems for improved size, weight and power (SWaP). Traditional RLG navigation systems placed a premium on accuracy and performance, but not SWaP. Typical RLG and FOG systems are large and heavy, ranging in volume from 330 in³ to 540 in³, weighing 13 to 22 pounds with power requirements of 25 to 38 watts.

Many modern weapon systems are now remotely operated, unmanned or man-portable and may need to operate where GPS is unavailable or denied. The compact EN-2000 is designed for these applications. It puts a premium on accuracy and performance, but also on smaller size, less weight and lower power consumption.

The new Emcore-Orion EN-2000 MINAV is a three-axis design using the company’s proprietary, next-generation solid-state optical transceiver with advanced integrated optics, combined with all new field programmable gate array (FPGA) electronics to deliver stand-alone aircraft-grade navigator performance at one-third the SWaP of legacy or competing systems.

The EN-2000 model comes in two standard versions, an IMU version and a standalone INS configuration. The INS version can gyrocompass to less than 0.7 milliradians and maintain near-GPS-level positional accuracy without the use of a GPS receiver. This makes it suitable for use in GPS-denied environments.

To provide customers with additional flexibility, the unit is also capable of being aided by an external GPS for applications where needed.

The Emcore-Orion EN-2000 is compact and lightweight, weighing less than 7 pounds, with very low power consumption of 10 watts. It can deliver twice the performance of the EN-1000 with the same form factor.

The low SWaP of the EN-2000 makes it a suitable inertial navigation system for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), manned aircraft, rotorcraft and dismounted soldier applications.

“With the introduction of the EN-2000, Emcore can now offer class-leading performance at a fraction of the size, weight and power of competing systems with increased reliability,” said David Faulkner, Emcore vice president and general manager of aerospace and defense. “Emcore’s goal of a true full navigation system that can replace older technology navigation systems in UAVs, UUVs, UGVs, manned aircraft and rotorcraft is fully realized with the introduction of the EN-2000.”

“Our Emcore-Orion series micro navigators improve dramatically on the size and cost of navigation and azimuth sensing equipment by utilizing affordable lightweight sensors that reduce overall system weight and increase accuracy,” added K.K. Wong, Sr., director of fiber optic gyro products for Emcore. “The digital interface is also fully programmable at Emcore’s factory enabling it to directly replace competing units.”

June 26, 2019
Emcore acquires Systron Donner, increasing defense role
Emcore Corporation, a provider of advanced mixed-signal optics products that provide the foundation for defense systems, has acquired Systron Donner Inertial, Inc. (SDI) from Resilience Capital Partners for approximately $25.8 million. Consideration will be in the form of $22.8 million in cash plus 810,698 shares of Emcore common stock.

Highlights of the transaction are as follows:
- Expected to increase the navigation systems products to over one third of Emcore’s total revenue; making the aerospace and defense market Emcore’s largest revenue source.
- Expands Emcore’s navigation systems product portfolio and accelerates growth through the contribution of substantial additional revenue, which in the unaudited books and records of SDI, totaled approximately $28 million for the 12 months ended March 31, 2019.
- Adds additional Raytheon, Lockheed Martin and Boeing 777X programs to Emcore’s existing navigation systems portfolio.
- Expected to create material operating synergies in manufacturing, sales and engineering.
- Expected to be non-GAAP EPS accretive by the end of calendar 2019
Emcore intends to add SDI’s business to its current navigation product line and support these products from facilities in Concord, California. Through the transaction, Emcore has acquired all of the outstanding assets and liabilities of SDI, including SDI’s 100,000 square foot production facility in Concord.

“This acquisition delivers immediate scale to our growing navigation systems product line and positions Emcore as one of the largest independent inertial navigation providers in the industry,” said Jeff Rittichier, president and CEO of Emcore. “Merging Emcore’s existing navigation systems product line with SDI’s strong brand, technology and backlog, and program wins, instantly creates a stable, growing, and technically advanced business well-positioned to disrupt market norms.

“SDI provides Emcore with a scalable, chip-based platform for higher volume gyro applications, while delivering superior performance compared to its competitors. Combining this business into Emcore will allow us to provide customers with a full product suite that serves a broad range of requirements across both the tactical and navigation grade segments of the market,” concluded Rittichier.

Emcore also announced the appointment of Bruce Grooms to its board of directors. Grooms has extensive senior management and executive experience in both the private sector and the U.S. Navy. From 2015 until June 1, 2019, Grooms served as Raytheon’s vice president of U.S. Business Development, Navy and Marine Corps Programs, where he was responsible for identifying and pursuing U.S. Navy and Marine Corps business growth opportunities for Raytheon and was one of its primary contacts with Navy customers, pursuing opportunities in the evolving cyber area, undersea growth and next-generation strike weapons.
June 26, 2019