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.
Talen-X has joined Orolia Defense & Security to expand its capabilities and resources, enabling the development of more advanced position, navigation and timing (PNT) solutions and to offer more robust customer support.
Orolia Defense & Security has completed the acquisition of Talen-X, a U.S. company specializing in advanced GNSS solutions and interference, detection and mitigation (IDM) technologies.
“Orolia Defense & Security is excited to bring on Talen-X as they offer a complementary portfolio of solutions and bring many years of advanced PNT experience to the team. We look forward to continuing their growth by providing additional resources and capabilities, while ensuring the growth and success of their current customers,” said Hironori Sasaki, president of Orolia Defense & Security.
In early 2019, Orolia Defense & Security spun off as a separate entity from its parent company Orolia, with the mission of providing resilient PNT solutions and custom engineering services to U.S. government agencies, U.S. defense organizations, and their contractors.
Orolia Defense & Security operates as a proxy-regulated company, free of foreign ownership, control or influence (FOCI). As such, Orolia Defense & Security is approved to work on the full spectrum of U.S. government classified and unclassified projects and is positioned to support strategic partnerships in the development of key PNT technologies for the defense market.
“Our culture of innovation, together with our demonstrated testing capabilities, will complement Orolia’s technology expertise and significantly enhance the reliability, performance and safety of military operations,” said Tim Erbes, Orolia Defense & Security’s Director of Engineering. The acquisition also enables Talen-X’s existing resources, operations and capabilities to be scaled and accelerated to better support the warfighter.
At the Modern Day Marine and Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) exhibitions, Orolia Defense & Security is showcasing its latest technologies such as the BroadSim Wavefront GNSS simulator, ThreatBlocker jamming/spoofing detection and protection device and BroadShield threat detection software.
Authorized for use with U.S. military signals such as GPS L1/L2, P, Y, and M-Code, Orolia’s simulation and IDM solutions serve unique and challenging program requirements.
Talen-X Chief Operating Officer Tyler Hohman discusses the company’s Broadsim Wavefront simulator, ThreatBlocker version 2 and BroadSense Nano at the Institute of Navigation’s 2019 Joint Navigation Conference in Long Beach, California.
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 CAST-8000 is a new simulator that merges both the CAST-5000 CRPA tester with a CAST-3000 EGI tester.
The tiny 1-inch square Micro-Transcoder module allows glueless retrofitting of existing GPS equipment with secure and Assured-PNT (A-PNT) capability. It is the smallest, full-constellation, stand-alone, real-time 10-channel GPS simulator available from JLT. The unit is useful in upgrading existing legacy GPS receivers with external position, navigation and timing references such as INS, CSAC, SAASM, M-code, GNSS, eLoran or other alternative positioning and timing sources by simply replacing the legacy GPS antenna from an existing GPS system with the Micro-Transcoder RF output.
The unit is based on the JLT CLAW GPS Simulator and RSR Transcoder technologies, and includes a general-purpose, stand-alone, full-constellation, 10-channel, real-time GPS simulator with integrated high-stability timing reference, as well as an internal GNSS receiver for monitoring the RF output signal for quality and accuracy. The unit will transmit a standard UTC time, position, velocity and heading GPS L1 C/A RF signal by simply applying 3.3V power to it.
The Micro-Transcoder can also be operated as a generic GPS simulator with built-in GPS Disciplined Oscillator (GPSDO), and is supported by a free Windows application downloadable from the JLT website. The Windows application allows control of all the simulation aspects, creating and storing simulation vector commands and testing user equipment for leap-second and GPS week rollover event compatibility to identify weaknesses in user equipment. The unit does not require a connected PC to function. The Micro-Transcoder is also available mounted onto an evaluation board for easy evaluation. The unit transcodes baseband PNT NMEA signals into a GPS L1 RF signal with typically less than 100-ms latency. UTC 1PPS timing-transfer accuracy to the GPS RF output is typically better than 5 ns. The unit requires only 3.3V to operate, and setup, location and simulation vector file information can optionally be stored in its internal NV memory.
For those responsible for mission-critical PNT applications, the Orolia GSG series of GPS/GNSS simulators is an important tool to evaluate risk for jamming, spoofing or any other threat. Orolia GSG-5/6 series simulators are easy to use, feature-rich and affordable, offering a way to harden GPS-based systems without the limitations of testing from “live sky” signals. The Orolia platform approach allows customers 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
Infrastructure possibilities include zone-based indoor location (intelligent repeating) and pseudolite applications.
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 NAVIC (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. It is for developing commercial products with GNSS capability, and 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.
Specifically designed for testing GNSS interferences and cyber-attacks. QA707 has been designed to test robustness against emerging cyber-threats beyond jamming and spoofing. It allows the creation of scenarios with signal and code jamming, data-level cyber-attacks, denial of service threats, low-level spoofing channels control, and trajectory-controlled spoofing.
Optimal for signal modernization design. Being a flexible software defined radio (SDR) solution, QA707 is also suitable for testing of signal modernization and for the simulation of new signal components. An open API is provided to create specific signals simulation. Particularly, the tool is ready to support the upcoming Galileo Open Service Authentication (OSNMA).
Runs on a standard PC or laptop with USRP or other hardware. QA707 is compatible with several third-party hardware RF up-converters, including National Instruments’ USRP. It also can support customer’s specific hardware through the hardware API interface. Qascom introduces the new frontier of GNSS security testing. QA707 is supported from back office with custom services as well as jamming and spoofing mitigation solutions for receivers and applications. This covers 100% of customer GNSS security needs.
QA707 Main Features
Multi-constellation (GPS L1, Galileo E1, SBAS L1)
Galileo OSNMA ready
RF simulation, binary file dump, signal record and replay
Support to SDR platforms and open API for custom RF upconverters
The LabSat 3 Wideband is easy to use, cost-effective and produces extremely low noise, accurate and repeatable signals. Users can record and replay up to three different channels at 56 MHz with a bit depth of up to 3 bits I and 3 bits Q.
The following signals can be recorded and replayed:
2X CAN, RS232, and digital inputs recorded and replayed tightly synchronized with GNSS data
Small, battery or mains powered and with a removable SSD (up to 4 Tb), LabSat 3 Wideband allows detailed, real-world satellite data to be recorded then replayed on the bench. The rugged enclosure measures a compact 167 x 128 x 46 millimeters and weighs 1.2 kilograms, meaning it can be placed in a backpack and used to reliably record real-world signals in almost any situation.
SatGen Signal Simulation Software
If a user wants to simulate the signals from scratch, Racelogic’s latest SatGen signal simulation software can produce synthesized scenarios containing the full complement of popular GNSS signals: GPS L1, L2C, L5, GLONASS L1, L2, Galileo E1, E5, E6 and BeiDou B1, B2.
SatGen software allows users to quickly create accurate scenarios with their own time, place and trajectory, with any combination of constellation and signal that is currently available or will become available in the near future.
Precision-sensitive applications such as autonomous driving, control of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), or positioning of aircrafts during landing procedures in coordination with ground-based augmentation systems (GBAS) require that modern GNSS receivers undergo detailed tests before implementation.
Designed to generate highly realistic test scenarios, Rohde & Schwarz signal generators like the R&S SMW200A and the R&S SMBV100B offer a unique approach to generating complex and highly realistic scenarios for testing of GNSS receivers that are able to work with diverse navigational systems such as GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou and QZSS/SBAS signals. The R&S SMW200A and the R&S SMBV100B can emulate them all for testing.
R&S SMW200A
The R&S SMW200A GNSS simulator (pictured above) can be used to produce complex interference scenarios with multiple interferers — all generated within the instrument itself. It can emulate up to 144 GNSS channels and can be equipped with up to four RF outputs. With its ability to simulate multi-constellation, multi-frequency, multi-antenna and multi-vehicle scenarios, the R&S SMW200A is able to cover a variety of high-end GNSS applications.
R&S SMBV100B
The R&S SMBV100B supports the same navigational systems, with access to 24 GNSS channels and one RF output, with the same ability to configure realistic scenarios including obscuration, multipath and atmospheric effects, as well as the specific characteristics of the antenna and the simulated vehicle. An integrated noise and CW interference generator can also be added.
Since the devices do not require an external PC for scenario configuration, all the tests can be created quickly through the user-friendly GUI. Due to all-encompassing instrument options available, both simulators can be set up to fit unique user requirements.
For testing GNSS receivers under controlled and repeatable conditions, the R&S SMW200A and the R&S SMBV100B provide extensive and cost-effective solutions. The platforms are ready to adapt to future requirements and testing of newly implemented GNSS signals.
SDX is a proven and advanced GNSS simulator based on GPU-accelerated computing and software-defined radio (SDR).
It is available as a complete turnkey system suitable for all GNSS simulation needs, including everything from compact test benches to complete CRPA test systems, such as SDX wavefront and SDX anechoic. Moreover, its software-defined roots enable the selection of cost-effective hardware into configurations that can be repurposed for different projects.
The architecture behind SDX provides real-time simulation of uncompromising accuracy. It features advanced signal customization and supports configurable outputs. IQ data can be generated in, or imported back into, the simulator as well. The API is embedded in the simulator core, enabling deep automation with a few simple clicks, as well as complex scripts developed with popular programming languages.
SDX simulates multiple constellations on multiple frequencies (GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, BeiDou and SBAS) on a large number of channels. Encrypted codes are supported for GPS and Galileo.
The Advanced Jammer module in SDX gives users complete control over interference creation. It is integrated directly into simulation scenarios to enable dynamic jammers (up to 120dB J/S) to interact with GNSS signals.
SDX also allows users to create advanced scenarios suitable for any type of vehicle: antenna patterns (receiver and GNSS SV), LEO/GEO/HEO orbits, multipath, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), additive pseudorange errors, message modification and corruption, raw logging and more.
It is suitable for the design and validation of GNSS receivers, complex integration, academic research, NAVWAR and test engineering.
SDX is developed and actively supported by Skydel’s engineering teams and worldwide distributors. Skydel offers direct support to clients to ensure prompt deployment and integration, or to review advanced customization requirements.
GSS9000, SIMMNSA, CRPA Test System, anechoic chamber testing, mid-range testing
Photo: Spirent
Spirent Federal provides GPS/GNSS 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 is Spirent’s most comprehensive simulation solution. It can simulate signals from all GNSS and regional navigation systems and has a system iteration rate (SIR) of 1000 Hz (1 ms), enabling higher dynamic simulations with more accuracy and fidelity. The GSS9000 supports restricted/classified signals. 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.
SimMNSA. SimMNSA allows authorized users to simulate true M-code for the first time ever. SimMNSA has been successfully delivered to users of the GSS9000 series simulator. SimMNSA has been granted Security Approval by the Global Positioning System Directorate.
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.
Anechoic Chamber Testing. Spirent’s GSS9790 Multi-Output, Multi-GNSS RF Constellation Wave-Front Simulator System is a development of the GSS9000. The GSS9790 is a unique solution providing the core element for GNSS applications that require a test system that can be used in both conducted (lab) and radiated (chamber) conditions.
Mid-Range Solutions. Spirent also offers solutions that cater to intermediate GPS/GNSS testing needs. The GSS7000 multi-constellation simulator provides an easy-to-use solution for GNSS testing that can grow with users’ requirements. The GSS6450 RF record & playback system enables replay of a real-world GNSS/GPS test repeatedly in the lab.
A scalable software-defined simulation platform powered by Skydel’s SDX, capable of generating high-fidelity GNSS and jamming signals simultaneously across multiple constellations and vehicles. Simultaneously simulate every signal below:
BroadSim’s software-defined platform includes intuitive user control and APIs; fast development cycles; flexible licensing and upgradability; and no additional hardware needed to maintain.
Forms
Original (4U)
Rack-mounted 4U simulator used for lab or field testing
4 RF outputs (unlimited jamming signals generated on 1)
1000-Hz simulation iteration rate
High-performance processor, GPUs and memory
Anechoic
Simulation system used for anechoic chamber testing
32 RF outputs and 16 dual-frequency antennas
Automatic antenna mapping
Automatic time delay and power loss calibration
Wavefront
Phase coherent simulation system
Real-time automated phase calibration
Scalable from 4 to 16 elements
Supports CRPA and multi-element receiver testing
Supports jamming and spoofing
Panacea
An automated PNT performance and vulnerability test suite that supports up to 32 UUTs (units under test) in real time, from test plan creation to post-test evaluation.
Time synchronization to live sky
Compatible with 100+ different GNSS receiver brands
Create dynamic scenarios with parameters such as jamming patterns, motions, power loss, delays and more.
Manages receiver communication and standardizes data output for easy analysis, visualization and reporting
BroadSim Wavefront Simulator at work. (Image: Talen-X)
Talen-X has added the BroadSim Wavefront Simulator to its software-defined platform.
The BroadSim Wavefront further extends the capabilities achieved by BroadSim Anechoic, incorporating support for controlled radiation pattern antenna (CRPA) and multi-element receiver testing.
BroadSim, powered by Skydel SDX, has brought new innovations to the forefront each year to meet the growing needs of Talen-X’s customers, and the new wavefront simulator is the latest advancement.
Its features include:
Phase-coherent simulation
Real-time automated phase calibration
Scalable from 4 to 16 elements
Advanced jamming and spoofing scenarios.
Talen-X engineers are approaching delivery of an operational demonstration unit, as well.
BroadSense Nano
The BroadSense Nano GPS jamming sensor is the newest addition to Talen-X’s BroadSense product line. It has the smallest size, weight and power of any BroadSense product.
The video below features shows a prototype of the Nano, as well as information about its features and a demonstration of the unit reacting to various jamming waveforms in real time.
Galileo, BeiDou, QZSS, IRNSS, and more join GPS and GLONASS to bring you wider, broader, greater, more accessible and above all more accurate PNT. How to get all that’s coming at you?
Multi-GNSS paves the way for complete exploitation of new signals and constellations in navigation, surveying, geodesy and remote sensing.
The free 1-hour webinar, which will take place at 1 p.m. Eastern [10 a.m. Pacific, 7 p.m. (1900h) Central European Time] on Thursday, Sept. 20, will review advantages of using multi-GNSS for the end-user and challenges in obtaining maximum efficiency when combining multiple constellations and signals. It will also discuss different approaches of testing GNSS receivers against jamming and spoofing attacks.
You will learn:
Advantages of using multi-GNSS
Challenges when combining multiple constellations
Robustness of multi-GNSS receivers to jamming and spoofing
Test solutions for GNSS receivers.
The webinar presents sponsored content by Skydel and Talen-X. Register for it here.
I’m impressed, as always, by the engagement of our webinar audience. Questions are pouring in about the speakers’ presentations, in addition to knowledgable queries submitted before the webinar began. These events strike me as, hour for hour, the best professional education one can get, short of leaving the office for a week to attend ION GNSS+ or the institute’s other conferences through the year, or the European Navigation Conference or Intergeo or others of the like. And a webinar takes only an hour of your time! From the comfort of your desk! Or sofa, even.
Here are some of the questions posed, and brief digests of our experts’ answers. The panel included John Fischer, VP Advanced R&D at Orolia, assisted by Jon Sinden, product manager for Rugged PNT; Tim Erbes, CTO at Talen-X; and Carol Politi, CEO at TRX Systems.
Q: Role of Galileo Public Regulated Service (PRS) in GPS-disrupted environment? Particularly given NATO alliance and cooperation? Any more detail about use of other GNSS to make solution more robust?
A: The PRS is certainly low-hanging fruit for traditional partners to take advantage of both GPS and Galileo, and I imagine fielded solutions will soon start to show that. There are substantial benefits to be gained from use of other GNSS as well.
Q: Please discuss the hardened military aspects of coming GPS III signals and codes. How will the new GPS III constellation impact your products?
A: Block III alone is not enough to make this happen. A new M-code will eventually replace the SAASM M-code, and it will provide a true separation from the civilian signal, different from the current situation with M-code and C/A code. Already, a dozen or more IIF satellites are now transmitting it. But the upgrade has to happen in three places for it to become effective: the satellites, the user receiver — and this is a complex, extremely broad and varied picture in the military realm — and finally the ground control system. There have been some difficulties in deploying the new OCX. This is the biggest determining factor of when these new features will roll out.
Q: What is the potential role of other means of PNT: eLoran, Iridium STL, lidar, and so on?
A: ELoran a very good alternative, ideal from the point of view of diversity: terrestrial instead of satellite, high-power instead of low, other end of spectrum from GNSS. Orolia published a white paper on a holistic approach towards resilient PNT, discussing eLoran and STL; see our website.
There are additional opportunities for outside-the-box solutions, for example, the sensors aboard tanks for anti-missile defense systems. They could also be used for PNT. Networked data radios for crowdsourced PNT data.
Carol Politi, CEO of TRX Systems, has just joined the panel of speakers who will address a range of defense and security issues with GPS and GPS denial during a free webinar this Thursday, June 21. Politi will discuss low SWaP sensor and RF technology for supporting continued operation within denied areas and dismount operation within a broader system of systems PNT context.
She joins John Fischer and Jon Sinden of Orolia, who will focus on “Protecting GPS-Reliant Military Systems,” and Tim Erbes of Talen-X, an expert in GNSS simulation and threat mitigation technologies, for “Defense PNT in Challenged Environments.” Register for the webinar here.
TRX Systems delivers mapping and location for dismount personnel location in areas without reliable GPS, including indoors, underground and where GPS is intentionally denied, for the defense, public safety and industrial markets. Politi holds multiple patents for innovations related to control of mobile devices and collaborative creation of indoor maps, received her M.S.E.E. from Johns Hopkins and B.S.E.E., MBA from the University of Maryland.
The company recently showcased the latest updates to its NEON Personnel Tracker for the 10,000 defense industry professionals at the Special Operations Forces Industry Conference. NEON is an enterprise-class 3D mapping and tracking Android application tightly integrated with a suite of algorithms fusing inertial sensor data, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi readings and inferred map and building data to deliver reliable 3D location. Personnel wearing a small, NEON Tracking Unit and carrying an Android device can now be tracked and located in real-time and for after action review.
For several months, Talen-X engineers have been working with the proper channels to develop MNSA (Modernized Navstar Security Algorithm). Talen-X is designing the implementation of MNSA for its flagship products: BroadSim and BroadSim Anechoic.
BroadSim is a software-defined GNSS simulator made to accomodate engineers who test systems requiring encrypted signals, jamming and spoofing. According to the company, BroadSim Anechoic leverages the same software-defined capabilities, scaled to enable powerful anechoic chamber simulations.
Encrypted signal simulation is being used to support many military testing applications, both in the lab and in the field. BroadSim can simulate many signals including the legacy GPS Y-Code and the modernized GPS Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) M-Code, the company said.
Other companies use costly and outdated field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) to upgrade their systems. With Talen-X, users can opt for a simple license upgrade to enable the new GNSS signals to include GPS AES M-Code and eventually MNSA on their BroadSim device.
With the addition of MNSA, engineers testing capabilities will reach the closest they’ve ever been to simulating real-world scenarios, ensuring complete confidence in the accuracy and resiliency of the test unit.
Orolia, a resilient positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) company, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Talen-X.
Talen-X is a U.S. technology innovator with the ability to characterize, enhance and implement advanced techniques and products to solve real-world GNSS vulnerability problems. It has expertise in GPS/GNSS performance, requirements, testing, integration and threat mitigation.
Orolia has completed 10 acquisitions since 2007, including Spectracom, Spectratime and McMurdo brands. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and approvals required by the U.S. Defense Security Service (DSS) and the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS).
Through this acquisition, Orolia said it will significantly enhance Assured PNT capabilities across the global company’s portfolio to support mission-critical applications. The additional resources also strengthen Orolia’s commitment to serving the U.S. government, with further expansion of domestic capabilities and a greater U.S. footprint. Toward that end, the companies will reinforce their commercial cooperation to maximize market awareness and access.
“Military personnel know that accurate and trusted time and position information is a critical enabler for almost all warfighting functions and systems,” said Orolia CEO Jean-Yves Courtois. “Reliable PNT data are critical for communications, sensors, network synchronization, situational awareness, command and control or search and rescue missions. This acquisition reinforces Orolia’s position as a major supplier of Assured PNT technology and enhances our ability to offer unique end-to-end solutions.”
Talen-X has extensive technology integration and PNT engineering resources that will enable Orolia to rapidly develop and offer new, superior products and services to the U.S. market.
“Our culture of innovation, together with our demonstrated testing capabilities, will complement Orolia’s global technology expertise and significantly enhance the reliability, performance and safety of military operations,” said Tim Erbes, CTO of Talen-X.
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.
In mid-2017, Talen-X and Skydel engineers began to conceptualize a GNSS simulation system emanating from their BroadSim platform for the purpose of fortifying anechoic chambers.
Over the next six months, Talen-X and Skydel designed, built, tested and delivered an anechoic chamber simulator capable of simultaneously generating multi-GNSS jamming and spoofing signals.
BroadSim Anechoic can be used to support a wide variety of operational tests.
“Our new Anechoic Chamber solution will radically change the way in which mission critical platforms and systems are tested because we are enabling our customers to create real-world threats,” said Talen-X Chief Technology Officer Tim Erbes said. “Not only will BroadSim Anechoic be able to emulate real-world threat scenarios, it will be easier than ever before to create and simulate these environments.”
BroadSim Anechoic is used to test GNSS spoofing and jamming in an anechoic chamber. The BroadSim Controller is at the heart of the system running Skydel’s SDX software suite. Using SDX, users can create advanced scenarios that include both jamming and spoofing signals.
The 16 software-defined radios (SDRs) each with dual transmit ports (32 total outputs) can be configured to output GNSS or jamming signals, giving users flexibility to run test after test. The transmit chains include the hardware to power 16 dual-frequency antennas. The included GNSS receivers allow users to monitor the environment inside the chamber, providing confidence that tests are running correctly.
The BroadSim Anechoic can also be used in controlled radiation pattern antenna (CRPA) testing. Many ground-, airborne- and water-based platforms are transitioning to using CRPAs because of their added jamming resiliency and significant tracking advantages in degraded environments.
Validation and real-world testing is critical to understanding and characterizing the mitigation these antennas can add in highly degraded areas. By using BroadSim Anechoic, users have the ability to create representative jammers with real-world characteristics (modulations, frequencies, angles, power levels, etc).
“Skydel developed an innovative approach for time offset calibration between multiple transmitting antenna using a COTS Software-Defined Radio (SDR),” said Skydel Solutions Chief Technology Officer, Iurie Ilie. “This approach allows for very precise measurements and adjustments (better than 100ps) to be done automatically before simulation start. At the same time, transmitting signal power is automatically adjusted to keep the power offset at receiving antenna better than 0.1dB.”
BroadSim Anechoic takes advantage of state-of-the-art software defined radios (SDR) for RF up-converting while signal IQ generation is done using high performance commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) graphics-processing units (GPU). The ability to generate the IQ data in software (using the GPU) as opposed to hardware (FPGA) significantly reduces the cost while maximizing capability, value, and time to market.
BroadSim Anechoic has the capability of powering up to 16-dual frequency antennas requiring 32 RF transmit outputs. The architecture used for this system required the ability to receive signals in a manner such that precise processing could be done on the receive signal.
The SDR selected for this application has one receiver channel for every transmit channel giving BroadSim Anechoic 32 RF receive ports. Innovative software techniques have been developed enabling the accurate time and power calibration for each antenna transmit chain using the SDR receive ports.
