GPS World

Author: GPS World Staff

  • Compact Modules for RTK GNSS

    Hemisphere GPS announces the Eclipse P300 and Eclipse P301 OEM modules — its next-generation high‑performance compact modules for RTK GNSS applications. Based on new Hemisphere GPS multi-function application firmware and Eclipse GNSS multi‑constellation technology, P300 and P301 provide the ability for tracking commercially available GNSS signals for precise positioning.

    P300 is a drop-in board replacement for Hemisphere GPS’ successful Crescent L1 board as well as the first‑generation miniEclipse P200 GPS-only OEM board. P301 is the company’s 20‑pin OEM module configured as a drop-in replacement for a different industry standard interface. Eclipse P300 and P301 improve GNSS positioning performance, particularly with RTK applications, through Hemisphere GPS’ patent-pending SureTrack technology. Benefits include extended and more robust RTK solutions as the rover RTK receiver will process all available signals even if they are not common with the base receiver. RTK solutions are therefore better maintained in challenging environments, with baselines of up to 50 km, and reacquisition times are improved resulting in more robust overall performance, the company said.

    P300 and P301 are designed for OEM system integrators who demand the highest level of multi-frequency positioning, accuracy, fast initialization time, and GNSS RTK solutions. Hemisphere GPS’ miniEclipse series includes a single frequency L1 GPS + L1 GLONASS model named P202. Both series are designed for developing integrated high-precision and control applications for geomatics, survey, machine control, and unmanned vehicle solutions.

    “P300, P301, and P202 all improve upon our already successful miniEclipse OEM modules adding GNSS support to our most compact modules for excellent accuracy and affordability,” said Phil Gabriel, vice president and general manager, Precision Products, for Hemisphere GPS. “System integrators have a wider range of Hemisphere GPS solutions from which to choose to develop world‑class high‑precision products.”

    Measuring 71 mm long and 41 mm wide, miniEclipse allows for easy integration, especially for integrators who are accustomed to Hemisphere GPS’ Crescent and miniEclipse OEM module performance and footprint.

    All miniEclipse modules are available through the Hemisphere GPS Precision Products global dealer network.

  • Spectra Precision Introduces GNSS Receiver

    Spectra Precision Introduces GNSS Receiver

    Photo: Spectra Precision

    Spectra Precision introduced the new ProFlex 800, a GNSS solution with Z-Blade GNSS-centric technology. The ProFlex 800 delivers fast and reliable RTK positioning, even in environments where GNSS signals may be difficult to acquire, Spectra Precision said. Rugged and IP67 rated, the ProFlex 800 is built to withstand harsh operating conditions for a variety of positioning applications.

    “The ProFlex 800 is an ideal solution for customers wanting a single GNSS receiver for multiple applications,” said François Erceau, general manager of Trimble’s Spectra Precision, Nikon and Ashtech Business Area. “It offers a unique design with a range of mounting and communications options.”

    Used as a backpack rover or reference station, the ProFlex 800 with Z-Blade technology is a flexible GNSS solution for land surveying. Its innovative design also makes it ideal for hard-mounted survey applications such as coastal work, dredging, bathymetry or offshore vessel operations.

    The weatherproof, high-impact-resistant molded aluminum housing allows the ProxFlex 800 to operate in harsh conditions.

    In addition to a 3.5G internal cellular modem, the ProFlex 800 can use a variety of internal or external UHF modules, providing stable and reliable wireless communications. It can be used as a rover or a base without additional accessories in the field. Its Z-Blade long-range RTK capability combined with industry-leading UHF options help to ensure maximum productivity while in the field.

    With its built-in Ethernet capability and embedded web server, users can access the ProFlex 800 from any computer connected to the Internet. This capability allows instant real-time multi-data streaming over an Ethernet connection to build an RTK corrections server without any additional software or equipment, the company said.

    Spectra Precision ProFlex 800 CORS Receiver. The Spectra Precision ProFlex 800 is also available as a Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS). This configuration is an optimal solution when collecting, storing and transferring high-quality GNSS raw data for post processing surveys, geodetic and other applications. Automatic sessions programming, a user-friendly Web-interface, an embedded RINEX converter, FTP push functionality and many other advanced CORS features make the ProFlex 800 CORS a powerful, robust and easy-to-use GNSS solution.

    Advanced Ashtech Z-Blade Technology. Z-Blade is a new GNSS centric signal processing technology. Z-Blade uses all of the available satellite signals equally, without preference to any particular satellite constellation, maximizing the user’s ability to obtain reliable GNSS positions in tough conditions. Z-Blade allows users to receive and maintain RTK positioning even if GPS coverage is insufficient. In many work locations, just a few GPS and GLONASS satellites may be visible due to obstacles such as trees or buildings.

    The ProFlex 800 is now available through the Spectra Precision global dealer network. For more information visit: www.spectraprecision.com and www.ashtech.com or email: [email protected]

  • Trimble Introduces Receivers for GIS and Mobile Mapping

    Trimble has introduced the next-generation of its Trimble GPS Pathfinder family — the Trimble Pro 6H and Pro 6T receivers for GIS and mobile mapping. The Trimble Pro series with advanced features allows mobile workers to configure a solution for a wide range of applications, delivering flexibility in professional GIS data collection, Trimble said. The series offers a new streamlined form-factor and dramatic productivity improvements in difficult GNSS environments with Trimble Floodlight technology.

    The modular Trimble Pro series receiver gives users the flexibility to choose their setup configurations:

    • Optimized for use with Trimble data collection devices such as the Trimble Juno or Nomad G series handhelds, or Yuma tablet computer, the Trimble Pro series can also be used with other tablets and handhelds with NMEA output.
    • Real-time or postprocessed GIS workflows.
    • The receiver can be deployed in a backpack, on a pole or mounted on a vehicle.
    • Two models are available: the Trimble Pro 6H delivers decimeter accuracy, while the Pro 6T is the submeter model for standard GIS applications.

    “With the availability of the new Pro series receivers, data collection professionals now have access to the productivity-enhancements of Floodlight technology in both integrated and modular configurations,” said Daniel Wallace, general manager of Trimble’s GIS Data Collection Division. “While some prefer the convenience of an integrated, all-in-one handheld, others will appreciate the Pro series’ flexibility to choose from a range of data collection devices such as a high-resolution tablet or lightweight Trimble Juno.”

    Trimble Floodlight technology allows users to collect decimeter accuracy data in tough GNSS environments, Trimble said. Buildings and trees can cause satellite shadow and limit the environments where high-accuracy GNSS data collection can be performed. Trimble Floodlight technology combines a range of techniques to increase the availability of positions and boost accuracy in areas affected by satellite shadow. Using Floodlight technology, the Pro series can keep teams productive without compromising on accuracy. Users can work with fewer disruptions and ensure better data, faster data collection and higher field efficiency.

    Trimble Pro series receivers are rugged and built to withstand the rigors of long hours in tough outdoor conditions, yet optimized for high-accuracy GIS data collection workflows, Trimble said. For applications such as utilities inspections and timber stand valuations, Trimble Pro receivers provide long battery life and tough construction for dependable service over the course of rigorous data-collection projects.

    With its IP65 rating, the receivers offer reliable operation, even after prolonged exposure to water and dust, Trimble said. An integrated antenna reduces the complexity of the system for fast setup and swift data collection campaigns. Field workers can be up and running with minimal training, saving time and money. Combined with a Trimble handheld solution and Trimble TerraSync software, the complete system provides dedicated field workflows to simplify data collection and improve integration with the GIS for total workflow improvements.

    The new Trimble Pro 6H and 6T receivers are available from Trimble’s worldwide Mapping & GIS authorized distribution channel.

  • Snow Grooming Management System

    Snow Grooming Management System

    EquiPiste-with-S320

    Hemisphere GPS has announced the EquiPiste integrated snow grooming management system. EquiPiste provides visual guidance, snow depth status, and event logging for snow grooming operators, mountain managers and snow road operations. Ski resorts benefit from improved grooming quality and productivity, optimal snow making decisions and distribution, as well as more predictable and preventative snow cat maintenance, according to Hemisphere GPS.

    Snow grooming operations are tasked with creating quality snow conditions for ski trails or pistes, as they are referred to in the industry. Designed with an integrated touchscreen terminal and Crescent GPS, Hemisphere GPS’ EquiPiste graphically displays to the operator the areas groomed, boundaries, assets, points of interest, and hazards. Through the guidance cues, operators increase their efficiency and quality of work by avoiding overlaps and skips in grooming, Hemisphere GPS said. Areas that need attention such as thin snow pack and winch anchors can be flagged with meta-data so operators can easily navigate back at any time, even in low visibility. Pathways can be mapped and re-used for training novice operators or for repeatedly navigating snow roads. Operation managers benefit from reviewing the job files from each machine to determine variable costs, performance and maintenance tracking, the company said. As well, data can be mapped within Google Earth and used for generating daily grooming or road maintenance reports for customers.

    Many ski resorts also spend a substantial amount of their budget on snow making activities. When combined with Hemisphere GPS’ survey grade Eclipse GNSS technology, EquiPiste displays and records real-time snow depth measurements and maps, the company said. The snow depth data improves the efficiency and quality of managing the snow levels. The depth data helps indicate where and when to make snow, it alerts the operator to thin snow pack, where to redistribute snow as well as how to identically recreate (day to day and year to year) downhill race courses. Analysis of the snow depth data enables more optimized snow management.

  • GNSS Handheld Data Collector

    Nexteq Navigation, based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, has announced the T5A, its new flagship multifunctional GNSS handheld data collector. The device is a high-accuracy GPS unit capable of 2-centimeter accuracy using real-time kinematic (RTK) and 50-centimeters globally using Nexteq’s i-PPP technology. With the T5A, users can achieve extremely accurate and consistent results anywhere in the world with no loss in flexibility, Nexteq said, adding that the unit’s centimeter-level precision coupled with versatility allows for accurate data collection in the most diverse weather conditions.

    Suitable for projects in all-environments, the T5A has a professional quality internal GPS receiver that provides accurate real-time results. Using Nexteq’s Freedom, i-PPP, or RTK technologies, the T5A data collector can provide flexible and accurate positioning in all parts of the world, Nexteq Navigation said.

    The T5A has a 3.7-inch color touchscreen that is both waterproof and dustproof. The device includes features such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, digital cellular data and voice, microSD card slots, and a 3.0 megapixel digital camera.

    Like all Nexteq Navigation GPS handhelds, the T5A is a ruggedized and tough unit. The T5A has an IP66 rating with excellent dust and water resistance.

  • Core Positioning Receiver Chip

    u-blox is launching the u-blox 7, its next-generation core positioning technology platform. Supporting all deployed as well as soon-to-be deployed GNSS, the platform is based on the UBX-G7020 multi-GNSS receiver integrated chip with low power consumption.

    With 7 mW power consumption during continuous navigation, u‑blox’ UBX-G7020 is designed for small portable and power-sensitive devices requiring long battery life, high sensitivity, small size, and fast positioning. GPS, GLONASS, Compass, Russian, QZSS, and Galileo satellite positioning systems plus all satellite-based augmentation systems (SBAS) are supported.

    “As the satellite systems expand beyond GPS, u-blox 7 is an important step for our customers to design systems that work with all available global navigation standards, particularly GLONASS which is now fully operational. Our multi-GNSS UBX-G7020 integrated circuit does exactly that while achieving two of the most important features that our customers demand: minimum power consumption and small size,” said Andreas Thiel, executive vice president of R&D Hardware and co-founder of u-blox.

    The chip has been designed to support the lowest cost stand-alone solution via minimum eBOM; only eight external components are required resulting in a receiver occupying only 30 mm2 on a two-layer PCB. Standard crystal and TCXO are supported. The chip also provides low-power, autonomous log data output of position, velocity, and time. Support for A-GPS and u-blox’ CellLocate hybrid GNSS/cellular positioning technology is embedded to facilitate advanced telematics applications including indoor positioning. Standard and automotive grade are supported.

    First samples of the multi-GNSS receiver chip UBX-G7020 are available for customer evaluation. Shortly afterwards, module customers can migrate to the MAX, NEO, and LEA form factors, u-blox’ module series which will all be upgraded to the new u-blox 7 platform.

    u-blox 7 maintains software compatibility with u-blox 5 and u-blox 6, and modules provide drop-in compatibility. Both previous generation platforms remain fully supported, the company said. u-blox’ capability of delivering GNSS technology in both integrated circuit and module form provides maximum design flexibility for a wide variety of applications. To evaluate the performance of the u-blox 7 multi-GNSS platform, evaluation kits supporting all u-blox 7 based chips and modules can be ordered.

  • GPS for Truckers

    Magellan, maker of innovative GPS devices for vehicles, outdoor and mobile navigation, has announced the newest addition to its Magellan RoadMate Commercial GPS family for truckers and commercial drivers providing improved safety and productivity before, during and after their on-the-road trips. The compliance-ready Magellan RoadMate Commercial 9270T-LM GPS device is specifically designed for the needs of truckers including an extra-large GPS display, customizable truck-specific routing, hands-free communication, and trip logging.

    To prepare for their trips, truck drivers can use the Magellan RoadMate Commercial 9270T-LM to set up customizable routes based on the height, weight, width, and length of the vehicle, as well as applicable hazmat restrictions. Multi-destination routing allows drivers to plan their stops and optimize routes to help them save time and gas, Magellan said.

    While on-the-road, the Magellan RoadMate Commercial 9270T-LM helps drivers navigate on an extra-wide 7-inch high-definition touchscreen display that adjusts color and contrast for easy night-viewing. The large display also makes maps and other content easy to read when the GPS Navigator is mounted in large vehicles with deep dashboards. The integrated Bluetooth wireless technology, when paired with a compatible Bluetooth phone, enables drivers to safely talk hands-free while keeping their eyes on the road.

    At the end of their trip, the Magellan RoadMate Commercial 9270T-LM facilitates preparing required compliance reports including hours and state mileage for IFTA fuel records. A comprehensive log of trip information by each driver is retained in the Magellan GPS device for easy exporting into reports.

    “We expanded our family of Magellan RoadMate Commercial GPS Navigators to further meet the unique navigation needs of commercial and truck drivers who need a comprehensive solution to efficiently perform their jobs from the initial trip planning stage to their on-the-road requirements and managing required log reporting after their trip,” said Stig Pedersen, Associate Vice President of Product Management for Magellan. “The Magellan RoadMate Commercial series of GPS Navigators are designed to make drivers’ jobs safer and less stressful plus improve productivity, reduce costs and ultimately increase profits.”

    The Magellan RoadMate Commercial 9270T-LM functions as an “information dashboard” that not only navigates, but provides elevation and truck speed limit warnings. The 9270T-LM GPS device includes several valuable safety and convenience features:

    • Highway Lane Assist that shows realistic highway signs and guides truck drivers towards the correct lane when approaching complex highway interchanges and exits;
    • Free Lifetime Traffic Alerts that help drivers avoid traffic incidents on their route by offering an alternative solution;
    • Spoken Street Name guidance that announces the street name and gives turn-by-turn directions;
    • Highway Exit Points-of-Interest and a Truck Stop Directory help drivers find services including gas stations, restaurants, ATMs, rest areas and showers, truck services, Wi-Fi availability;
    • OneTouch lets truckers bookmark and assign a button to their favorite destinations or searches for faster access;
    • Heavy-duty extended windshield mount, designed for deep dashboards, is included to provide fully-adjustable, personalized comfort and safe viewing;
    • An A/V input for easy connection to external devices such as the Magellan Wireless Back-up Camera or a DVD player;
    • Free downloadable Lifetime Map Updates keep the pre-loaded maps of the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico up-to-date.

    The Magellan RoadMate Commercial GPS family now includes two models — the new 7-inch Magellan RoadMate Commercial 9270T-LM ($399.99 MSRP) and the 5-inch Magellan RoadMate Commercial 5190T ($379.99 MSRP). Both models are available in June at truck stops and through Magellan’s consumer electronics and online partners.

  • Toolbox for GIS Location Data

    ikeGPS announced it has released its new toolbox, ikeTools, for rapidly capturing GIS location data and making measurements of complex objects from a remote location. Now you have the ability, right from your ikeGPS screen, to complete the most demanding field data capture jobs far more quickly and efficiently than ever before.

    ikeTools Data Capture Modes:

    Target Position: The work horse of ikeGPS mobile GIS data capture. Point ikeGPS at a remote object such as a tree, pole or building and capture its GPS location using the onboard GPS, laser range finder and compass. One shot and you’re on to the next object.

    Three Shot Height: Directly measure the height of an object, such as a pole, from a remote position, even when the base of the object is obscured.

    Missing Line: Calculate the horizontal distance between any two objects.

    Span Height: Calculate the vertical height above ground of a point on a span, for example the mid-span height of a cable or wire.

    Photo Only: Capture a high resolution photo of an object. Useful for documenting the conditions of located or measured objects, for identifying hazards for field crews and for including in assessments.

    True Size Poles: Capture a calibrated (TrueSize) photo of an utility or telecommunications pole with one shot, then transfer to a PC application for measuring the heights of the pole and its attachments.

    True Size PLS: Capture calibrated photos that are used on a PC to measure the heights of objects on electric utility poles. Exports directly to software products from Power Lines Systems, Inc.

    True Size UVM: A variety of measurements for utility vegetation management. Conduct Tree Assessments by measuring tree height, crown width, and trunk diameter at breast height (DBH).

  • Data-Collection Software

    Nexteq Navigation has release the newest version of its NexGeo software line-up: NexGeo Mobile, NexPos and NexGeo Office. Optimized for Nexteq handhelds, NexGeo Mobile integrates Nexteq Freedom, i-PPP, and RTK positioning augmentation technology into a more reliable, user-friendly data collection software, the company said. With easy display of features, background images, labeling and attributes, data is readily collected, accessed and edited. The tracking feature now allows for efficient communication and management between field workers and the office. Raw data recorded in NexGeo Mobile can be used for post processing in NexGeo Office.

    Those using third-party software with a Nexteq handheld are not left behind. NexPos was created with the intent of allowing freedom in benefitting from Nexteq position augmentation technology, the company said. The NexPos software acts as a bridge, applying Freedom, i-PPP, or RTK algorithms to GPS measurements. The final positions are transferred to third-party software via virtual COM port, allowing users to benefit from improved position accuracy while NexPos runs discreetly in the background. Raw data can also be recorded and used for post processing in NexGeo Office.

    On the desktop, NexGeo Office ties together collected data, attributes, and post-processing information to provide efficient project management capabilities, data organization, live field monitoring and integration with a wide variety of other software, Nexteq said. Building and maintaining a project specific database is easy using NexGeo Office: import existing data, build on the project using a Nexteq handheld and transfer it back to the office for editing. Exporting the project to ESRI or AutoCAD file formats allows for users to seamlessly continue expanding.

    NexGeo software suite is available and included with all Nexteq Navigation handhelds.

  • Entry-Level, Rugged PDA

    Leica Geosystems announced a further enhancement to the Leica Zeno GIS family – the Leica Zeno 5, an entry-level, rugged PDA for organizations that require a durable compact device with integrated modem and high-sensitive GPS. The new Leica Zeno 5 supports field workers by combining a mobile phone with asset collection and management capabilities.

    Senior Product Manager Johannes Hotz comments ”Together with our Leica Zeno Field and Zeno Connect applications, the Zeno GIS family continues to grow and further addresses all mobile GIS market segments ranging from utilities and natural resources to municipalities”.

    The new Leica Zeno 5 provides a complete, integrated package of positioning, imaging and communications tools:

    • 48 channel, high-sensitivity GPS receiver (SirfStarIV)
    • GSM HSPA+ and CDMA with full phone capabilities, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
    • Texas Instruments latest high performance processor, the Sitara 3715 (OMAP3) at 800 MHz
    • Large 3.7” full VGA transflective display
    • Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5.3 Operating System
    • Rechargeable and hot-swappable all-day battery (10 hours +)
    • Full range of interactive sensors including camera, digital compass, gyroscope, light sensor, proximity sensor and accelerometer

    “The new Leica Zeno 5 is the fastest and best equipped rugged PDA for a mobile user”, said Johannes Hotz. “Designed to be, at the same time, a mobile phone, GPS-enabled data collector and a controller for our out-standing Leica GG02 plus GNSS SmartAntenna. This new handheld will help users to get the maximum out of from their investment. Together with our Zeno Field application, the Zeno 5 provides an easy-to-use, streamlined GIS data collection and management solution. The Zeno Connect, as stand-alone application or SDK, enables our software partners to combine their industry specific solution with our high-accuracy data collection solutions”.

    According to the announcement, the Leica Zeno 5 is shock resistant, withstands a drop from to 1.8 m, and is protected against water and dust. The large 3.7 inch screen is optimized for sunlight readability and maintains exceptional clarity in outdoor conditions, including direct sunlight. Field workers can collect features and descriptive information using the in-built, high-sensitive GPS data, attach photos to the collected assets, and synchronize, with high-speed up- and download times, with the office using a single and compact device, all in a full working day without re-charging the Zeno 5.

  • GPS-Enabled Sports Watch

    TomTom and Nike have unveiled a new range of the Nike+ Sportwatch, coinciding with the launch of a brand new Nike+ website. The range includes several editions and color combinations, and introduces a starter product for those new to running.

    Whether they own an original or new edition, all Nike+ Sportwatch users can now access Nike’s intelligent measure of athletic ability, Nikefuel. This converts a runner’s mileage into universal units that measure movements in a wide variety of different sports. As a result, it’s easy for people to compare their performance against that of athletes in other sports, and share their achievements with friends, the companies said.

    “Our extended range of products will be very useful to those adding running into their exercise regime. And the new NikeFuel measurement brings added motivation, allowing people to share and compare their performance with friends in other sports,” says Corinne Vigreux, managing director, TomTom.

    The new Nike+ Sportwatch colors have been chosen to match Nike’s apparel and shoe ranges. They include black/anthracite, anthracite/blue glow, and high-impact volt green. The anthracite/blue glow edition is available as a starter product, priced at €149.

  • Multi-Channel RF Recorder

    Averna, developer of test solutions and services for communications and electronics device makers, announces the availability of a field-ready multi-channel RF Recorder for RF applications covering 330 MHz to 2.5 GHz.

    The Averna RP-5300 RF Recorder is an advanced tool for both field testing and performance testing, Averna said. With 50 MHz of recording bandwidth at 16-bits, it can record multiple GNSS signals in up to two bands (L1, L2, L5), such as GPS or GLONASS. Its compact size and integrated display was designed for field operation.

    Wireless products need to perform well in the complicated and difficult-to-predict RF environments found in the real world. Simulators can bring the design up to a certain point in the development process, but Averna’s RF Recorder captures all the multi-path, interference and general degradation of signals that end-users will experience. Capturing the segment of spectrum of interest, from minutes to hours, allows a technician to return to the lab with data necessary to diagnose and solve the problem, while building a library of environments to harden their products for the future, Averna said.

    “Recording live, impaired, RF signals of interest in the field, without demodulation or alteration, reduces the need for traditional field-testing of RF receivers,” said Brendan Wolfe, director of product management at Averna. “We are thrilled to bring to the GNSS market a portable and high-fidelity multi-channel RF recorder designed for the optimal capture of real-life RF environments.”

    The RP-5300 comes preloaded with Averna’s RF Studio Recorder. RF Studio is workflow software for making trouble-free RF recordings, managing collected data, and analyzing or playing back collected RF environments. With RF Studio Recorder, the intended signals are captured during and after a recording session without the need for RF experts on site, Averna said.

    Key features include:

    • 50 MHz recording bandwidth to capture multi-GNSS signals
    • Two channels to capture signals operating at different frequencies
    • Up to 11 hours of recording time with external RAID (2×50 MHz channels @ 16-bit-depth)
    • Field-ready with an integrated touchscreen display, ruggedized chassis and compact size
    • Simple field setup, intuitive user interface and test-case profiles

    For customers interested in a complete solution of RF recording to playback, Averna recommends the Averna RP-5300 Series be paired with the Averna URT-5000, a world-class RF Player and Signal Generator.