The European Space Agency (ESA) marked 30 years of European satellite navigation with a celebration Sep. 2 at its research and technology center. The event honored key contributors who have shaped the journey of systems like Galileo and EGNOS, which have positioned Europe as a global leader in satellite navigation.
Among the honorees was Rohde & Schwarz, recognized for the excellence, commitment and long-standing partnership leading to the success of European satellite navigation programs over the past three decades.
Javier Benedicto kicks off the celebration of 30 years of satellite navigation. (Photo: ESA)
The event brought together institutional and industrial partners, ESA Member State representatives, and leading figures in satellite navigation. The celebration revisited pivotal milestones in Europe’s satellite navigation history and looked ahead to future innovations.
A highlight of the evening was the award ceremony led by ESA Director of Navigation Javier Benedicto, who, alongside past directors, presented accolades to organizations and partners instrumental in this success story.
Rohde & Schwarz’s recognition underscores their role in advancing European satellite navigation technology. Their contributions have been vital in the development and operational success of Galileo and EGNOS, systems that have revolutionized positioning, navigation, and timing services across Europe and beyond.
The event not only celebrated past achievements but also set the stage for the future of European satellite navigation, with discussions around upcoming initiatives and advancements. For Rohde & Schwarz and other honourees, the evening served as both a celebration of past achievements and a call to continue building a connected, resilient, and sustainable future in space.
“Thirty years of satellite navigation is a testament to shared vision, determination to push technology boundaries, and intense, long-term collaboration,” said Rob Short, director of Business Development at Rohde & Schwarz. “We are honoured to have contributed to this remarkable achievement. Congratulations to everyone who made this milestone possible.”
An exclusive interview with Tim Erbes, Technical Director, Safran Federal Systems (formerly Orolia Defense & Security). For more exclusive interviews from this cover story, click here.
What are currently the key challenges for simulation?
One of our big challenges is determining what performance requirements are necessary for our users. Often, they can’t determine what the specs need to be. All they know is that they need it to work. “I need this receiver from one company, this IMU from another company, and the simulator I got from you guys to work together and I need the performance to match reality.” It can be very challenging to say, “What are the requirements for the simulator? How accurate does it need to be? What types of things matter in this integration?”
Often, we’re left trying to figure that out. So, that’s an interesting, maybe unexpected challenge. It’s easy to look at the datasheet and see what some specs are, but it’s a much harder thing to say, “Well, what do you need the specs to be?” So, we’ve been working with our customers to try to nail down some of those specs, particularly with Wavefront. We have some specs on such things as phase alignment and phase stability. But how do you translate that into something like “Well, I just want the CRPA to work the same in the lab as it does in the real world?” There’s not a direct, easy way to do that. We’re in the middle of trying to figure that out. That’s definitely one of our challenges.
What about the increase in jamming and spoofing threats?
In the last five years, we’ve seen a lot more open talk about jamming and spoofing in the world. The receiver manufacturers must think about this a lot more. What’s interesting from a simulator point of view is that this is not actually new for us. We have the advantage that we’ve been designing to program requirements for years and they have included jamming and spoofing for years. So, in a way, simulation is ahead of this state of the world. Jamming and spoofing are not new or hard ideas for us. In fact, spoofing is similar to simulation. So, we already know how to do that.
Image: Safran Federal Systems (formerly Orolia Defense & Security)
However, jamming and spoofing are new to programs and integration labs. So, there might be platforms where they’re now testing against jamming or spoofing requirements where in the past, maybe they didn’t do that. They certainly can use our simulators to help them do that. However, we’re not seeing a lot of new requirements coming to us saying we need new jamming or spoofing capabilities, because we already have them. Luckily, we are future oriented regarding the jamming and spoofing requirements, so those really haven’t been a challenge for us yet.
That can always change, right? If new requirements come up, such as higher data rates or wider bandwidth waveforms or different types of waveforms, then we would have to adapt and add support for that kind of stuff. As of right now, however, we aren’t really seeing that. So, luckily, we’re prepared for that. As for the industry as a whole, there has definitely been a big movement in the last few years to understand the effects of jamming and spoofing. Simulation is a big part of that.
What about the completion of the BeiDou and Galileo constellations?
For a long time, we simulated four constellations. Then that began to get fuzzy. Do you consider SBAS a constellation or is that just an augmentation? Do you count EGNOS and other supplemental constellations for the other constellations? What about NavIC and QZSS? Before you know it, you start to lose track of exactly how many you have. We just released our 8th constellation, Xona.We’re going to be demonstrating it at JNC.
Tell me more about that.
We are trying to have all the constellations and that can be a fuzzy definition. Does that mean all that are up there right now or all that will be up there in the future? We’re trying to be forward looking and add everything that is going to be up there or might be up there so that lab users can develop and test. Multi-constellation simulation is a particularly challenging problem for groups that don’t have simulators. If you’re just doing research on, say, GPS, and want a new code, you might be able to do that in a lab on your own. But as soon as you say, “I want to do research on whether this LEO constellation helps navigation on a receiver that also uses Galileo and GPS,” suddenly, your research requires a full multi-constellation simulation.
There are two choices. One is to have a simulator do the constellations that already exist, and then you have some research to add constellations. That can be very challenging, especially with time alignment and things like that. The other is to have a simulator that can do all the constellations. That would be the easy choice, right? That presents a problem with such things as LEO navigation being on the rise and these constellations that are just emerging, that are still not even fully defined.
So, we’re trying to build those into our simulation products, to help researchers and decision makers determine whether these will be useful features to add to their receivers or their systems. We have the advantage of having a software-defined architecture. We designed the software so that it is easy to add new constellations to it. Basically, once we’re given a proper ICD, we’re only a couple of months away from a first draft implementation of that new signal. Then we iterate. There used to always be a government-driven, multi-year program to develop an ICD. Now, we have this new concept of the signal manufacturers. We’re seeing private companies release signal specs. That’s a very different way of creating a signal in a constellation. So, sometimes you don’t get much time between when the ICD is available and when simulator users want to use that constellation. Having a software-defined architecture really helps us move quickly. We can add such things as Xona very fast.
Xona told me a couple of days ago that they will soon put out an ICD. What’s the difference between actual signals that you can record and play versus something that’s only on paper?
That’s a great point. Probably many people don’t realize, when they first look at this, that what’s in the ICD and what’s on live sky are sometimes very different. Is the simulator supposed to match live sky? Or is it supposed to match the intended final state of the constellation, according to the ICD? This is a huge topic for M-Code, which is ever changing, and has a very large ICD that’s been released. Space Systems Command/Military Communications & Position, Navigation, & Timing (MCPNT) controls the features and releases them incrementally. We’re constantly having to make changes to the simulator to match those releases. The same is true for the other ICDs. At the Institute of Navigation Joint Navigation Conference (JNC), we will demonstrate an expanded PRN. I think this showed up in the ICD a couple of years ago, but it’s not used by any users yet. Some of the receiver manufacturers are starting to look at using PRNs beyond 32. So, we’re adding that to the simulator. This has already happened for BeiDou as well. I think their ICD goes up to more than 60 satellites. It’s an ever-changing race. The ICDs are constantly being updated and we’re trying to update the simulator.
Image: Safran Federal Systems (formerly Orolia Defense & Security)
Meanwhile, live sky is many years behind the paper, right? This creates an interesting challenge: when you design a system, are you designing it for today or for the future? We have users in both groups. We have users that only care about what is happening today, because they need a model. Maybe you want to model a specific mission and you want to make sure that everything’s going to go properly. Or maybe you’re designing a system that you want to release in three or four years, and you want to make sure that it’s going to work with the state of the system then.
A big challenge is to make sure that we’re keeping pace with all these ICDs. There are more constellations than ever and the technology makes it easier to change signal architectures. We’re seeing signals change faster than we’ve ever seen them change before. We go to conferences and hear about such things as on-orbit reprogramming and signals that might even change specs while they’re being transmitted. Maybe they don’t even have to have a fixed bandwidth or fixed bit rate. We’re going to start talking about signals that can reprogram on the fly. That’s going to make simulation more and more challenging. The technology exists to do this.
Software-defined waveforms is a very logical step. In the software world, we have this concept of version nightmare. When you have 20 different pieces of software that are interdependent, it can get very challenging. We’re going to start to see that in simulators. We’re going to see, “Hey, what version of navigation authentication are you using? We updated it six months ago. Are you using the new one or the old one? Which one should we use?” Well, it depends on what your receiver is using. It’s going to be interesting and challenging to keep all this straight in the next few years as things evolve. Certainly, however, our goal is to be there for all of it and to be as fast and as forward thinking as we can for our customers. That means that we also need to know what our customers need. So, we’re always looking for feedback and requests, what challenges our customers face and we’re responding to those requests.
Tell me more about the difference between simulators used by receiver manufacturers in their labs as they’re tweaking receivers or developing new ones vs. simulators used for mission planning.
The simulators are the same, but they’re used in very different ways. In most lab simulation, what the constellation looks like that day doesn’t matter very much. They can just run with a default constellation for a given day. They’ll run that scenario hundreds or thousands of times and never need to change it because they’re testing parts of the receiver that don’t care a whole lot about the specifics of what’s happening.
Whereas missions are time- and location-specific.
Yeah, exactly. They want to know which satellites will be overhead at an exact time and place. It’s not so much a problem anymore, but there used to be certain days and times when you would not get enough satellites in view, or you might have very bad dilution of precision, and your mission might actually fail. We’re past those days. There are now enough satellites up there. Most receivers will navigate within their specs most of the time in most places. However, for critical missions, such as military operations or rocket launches, you might not want to just assume that any day is a good day. So, if you’re about to launch a rocket, you might want to check. “What does the constellation look like right now?” The challenges that brings is that simulators have a default constellation, but the constellations are constantly changing.
When you’re doing real day mission planning, the big problem isn’t so much how to generate a signal, it’s how to find out what’s happening today. That’s really the nature of the problem because what’s out there today is different from what was happening yesterday or what will happen tomorrow. You might have unhealthy satellites. You need to know that if you want to model them. It becomes a big challenge to get all the right data into the simulator. Once all that data is in there, then it’s the same as any other simulation.
Are there good sources for current data on GLONASS, BeiDou and Galileo?
Image: Safran Federal Systems (formerly Orolia Defense & Security)
There are a couple of websites that provide information about where the satellites currently are. However, we’ve found that each one of those sites has its own challenges. Some are maybe 30 minutes out of date, which is pretty good, but puts the satellites in slightly different spots. Some of those sites only support some of the constellations. We’re talking about multiple countries and they don’t all agree on how this should be done. So, there’s not a single point that you can visit to get all the satellite data. There are a couple of companies that try to fix this. U-blox has AssistNow; Qualcomm has an assist for its cellular receivers; Trimble, NovAtel, and a couple of other companies have their error correction services to which you can subscribe to get some of that data.
If you want real-time up-to-date ephemeris for all the constellations, that is challenging. There are one or two options we have found that seem to work, but they each have their disadvantages. Maybe they don’t have all the satellites. Again, we’re talking about versioning issues. So, if you’ve designed your system with a certain version of an ICD and they’ve added more satellites since, those new SVs maybe aren’t so important for your users, so you don’t publish them. Other users want those satellites. So, we see versioning issues in these data streams. For example, we use the CORS network to get a lot of GPS data but that whole network, as far as I know, is only running the legacy data. As far as I know, no network is distributing the L1C modernized data that we will need at some point. So, as we launch new signals and constellations, we need the networks to provide this new data.
What are some other challenges?
For us, being a software-defined simulator on a platform dependent on software-defined radio (SDR), we’re constantly looking at what’s changing in the SDR technology community. There’s always some interesting stuff happening there that we try to incorporate. We don’t have any big announcements this year, as far as new architectures or anything like that. However, the SDR community is evolving. It’s still a rather new industry. A few years ago, we were an early adopter of SDR technology for mass deployment. Now, we’re seeing some more mature SDRs starting to push such things as channel count and coherency. We will probably take advantage of that in the future.
The other interesting thing technology-wise is that we’re also a GPU-dependent technology. So, as the GPU industry continues to evolve and makes bigger and faster GPUs, we get a relatively low-cost way to upgrade. We don’t have to do a lot of R&D to upgrade to a new GPU. For our users that means that the number of signals they can generate on their simulators is always increasing even using the same hardware from one generation to the next. Our first simulator did 75 signals; the next version did 150. We could build a system that did more than 1,000 signals, but our users don’t need it.
I assume that the growth curve for GPUs is steeper than that for signals.
I think that you’re right about that. I’m sure glad they do, because then something like Xona shows up and we don’t have to rearchitect our system to generate 300 signals, right? At JNC we will show expanded PRN, 300 Xona satellites in the constellation, and a 10 fold improvement on Wavefront performance specs.. We will continue to build simulators that meet our customers’ requirements. Besides GPUs, a lot of the technology involves software R&D and signals. The stuff that we do digitally inside of our system that allows us to do things like extremely precise phase alignment on Wavefront, for example. We spent a lot of time developing that stuff.
A roundup of recent products in the GNSS and inertial positioning industry from the May 2023 issue of GPS World magazine.
SURVEYING
Image: Septentrio
Corrections Program Provides documentation for GNSS receivers
The Agnostic Correction Partner Program facilitates the use of Septentrio GNSS receivers with high-accuracy services that provide varying levels of accuracy, coverage and delivery methods. This enables users to select the service that suits specific applications and business models. The program — which includes Polaris from Point One, Skylark from Swift Navigation, and PointPerfect from u-blox — provides documentation for the use of Septentrio receivers with these high-accuracy services. Agnostic corrections are useful in situations where multiple types of GNSS receivers are being used, such as in a large-scale surveying project. Septentrio, septentrio.com
Image: Inertial Labs
Multi-Application IMU A compact, self-contained strapdown, advanced tactical-grade IMU device
The IMU-FI-200C measures linear accelerations and angular rates with its three-axis, tactical-grade, closed loop, fiber-optic gyroscopes and three-axis, high-precision MEMS accelerometers in motionless and high dynamic applications. The IMU-FI-200C is fully calibrated, temperature compensated and aligned to an orthogonal coordinate system. It contains more than 0.5°/hr gyroscopes and less than 2 mg bias repeatability over operational range accelerometers with low noise and high reliability. Continuous built-in test, configurable communications protocols, electromagnetic interference protection, and flexible input power requirements make the IMU-FI-200C suitable for a wide range of integrated system applications. Inertial Labs, inertiallabs.com
Image: Inertial Labs
MEMS IMU Suitable for applications such as antenna and line of sight stabilization systems, GPS-aided INS and more
The inertial measurement unit-P (IMU-P) is an advanced MEMS sensors-based, compact, self-contained strapdown, industrial- and tactical-grade inertial measurement system and digital tilt sensor that measures linear accelerations, angular rates and pitch-and-roll with three-axis, high-grade MEMS accelerometers and three-axis, tactical-grade MEMS gyroscopes. Angular rates and accelerations are determined with high accuracy for both motionless and dynamic applications. The IMU-P is fully calibrated, temperature compensated, and mathematically aligned to an orthogonal coordinate system. IMU-P demonstrates less than 1 deg/hr gyroscopes and 0.005 mg accelerometers bias inrun stability with low noise and high reliability. The IMU-P models collect data from an external source of GNSS to output full spectrum inertial navigation system data consisting of positions, attitude, velocity and time.
Inertial Labs, inertiallabs.com
The CGI-610 GNSS/INS sensor is an advanced dual-antenna receiver designed for reliable and accurate navigation and positioning in challenging terrestrial, marine or airborne applications. Designed to meet the needs of 3D positioning and autonomous vehicle guidance applications, it provides high performance in urban canyons and other harsh environments where GNSS signals are lost or degraded. Incorporating GNSS technology and an industrial-grade inertial measurement unit, the sensor delivers accurate hybrid position, attitude and velocity data up to 100 Hz, driven by CHC Navigation algorithms. Its rugged and lightweight package ensures uninterrupted performance and meets high protection standards. CHC Navigation, chcnav.com
Image: uAvionix
Remote ID Module
Meets FAA standards
The pingRID meets the Part 89 remote ID standards of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which will become effective on Sept. 16, to keep operators safe and compliant throughout a flight. The pingRID comes pre-configured and ready for use out of the box. After assigning the pingRID unique identification number to the aircraft’s registration with the FAA, operators can attach the battery-powered device to their UAV and prepare for flight. A set of LED indicators provides status on the battery charge, device readiness for flight and inflight operations. The compact, lightweight design fits most aircraft without significantly impacting performance. The module also can be quickly recharged via USB-C. The FAA’s final rule on remote ID requires all UAV pilots to meet the operating requirements of Part 89. For most operators, this will require flying a UAV equipped with standard remote ID, a remote ID broadcast module such as the pingRID, or flying at a Federally Recognized Identification Area. uAvionix, uavionix.com
MOBILE
Image: Orolia
GNSS Simulator A positioning, navigation and timing test solution
GSG-7 delivers GNSS signal testing for location-aware applications and systems that require navigation or timing. The GSG-7 GNSS simulator features high-end performance with a 1,000 Hz simulation iteration rate, high dynamics, real-time synchronization, and simulation of all-in-view satellite signals. The GNSS simulator is suitable for development and integration projects that require high performance and an increased number of constellation licenses and satellites in view for a single antenna or trajectory. GSG-7 supports multi-constellation and multi-frequency GNSS simulations. It can be programmed to simulate operations with all current and future GNSS signals. Orolia, safran-navigation-timing.com
Image: Eos Positioning
GNSS Receiver Supports Galileo HAS
The Arrow Gold+ enables users to achieve better than 20 cm accuracy with 95% confidence using Galileo HAS. The Arrow Gold+ is one of the first high-accuracy GNSS receivers that supports Galileo HAS and is designed for the GIS market. Additional signal support for Arrow Gold+ includes: the concurrent use of the BeiDou B3 and GPS L5 signals as well as GLONASS, BeiDou, QZSS and IRNSS signals. Eos Positioning Systems, eos-gnss.com
Image: Pasternack
Mil-Spec GPS/GNSS Antennas Meets military specifications for use in several small form factor and mobile applications
The PEANGPS1006, PEANGPS1007, PEANGPS1008 and PEANGPS1009 mil-spec GNSS antennas are engineerered
for environmental performance according to the MIL-STD-810G standard and include multi-standard GPS L1, Galileo E1 and GLONASS options. They are IP67 rated and available in passive and active versions and provide coverage from 1,597 MHz to 1,607 MHz. The GNSS antennas feature linear polarization for cross-polarized isolation, nominal gain options of -3 dBic and 10 dBic, and SMA mounts. The mil-spec GNSS antennas are available now.
Pasternack, Pasternack.com
TFX62.A. (Image: Taoglas)
Near-Invisible Antennas Supports cellular Wi-Fi and GNSS technologies
The TFX62.A, TFX257.A and TFX125.A offer an alternative to standard opaque antennas, with “peel and stick” mounting capabilities to any nonmetal surface. The TFX62.A, TFX257.A and TFX125.A come with an adhesive and have an enclosed carrier terminated with a FAKRA connector for easy installation. The TFX series antennas leverage a sub-millimeter thick hybrid transparent conductive film that offers designers an invisible antenna solution. They are suitable for mobility, public infrastructure, medical devices, transportation and emerging IoT applications. Use cases for the antennas include electric vehicle chargers and parking meters, smart buildings and transportation vehicles.
Taoglas, taoglas.com
Image: CHC Navigation
3D Grade Control System For motor graders
The TG63 comes with a tightly coupled dual-GNSS positioning system and inertial sensor, and provides reliable 3D positioning and heading to ensure accuracy of the grader blade within ±2 cm. The TG63 is designed to withstand the harsh environment of construction sites and supports multiple applications, including real-time kinematic networked transport of RTCM via internet protocol and ultra-high frequency base stations.
CHC Navigation, chcnav.com
OEM
Image: ComNav Technology
GNSS Modules Now compatible with Galileo HAS
K8 series GNSS modules can use the Galileo High Accuracy Service (HAS) precise-point positioning (PPP). The PVT algorithm upgrade to the K8 series module supports Galileo HAS with an accuracy of 20 cm horizontally and 40 cm vertically. Galileo HAS provides free access to information necessary to estimate accurate positioning using a PPP algorithm in real-time through the Galileo signal E6-B and an internet connection. The improved performance capabilities provide a higher level of accuracy for industries such as UAV, autonomous driving, intelligent transportation, agriculture and more. ComNav Technology, comnavtech.com
Images: SingularXYZ
Development Kit Designed for GNSS-related development integration
The DK100 development kit is a multi-functional kit with selectable single-antenna and dual-antenna modules, full constellation tracking and centimeter-level positioning. It is a ready-to-use kit designed to simplify integration efforts and increase compatibility with a variety of applications. The DK100 reserves standard adapter board interfaces to connect different GNSS modules and radio modules to meet specific needs. The development kits are coupled with a 4G module, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet modules, large memory and status indicators on a single PCBA. The DK100 comes with a web page for easy configuration. With Ethernet and Wi-Fi access, users can monitor device status and configure working mode and data transmission settings on the web page. The centimeter-level DK100 can be integrated in a range of horizontal and vertical applications, such as CORS construction, precision agriculture, construction machinery, smart navigation, monitoring, robotics, unmanned systems and more. Singular XYZ, singularxyz.com
Image: TDK Corporation
Digital MEMS Gyroscope A high stability and vibration-tolerant gyroscope for dynamic applications
The GYPRO4300 features a ±300°/s input measurement range, 200 Hz bandwidth, and 1 ms latency with a closed-loop architecture that enables high linearity and stability. The GYPRO4300 has bias instability of 0.5°/h as a typical value and a maximum value of 2°/h. The GYPRO4300 is suitable for applications such as railways, land vehicles, vertical take-off and landing aircraft and UAVs, marine and subsea systems, borehole drilling and surveying instruments. The GYPRO4300 is available now for sampling and customer evaluations. Evaluations of the sensors also can be made with an Arduino-based evaluation kit that provides built-in testing functionalities such as output reading and recording, recalibration and digital self-tests. TDK Corporation, tdk.com
Image: Tallysman Wireless
GNSS Antenna Small, light, and dual-band
The SSL889XF employs Tallysman’s Accutenna technology providing GPS, QZSS L1/L2, GLONASS G1/G2/G3, Galileo E1/E5b, and BeiDou B1/B2b coverage. The SSL889XF antenna is designed for precision dual-frequency positioning where a light weight and a low profile are important. The SSL889XF antenna element is 48 mm in diameter and 20 mm tall and weighs ~50 g. It has a tight average phase center variation of less than 10 mm for all frequencies and overall azimuths and elevation angles. The SSL889XF is available in three versions. Model SSL889XF-1 has an integrated 61 mm ground plane and two mounting holes. Model SSL889XF-2 has a mounting collar, and model SSL889XF-3 is the antenna only and is attached using adhesive tape. All models have a female MCX connector. The SSL889XF antenna also supports Tallysman’s eXtended Filtering (XF) technology. Tallysman Wireless, tallysman.com
Image: ComNav Technology
Datalink Module Suitable for GNSS-based systems
The U702 datalink module is a RX/TX data link module that supports the LoRa modulation technique. Its compact, surface-mounted design and robust electromagnetic compatibility enable easy integration into GNSS systems such as robotic lawn mowers. With the LoRa modulation technique, the U702 has low power consumption, reception power of 0.025 w, and a working distance up to 1.5 km. It also enhances the ability to protect GNSS systems against various interference — making it possible to have high reception sensitivity, a low error rate, and high reliable data transmission even in harsh environments.
ComNav Technology, comnavtech.com
Image: Cloud Ground Control/Advanced Navigation
Fleet management device For air, land and sea vehicles
CGConnect can securely connect UAVs and vehicles into one autonomous fleet across land, sea and air, regardless of manufacturer or model. This provides mission planners and operators with full situational awareness for search and rescue, emergency response and disaster relief. Artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms are running in the cloud, relaying real-time camera feed data to the end user to support missions such as object detection, tracking and thermal imaging. The flexible and customizable open platform is operating on industry standards, which multiplies potential product applications and enables diverse autonomous vehicles and payloads to operate as a coordinated fleet. High-grade security safeguards data and IP from vulnerabilities and security breaches, helping users meet compliance obligations. Additionally, CGConnect supports edge AI to perform intensive object identification and classification directly on the vehicle for dynamic missions. CGConnect is available for pre-order. An OEM option is available. Cloud Ground Control/Advanced Navigation, cloudgroundcontrol.com/advancednavigation.com
GSG-7 delivers the highest standard of GNSS signal testing in a cost-effective, easy-to-use, turnkey form factor supporting navigation and timing systems
Photo: Orolia
Orolia has released the GSG-7, its latest GNSS signal testing solution.
Orolia made the announcement at the ION GNSS+ conference, taking place this week in Denver.
Offered through the Orolia family of Skydel-based simulators, the GSG-7 features a small form factor, an internal RF combiner, high-end performance with a 1,000-Hz simulation iteration rate, real-time synchronization, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) integration, powerful automation, and multi-constellation and multi-frequency simulations.
“The GSG-7 is redefining the essential and high capabilities in GNSS simulation with its ease of use, advanced simulation capabilities, reduced size, and competitive price,” said Lisa Perdue, simulation product line director. “Leveraging the powerful Skydel software and commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) hardware, GSG-7 can accommodate almost any configuration to conduct system testing and simulation. The use of SDRs [software-defined receivers] means that maintenance and customization are not only easier, but more cost-effective than other options on the market.”
Powered by Orolia’s Skydel simulation engine, the GSG-7 can be programmed to simulate operations with all current GNSS signals, as well as future ones. Skydel’s architecture makes the GSG-7 future-proof by allowing new, incoming signals and updates to be implemented through software updates.
The GSG-7 simulator is suitable for development and integration projects that require high performance, all-in-view satellite signals, and an increased number of GNSS constellations.
“Capable of handling complex simulation scenarios, the GSG-7 has a simple, yet powerful application program interface (API) ensuring easy automation and integration into your test environment,” Perdue added. “Users can also benefit from advanced HIL capabilities that include zero-effective latency and built-in performance monitoring tools.”
GSG-7 Webinar
Orolia will host a product webinar on Oct. 6 to discuss the new GSG-7 in great detail. Topics will include:
Enables greater collaboration and faster product development through I/Q data streaming
Spirent Federal Systems has released SimIQ, software that allows for earlier and more efficient GNSS testing during product development.
From software-in-the-loop through to final-form testing, SimIQ enables developers to collaborate across the full design lifecycle through the creation, sharing and replay of I/Q data files.
“SimIQ Capture allows developers to test their receiver algorithms in the earliest stages of design, minimizing costs and giving designers confidence as they proceed to the hardware design phase.”
SimIQ has been developed to meet the growing need to test GNSS capabilities earlier to accelerate product development, while simultaneously reducing costs by identifying issues prior to the purchase of hardware components.
For developers using Spirent’s GSS9000 and GSS7000 simulators, SimIQ extends multi-frequency, multi-constellation simulation capabilities to cover software-only testing needs through the capture and replay of high-fidelity I/Q data files.
Housed in a single system, SimIQ reads and generates I/Q data with two major components, SimIQ Capture and SimIQ Replay.
SimIQ Capture. Allows Spirent GNSS simulators to generate I/Q files containing all the GNSS signal data required to test the algorithms, conformance, and performance of software receivers. It enables the recording of GNSS I/Q data into files hosted in the simulator, helping development and testing teams to validate positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) algorithms before expensive hardware designs.
SimIQ Capture: Record I/Q data from Spirent GNSS simulators into files. (Image: Spirent)
SimIQ Replay. Enables the simulator to read any I/Q file containing GNSS data. In addition, it facilitates the generation of RF from pre-recorded interference signals and custom waveforms. The flexibility and unrivalled signal generation architecture of Spirent’s hardware enables the generation of these signals from I/Q files, while maintaining fidelity and quality due to Spirent’s unrivalled signal generation architecture.
SimIQ Replay: Generate RF with Spirent GNSS simulators form I/Q files. (Image: Spirent)
Test engineers can accelerate development, and thus save time and resources, by using Spirent simulators during the entire design lifecycle. The new software will bring significant benefits to developers in the defense and aerospace sectors.
“SimIQ Capture allows developers to test their receiver algorithms in the earliest stages of design, minimizing costs and giving designers confidence as they proceed to the hardware design phase,” said Jen Smith, Spirent Federal’s director of Business Development.
SimIQ will be available to new and existing customers beginning in the fourth quarter of 2020.
This tongue-in-cheek photo, courtesy of Racelogic, underlines how simulators help GNSS engineers “road test” multiple positioning products in multiple scenarios. (Photo: Racelogic)
The number of GNSS signals, the frequency and sophistication of intentional and unintentional threats to those signals, and the need for integration between GNSS and other positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) sources — especially for indoor and autonomous navigation — are continuing to increase, as is the number of new applications for GNSS. In response, manufacturers of GNSS simulators are creating new and improved models able to simulate all these new signals and scenarios.
Additionally, as GNSS chipsets continue to be further commoditized, simulator manufacturers must address the needs of new entrants into the GNSS receiver market that have lower accuracy requirements and require less technical expertise and, therefore, require units that are smaller and cheaper and have simpler interfaces.
No single manufacturer can address the full spectrum of challenges that these trends present. So, while their products overlap in capabilities and SWaP-C (size, weight, power and cost), each one has chosen its market niche and preferred mix of features.
Even on the deceptively simple question of definition (“What is a GNSS simulator?”), the seven manufacturers featured here give different answers, covering the following capabilities:
Simulating GNSS signals as well as inertial navigation data.
Enabling users to test hardware, software and new solutions in the lab before deployment.
Enabling users to test systems under pristine or extreme conditions, including error conditions.
Enabling users to test systems during rare, transitional and prohibited events.
Helping to retrofit existing equipment to new and emerging standards.
Innovations being introduced or developed include:
an anechoic simulator to test continuous radiation pattern antennas (CRPAs).
simulation of a full M-code modernized signal.
software-defined simulators.
increased automation of repetitive tasks.
the capability to record and replay real-world signals.
the capability to record and synchronize data on the conditions faced by a test vehicle.
While the universe of GNSS satellites and receivers continues to grow and evolve, the universe of GNSS simulators is keeping pace — or even a step ahead.
Click on the company to be directed to that section.
John F. Clark, Vice President, Engineering. (Photo: CAST Navigation)
In the lab, simulators allow users to “drive” a piece of equipment through 3D space, performing flight testing or checking equipment integration. Simulators also validate operational flight programs (OFPs) for pilots before they are fielded, to ensure that the software is working correctly.
Innovation. CAST’s latest simulator is the CAST 5000 wavefront generator. It allows users to drive GNSS and interference signals that represent a continuous radiation pattern antenna (CRPA), which consists of multiple, smaller antennas all combined into one unit. In real life, each one of those antenna elements is in a different location; therefore, when they receive signals from a jammer or any of the GNSS satellites, each one will see that signal in a slightly different phase from the other elements. “Our simulator allows us to present signals to these antennas that model the same type of phase differentiation that you see in real life,” Clark said.
Photo: CAST Navigation
Coming Next. CAST Navigation is constantly improving its software based on user feedback. “We are in the process of enhancing our user interface to make it much more powerful but also much simpler to use,” Clark said. Hardware is also being improved, with implementation of the latest available GNSS always on the list.
Looking Ahead to 2022. Jamming and spoofing are becoming more prevalent, not just for the military but also for consumers. Consumers are starting to encounter more instances of jamming, denying their phone the ability to track a GPS satellite or transmitting incorrect GPS data so the solution that their device gives them is not correct. “Our focus is on products and capabilities that help our customers simulate those types of environments and mitigate those kinds of reactions,” Clark said.
Jackson Labs Technologies Inc.
Said Jackson, President and CTO. (Photo: Jackson Labs)
Jackson Labs’ simulators take a position, navigation or timing signal, re-encode it into an RF signal through a GPS simulation procedure, and output a real-time RF signal that encodes the position, navigation and timing (PNT) information, within milliseconds, into an RF signal that can be fed into existing equipment. “We came up with a general-purpose simulator that is basically a no-frills, low-cost, highly accurate, highly stable, highly reliable, extremely small GPS-only simulator,” explained Jackson. “We only provide GPS L1 simulation, to keep the cost of the product down, because GPS L1 C/A code is the only code required to generate an accurate and assured PNT fix, and because we are looking at simulating to embedded systems, where you only need an L1 C/A code simulator.”
Photo: Jackson Labs
Coming Next. Jackson Labs’ simulators don’t require an external computer for data processing or control. That makes it possible for companies like Toyota to plug the unit into a car on the assembly line, and generate RF output that is fed into their GPS-based navigation systems to pass final quality-assurance checks on the production line. Jackson Labs expects to further reduce SWaP-C (size, weight, power and cost) requirements and potentially add other signals. “We are also looking to potentially combine our simulators with other product lines that we have, such as our comprehensive atomic clock product line,” Jackson said.
Looking Ahead to 2022. Jackson predicts that the sector will split into two paths: an industrial sector with units for manufacturing and deployment, and companies that introduce emerging GNSS systems at much lower price points, smaller SWaP, and with more modular deployment. Inertial navigation systems (INS) are critical for autonomous driving and assured capabilities during spoofing and jamming events, Jackson said. “It is not possible today to very easily simulate INS units.There is a market for innovation in terms of integrating what the military calls ‘assured PNT,’ which includes things like dual navigation.”
Orolia
Stéphane Hamel, Director, Testing and Simulation. (Photo: Orolia)
According to Orolia’s Hamel, a simulator’s purpose is two-fold: first, it must reproduce threats and second, it must prove the solution is working.
Innovation. When Skydel Solutions joined Orolia in March, it brought a professional software-defined simulator that makes possible fast prototyping and development cycles. It integrates advanced interference simulation and can simulate hundreds of threats simultaneously. “When you want to do a repetitive step, automation is the key,” Hamel said. “Our simulator can teach you how to automate, just by clicking on a button and generating source code.” In 2018, Skydel introduced an anechoic simulator to test Controlled reception pattern antennas (CRPAs). Also new is a waveform simulator, so CRPA units can be tested in a conducted (rather than radiated) way.
Image: Orolia
Coming Next. In the next three years, Orolia is looking at adding Galileo PRS, GPS M-code, or the next-generation signal. “Being software-defined means that we are very flexible and we can allow our partners to develop their own plug-ins,” Hamel said. “They can build custom signals, restricted or modernized signals. Our simulator will take care of the dynamics of the signal and our partners can focus on the characteristics of the signal, or the things that are secret, classified, or if they simply want to protect their IP.”
Looking Ahead to 2022. Resilience to serious spoofing and jamming threats is high on Orolia’s list, as well as ensuring secure or valid positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) in GPS-denied environments. Alternative signals, sensors and increased complexity require a simulator to address all of these. Companies that develop complex proprietary hardware platforms will be challenged to keep up with the increasing complexity. and a software-defined approach will be an advantage.
Racelogic’s first LabSat was a recorder with player — the signals were recorded outside, and then replayed in the lab. Racelogic’s simulators now also provide simulation of the signals using software to generate the signals as though they are being sent by the satellites.
Innovation. In 2018, Racelogic introduced the LabSat wideband, which uses the company’s SatGen software. It records at 56 MHz and up to 6 bits of resolution and streams the data to an internal SSD hard drive. It can also replay real-world simulations or ones generated with SatGen. For the automotive world, it records and replays signals such as CAN, RS232, RS485, IMU and other data channels, synchronizing them at the same time. VBOX allows users to record and replay video with the perfectly synchronized recording made on the LabSat. “You see exactly the kinds of conditions of the test vehicle or person who has been subjected to the test,” Thomas said.
Photo: Spirent
Coming Next. Racelogic is providing wider bandwidth, greater bit depth, and multiple channels in a small battery-powered device that records even more signals, including lidar, EtherCAT (an automotive Ethernet format) and CAN-FD (a faster version of the CAN format). It will be able to synchronize with multiple video cameras instead of just one in high resolution. “It is basically the same as what we are selling, but on steroids, and at a very similar price point,” Thomas said.
Looking Ahead to 2022. With multi-GNSS going mainstream, both chip manufacturers and simulator manufacturers will be challenged by the cost of test equipment. Chip makers need to be able to test the new signals on their production lines, while simulator makers will need to provide devices at a price point and ease of use for customers with less stringent or slightly less technical requirements. “They need a simpler interface and a smaller, cheaper unit,” Thomas said.
Rohde & Schwarz
Markus Irsigler, Product Manager, Signal Generators. (Photo: Rohde & Schwarz)
An increasing number of GNSS applications depend on multi-frequency GNSS.
Innovation. In response, Rohde & Schwarz added multi-frequency test capabilities to its entry-level and mid-range test solutions. “We have launched a new GNSS simulator based on the new mid-range vector signal generator R&S SMBV100B,” Irsigler said. A simple and flexible option concept allows users to turn the instrument into a full-featured and powerful GNSS signal source. It addresses a wide range of test applications, from single- and multi-frequency production testing to multi-frequency receiver characterization. The instrument can be equipped with an internal noise generator that allows users to simulate GNSS plus noise or CW interference without using additional external hardware.
Photo: Rohde & Schwarz
Coming Next. GNSS test solutions from R&S are based on general-purpose vector signal generators. With this approach, GNSS and other signals can be generated at the same time in the same instrument allowing coexistence and interference testing without additional external signal sources. As this results in test solutions that are compact and very flexible to use, R&S will continue to use this approach for upcoming product upgrades and enhancements as well as for its next generation of GNSS test solutions. The company’s upcoming activities will mainly focus on the high-end segment, where the R&S SMW200A with up to 4 RF outputs and up to 144 channels addresses multi-antenna and multi-vehicle GNSS test applications.
Looking Ahead to 2022. With the safety demands of autonomous driving or aircraft landing procedures, multi-frequency testing will become standard. Because such applications must be sufficiently robust against spoofing and jamming threats, there will be an increasing need to test navigation systems against such influences. “Simulating GNSS alone is not enough,” Irsigler said. “Test solutions for autonomous driving will require several other techniques and signals to be applied or simulated, such as RTK/PPP or outputs from other vehicle sensors to perform sensor fusion.”
Spirent Federal Systems
Roger Hart, Director of Engineering. (Photo: Spirent)
Spirent’s simulators test with “real-world” signals as well as allowing tests under pristine conditions or under extreme conditions that may never occur in the real world, including error conditions.
Innovation. In December 2018, Spirent released the SimMNSA, which provides a full M-code modernized signal solution. Until now, the GPS Directorate limited M-code simulation to either pseudo-M-code, which provides the same spread-spectrum but uses a commercial encryption standard, or a system of playing back a canned set of M-code limited to certain satellites and dates and times. With the policy change, Spirent can now implement M-code based on the modernized Navstar security algorithm (MNSA), and now offers both an M-code solution with the SimMNSA and a full Y-code with the SimSAAS.
Jeff Martin, Director of Sales. (Photo: Spirent)
Coming Next. Spirent plans to provide customers an increased channel count to help test multi-constellation, multi-frequency receivers against multipath, jamming and spoofing. “We are in a period of intense development in terms of AVs, UAVs, and so forth, which don’t use GNSS exclusively,” Hart said, explaining that Spirent is working on testing of GNSS/sensor-fusion platforms.
Looking Ahead to 2022. “As new interface specifications are released, we are proactive in developing new signals,” Hart said. Spirent also is supporting efforts to achieve assured PNT solutions. It is investigating interference-mitigation techniques such as algorithms, directional antennas, and other anti-jam technologies. Signal authentication is another need. “As the systems are becoming more integrated and networked, we are conscious of cyber-security threats and are looking in that area,” Hart said.
Photo: Spirent
Syntony GNSS
Cyrille Gernot, GNSS Receiver Development and Product Manager. (Photo: Syntony GNSS)
GNSS receiver manufacturers use simulators to ensure that their products are robust in challenging situations that can’t be clearly assessed using real-world data. “That’s where the GNSS simulator comes into play,” Gernot said, “by offering controlled and repeatable scenarios.”
Innovation. Syntony’s new pseudo-random-noise code (PRN code) server allows the GNSS simulator user to dynamically send the pseudo-random sequence modulating a carrier. It is especially useful for testing encrypted signals such as the GPS military signal or the IRNSS RS signal. “Access to encryption keys is extremely difficult for a simulator manufacturer to obtain,” Gernot said. “However, the simulator does not actually need to have knowledge of those encryption keys; only the resulting pseudo-random sequence to modulate is required.” The Syntony PRN server allows users to dynamically input their own pseudo-random sequences to be modulated on the target carrier into the simulator.
Coming Next. Syntony’s next simulator will simulate spoofing and synchronous multi-antenna signals for CRPA and antenna network testing.
Photo: Syntony GNSS
Looking Ahead to 2022. As the threat of spoofing and jamming increases, the receiver industry will have to develop countermeasures and mitigation strategies. One of the best methods remains the use of antenna arrays, Gernot said. “Antenna arrays allow for spatial discrimination that is especially efficient to counter spoofing, jamming or unintentional interferences.To meet the industry’s future demands, Syntony is already working on accurate simulation of antenna arrays while accounting for inherent errors such as inter-antenna phase and amplitude offsets and overcoming obstacles, including phase coherency at the output of the simulator RF channels.”
The new portfolio offers a comprehensive array of GNSS validation technology, as well as signal and PNT data protection through jamming/spoofing detection, suppression and countermeasure solutions.
The capabilities are built on Orolia’s legacy of resilient PNT solutions, together with two key acquisitions completed this year: Skydel Solutions and Talen-X. These companies were selected based on their demonstrated GNSS testing and simulation experience.
GSG-8, the latest advanced simulator from Orolia, was also introduced to the global GNSS community this week at ION GNSS+. This software-defined simulation solution offers ultra-high performance and unmatched flexibility in an easy-to-use format. GSG-8 was developed to deliver the highest standard of GNSS signal testing and sensor simulation performance, in an upgradable and scalable platform.
“With its scientific precision and advanced simulation capabilities, GSG-8 is revolutionizing the GNSS simulation industry with Orolia’s robust 1000Hz Skydel software engine and COTS software-defined radios,” said Stephane Hamel, director of testing and simulation at Orolia. “GSG-8 is designed for customers that require complex capabilities to validate product and program performance in harsh, high risk environments where failure is not an option- such as government agencies, space programs and specialized commercial programs.”
It can be programmed to simulate operations with multiple GNSS constellations and to incorporate the use of encrypted or proprietary signals. GSG-8 can also be configured for Wavefront and Anechoic chamber simulation protocols to test anti-jam antennas and complete systems, to serve the most challenging program requirements.
The CAST-5000 produces a single coherent wavefront of GPS RF signals to provide repeatable testing in the laboratory environment or anechoic chamber. The basic system generates four independent, coherent simulations that reference a single point and is upgradeable to support seven elements for CRPA testing. With an intercard carrier- phase error of less than 1 millimeter, the CAST-5000 is extremely accurate.
The system generates a wavefront of GPS when its GPS RF generator cards are operated in a ganged configuration. Each generator card provides a set of GPS satellites coherent with the overall configuration. Several RF generator cards may be utilized together, ensuring phase coherence among the bank of signal generator cards.
The CAST-5000 Controlled Reception Pattern Antenna (CRPA) tester allows a full end-to-end test of the antenna system. The CRPA antenna, antenna electronics and the GPS receiver can be tested as a unit with or without radiating signals.
The NCS TITAN GNSS simulator is a leading-edge satellite navigation testing and R&D solution. It is fully capable of multi-constellation and multi-frequency simulation for a wide range of GNSS applications. The NCS TITAN GNSS simulator consists of the TITAN RF signal generation unit and NCS Control Center navigation simulation software (on MS Windows and Linux OS).
The NCS TITAN is flexible and offers exceptional performance. With up to 256 channels and up to 4 RF outputs per chassis, the extra complexity and cost of using additional signal generators or intricate architectures involving several hardware boxes is minimized. For customers with advanced simulation needs, several TITAN units can be combined (CRPA testing with 8, 12 or 16 RF outputs at several frequencies simultaneously).
The NCS TITAN GNSS simulator provides all current and future signals for GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, NavIC/IRNSS, QZSS, SBAS L1 and L5 in one box. All signals are available using a flexible licensing scheme.
NavX-NCS Essential Simulator
The NavX-NCS Essential is an easy-to-use multi-constellation GNSS simulator focused on R&D, system integration and production testing for single-frequency applications such as consumer, automotive and location-based services (LBS) applications.
The NavX-NCS Essential provides unique capabilities, including emulating various vehicle motion sensors for today’s multi-sensor vehicle navigation systems. It offers integration with Google Earth (for accurate trajectory visualization), superior high-dynamic range (for indoor and urban canyon simulation) and Assisted-GPS (A-GNSS) performance test case support.
CLAW 18-channel real-time GPS simulator for manufacturing testing, laboratory and desktop simulation applications
The CLAW simulator operates as a fully stand-alone simulator with multipath simulation capability, external real-time NMEA to GPS-RF transcoding capability, sub 5-ns UTC time-encoding accuracy. It can work either from internally stored motion files, a fixed-position, externally applied NMEA stimulus input, or controlled via a Jackson Labs Windows application. The CLAW allows comprehensive scenarios to be set up inACKcluding uploading of custom almanac and ephemerides via RINEX import, and full control of simulation time and date making it easy to simulate GPS events such as leap seconds and week 1023 rollover events. The highly accurate simulator can be used as an embedded module to transcode modern GNSS or inertial navigation system (INS) position, navigation and timing signals including SAASM and M-code into legacy GPS RF signals. This capability allows retrofitting any existing legacy GPS receiver to the latest Assured-PNT capability. It can also be used as a GPS firewall to automatically detect and mitigate spoofing and jamming events.
RSR transcoder GPS simulator for retrofitting existing legacy GPS equipment to any GNSS, INS and atomic holdover capability
The size of a postage stamp, the RSR Transcoder is based on the Jackson Labs CLAW simulator technology and is designed to be integrated into systems requiring retrofit of existing GPS legacy equipment with INS and atomic clock holdover capability, as well as the latest GNSS capability such as Galileo, GLONASS, BeiDou, SAASM, M-code and CSAC technology. Because the RSR Transcoder is fully self-contained, it also can work as a generic stand-alone GPS simulator for manufacturing environments or laboratory use. It is compatible with various external MIL-STD GPS receivers for glueless integration into existing vehicles by replacing the existing GPS antenna with the RSR Transcoder connected to an external GNSS receiver and optional high-performance INS. The RSR Transcoders ability to convert latest-generation GNSS receiver NMEA information into legacy GPS RF signals can also be used to upgrade low-performance legacy GPS receivers with modern –167 dBm and SBAS tracking capability for indoor reception and increased PNT accuracy in challenged environments.
LabSat is a cost-effective and intuitive GNSS simulator.
New to the LabSat range of GNSS record and replay devices is LabSat 3 Wideband, which continues with the established reliability, cost-effectiveness, and simplicity of operation that are the benchmarks of the LabSat system.
A recording bandwidth of 56 MHz allows for the capture of a very wide range of live-sky satellite signals:
GPS: L1 / L2 / L5
GLONASS: L1 / L2 / L3
BeiDou: B1 / B2 / B3
QZSS: L1 / L2 / L5
Galileo: E1 / E1a / E5a / E5b / E6
IRNSS: L5
SBAS: WAAS / EGNOS / GAGAN / MSAS / SDCMx
Depending on the desired bandwidth, recording resolution can be set to 2, 4, or 6 bit. Check out the GNSS frequency guide on the LabSat website — labsat.co.uk — to see exactly which signals can be recorded and at which resolution.
Even with this greatly increased capacity over the original LabSat 3, the new simulator remains extremely easy to use: one-touch recording, no connection to PC required, battery powered for up to two hours, and with a removable 1-TB solid-state hard drive that can be replaced in no time, the LabSat 3 Wideband is convenient to use. It measures a compact 167 x 128 x 46 millimeters and weighs 1.2 kilograms.
The LabSat 3 Wideband can now be controlled via a web browser. Easily accessed via the Ethernet connection, the HTML interface graphically displays bandwidth, center frequency and signal capture.
An online demonstration of this is also available on the LabSat website.
SDX uses GPU-accelerated computing and software-defined radios (SDR) to create an advanced and fully-featured GNSS simulator. SDX is available as a complete turnkey system or software only, from simple test benches to 32 RF outputs test systems. The software-defined approach offers many benefits:
COTS hardware offers economies of scale and eliminates dependency upon dedicated hardware platforms
Generic hardware enables users to repurpose their equipment for different projects.
Uncompromised performance with high dynamics and accuracy
Record user interactions and export them as scripts to automate complex use cases intuitively. The export feature reduces the learning curve for advanced concepts
Advanced signal customization (signal signature, private encryption, etc.)
SDX key features
SDX is ideal for design and validation of GNSS receivers, complex integration, academic research, NAVWAR and test engineering. Applications include radiated emissions testing in anechoic chambers, CRPA testing, receiver testing under interference (jamming and spoofing), aerospace and automotive scenarios, RTK and more. Skydel engineering and research teams offer direct support to clients to ensure prompt deployment and integration, or to review advanced customization requirements.
Multi-constellation (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, SBAS), multi-frequency (upper and lower L-band) support
Selectable RF, IF frequency and IQ File Data
Encrypted GPS codes
Fully-integrated jammers (static or moving) with more than 120-dB jamming-to-signal ratio
Multipath
Additive pseudorange ramps
Message modification and corruption
1000-Hz update rate and high dynamics
Space (LEO-GEO), air and ground vehicle with 6DoF trajectories
Spirent Federal provides test equipment that covers all applications, including research and development, integration/verification and production testing.
GSS9000
The Spirent GSS9000 Multi-Frequency, Multi-GNSS RF Constellation Simulator can simulate signals from all GNSS and regional navigation systems. The GSS9000 offers a four-fold increase in RF signal iteration rate (SIR) over Spirent’s GSS8000 simulator. The GSS9000 SIR is 1000 Hz (1 ms), enabling higher dynamic simulations with more accuracy and fidelity. It includes support for restricted and classified signals as well as advanced capabilities for ultra-high dynamics. Users can evaluate the resilience of navigation systems to interference and spoofing attacks, and have the flexibility to reconfigure constellations, channels and frequencies between test runs or test cases.
CRPA test system
Spirent’s Controlled Reception Pattern Antenna (CRPA) Test System generates both GNSS and interference signals. Users can control multiple antenna elements. Null-steering and space/time adaptive CRPA testing are both supported by this comprehensive approach.
GSS6450
The GSS6450 RF Record Playback System (RPS) takes RF recording and playback systems to a new level of performance and flexibility, while being housed in a small (8.5 x 7.8 x 3 inch) portable case. The GSS6450 can record any GNSS signals currently available with bit depths up to 16 bits (I&Q) and bandwidths of up to 50 MHz. The flexible product structure allows the system complexity to grow with the user’s testing needs.
GSS200D
The GSS200D is an end-to-end solution that builds up a complete picture of interference activity at the site of interest. It continuously monitors the GNSS frequency bands for interference, and then captures them for analysis. The GSS200D supports multi-frequency applications.
Constellator is a high-end GNSS simulator capable of supporting all constellation signals available today and tomorrow and providing a high level of service: standalone mode (on ground and in space), hardware-in-the-loop mode with very small latency and high internal frequency update (1 kHz), multi-frequency, up to 200 channels, all typical synchronization interfaces, and the ability to generate any additional signal for realistic simulation (jamming, spoofing, multipath, etc.).
The Constellator product is available in different ranges, from an entry-level unit supporting L1C/A up to a six-signal-frequencies/200 channels rack, supporting the most demanding configurations.
Constellator is used extensively in the aeronautic, space and defense industries, where the requirements are highly demanding. Constellator has been carefully evaluated and selected by major industrial companies and agencies worldwide, and is used to test aircraft receivers, spacecraft, launchers and similar systems for defense and armies. Particularly in the space domain, Constellator implements the most accurate models (earth gravity, drag, etc.) needed to achieve “meter-precision” in standalone mode around a complete orbit.
Constellator is based on modern, powerful software-defined radio (SDR) systems, which make it capable of extreme adaptability and upgradeability after purchase, even without any hardware upgrade. Though a high-end simulator, it is cost-effective because of its software-based architecture; instead of requiring one RF stage per signal, it requires just one per frequency band used.
The Echo Record and Playback unit allows users to record real-life signals and environments and replay them in the laboratory, which is always more realistic than any simulation.
Echo is typically used to replay predefined complex and very long realistic scenarios, avoiding the need to use costly satellite simulators for long-run tests or for production tests.
Echo offers three RF channels of 100-Mhz bandwidth each, 16 bits I, 16 bits Q, and more than 10 hours of record and replay duration. As such, it is high-end record/replay equipment, offering high-end replay fidelity.
www.syntony-gnss.com
Email: François Goudenove, chief sales officer, [email protected] (ask François for the contacts of distributors in the U.S., Europe, India, China, South Korea, Japan.)
Phone: +33.5.81.319.919
For users responsible for mission-critical positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) applications, the Spectracom GSG series of GPS/GNSS simulators is an essential tool to evaluate risk of jamming, spoofing or other threats.
Spectracom GSG-5/6 series simulators are an easy-to-use and feature-rich way to harden GPS-based systems without the limitations of testing from “live sky” signals. The Spectracom platform approach allows users to buy only what they need today and upgrade later. The adaptability of the GNSS RF generation platform can extend to applications for intelligent repeating.
Test solutions
Position accuracy and dynamic range/sensitivity
Simulate movements/trajectories anywhere on or above Earth
Sensitivity to GPS impairments: loss of satellites, multipath, atmospheric conditions, interference, jamming and spoofing
Conducted or over-the-air RF
GPS time-transfer accuracy
Effect of leap-second transition
Multi-constellation testing
Modernization signals/frequencies
Keyless military SAASM, dual-frequency and survey-grade receiver testing
Application packages for RTK, CRPA (controlled radiation pattern antennas)
The GSG-6Series 64-channel multi-frequency, advanced GNSS simulator is powerful enough for any cutting-edge test program. GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou, QZSS and NAVIC (IRNSS) signals are available across multiple frequencies. It is designed for military, research and professional applications.
The GSG-5Series 16-channel multi-constellation L1-band GNSS simulator is designed for commercial development/integration programs. For users developing commercial products with GNSS capability, the GSG-5 will shorten test programs with confidence.
The GSG-51 single-channel signal generator is designed for one purpose — fast, simple go/no-go manufacturing test and validation, ensuring the manufacturing line is operating at full capacity with confidence in quality.
Spirent Federal Systems, a provider of GPS and GNSS simulators, has begun developing MNSA-capable GNSS simulators for the Modernized Navstar Security Algorithm.
Spirent Federal is developing software that will support M-code using MNSA. M-code is an updated GPS military signal that is being rolled out as part of the modernization of the current GPS constellation.
GPS modernization began in 2000 when the GPS Selective Availability feature was set to zero. Since that time, the U.S. Air Force has been working on newer generation satellites that will transmit new civilian and military signals.
Until now, AES and SDS have been the only methods authorized to be used within a GNSS simulator to produce M-code.
Spirent Federal Systems has been a provider of AES M-code and SDS M-code capable simulators for many years, but as the long awaited MNSA M-code signals become available, Spirent Federal Systems will be making this option available to authorized users on the GSS9000 series simulator.
The CAST-5000 produces a single coherent wavefront of GPS RF signals to provide repeatable testing in the laboratory environment or anechoic chamber. The basic system generates four independent, coherent simulations that reference a single point and is upgradeable to support seven elements for CRPA testing. With an intercard carrier- phase error of less than 1 centimeter, the CAST-5000 is extremely accurate.
The system generates a wavefront of GPS when its GPS RF generator cards are operated in a ganged configuration. Each generator card provides a set of GPS satellites coherent with the overall configuration. Several RF generator cards may be utilized together, ensuring phase coherence among the bank of signal generator cards.
The CAST-5000 Controlled Reception Pattern Antenna (CRPA) tester allows a full end-to-end test of the antenna system. The CRPA antenna, antenna electronics and the GPS receiver can be tested as a unit with or without radiating signals.
iP-Solutions brings its 10-year development for designated users — including the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) COSMODE ionospheric scintillation monitor — to general users worldwide.
iP-Solutions users have a complete GNSS lab at their disposal. They can simulate, record and process signals in real-time with the company’s receiver, and playback almost any GNSS signal.
Moreover, users have complete control over the simulated signals in real-time and with high fidelity.
iP-Solutions provides mid-level and high-end simulation solutions with the same level of accuracy and fidelity.
Mid-Level Solution
iP-Solutions’ mid-level Simceiver simulator allows multi-frequency simulation of various GNSS signals with all essential models. The additional ANSI C API allows users to modify existing models or introduce their own.
iP-Solutions’ mid-level solution range even includes a comprehensive interference and spoofing laboratory.
The Simceiver is controlled usign the comprehensive ReGen software, providing the user with great freedom to create any desired signal.
High-End Solution iP-Solutions’ high-end Ninja simulator allows for multi-antenna controlled radiation pattern antenna (CRPA) and local-area augmentation system (LAAS) simulation.
Academia
iP-Solutions’ educational packages for academia combine hardware at a special academic price with academic versions of all the software and two textbooks authored by iP-Solutions’ lead engineer Ivan Petrovski and JAXA lead scientist Toshiaki Tsujii (published by Cambridge University Press).
LabSat 3 Wideband
LabSat is a cost-effective and intuitive GNSS simulator.
New to the LabSat range of GNSS record and replay devices is LabSat 3 Wideband, which continues with the established reliability, cost-effectiveness, and simplicity of operation that are the benchmarks of the LabSat system.
A recording bandwidth of 56 MHz allows for the capture of a very wide range of live-sky satellite signals:
GPS: L1 / L2 / L5
GLONASS: L1 / L2 / L3
BeiDou: B1 / B2 / B3
QZSS: L1 / L2 / L5
Galileo: E1 / E1a / E5a / E5b / E6
IRNSS: L5
SBAS: WAAS / EGNOS / GAGAN / MSAS / SDCM
Depending on the desired bandwidth, recording resolution can be set to 2, 4, or 6 bit. Check out the GNSS frequency guide on the LabSat website — labsat.co.uk — to see exactly which signals can be recorded and at which resolution.
Even with this greatly increased capacity over the original LabSat 3, the new simulator remains extremely easy to use: one-touch recording, no connection to PC required, battery powered for up to two hours, and with a removable 1-TB solid-state hard drive that can be replaced in no time, the LabSat 3 Wideband is convenient to use. It measures a compact 167 x 128 x 46 millimeters and weighs 1.2 kilograms.
SatGen Wideband
For product future-proofing, the soon-to-be-launched SatGen Wideband will allow for testing with signals not yet fully available, such as GPS L2C and L5 — further increasing the power and versatility of the new LabSat 3 Wideband. www.labsat.co.uk
phone: +44 (0)1280 823803
Skydel
SDX: Software-Defined GNSS Simulator
SDX uses GPU-accelerated computing and software-defined radios (SDR) to create an advanced and fully-featured GNSS simulator. SDX is available as complete turnkey systems or software only.
The software-defined approach offers many benefits:
COTS hardware offers economy of scale and eliminates dependency over dedicated hardware platforms.
Generic hardware allow users to repurpose their equipment for different projects.
Configurable output to test receiver at various entry point with RF, IF or IQ data.
Uncompromised performance with high dynamics and accuracy.
Record user interactions and export them to scripts to automate complex use cases intuitively. The export feature reduces the learning curve for advanced concepts.
Advanced signal customization (signal signature, private encryption, etc.)
SDX Key Features
Multi-constellation (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou), multi-frequency (upper and lower L-band).
Selectable RF, IF frequency and IQ file data.
GPS encrypted codes.
Fully integrated jammers (static or moving) with over 120-dB jamming-to-signal ratio.
Multipath.
Additive pseudorange (PSR) ramps.
Message modification and corruption.
1000-Hz update rate and high dynamics.
Space (LEO-GEO), air and ground vehicle with 6DoF trajectories.
Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) integration.
Street maps integration.
Raw data logging.
Real-time receiver deviation analysis.
Powerful and simple API.
On-the-fly reconfiguration.
Windows and Linux compatible.
SDX is ideal for design and validation of GNSS receivers, complex integration, academic research, NAVWAR and test engineering.
Skydel engineering and research teams offer direct support to clients to ensure prompt deployment and integration, or review advanced customization requirements.
The Spectracom GSG series of GPS/GNSS simulators are an essential tool to evaluate risk to jamming, spoofing or any other threat. Spectracom GSG-5/6 series simulators are easy-to-use, feature-rich and affordable, offering high value for hardening GPS-based systems compared to the limitations of testing from live-sky signals. The Spectracom platform approach allows users to buy what they need today and upgrade later. The adaptability of the GNSS RF generation platform can extend to applications for intelligent repeating and meaconing.
Test Solutions
Position accuracy and dynamic range/sensitivity.
Simulate movements/trajectories anywhere on or above Earth.
Sensitivity to GPS impairments: loss of satellites, multipath, atmospheric conditions, interference, jamming and spoofing.
Conducted or over-the-air RF.
GPS time-transfer accuracy.
Effect of leap-second transition.
Multi-constellation testing.
Modernization signals/frequencies.
Keyless military SAASM, dual-frequency and survey-grade receiver testing.
Application packages for, RTK, CRPA (controlled radiation pattern antennas).
Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) integration.
Test solutions for eCall and ERA-GLONASS Infrastructure Possibilities.
GSG-6 Series 64-channel, multi-frequency, advanced GNSS simulator is powerful enough for any cutting-edge test program. GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou, QZSS and IRNSS signals are available across multiple frequencies. The GSG-6 is designed for military, research and professional applications.
GSG-5 Series 16-channel multi-constellation L1-band GNSS Simulator is designed for commercial development/integration programs. If the user is developing commercial products with GNSS capability, the GSG-5 will shorten test programs with confidence.
GSG-51 single channel signal generator is designed for one purpose — fast, simple Go/No-Go manufacturing test and validation, ensuring the manufacturing line is operating at full capacity with confidence in quality.
GSS9000, CRPA Test System, GSS6450 RPS, GSS200D
Spirent Federal provides simulators that cover all applications, including research and development, integration/verification and production testing.
GSS9000. The Spirent GSS9000 Multi-Frequency, Multi-GNSS RF Constellation Simulator can simulate signals from all GNSS and regional navigation. The GSS9000 offers a four-fold increase in RF signal iteration rate (SIR) over Spirent’s GSS8000 simulator. The GSS9000 SIR is 1000 Hz (1ms), enabling higher dynamic simulations with more accuracy and fidelity. It includes support for restricted and classified signals from the GPS and Galileo systems as well as advanced capabilities for ultra-high dynamics. It can evaluate resilience of navigation systems to interference and spoofing attacks, and has the flexibility to reconfigure constellations, channels and frequencies between test runs or test cases.
CRPA Test System. Spirent’s Controlled Reception Pattern Antenna (CRPA) Test System generates both GNSS and interference signals. Users can control multiple antenna elements. Null-steering and space/time adaptive CRPA testing are both supported by this comprehensive approach.
GSS6450. The GSS6450 RF Record Playback System (RPS) takes RF recording and playback systems to a whole new level of performance and flexibility, while being housed in a small (8.5 x 7.8 x 3 inch) portable case. The GSS6450 can record any GNSS signals currently available with bit depths up to 16 bits (I&Q) and bandwidths of up to 50 MHz. The flexible product structure allows the system complexity to grow with the user’s testing needs.
GSS200D. A truly end-to-end solution that builds up a complete picture of interference activity at site of interest. It continuously monitors the GNSS frequency bands for interference, then captures and analyzes them. The GSS200D is a detection system that operates simultaneously on multi-frequency.
Key contacts: Jeff Martin, VP of Business Development and Sales
Kalani Needham, Sales West
Tyson Gurney, Sales East
Syntony-GNSS
Constellator is Syntony’s cost-effective full soft multi-constellation GNSS simulator. Designed to test receivers against current and future signals, Constellator matches top-end processing performance and RF quality and offers utmost flexibility in simulation control. Constellator
performs fair-weather tests, but also is designed to subject receivers to suboptimal conditions, extreme situations and combinations of errors difficult to access in real-world tests — all of it finely controlled and indefinitely repeatable.
is compatible with other best-in-class test solutions providing GNSS component end-to-end system tests, including hardware in the loop.
core is software, ensuring that all future constellations, satellites and codes can be handled. Most functional upgrades will then be software-only.
is used in aerospace and defense (among others) for: multi-antenna receiver testing for spacecraft launcher, satellite onboard receiver testing (telecom and observation) and defense UAV receiver testing.
Main Features
128 channels (extensible) delivering high-quality satellite signals on six distinct frequencies (L and S band)
Hardware-in-the-loop testing at 10- to 100-Hz refresh rates
Extensive simulation options:
• Full-time and location control
Receiver trajectories with extreme dynamics
Background noise, interference and jamming/spoofing (two units)
Atmospheric propagation errors
Satellite errors
Multipath and obscuration
On-the-fly scenario modifications
Receiver attitude control
Very accurate spaceborne trajectories
Main Simulation and Modeling Capabilities
Receiver trajectories: Includes four spatial reference frames and trajectory editors for ground, marine, aerial and spatial motion and import facility.
Hardware-in-the-loop: Receives receiver’s position updates from test-rig in real time and generates corresponding GNSS signals and messages.
Atmospheric errors: Propagation issues can be simulated at individual signal level with different models provided for ionosphere and troposphere.
Satellite error modeling options include orbital errors, onboard clock errors, satellite electronics (front-end) defects, satellite dysfunctions and signal fade, disappearance and “evil waveform” incidents.
BroadSim: The NAVWAR Simulator BroadSim was developed to simplify advanced jamming and spoofing scenarios with Navigation Warfare (NAVWAR) testing in mind. Powered by Skydel SDX, a 1000-Hz GNSS simulator engine, BroadSim is able to simulate multiple vehicles, constellations, and code types (military and civil). BroadSim is ideal for supporting real-world field tests, NAVWAR testing and jamming.
Field Testing. Field testing GPS receivers to determine their performance and vulnerabilities in degraded or competing environments is becoming standard practice. BroadSim has proven to excel in field testing events due to its integrated GPS receiver allowing for built-in live-sky synchronization, four independent RF outputs, and a wide dynamic range with up to 0 dBm transmit power. A typical configuration for a live-sky field test would have BroadSim time synchronized to live sky, transmitting C/A, P, Y and M on L1 while simultaneously transmitting P, Y and M on L2 all at 0 dBm.
NAVWAR. BroadSim is great for NAVWAR testing because of how easy it is to use and configure multiple vehicles. Talen-X has carefully designed the simulator such that users can easily create true signals using two RF outputs and spoofed signals using the other two RF outputs. BroadSim’s graphical user interface (GUI) is intuitive and designed to meet the demand of NAVWAR testing.
Advanced Jamming. An innovative feature that has been added to BroadSim is the ability to generate jamming signals without any additional hardware. Using a simple interface, users can specify the jammer location, power level, waveform type and antenna pattern. BroadSim uses its 1000-Hz engine to compute the I/Q data incident on the user antenna for both the GNSS and jammer signals. This new paradigm of jamming simulation makes it easy to simulate complex jamming environments.
CAST GNSS/INS simulators generate high-fidelity GNSS RF signals along with the coherent digital inertial signals that allow for the precise stimulation of the next generation of GNSS/INS navigation equipment. CAST’s GNSS/INS systems provide the highly precise system performance that is required to aid in the integration and testing of the next-generation of GNSS navigation system technologies. The 35-year-old company’s business focus is supplying GNSS/INS simulators, GNSS/INS test equipment, and GPS/INS support services to government and military avionics laboratories, prime contractors, GNSS receiver manufacturers and system integrators.
The CAST-3000 fully supports integration testing of GPS/INS navigation systems where the inertial sensor and GPS receiver are either tightly or ultra-tightly coupled. The CAST-3000 produces GPS RF signals coincident with simulated IMU sensor data that provide dynamic testing in the laboratory environment for military and government applications. CAST has worked closely with both Honeywell and Northrop Grumman over the past two decades in the development of the CAST-3000, which
provides strapdown IMU measurement data synchronized with GPS RF data to the navigation system under test.
contains a mature avionic sensor simulation Barometric Altimeter model.
includes high rate inertial measurements with very high degree of fidelity to support testing of high-performance coupled systems.
simulates sensors to provide the necessary fully coordinated, dynamic vertical channel aiding needed to maintain Kalman filter stability of the navigation system.
includes years of development and refinement of the precise GPS/INS synchronization capability needed for simulation of aircraft dynamics.
includes a complete 6-DOF motion generation capability.
NavX-NCS Professional GNSS Simulator NavX-NCS Essential GNSS Simulator
The flexibility of the NavX-NCS Professional GNSS Simulator allows it to be configured with up to 108 channels and all of the following signals:
GPS L1/L2/L5 C/A and P-code and L2C
GLONASS G1/G2 standard and high-accuracy codes
Galileo E1/E5/E6 (BOC/CBOC/AltBOC)
BeiDou B1/B2/B3
SBAS L1/L5 (WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS, GAGAN, SDCM)
IRNSS L5/S-band
QZSS L1 and L1-SAIF
IMES
The user can assign signals freely to any of the RF modules fitted to the simulator. This allows the same hardware to be used in a range of different configurations.
Signals can be added by software license with no need to return the hardware for upgrade.
Up to four independent RF outputs can be fitted, enabling the user to simulate multiple antenna locations simultaneously (allowing simulation of multiple antennas on one vehicle, multiple vehicles simultaneously, a mixture of static locations and mobile vehicles, and multiple antenna elements for Controlled Reception Pattern Antenna [CRPA] testing).
The comprehensive and easy-to-use Control Center operating software allows the operator to quickly create realistic test scenarios for effective testing of user equipment.
IFEN also offers the NavX-NCS Essential GNSS Simulator, which is available with 21 or 42 channels and is capable of simulating GPS L1 (including SBAS L1), GLONASS G1, Galileo E1, BeiDou B1, QZSS L1 and IMES. The simulator is also supplied with Control Center operating software for comprehensive scenario generation.
LabSat 3 from Racelogic is a low cost, stand-alone, battery-powered, multi-constellation, RF record and replay device, designed to assist GNSS engineers in the development and testing of their products. By capturing live-sky RF signals, it enables repeatable and realistic testing to be carried out under controlled conditions, and is available as a record and replay, or replay only version; either one, two or three constellation types generate a single, dual or triple constellation file.
With standalone operation, LabSat 3 can be used in any outdoor location to create real-world scenarios for eventual replay back in the lab. As well as being able to simultaneously record or replay GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, QZSS, Galileo and SBAS signals, it can log CAN bus, serial or digital data, embedded alongside the satellite information. This additional information can then be replayed alongside the GNSS output, with synchronization to within 60 nanoseconds. A 1 PPS signal can also be generated using the internal GPS receiver.
LabSat 3 can be used as a replay system out of the box with a set of 60 pre-recorded scenarios supplied as part of the package, recorded from various locations around the globe.
Additionally, SatGen software allows for scenario generation of user-defined trajectories, with precise control over velocity, heading, height and constellation profiles, giving the test engineer the ability to develop their product using simulations that would be difficult or impossible to record due to geographic location or safety constraints. NMEA and KML imports are supported.
New for 2016 is LabSat Real-Time, which allows for bench testing of GNSS devices where a current time stamp is required. SatGen V3 PC software generates a live signal stream to a LabSat RT unit which up converts the RF data from digital to analogue with less than one second latency. LabSat RT operates on any two of the three constellations of GPS, GLONASS and BeiDou.
Skydel brings a new generation of GNSS simulators to the market. With the SDX simulator, signals are modulated by the graphics processing unit (GPU) as opposed to dedicated FPGAs found in traditional simulators. This allows new possibilities, such as adding signals and constellations without resorting to additional hardware. This design offers many benefits:
The number of channels is defined by the GPU, eliminating the need to buy additional proprietary FPGA-based hardware whenever more channels are needed.
Price per simulated channel is greatly reduced by using powerful, mass-produced off-the-shelf hardware such as graphic cards and software-defined radios. Moreover, the same hardware can be repurposed for numerous applications.
Numerous hardware configurations provide flexibility ranging from single software-defined receiver (SDR) setups to racked instruments multi-element systems.
SDX can be distributed over many computers, GPUs and signal generators to expand its capabilities.
Turnkey or Software-Only Solutions
SDX users can reuse their own SDR with the software-only solution, or choose a turnkey solution that comes with all the required hardware and a preconfigured laptop or desktop. Skydel can customize turnkey solutions to meet special requirements.
SDX Key Features
Real-time signal generation for multiple GNSS constellations
Directional jammers
Multi-element antenna with better than 1 degree of phase offset
SDK for GNSS signal customization (injection and modification of navigation message and code)
Spectracom GSG-5/6 series simulators are easy-to-use, feature-rich and affordable, offering value compared to the limitations of testing from “live sky” signals. The Spectracom platform approach allows users to buy what they need today and upgrade later. The adaptability of the GNSS RF generation platform can extend it to applications for intelligent repeating and meaconing.
Test Solutions
Position accuracy and dynamic range/sensitivity
Simulate movements/trajectories anywhere on or above Earth
Sensitivity to GPS impairments: loss of satellites, multipath, atmospheric conditions, interference, jamming and spoofing
Conducted or over-the-air RF
GPS time-transfer accuracy
Effect of leap-second transition
Multi-constellation testing
Modernization signals/ frequencies
Keyless military SAASM and dual-frequency and survey-grade receiver testing
Application packages for RTK, A-GPS, CRPA (controlled radiation pattern antennas)
GSG-6 Series 64-channel multi-frequency, advanced GNSS simulator is powerful enough for any cutting-edge test program. GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou, QZSS and IRNSS signals are available across multiple frequencies. The GSG-6 is designed for military, research or professional applications.
GSG-5 Series 16-channel multi-constellation L1-band GNSS simulator is designed for commercial development/integration programs. If the user is developing commercial products with GNSS capability, the GSG-5 will shorten test programs with confidence.
GSG-51 single channel signal generator is designed for one purpose — fast, simple Go/No-Go manufacturing test and validation, ensuring the manufacturing line is operating at full capacity with confidence in quality.
Spirent Federal provides simulators that cover all price points, from high-end research and development, to integration/verification, to single-channel production testing.
GSS9000. The Spirent GSS9000 multi-frequency, multi-GNSS RF constellation simulator can simulate signals from all GNSS and regional navigation. The GSS9000 offers a four-fold increase in RF signal iteration rate (SIR) over Spirent’s GSS8000 simulator.
The GSS9000 SIR is 1000 Hz (1ms), enabling higher dynamic simulations with more accuracy and fidelity. It includes support for restricted and classified signals from the GPS and Galileo systems, as well as advanced capabilities for ultra-high dynamics. It can evaluate resilience of navigation systems to interference and spoofing attacks, and has the flexibility to reconfigure constellations, channels and frequencies between test runs or test cases.
Hardware changes can be made in the field, supported by the new on-board calibrator module. The GSS9000 is extensible and can support the widest range of carriers, ranging codes and data streams for the Galileo, GPS, GLONASS, and BeiDou systems, as well as regional/augmentation systems. Multi-antenna/multi-vehicle simulation for differential GNSS and attitude determination, and interference/jamming and spoofing testing, are also supported.
CRPA Test System. Spirent’s Controlled Reception Pattern Antenna (CRPA) Test System generates both GNSS and interference signals. Users can control multiple antenna elements. Null-steering and space/time adaptive CRPA testing are both supported by this comprehensive approach.
GSS6425. The Spirent GSS6425 RPS quickly and simply records complex real-world RF environments, capturing both GNSS signals and atmospheric/interference effects. These environments can then be replayed repeatedly to the hardware software under test, reducing project, travel and engineering costs.
Averna and Skydel Solutions will be showcasing their latest GNSS technology simulation products at The Institute of Navigation (ION) GNSS+ conference, giving show-goers the opportunity to see the RP-6100 in action.
ION GNSS+, taking place Sept. 14-18 in Tampa, Fla., is the 28th International Technical Meeting of the Institute of Navigation’s Satellite Division and the world’s largest technical meeting and showcase of GNSS and related technology, products and services.
The companies will be presenting at Booth #100 in the Exhibit Hall, meeting attendees and discussing their latest innovations in GNSS receiver validation, among other topics. They will also be demonstrating two new GNSS solutions:
RP-6100 Multi-Channel RF Record & Playback: The RP-100 for RF application testing allows users to tecord real-world signals such as GNSS, HD Radio, LTE and Wi-Fi — plus impairments — to significantly advance projects and harden product designs.
GNSS Simulator: New from Averna’s partner Skydel Solutions, this innovative and cost-effective simulator is entirely software driven. It’s a perfect fit with the RP-6100, Averna said, enabling users to test corner cases and future events with a real-time GNSS solution.
Averna RP-6100 record and playback solution. (PRNewsFoto/Averna)
The CAST-5000 produces a single coherent wavefront of GPS RF signals to provide repeatable testing in the laboratory environment or anechoic chamber. The basic system generates four independent, coherent simulations that reference a single point and is upgradeable to support seven elements for CRPA testing. With an intercard carrier- phase error of less than 1 centimeter, the CAST-5000 is extremely accurate.
iP-Solutions users have a complete GNSS lab at their disposal. They can simulate, record and process signals in real-time with the company’s receiver, and playback almost any GNSS signal.
iP-Solutions’ high-end Ninja simulator allows for multi-antenna controlled radiation pattern antenna (CRPA) and local-area augmentation system (LAAS) simulation.
New to the LabSat range of GNSS record and replay devices is LabSat 3 Wideband, which continues with the established reliability, cost-effectiveness, and simplicity of operation that are the benchmarks of the LabSat system.
SDX uses GPU-accelerated computing and software-defined radios (SDR) to create an advanced and fully-featured GNSS simulator. SDX is available as complete turnkey systems or software only.
The Spectracom GSG series of GPS/GNSS simulators are an essential tool to evaluate risk to jamming, spoofing or any other threat. Spectracom GSG-5/6 series simulators are easy-to-use, feature-rich and affordable, offering high value for hardening GPS-based systems compared to the limitations of testing from live-sky signals. The Spectracom platform approach allows users to buy what they need today and upgrade later. The adaptability of the GNSS RF generation platform can extend to applications for intelligent repeating and meaconing.
GSS9000. The Spirent GSS9000 Multi-Frequency, Multi-GNSS RF Constellation Simulator can simulate signals from all GNSS and regional navigation. The GSS9000 offers a four-fold increase in RF signal iteration rate (SIR) over Spirent’s GSS8000 simulator. The GSS9000 SIR is 1000 Hz (1ms), enabling higher dynamic simulations with more accuracy and fidelity. It includes support for restricted and classified signals from the GPS and Galileo systems as well as advanced capabilities for ultra-high dynamics. It can evaluate resilience of navigation systems to interference and spoofing attacks, and has the flexibility to reconfigure constellations, channels and frequencies between test runs or test cases.
Constellator is Syntony’s cost-effective full soft multi-constellation GNSS simulator. Designed to test receivers against current and future signals, Constellator matches top-end processing performance and RF quality and offers utmost flexibility in simulation control.
BroadSim was developed to simplify advanced jamming and spoofing scenarios with Navigation Warfare (NAVWAR) testing in mind. Powered by Skydel SDX, a 1000-Hz GNSS simulator engine, BroadSim is able to simulate multiple vehicles, constellations, and code types (military and civil). BroadSim is ideal for supporting real-world field tests, NAVWAR testing and jamming.
CAST GNSS/INS simulators generate high-fidelity GNSS RF signals along with the coherent digital inertial signals that allow for the precise stimulation of the next generation of GNSS/INS navigation equipment. CAST’s GNSS/INS systems provide the highly precise system performance that is required to aid in the integration and testing of the next-generation of GNSS navigation system technologies. The 35-year-old company’s business focus is supplying GNSS/INS simulators, GNSS/INS test equipment, and GPS/INS support services to government and military avionics laboratories, prime contractors, GNSS receiver manufacturers and system integrators.
The flexibility of the NavX-NCS Professional GNSS Simulator allows it to be configured with up to 108 channels and all of the following signals:
LabSat 3 from Racelogic is a low cost, stand-alone, battery-powered, multi-constellation, RF record and replay device, designed to assist GNSS engineers in the development and testing of their products. By capturing live-sky RF signals, it enables repeatable and realistic testing to be carried out under controlled conditions, and is available as a record and replay, or replay only version; either one, two or three constellation types generate a single, dual or triple constellation file.
Skydel brings a new generation of GNSS simulators to the market. With the SDX simulator, signals are modulated by the graphics processing unit (GPU) as opposed to dedicated FPGAs found in traditional simulators. This allows new possibilities, such as adding signals and constellations without resorting to additional hardware. This design offers many benefits:
Spectracom GSG-5/6 series simulators are easy-to-use, feature-rich and affordable, offering value compared to the limitations of testing from “live sky” signals. The Spectracom platform approach allows users to buy what they need today and upgrade later. The adaptability of the GNSS RF generation platform can extend it to applications for intelligent repeating and meaconing.
Spirent Federal provides simulators that cover all price points, from high-end research and development, to integration/verification, to single-channel production testing.
