Tag: OEM

Launchpad: OEM, Surveying & Mapping, UAV, and Transportation

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

OEM

GNSS/INS Sensors

Photo: Septentrio

Five receivers in new product line

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

Septentrio, septentrio.com

Timing Module

Photo: Trimble

Designed for 5G networks

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

Trimble, trimble.com

Rugged IMUs

Photo: Honeywell

Ready for commercial, defense

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

Honeywell, honeywell.com

Replacement IMU

Photo: Emcore

Plug-compatible with HG1700-AG58

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

Emcore, emcore.com

Grandmaster Clock

Photo: Adva

Timing for edge deployments

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

Adva, adva.com

SURVEYING & MAPPING

Android Tablet

Photo: Panasonic

For field workers

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

Panasonic, toughbook.com

AG Receivers

Photo: Topcon Agriculture

Combine steering and networks

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

Topcon Agriculture, topconpositioning.com

Rugged Tablet

Photo: Trimble

Provides fast data processing for construction and surveying

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

Trimble, trimble.com

GIS Software

Photo: Golden Software

Scientific modeling package

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

Golden Software, goldensoftware.com

Cloud Resource

Photo: Catalyst

Provides geospatial insights

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

Catalyst, catalyst.earth/aws

UAV

GPS-Aided INS

Photo: Inertial Labs

For UAV, helipcopters, and lidar surveys

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

Inertial Labs, inertiallabs.com

PPK Modules

Photo: Emlid

For CM-accurate drone mapping

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

Emlid, emlid.com

Drone-In-A-Box

Photo: DroneHub

System simplifies drone inspection missions, deliveries

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

Dronehub, dronehub.ai

Survey Platform

Photo: Wingrta

For construction and earthworks

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

Propeller, propelleraero.com

Wingtra, wingtra.com

TRANSPORTATION

Receiver

Photo: SkyTraq

Stamp-sized module provides RTK positioning and heading

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

SkyTraq, skytraq.com.tw

Marine Compass

Photo: Garmin

GPS-based navigation tool with multi-band GNSS

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

Garmin International, garmin.com

August 20, 2021
Tallysman provides full-band GNSS helical antenna

Photo: Tallysman Wireless

Tallysman Wireless Inc. has added its first full-band GNSS antenna to its line of helical antennas.

The full-band GNSS HC990E embedded helical antenna is designed for precise positioning, covering the GPS/QZSS-L1/L2/L5, QZSS-L6, GLONASS-G1/G2/G3, Galileo-E1/E5a/E5b/E6, BeiDou-B1/B2/B2a/B3, and NavIC-L5 frequency bands, including the satellite-based augmentation system (SBAS) available in the region of operation [WAAS (North America), EGNOS (Europe), MSAS (Japan), or GAGAN(India)], as well as L-band correction services.

The HC990E embedded helical antenna is designed and built for high-accuracy positioning. It is packaged in a very light and compact form factor, making it suitable for a wide variety of applications, especially lightweight unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) navigation.

The HC990E is 60-mm wide and 25-mm tall, weighing 12 grams. It features a precision-tuned helical element that provides an excellent axial ratio and operates without the requirement of a ground plane. The HC990E also features a low-current, low-noise amplifier (LNA) and pre-filter to prevent harmonic interference from high-amplitude signals, such as 700 MHz band LTE and other nearby in-band cellular signals.

The HC990E antenna base has a flying lead with a UFL connector. To facilitate the installation, Tallysman provides an optional embedded helical mounting ring, which traps the outer edge of the antenna circuit board to the host circuit board or any flat surface. Tallysman also supports the installation and integration of embedded helical antennas to enable successful implementation and provide optimal antenna performance.

August 19, 2021
PGE selects assured PNT clocks for smart-grid infrastructure

ADVA’s aPNT platform is key for the development of PGE’s critical network infrastructure (Photo: Business Wire)

Portland General Electric (PGE) is deploying Oscilloquartz PTP grandmaster clock technology as it upgrades to packet-based synchronization and protects its network against GNSS vulnerabilities and cyberattacks. The upgrades also conform to PNT Executive Order 13905.

PGE, one of the largest power utilities in the Western United States, is using the ADVA scalable timing solution to enable a smooth transition from legacy synchronization and ensure new levels of accuracy, reliability and resiliency. The new system will timestamp data and control grid substations at the edge.

With multi-band GNSS receivers and artificial-intelligence (AI) threat detection, ADVA’s assured PNT (A-PNT) platform helps maintain resilient timing, even in challenging circumstances such as deliberate jamming and spoofing attacks. It also provides multi-source backup, including PTP network timing and in-device holdover oscillators for when GNSS signals are unavailable or disrupted.

The solution is built on the OSA 5410 and OSA OSA 5420 series of edgeSync+ grandmaster clocks. It features multi-band, multi-constellation GNSS receivers and supports multiple PTP profiles, including substation power and core telecom backup sync, while also allowing conversion between them and supporting legacy interfaces.

The products are part of ADVA’s new aPNT platform, integrating threat detection, multi-source backup and ADVA’s intelligent Ensemble Sync Director.

August 19, 2021
Launchpad: Bike GPS, digital twins and anti-jammers

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

OEM

GNSS board

Photo: Javad GNSS

With GLONASS dynamic calibration

The TRE-3S GNSS board measures 100 x 80 mm, weighs 87 g and tracks 874 channels with all-in-view satellite tracking. It includes numerous features to protect against interference and improve signal output: spectrum data output, spoofing detection, advanced multipath reduction, in-band interference rejection, GLONASS 0.2-mm dynamic calibration, heading determination, attitude determination and fast acquisition channels. The TRE-3S receives GPS L1/L2/L2C/L5; Galileo E1/E5A/E5B/AltBoc/E6; GLONASS L1/L2/L3; BeiDou B1/B1C/B2/B3; QZSS L1/L2/L5/L6 (L61/L62); and SBAS L1/L5. It has a 20-Hz update and real-time kinematic (RTK) rate for real-time positioning and raw data (code and carrier). Optional features include tracking QZSS L6 (LEX) and IRNSS L5/S-band, and a data update rate and RTK rate of 100 Hz.

Javad GNSS, javad.com

Multi-frequency antenna

For high-precision applications with L-band corrections

Photo: Maxtena

The M9HCT-A-SMA is a patented helix antenna for GNSS plus L-band corrections services, suitable for high-precision and autonomous multi-frequency applications. It provides simultaneous GNSS reception in a rugged, compact form factor. The M9HCT-A-SMA is suitable for high-precision applications such as the UAV market, where high performance and low weight are driving features in antenna selection. The active helix design features Maxtena’s patented compact and lightweight Helicore technology, which provides excellent pattern control, polarization purity and high efficiency in a compact form factor.

Maxtena, maxtena.com

GNSS antennas

Series now provides extended filtering

The TW3967-XF antenna. (Photo: Tallysman)

New eXtended Filtering (XF) is now employed in the TW3900 series of Accuntena precision antennas. The XF feature mitigates interference from all near-band signals and ensures the antenna provides the purest possible GNSS signals. The custom XF filtering has been tested to mitigate new (in Europe and Japan) and existing LTE signals, enabling the XF antennas to produce clean and pure GNSS radio frequency data. The XF models are TW3972XF, TW3972EXF, TW3972LGXF, TW3967XF and TW3967LGXF. All are triple-band antennas that support GPS/QZSS (L1/L2/L5), GLONASS (G1/G2/G3), Galileo (E1/E5ab), BeiDou (B1/B2/B2a), NavIC L5 and L-band correction services.

Tallysman Wireless, www.tallysman.com

Cycling computer

Provides 72 hours of continuous tracking

Photo: iGPSPORT

The iGS320 cycling computer builds on the u-blox M10 positioning platform, leveraging the M10’s ultra-low power consumption, compact size, and ability to track all four GNSS to offer endurance athletes a superior user experience. Adopting the M10 in its iGS320 cycling computer brought iGPSPORT an 80 percent increase in the power autonomy to deliver 72 hours of continuous tracking, up from 40 hours in their previous device. Concurrent reception of up to four GNSS constellations increases coverage and accuracy in otherwise challenging signal environments.

iGPSPORT, igpsport.com; u-blox, www.u-blox.com

SURVEYING & MAPPING

Digital twin solution

For facility management and construction projects

Photo: 3i

The Beamo 3D mapping platform enables surveyors to scan a project site and immediately collaborate with teams in the field without lengthy delays or cumbersome equipment. The digital twin created in the platform provides a single and secure source of truth for teams without requiring highly technical knowledge. With a 360-degree camera, surveyor teams can create detailed digital environments that remote teams can use to track progress, collaborate with coworkers, and take accurate measurements without having to physically visit the site.

3i, www.3i.ai

GNSS receiver

Multi-constellation for surveyors and geodesists

Photo: Javad GNSS

The Triumph-3 receiver tracks efficiently even in difficult conditions. It can track all current signals and is ready for future satellites. The Triumph-3 can operate as a base together with Triumph-LS and Triumph-LS Plus to efficiently accomplish any geodetic job. Its RTK system communicates via integrated UHF, 4G/LTE, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth channels, and eliminates the need to subscribe to a real-time network for corrections. A powerful and reliable receiver for high-precision navigation systems, the Triumph-3 is based on the Javad GNSS 874-channel chip. It is equipped with an internal 4G/LTE/3G card and secure and accessible microSD and microSIM cards. It also supports Javad’s lift-and-tilt technology.

Javad GNSS, javad.com

Device bridge

Enables connectivity for legacy equipment

Photo: Eos Positioning

Eos Bridge enables almost any instrument to become iOS Bluetooth compatible. The pocket-sized device connects to instruments via Bluetooth Classic or serial port, and then transmits data to any Apple iOS device, such as iPhone or iPad, Android device or Windows mobile device. Instruments equipped with non-iOS Bluetooth can connect to Apple iOS devices using the Eos Bridge, including laser rangefinders and utility-locating instruments. Instruments whose only connectivity option is a serial port also can connect, such as any instrument or sensor with an RS-232 serial port. The Eos Bridge is lightweight, at approximately 150 grams (about 5.3 ounces). It can be worn clipped to a belt, stored in a pocket, or mounted to an instrument or sensor. The battery lasts 48 to 72 hours.

Eos Positioning Systems, www.eos-gnss.com

Web-based tool

Provides analyses of ‘ocean neighborhoods’

Screenshot: NOAA

The OceanReports web tool provides users with specialized “ocean neighborhood analyses,” including maps and graphics, by analyzing more than 100 ocean datasets instantaneously. Reporting data includes information about habitats and species, industries in the area, potential hazards (such as undersea cables or shipwrecks), the economic value of ocean commerce, and other detailed oceanographic information. The web-based interactive tool for ocean mapping and planning, created by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, provides professional users and the general public with opportunities to explore the ocean from their own computer.

NOAA, https://coast.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/ort.html

TRANSPORTATION

Management system

Improves city transport operations

Screenshot: Hexagon AB

HxGN Mass Transit is a geospatial transportation infrastructure management system with 3D and AI capabilities for visualizing and analyzing transit and rail assets and operations. Built on Hexagon’s M.App Enterprise, HxGN Mass Transit provides an advanced digital twin of a city’s entire public transportation network — including tracks, stops, switches, construction sites, ticket machines, benches and garbage cans. It integrates asset and spatial data so operators can visualize and analyze an entire network with accurate and up-to-date information.

Hexagon Geospatial, hexagongeospatial.com

Marine anti-jammer

Counters interference in marine environments

The GAJT-410MS provides anti-jamming to marine vessels. (Image: NovAtel)

The GAJT-410MS provides NovAtel’s GPS Anti-Jam Technology (GAJT) for the commercial and defense marine markets. The low SWaP variant protects civil and military operations from interference and jamming, with jammer direction-finding capabilities for enhanced situational awareness in the marine environment. The GAJT-410MS provides dynamic protection on both GPS L1 and L2 bands, as well as Galileo E1, QZSS L1 and L2, and SBAS L1 to combat intentional and unintentional interference.

Hexagon | NovAtel, novatel.com

Distress beacon

Indicates position in emergencies

Photo: ACR Electronics

The ACR 2830 GlobalFix V4 EPIRB marine distress beacon has multiple built-in redundancies to increase chances of survival in an emergency situation. The internal GPS receiver pinpoints the user’s location, which is then transmitted on the 406-MHz distress signal. In the absence of GPS-derived coordinates, the signal can be used to triangulate the position. The beacon’s 121.5 MHz homing signal will bring local search-and-rescue forces directly to the position; an LED strobe light allows them to see the position in low light. A Category 1 Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB), the GlobalFix V4 is a float-free device that will automatically activate when submerged in water. Two self-tests monitor transmission, power and battery performance as well as GPS acquisition.

ACR Electronics, acrartex.com

Passenger service

Connected portal being deployed on Spanish trains

Photo: OUIGO Spain

A new connected platform for rail passengers with Wi-Fi, information and entertainment content is being installed on OUIGO Spain trains through the OUIFUN portal. Passengers can connect via smartphones, tablets or PCs, access the internet on board to check email or browse the web, and enjoy entertainment content. Passengers also will be able to get travel status information in real time via an interactive map, access tourist guides or consult a menu for on-board catering. The service, provided by Moment, launched on May 10 on OUIGO’s first high-speed line in Spain connecting Madrid to Barcelona, and will gradually be extended to the whole high-speed OUIGO network.

Ouigo Spain, www.ouigo.com/es/; Moment, www.moment.tech

UAV

4G-connected drone

Provides strong data link to operator

Photo: Parrot

The ANAFI Ai UAV uses 4G as its main data link between the drone and the operator. The 4G link improves data transmission and enables precise control at any distance. For BVLOS flights, it stays connected even behind obstacles. The 4G link between the drone and the user’s phone is encrypted, with a secure element protecting both software integrity and data privacy. A software development kit enables creation of custom code for flights and gives access to all sensors, including obstacle-avoidance sensors, occupancy grid and internet access.

Parrot, parrot.com

Professional drone

Can be equipped with alpha mirrorless camera

Photo: Sony Electronics

An introductory model in Sony’s new Airpeak line, the small S1 drone can be equipped with the company’s full-size mirrorless interchangeable-lens Alpha camera. Its proprietary motor, propeller, control system and sensing technology allow it to fly at high speed (a maximum speed of 55 mph) with stable wind resistance. Propulsion technology using a combination of devices developed by Sony provides wind resistance in strong wind speeds up to 44.7 mph. The Airpeak S1 includes obstacle detection, automatic flight control via sensing, and increased safety via cloud management of the aircraft.

Sony Electronics, electronics.sony.com

Autopilot

For unmanned aircraft systems

Photo: uAvionix

At 80 grams, George is a low SWaP certifiable solution for enterprise operations and those wishing to type certify their UAS. Built around the open-source autopilot Cube from CubePilot, George combines Cube with Design Assurance Level C (DAL-C) hardware and safety and sensor monitoring, enabling customers to meet the type certification and safety case requirements for BVLOS operations. Its triple-redundant IMU includes three accelerometers, three gyroscopes, three magnetometers and three barometers. The hardware platform is designed and built to RTCA DO-254 DAL-C and meets rigorous DO-160G and MIL-810H power and environmental qualifications.

UAvionix, uavionix.com

August 17, 2021
Spirent teams with Northrop Grumman on GNSS/inertial validation

Spirent Federal Systems, a provider of PNT/GNSS test equipment, announced plans to fully validate the inertial interface between Spirent GNSS simulators and both Northrop Grumman legacy and modernized inertial systems under the EGI‐M program.

For years, Spirent Federal has developed inertial interface test tools in collaboration with Northrop Grumman that yield repeatable, accurate results.

Northrop Grumman’s embedded GPS/inertial navigation system (INS)‐modernization, or EGI‐M, program is developing airborne navigation capabilities with a government‐owned open architecture. The fully modernized system integrates new M‐code capable GPS receivers, provides interoperability with civil controlled air space, and implements a new resilient time capability.

“Spirent Federal has long supported testing of the Northrop Grumman family of interfaces,” said Jeff Martin, Vice President of Sales for Spirent Federal, “and our customers have always obtained precise, reliable results. Spirent Federal strives to keep abreast of the newest technology to be ready to meet the needs of industry, and this collaborative effort that includes the EGI‐M program is yet another example. Spirent is an important part of Northrop Grumman’s test solutions and this validation project acknowledges that importance.”

Spirent Federal has been providing tools for testing inertial systems for more than two decades. Available SimINERTIAL interfaces comprise various EGIs and IMUs from manufacturers of inertial sensors, including Northrop Grumman (formerly Litton), Honeywell and Atlantic Inertial Systems, as well as standardized interfaces such as STANAG.

Testing the full operational performance of GPS/inertial systems usually requires expensive and time‐consuming field testing on a moving vehicle. Spirent’s SimINERTIAL system emulates inertial sensor outputs while concurrently simulating GPS RF signals, enabling controlled, repeatable testing of EGIs and reducing the need for field trials.

August 16, 2021
Samsung Introduces 5-nm processor with GNSS for wearables

The Exynos W920 offers high performance, efficiency and LTE connectivity in tiny form factor

Image: Samsung

Samsung Electronics is offering a new processor for wearables, the Exynos W920. The new processor integrates an LTE modem and is built with an advanced 5-nanometer (nm) extreme ultraviolet process node, offering powerful yet efficient performance demanded by next-generation wearable devices.

The Exynos W920 is embedded with a GNSS L1 receiver (GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo) for tracking speed, distance and elevation during outdoor activities. It also has a 4G LTE Cat. 4 modem.

“Wearables like smartwatches are no longer just a cool gadget to have. They’re now a growing part of our lifestyles to keep you fit, safe and alert,” said Harry Cho, vice president of System LSI marketing at Samsung Electronics. “With the Exynos W920, future wearables will be able to run applications with visually appealing user interfaces and more responsive user experiences while keeping you connected on the go with fast LTE.”

The Exynos W920 has two Arm Cortex-A55 cores for high-performing, power-efficient processing and an Arm Mali-G68 GPU with CPU performance improved by 20 percent and 10 times better graphics performance than its predecessor. With upgraded cores and improved performance, the Exynos W920 enables faster application launches and more interactive, eye-catching 3D graphical user interface (GUI) on a device’s qHD (960×540) display.

The Exynos W920 comes in a tiny package with Fan-Out Panel Level Packaging (FO-PLP). The technology incorporates the Exynos W920, power management IC and embedded multimedia card. The processor’s compact size allows smartwatches to house larger batteries or have sleeker designs.

Always-on-display (AOD) for wearables, especially for smartwatches, is a widely adopted feature as it makes it effortless to take a quick look at the time, notifications, missed calls and more without the need to wake the watch up from sleep mode. Rather than powering up the main CPU, the W920 activates a dedicated low-power display processor, the Cortex-M55, reducing display power consumption under AOD mode compared to its previous Exynos model.

The Exynos W920 supports a new unified wearable platform Samsung built jointly with Google, and will be first applied to the upcoming Galaxy Watch model.

August 13, 2021
Topnet Live GNSS network expands to meet digitalization demands
Topnet Live coverage map for 2021. (Image: Topcon)

Topcon Positioning Group has expanded its Topnet Live GNSS network of correction solutions with more types of correction services and subscription options. According to Topcon, the growth is a result of the increasing demand for digitalization in various industries including construction, surveying, machine control and agriculture.

Flexible service options include Realpoint, the real-time kinematic (RTK) service, and Starpoint, a Precise Point Positioning (PPP) service. The different services have varying delivery methods, coverage and reliable centimeter-level accuracy.

Under a flexible subscription model, customers can purchase to suit their needs. An RTK service supported by precise point positioning (PPP), Skybridge, is available to maintain connectivity and productivity if the customer temporarily leaves RTK coverage.

Topnet Live uses all four GNSS constellations — GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou — to provide continuous accuracy and always-on service coverage. The service provides advantages for these industries:
- Survey, Construction and Machine Control. Topnet Live removes the need for individual base stations, dramatically increasing flexibility, productivity and safety, and can drive large-scale projects with constant, reliable accuracy.
- Precision Agriculture. The solution delivers fast, consistent, accurate positioning at any time day or night for soil preparation, seeding, spreading, spraying and harvesting.
- OEMs, System Integrators, Product Designers. The solution provides scalable precise positioning and supports the implementation of flexible business models tailored to fit both OEMs’ and their customers’ needs.
“The Topnet Live RTK network, first established over a decade ago, continues to grow, with 5,100 reference stations globally, a 14% increase in the last year,” said Ian Stilgoe, Topcon vice president. “We are growing throughout the world in areas where there is an increasing demand for productivity and accuracy through digitalization, with strong growth particularly in North America and Europe. We are focused on continued expansion to maximize support for our customers, so they always have the best options globally.”

Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) supplying automotive, industrial internet of things (IoT), autonomous robotics and all sectors that require positioning, navigation and guidance also benefit from the enhanced robustness of the network, Topcon said. OEMs can sell their hardware with correction services onboard and preconfigured for immediate use by customers, regardless of geographic location, with flexible subscription and licensing options to suit exact needs.
August 13, 2021
GPSPatron seeks to protect critical infrastructure
Screenshot: GPSPatron

GPSPatron is offering products and services to protect equipment, particularly GNSS-dependent critical infrastructure. Its GP-Probe TGE2 is designed to protect time servers against threats including spoofing, jamming, ionospheric scintillation and system errors. An embedded PPS phase-error measurement function enables reliable monitoring of the time server’s health by measuring the time offset between internal and external PPS.

The GP-Probe, in conjunction with GP-Cloud, allows development of robust, resilient clock-synchronization systems. GP-Cloud is a web application for monitoring the quality of the GNSS signal and detecting anomalies in RAW GNSS data.

Every second, the three-channel GP-Probe measures several signal parameters of all perceptible GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou and Galileo satellites and sends them to GP-Cloud for real-time processing. GP-Cloud allows users to investigate GNSS signal parameters, recognize attack scenarios, and improve resiliency to current and future GNSS threats.

GPSPatron also provides laboratory testing services of GNSS equipment to identify vulnerabilities. It uses its own GP-Simulator to simulate spoofing attacks. Typical test objects are RTK base stations and time servers. Testing can help uncover possible attack scenarios.

GPSPatron offers its solutions as a service, providing monitoring without investments in new hardware and software, as well as leasing of equipment.

GP-PROBE TGE2 FEATURES
- Three RF channels enable spatial signal analysis to detect coherent spoofing
- 60 MHz RF signal analyzer for spectrum monitoring with FPGA-powered correlative peak analysis for non-coherent spoofing detection and interference classification
- Optional GP-Blocker with an embedded noise generator suppresses the most powerful counterfeit RF signals
- Authenticated PPS output for synchronization of external equipment
- PPS input for checking time server health and monitoring the entire synchronization system
- Optional GP-divider enables use of one GNSS antenna for two receivers
- Form factor of 19-inch rack, half-size
- Double power module: 110 – 220 AC, 18 – 75 DC
- Active/passive GNSS antenna support
- 4G modem and 100BASE-TX Ethernet for data transferring to GP-Cloud
- Web interface for configuration (HTTP or HTTPS)
June 30, 2021
Septentrio’s AsteRx SBi3 enables XenomatiX lidar 3D mapping

AsteRx SBi3 enables highly accurate and reliable 3D mapping solutions based on sensor fusion with lidar

The AsteRx-SBi3 Pro+ in a rugged housing. (Photo: Septentrio)

Septentrio, a leader in high-precision GNSS/INS positioning solutions, and XenomatiX, provider of true solid-state lidar technology for autonomous applications and road management solutions, are starting a partnership enabling high-quality lidar solutions.

XenomatiX will be using the compact and robust GNSS/INS receiver from Septentrio, AsteRx SBi3 Pro+, to provide analysis of pavement conditions geolocated with millimeter accuracy.

Septentrio’s high-quality GNSS/INS will be a part of Xenomatix’ road lidar XenoTrack, used by road surveyors and road management companies. Septentrio’s AsteRx SBi3, a high-performance RTK GNSS/INS receiver with a dual-antenna setup, ensures centimeter-accurate geotagging of the XenoTrack point-cloud frames for relative and global millimeter accuracy over large distances.

Moreover, the GNSS/inertial measurement unit (IMU) integration algorithm enables dead reckoning — continuous positioning in environments of low satellite visibility where GNSS outages occur.

While traditional road scanning based on laser profilers rely solely on extremely accurate GNSS/inertial navigation system (INS) to stitch consecutive profiles together, the XenoTrack captures a 3D topography of an entire area in a single shot. The XenomatiX sensor-fusion algorithms combine visual SLAM techniques with GNSS, IMU and CAN to obtain a seamless map of the road shape.

Septentrio’s proprietary GNSS+ technology plays a key role in delivering the accuracy and reliability needed for XenoTrack. The company’s AIM+ advanced interference mitigation technology ensures robust positioning even in the presence of jammers, which may be aboard vehicles trying to avoid road tolling. When the sky is obstructed for an extended period, the built-in RAIM+ integrity algorithm serves as an indicator of when it is best to give priority to other sensor inputs to maintain a high-quality solution.

XenomatiX offers a complete mapping system as well as services including data from the XenoTrack sensor, camera and real-time kinematic GNSS/INS receiver with dual antenna in an easy-to-install solution on a standard vehicle.

June 30, 2021
U-blox releases explorer kits for high-precision indoor positioning

Leveraging Bluetooth direction finding technology, the solutions demonstrate sub-meter level position accuracy for a variety of industrial and consumer applications

Photo: U-blox

U-blox has released two explorer kits for product developers to evaluate the potential of Bluetooth direction finding and high-precision indoor positioning. Designed for low power consumption, simple deployment, and low cost of ownership, the u-blox XPLR-AOA-1 and XPLR-AOA-2 explorer kits will test the technology’s capabilities to enable a variety of applications including access control, collision detection, smart appliances, indoor positioning and asset tracking.

Recognizing the growing demand for more accurate indoor positioning solutions, the Bluetooth special interest group (SIG) released Bluetooth direction finding, offering a major improvement over previous receiver signal strength indicator (RSSI)-based solutions.

Bluetooth direction finding makes it possible to determine the direction that radio signals travel from a mobile tag to one or several fixed anchor points. Using angle-of-arrival (AoA) technology, anchor points comprising antenna arrays connected to Bluetooth receivers can detect the direction, or angle, to the mobile tag, which transmits a Bluetooth signal. When a constellation of such multi-antenna anchors is deployed, AoA technology can be used to triangulate the precise location of a mobile device or tag.

The u-blox XPLR-AOA-1 and XPLR-AOA-2 explorer kits showcase one of the first complete Bluetooth-based tracking solutions – from the tag to the cloud – to reliably offer sub-meter-level accuracy in indoor environments.

June 29, 2021
Qualcomm upgrades premium tier with Snapdragon 888+

Upgraded flagship mobile platform to power commercial smartphones from ASUS, Honor, Motorola, vivo and Xiaomi in second half of 2021

Photo: Qualcomm

Qualcomm Technologies Inc. announced the Snapdragon 888 Plus 5G Mobile Platform, a follow-on to the flagship Snapdragon 888. These two platforms power more than 130 designs announced or in development. The product was introduced at Mobile World Congress, taking place this week in Barcelona, Spain.

Satellite systems supported include all four constellations (GPS, Beidou, Galileo, GLONASS) with dual-frequency GNSS. Additional systems supported include NavIC, QZSS and SBAS.

Snapdragon 888 Plus provides AI-enhanced gameplay, streaming, photography and premium connectivity. Compared to its predecessor, Snapdragon 888 Plus offers an increased Qualcomm Kryo 680 CPU Prime core clock speed at up to 3.0 GHz and the 6th generation Qualcomm AI Engine with up to 32 TOPS AI performance, which is more than 20% improvement.

“Snapdragon is synonymous with premium Android experiences. Our latest flagship Snapdragon 888 Plus 5G Mobile Platform will help deliver the premium entertainment, connectivity, and gaming experiences users deserve,” said Christopher Patrick, senior vice president and general manager, mobile handset business, Qualcomm. “We’re excited to see OEMs launch with products based on our highest performing platform.”

Photo: Qualcomm

June 29, 2021
U-blox updates ZED-F9R positioning module for slow-moving vehicles

U-blox has released a firmware update for its ZED-F9R positioning module, bringing robust centimeter-level positioning to slow-moving use cases such as robotic lawnmowers, e-scooters and shared bicycles.

Based on the ZED-F9R high-precision sensor-fusion module, the u-blox ZED-F9R-02B was designed for use in autonomous and industrial applications that require simple and efficient implementation and where rapid access to highly accurate positioning data is key, even in challenging signal environments such as dense cities.

The ZED-F9R uses the u-blox F9 multi-band GNSS receiver platform to concurrently track up to four GNSS constellations. Applying real-time kinematic (RTK) techniques, the module can derive positioning data with centimeter-level accuracy.

The high-precision GNSS measurements are fused with data from the module’s inertial measurement unit (IMU), GNSS correction data, odometry information, and a vehicle dynamics model to provide high-quality positioning accuracy in situations where GNSS alone would fail. The receiver includes dynamic models for robotic lawnmowers, e-scooters and automobiles.

The ZED-F9R-02B integrates the u-blox GNSS correction data service, broadcast in the highly scalable state-space representation format, making it easier to deliver fast time-to-market precise positioning solutions.

An autonomous lawn mower trims the grass in a park in Finland. (Photo: Scharfsinn86/iStock/Getty Images Plus/Getty Images)

Robotic lawnmowers achieve further improvements in terms of their positioning accuracy from the module’s ability to calibrate its dead-reckoning system even at low speeds. The module’s highly accurate position output lets end users precisely delimit the mowing area using software rather than with boundary wires, and deploy robotic lawnmowers on complex lawn shapes while excluding trees and shrubs. Users can align each pass of the mower with the next more accurately than before, delivering a professional-looking striped lawn.

According to U-blox, combining these features allows product designers to use the module to create mowing equipment that enables “robotic mowing as a service” capable of operating in complex environments without the upfront cost and commitment of installing boundary wires.

“Our new ZED-F9R-02B high-precision module is a turnkey dead-reckoning solution that will enable designers to bring products that need dead-reckoning technology to market more quickly than if they had to implement it from scratch,” said Alex Ngi, product manager, Industrial Navigation and Robotics, Product Center Positioning at u-blox. “It will also allow companies working in niche markets to employ dead-reckoning technologies without needing to build and maintain expertise in the subject.”

The ZED-F9R-02B offers support for a range of correction services, including the SPARTN format, which will make it straightforward to distribute GNSS correction data over large geographical areas.

iGPSPort cycling computer. In another announcement, U-blox and iGPSPORT, a sports hardware and data service provider operating out of Wuhan, China, have announced the iGS320 cycling computer, which builds on the u-blox M10 positioning platform. The cycling computer leverages the U-blox M10 platform’s ultra-low power consumption, compact size, and its ability to track all four GNSS to offer endurance athletes a superior user experience.

Adopting the U-blox M10 positioning platform in its iGS320 cycling computer brought iGPSPORT an 80 percent increase the power autonomy to deliver 72 hours of continuous tracking, up from 40 hours in their previous solution. Concurrent reception of up to four GNSS constellations increases coverage and accuracy in otherwise challenging signal environments.

June 28, 2021