GPS World

Tag: product showcase

  • Tersus GNSS RTK board launched for OEMs, system integrators

    Tersus GNSS RTK board launched for OEMs, system integrators

    Photo: Tersus GNSS
    Photo: Tersus GNSS

    Tersus GNSS Inc. has launched the BX306Z GNSS RTK board, which has powerful flexibility and compatibility to meet the needs of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and system integrators, according to the company.

    As a new member of the BX-series GNSS OEM boards, BX306Z is a cost-efficient GNSS real-time kinematic (RTK) board for positioning and raw measurement output.

    The board is a compact, multi-GNSS (GPS L1/L2, GLONASS G1/G2, BeiDou B1/B2) RTK module with centimeter-level accurate positioning capability.

    Features

    • The BX306Z is able to integrate with autopilots and inertial navigation units.
    • Log and command is compatible with major GNSS boards.
    • With flexible interfaces, the pin-to-pin design is compatible with Trimble BD970.

    All of these features help manufacturers reduce their application cost and lead time to market.

  • Launchpad: Spoofer detection for surveyors

    OEM

    RF front-end board

    7-channel multi-GNSS multi-band for software-defined receiver

    The NT1065/66_USB3 multi-channel GNSS RF front-end board is based on NTLab’s RF ICs: NT1065 (four channels for GPS / GLONASS / Galileo / BeiDou / IRNSS / QZSS, L1/L2/L3/L5 bands) and new NT1066 (two channels for all previously mentioned GNSS signals, plus one extra-channel for IRNSS S-band). The board supports USB3 connection, allowing users to process captured satellite signals on a PC or DSP platform. The board is accompanied by comprehensive software and manuals. Features include six channels for L1/L2/L3/L5-band signals + one channel for S-band signals simultaneous reception; up to four coherent channels; IF bandwidth up to 32 MHz; acquisition of wideband signals up to 64 MHz (such as Galileo E5) by two coherent channels; USB3 interface (up to 800 Mbit/s); ability to connect four x CRPA. NTLab offers an academic discount program for universities, colleges and institutes, allowing them to purchase this powerful research tool with significant savings.

    NTLab, www.ntlab.com

    GNSS OEM RTK boards

    With rover radio for wireless applications

    Three new Tersus GNSS HRS kits feature high-precision BX305, BX306 and BX316 GNSS RTK boards. The kits consist of RTK receivers, GNSS antennas, RS05R radio station modems, radio station antennas, and related cables and converters. Embedded in the receivers are the Tersus RTK boards. They are compact-design, energy-efficient, centimeter-level accurate GNSS real-time kinematic (RTK) boards that bring high-precision positioning accuracy to the market. Different from the standard BX305/306/316 GNSS kits, the new HRS versions are equipped with the RS05R lightweight and robust UHF rover radio for wireless applications. It provides reliable data communication for demanding conditions that require a combination of stability, high performance and long-range operation. The kits can be used in a variety of applications, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), surveying, mapping, precision agriculture, construction engineering and deformation monitoring.

    Tersus GNSS, www.tersus-gnss.com

    SURVEY & MAPPING

    Spoofer detection

    Spoofing alerts for surveyors

    Spoofer detection is now available on all JAVAD GNSS original equipment manufacturer (OEM) boards. When a receiver equipped with a JAVAD board detects more than one correlation peak for any PRN code, it warns the user of the presence of spoofing (false signals) and identifies the spoofed satellites. The receivers then switch to other signals and sensors that are not being spoofed to maintain accurate positioning. The user can also employ the receiver to try to identify the direction from which the spoofing signals are originating.

    JAVAD GNSS, www.javad.com

    Laser scanner

    Scanning range reaches 1 kilometer

    The ScanStation P50 combines all the features of the P40 plus a longer range scanning capability of more than 1 kilometer. The rugged, versatile laser scanner enables professionals to 3D capture at great distances with angular accuracy paired with low-range noise and survey-grade dual-axis compensation. The ScanStation P50 opens new business opportunities for reality-capture professionals, helping them to scan what was previously unreachable such as big mine pits, long bridges, dams and skyscrapers. With its range, the P50 enables users to scan any tall or wide infrastructure or dangerous sites from a remote and safe position. This newest member of the P-Series provides the highest quality 3D data and high-dynamic range (HDR) imaging at an extremely fast scan rate of up to 1 million points per second and ranges of more than 1 kilometer.

    Leica Geosystems, leica-geosystems.com

    TRANSPORTATION

    Smartphone data analysis

    Integrates gamification and real-time data

    Azuga FleetMobile: Standalone Smartphone Edition (SSE) is a smartphone-based solution for driver behavior monitoring, mobile timecard management and GPS tracking. Azuga FleetMobile SSE leverages data analysis components of the original Azuga FleetMobile application, including driver behavior monitoring, location-based timestamps for timecards, gamification and driver rewards, without requiring separate hardware installation via a vehicle’s OBD port. Azuga’s GPS fleet-tracking offerings feature a driver rewards program to help fleets reduce accidents by up to 70 percent. The standalone application, which works on both Android and iOS smartphones, integrates gamification and real-time data to encourage self-coaching and healthy competition. Azuga’s data science team can then leverage information about driving behaviors and combine them with route patterns, fleets’ vehicle health information and environmental factors to identify opportunities for performance improvements in fleet operations.

    Azuga, azuga.com

    Vehicle tracker

    Able to receive MobileEye ADAS alerts

    The RIFA series of full-featured GPS trackers have built-in gyro and G-sensors, and supports OBDII and J1939 protocols. In addition to 4G/3G communication, it provides options to use low-power wide-area networks (LPWAN) such as NB-IOT or LoRa, which can reduce communication costs significantly. The unique CAN-to-ADR (automotive dead reckoning) function provides accurate positioning in situations of weak GPS signals, such as driving in tunnels, indoor parking facilities, urban canyons or when GPS signal obstruction hinders positioning, without additional cabling for wheel speed input.

    Antzer Tech, www.antzer-tech.com

    UAV

    Thermal imaging payloads

    Ethernet/IP-Based connectivity

    The ThermalCapture IRnet provides an Ethernet interface for live data streaming to new and existing FLIR Tau 2 drone cores and FLIR Vue Pro/R cores. The market has increased its demand for connectivity by Ethernet, with professional drone manufacturers choosing Ethernet for communication on board UAVs. The ThermalCapture IRnet allows for real-time access via Ethernet while recording radiometric data to microSD, bringing real-time access in drone flight operations to thermal imaging data. It stores the full 14-bit radiometric thermal data on a microSD card. Real-time access remains available while radiometric data are being recorded; operators can also control the camera and settings via Ethernet. Using Ethernet also offers data privacy.

    TeAx, thermalcapture.com

    Airborne lidar mapping

    Centimeter-level accuracy for 3D mapping products

    The Think 3D Stormbee multicopter integrated with Trimble’s AP15 provides efficiency, accuracy and performance for lidar surveys from unmanned vehicles. The Stormbee is a directly georeferenced UAV lidar solution for 3D industrial mapping applications, designed to collect survey-grade spatial data more cost effectively and efficiently than static lidar. Stormbee’s 3D mapping technologies include Faro’s Focus 130 laser scanner, Trimble’s AP15 high-performance GNSS/inertial receiver, Applanix’s POSPac UAV GNSS/inertial post-processing software and Stormbee Beeflex software for lidar point-cloud generation. By using the high-performance Trimble AP15 with two antennas and the Applanix post-processing software (POSPac MMS) for georeferencing the lidar data, Stormbee provides an accurate real-time and post-mission solution for all motion variables.

    Think 3D, think3d.be

    Applanix, applanix.com

  • Honeywell offers new IMU for easy integration

    Long established as a key component within defense applications, navigation technology from Honeywell is now available to a wide range of new industries that can benefit from the advanced precision and performance of reliable, rugged and easy-to-install inertial measurement units (IMUs).

    Honeywell’s newest IMU offering — the HG4930 — applies the principles of reliability, dependability and performance from aerospace and defense. It’s tailored for “straight out of the factory” integration and use in various non-defense and non-aerospace industrial applications, the company said.

    Applications include autonomous vehicles, surveying and mapping, ground and underwater robotics, unmanned aerial vehicles and gimbal stabilization.

    IMUs help people, vehicles and machines measure motion and calculate changes in position, anywhere in the world, even where GPS signals are intermittent. In industries where automation is taking hold and working conditions where GPS may be out of touch, an IMU can help fill in the moments of disconnect and keep things like an autonomous underwater vehicle or a robot in a factory informed about how they are moving relative to their surroundings.

    “For more than a decade, we’ve designed our IMUs to perform in the extremely harsh and demanding environments for our aerospace and defense customers,” said Chris Lund, senior director, industrial IMUs, Honeywell Aerospace. “But there is no shortage of possibilities for how that same IMU technology can support a wealth of markets hungry for the next level of enhanced navigation and control. The HG4930 tactical grade IMU is a highly competitive and cost-efficient variant of our industry-leading navigation technology. Whether helping your industry evolve toward autonomy or augmenting a platform or solution’s precision in domains where GPS is unreliable, the HG4930 delivers the needed performance.”

    In addition to the HG4930 IMU being an extremely small, lightweight and low-power product for spearheading new uses or bolstering current navigation capabilities, Honeywell’s HG4930 IMU is not classified under an International Traffic in Arms Regulation category, but instead is free from the burden of an export license for all but a few military-related use cases. This means a broader availability for customers around the world.

    With more than 500,000 tactical-grade IMUs produced to date, the HG4930 builds on a proven Honeywell legacy of reliable inertial technologies. According to Honeywell, it is the highest-performing microelectromechanical system (MEMS)-based IMU of its size and price, and benefits from world-class inertial sensor development, calibration and compensation.

    The HG4930 has been tailored to provide significantly improved gyroscope and accelerometer performance for the environments and use cases experienced by non-aerospace and non-defense users.

    For industries that depend on less reliable MEMS or large, power hungry and expensive fiber-optic gyroscopes for navigation and control capabilities, the HG4930 offers three off-the-shelf performance grades for easy replacement and new capability.

     

  • Tersus kits include centimeter-accurate GNSS OEM RTK boards

    Tersus kits include centimeter-accurate GNSS OEM RTK boards

    Tersus GNSS Inc., a GNSS positioning solution provider, has introduced three new GNSS kits. The BX305, BX306 and BX316 HRS kits feature high-precision BX305, BX306 and BX316 GNSS RTK boards.

    The HRS kits consist of RTK receivers, GNSS antennas, RS05R radio station modems, radio station antennas, and related cables and converters.

    Embedded in the receivers are the Tersus RTK boards. They are compact-design, energy-efficient, centimeter-level accurate GNSS real-time kinematic (RTK) boards, bringing high-precision positioning accuracy to the market, the company said.

    Different from the standard BX305/306/316 GNSS kits, the new HRS versions are equipped with RS05R, lightweight and robust UHF, which is a rover radio solution for wireless application.

    It provides reliable data communication for demanding conditions that require a combination of stability, high performance and long-range operation.

    With complete components and accessories in the kits, they can be used in a variety of applications, such as unmanned aerial vehicle (UAVs), surveying, mapping, precision agriculture, construction engineering and deformation monitoring.

    Tersus GNSS BX316-HRS kit. (Photo: Tersus)
    Tersus GNSS BX316-HRS kit. (Photo: Tersus)
  • Launchpad: New RTK system for surveyors

    Launchpad: New RTK system for surveyors

    SURVEY & MAPPING

    RTK survey system

    Using a smartphone

    Tersus David RTK is a real-time kinematic solution for centimeter-level accuracy using a smartphone. By plugging into a smartphone with a USB cable, The Tersus David turns the phone into an RTK rover, geographic information system (GIS) collector and RTK base. It supports GPS L1/L2, BeiDou B1/B2 and GLONASS G1/G2 signals. The rugged design enables it to operate in harsh environments.

    Tersus GNSS, www.tersus-gnss.com

    Mobile mapper

    High speed for corridor mapping

    The Riegl VMX-2HA is a high-speed, high-performance dual-scanner mobile mapping system that provides dense, accurate and feature-rich data at highway speeds. With 2 million measurements and 500 scan lines per second, the turnkey solution is suitable for survey-grade mobile mapping applications. The powerful technology in the Riegl VMX-2HA is comprised of two Riegl VUX-1HA high-accuracy lidar sensors and a high-performance INS/GNSS unit housed in an aerodynamically shaped protective cover. A camera interface for up to nine optional cameras enables the lidar data to be complemented by precisely georeferenced images.

    Riegl, www.riegl.com

    3D laser scanner

    Rapid mapping indoors and out

    The ZEB-REVO RT is the next generation of the ZEB-REVO — GeoSLAM’s lightweight, handheld laser scanner that allows rapid, simple mapping of complex, indoor and multi-level spaces. The ZEB-REVO RT uses Wi-Fi technology to seamlessly connect the scanner to a mobile phone or tablet, allowing for real-time data visualization as the user walks and scans. The simultaneous scanning and processing of 3D data removes the need for post-processing, effectively slashing project survey times in half. The technology is so rapid, users can scan and process a three-story building in 30 minutes.

    GeoSLAM, geoslam.com

    ArcGIS add-on app

    Connects Esri ArcGIS data with Salesforce data

    MapAnything Connector for ArcGIS gives users a map view of Esri ArcGIS Online data inside Salesforce with their organizational data for strategic planning and analysis. The add-on app serves as a bi-directional integration layer between the programs, enabling customers to access their ArcGIS mapping and location intelligence inside the MapAnything Platform. Once connected, the MapAnything user interface helps Salesforce users view and interact with Esri maps and data alongside their existing customer and business data, exposing new opportunities to drive revenue and increase efficiency; improve decision making by aligning two core systems of record, the GIS system and the customer relationship management (CRM); and make it easy for GIS professionals to share insights seamlessly with their counterparts. The application has uses across retail, commercial real estate, telecommunications and economic development.

    MapAnything, mapanything.com

    OEM

    Simulator

    Generates Realistic Test Scenarios for a wide variety of applications

    The SMW200A GNSS simulator can be extended to up to four RF outputs and allows GNSS signals to be simulated simultaneously in multiple frequency bands for multiple antennas. It can internally simulate a complex interference environment in parallel with GNSS signals. To test multi-frequency and multi-antenna systems, users have access to 72 GNSS channels that can be assigned to up to four RF outputs. The SMW200A can generate QZSS and SBAS signals as well as GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou signals, enabling users to quickly and easily verify the position accuracy of their receivers under realistic conditions. An internal noise generator can generate complex interference scenarios with multiple interferers.

    Rohde & Schwarz, www.rohde-schwarz.com

    RTK receiver

    Multi-frequency, four constellations for survey and GIS

    The Altus NR3 is a multi-frequency, quad-constellation (GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou and Galileo) RTK receiver for survey and GIS applications. It features Septentrio’s AIM+ interference mitigation and monitoring system, allowing continued operation in the presence of both intentional and non-intentional interference. It combines advanced GNSS features with a robust communications suite in a compact, low-power and easy-to-use unit. The Altus NR3 is configurable as either a rover or a base station. It offers one-touch logging and Septentrio’s on-board web interface so users can monitor and configure the unit as well as collect data using any Wi-Fi-capable device.

    Septentrio, www.septentrio.com

    Battlefield navigation

    Protects critical military and security networks

    VersaPNT provides virtually failsafe battlefield navigation, even in GPS-denied environments, to protect critical networks. The new, ground, air or sea vehicle-mounted unit is designed for military environments, with a ruggedized, compact, low-power and lightweight form factor. It provides continuous mission assurance and command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C4ISR) support, even in hostile environments.

    Spectracom, www.spectracom.com

    Timing server

    Incorporates SAASM for defense

    The SyncServer S650 SAASM server incorporates a Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module (SAASM). The SAASM capability provides a highly secure, accurate and flexible time and frequency platform for synchronizing mission-critical electronics systems and instrumentation applications in the defense market. The SAASM received the GPS Directorate security approval to incorporate a military-grade, GPS SAASM receiver module, enabling U.S. armed forces to deploy features of the commercial SyncServer S650 in a military-grade configuration and allowing for a migration path to GPS Military Code (M-code) support.

    Microsemi, www.microsemi.com

    Antenna

    Superior multi-constellation tracking for uavs, survey vessels

    The multi-constellation D-Helix Antenna is capable of superior tracking of signals from GPS L1/L2 L-Band, GLONASS L1/L2, BDS B1/B2/B3 and Galileo. The quadrifilar helix design of low wind-resistance makes it suitable for UAV positioning and navigation. The increased antenna gain and beamwidth ensure better signal receiving performance at low elevation angles; the low noise design also reduces interference and improves signal quality. The antenna can be used in UAV patrol, UAV plant protection and for unmanned patrol and survey vessels.

    Harxon, en.harxon.com

    UAV

    Operations software

    Helps enterprises efficiently manage their drone operations

    FlightHub is a new software solution that helps enterprises and drone service providers efficiently manage their drone operations from a single platform. A web-based service, FlightHub enables the secure management of real-time drone operations, flight data, drone fleets and pilot teams to meet the needs of the expanding global commercial drone industry. Users can view their teams’ remote drone operations from one place in real time.FlightHub provides enterprises a clear, centralized view of their company’s drone operations to enable onsite pilots to more effectively collaborate with offsite teams. The Map View and Real-Time View features display telemetry, camera and sensor data for faster, more informed decision making.

    DJI, www.dji.com

    Drone camera

    Addition to M-Series IP network camera line

    The new MR6442AX IP 4MP dome camera is suitable for demanding outdoor installations in challenging lighting conditions, such as schools, parking lots and sports stadiums, as well as city and perimeter surveillance. It features brilliant video quality, a 2.8 to 12 mm Varifocal-Auto iris lens, 100-db high dynamic range (HDR) and built-in Sense up+ low light technology. Intelligent video surveillance (IVS) functionality is a cornerstone of LILIN IP M-aeries cameras. The MR6442AX IVS analytics include advanced motion detection, object counting and tripwire detection, allowing the camera to detect when an object or person has breached an area such as the entrance to a building or parking lot. The MR6442AX is outdoor-ready out-of-the-box with an IP66 rating for rain and dust resistance, suitable for perimeter protection where early detection of an intrusion attempt is critical.

    LILIN Americas, www.lilin.us

    Quadcopter

    Specifically designed for agriculture

    The Parrot Bluegrass Agricultural Solution includes a powerful quadcopter equipped with a full high-definition front camera and embedded Parrot Sequoia advanced multispectral sensor; flight planning mobile application with Pix4Dcapture; data processing with AIRINOV FIRST+ cloud platform; and a long-range remote control, the Parrot Skycontroller 2. Parrot Bluegrass is easy to set up , fly and repair, with Pix4Dcapture autonomous flight capability. It can automatically cover up to 30 hectares at 70 meters / 230 feet flight altitude per battery (25 minutes per battery).

    Parrot, www.parrot.com

    UAS countermeasure

    Automatically detects, locates, tracks and takes over UAS controls

    The Airfence 5.0 UAS countermeasure platform, updated from Airfence One, provides new and improved directional finding along with detection, tracking and long-distance jamming capabilities. It is designed to protect militaries, airports, prisons and private companies from rogue drones in illegal and potentially life-threatening situations. Airfence 5.0 is certified rugged and offers compact out-of-the box setup and installation. The update incorporates lessons learned from key projects with the FAA, NASA, the U.S. Marine Corps and the European Commission. Airfence 5.0 includes updates focused on increasing the detection rate and level of data packets received, enabling for real-time actionable insights.

    Sensofusion, sensofusion.com

    TRANSPORTATION

    Connected car device

    Plug-in for older vehicles

    The HumX plug-in turns older model autos into smart cars. It equips the cars with features like using GPS for roadside assistance, Wi-Fi hotspot for up to 10 devices, maintenance reminders and auto health diagnostics. HumX uses safety features such as speeding and boundary alerts, vehicle diagnostics, driving history and emergency assistance (with crash detection capabilities). It allows travelers to stay safe with pinpoint roadside assistance, turn-by-turn navigation, live traffic updates and a mechanics hotline for certified, expert advice. HumX is sold with an equipment fee, a one-time activation fee and a monthly subscription.

    Verizon, Hum.com

    Electronic logging for mobile devices

    Enables fleets to improve safety, productivity from a Samsung device

    Omnitracs and Samsung Electronics America are partnering to help the transportation industry address the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Mandate. The solution combines Samsung smartphones, tablets and security solutions with Omnitracs’ XRS fleet management software to improve safety, data security and productivity for U.S.-based fleets. Drivers can use their mobile device to monitor hours of service (HOS) logs to comply with legal requirements during on- and off-duty management of vehicles. Electronic tracking of HOS increases speed and accuracy of reporting, because drivers can track their hours in real time instead of fixed increments, such as in manual entry methods. The solution provides fleets with key driver performance analytics, including fuel usage, drive time, speed, driving behavior, driver vehicle inspection reporting (DVIR) and trip data to improve driver safety, lower costs and increase productivity.

    Omnitracs, www.omnitracs.com; Samsung, www.samsung.com

  • UAV sensor package detects methane

    Pergam gas sensor aboard the Microdrones md4-1000 UAV.

    The professional aerial methane detector mdTector1000 CH4 from Microdrones makes it easy to detect methane gas via a fully integrated aerial package for professionals responsible for methane gas infrastructure.

    The mdTector1000 CH4 has a Pergam gas sensor, mounted and integrated with the Microdrones md4-1000 UAV. In real time, users can see aerial shots of detection with the laser sensor, the company said. The carbon-fiber built UAV goes into dangerous areas unsuitable for workers.

    The mdTector1000 CH4 can be used for natural gas line surveys, tank inspections, gas well testing, plant safety and landfill emission monitoring.

    The mdCockpit Android App allows users to maintain visualization in flight. A special mdTector app allows users to visualize and present all post-flight data on one map.

  • Geologist uses lidar to monitor Greenland Glacier ice loss

    A Riegl VZ-6000 laser scanner, operating at 1064 um wavelength, serves as the backbone of the ATLAS system.
    A Riegl VZ-6000 laser scanner, operating at 1064 um wavelength, serves as the backbone of the ATLAS system.

    Leigh Stearns, a geologist with the University of Kansas, is working with a Riegl VZ-6000 ultra long range terrestrial laser scanner, incorporated into an ATLAS (Autonomous Terrestrial Laser Scanning) system, to monitor rates of ice loss on the Helheim Glacier, a tidewater glacier undergoing large-scale changes due to global climate change.

    “Lidar is an emerging technology for the earth sciences because it produces an incredibly detailed 3-D view of features,” said the KU researcher. “Repeat lidar scanning reveals small-scale changes with very high precision. These systems are now used to measure how bridges are sagging, how tectonic faults propagate and now how glaciers flow. The ATLAS systems are unique because they’re designed to scan the glacier terminus every six hours, year-round. That’s not a trivial task when there’s no sunlight in the winter, winds are high and it’s very cold.”

    The VZ-6000 high speed, high-resolution terrestrial 3D laser scanner offers an extremely long measurement range of more than 6000 meters for topographic (static) applications. Due to its laser wavelength, it is exceptionally well suited for measuring snowy and icy terrain in glacier mapping and monitoring applications in mountainous regions.

    Learn more about the project at the University of Kansas website.

  • Tersus announces BX316D to extend GNSS OEM board offering

    Tersus announces BX316D to extend GNSS OEM board offering

    Tersus GNSS Inc. has announced the BX316D to extend its GNSS OEM RTK PPK board and offer more compatibility to the market.

    BX316D is a GNSS real-time kinematic (RTK) OEM board for accurate positioning and heading. It is able to integrate with other host devices or to serve as an independent positioning system. The versatile interface and log/command formats make it compatible with major GNSS OEM boards in the market, the company said.

    Key Features

    • Supports RTK positioning mode or RTK positioning+ heading mode, and modes are software configurable
    • Up to 20Hz RTK solution and raw data output
    • Supports IMU raw data output
    • Pin-to-pin compatible with Novatel OEM617D
    • LOG & Command compatible with Novatel Protocol
    • Supports PPS output and event mark input
    • Serial ports with LVTTL level
    • External antenna input through MMCX connectors
    • Data output: NMEA-0183 and Tersus Binary format
    • Correction: RTCM 2.x/3.x/CMR/CMR+
    • Easy to integrate with Pixhawk and other autopilots
    • Compact design

  • Nearmap releases new aerial imagery inside MapBrowser interface

    Vertical aerial maps extended to include uninterrupted panorama imagery and measurable oblique images

    Nearmap, a location content provider specializing in high-resolution aerial maps, announces the release of new forms of location content — Nearmap Panorama and Nearmap Oblique — available through a new MapBrowser interface.

    Nearmap has long provided vertical imagery (also known as orthorectified imagery) covering about 70 percent of the U.S. population. Today, it extends its location content to include new aerial geospatial data services—Nearmap Panorama and Nearmap Oblique imagery.

    Nearmap Panorama is unique since it enables users to view perspective maps in all cardinal directions for small or large areas in uninterrupted fashion. Users do not need to jump from one image to another and, in the process, lose context.

    They can easily navigate, pan and zoom across any size geography, quickly analyze perspective maps and make faster decisions that impact government and commercial operations — all within an instantly accessible, 100 percent cloud-based environment.

    “Nearmap Panorama is delivered via our new, highly intuitive MapBrowser interface, enabling users to effortlessly visualize and navigate across regions or local areas in an uninterrupted way,” said Patrick Quigley, SVP and GM for Nearmap North America. “Our users can inspect aerial location content faster than ever before using Nearmap Panorama. Consistent with past location content, Nearmap Panorama is delivered in high-resolution, 3-inch GSD.”

    Nearmap Obliques enable users to interactively inspect and measure the height of features, such as buildings and terrain, from all cardinal directions. Nearmap Oblique images are also accessed through the new MapBrowser.

    “Our customers need location content aligned with their requirements,” said Natasha Ridley, product manager for MapBrowser. “For example, with Nearmap Oblique images, government organizations conducting property appraisal can accurately value property using measurement and detailed, tilt-angled perspectives. At the same time, commercial organizations interested in engineering and construction can quickly select a north, south, east or west orientation, measure heights of buildings and better plan changes.”

    Users working within MapBrowser can switch from Nearmap Vertical to Nearmap Panorama or Nearmap Oblique location content. “We’ve added new features that our customers are going to be very excited about,” said Ridley. “For example, now users can export our imagery with measurements added. The saved image provides the whole picture, which is very useful in proposal development and communicating specific aspects of the aerial maps essential in planning and operations.”

    “These enhancements represent a major step forward in both our location content and delivery capabilities. There’s also more on the way,” said Robert Carroll, VP of 3D commercial and government for Nearmap. “This imagery is produced by our patented HyperCamera2 technology, enabling us to continue to proactively survey the U.S. urban areas including 50 percent of the population with obliques while also producing high-resolution 3D content. Our plan is to extend our leadership position by introducing Nearmap 3D, combining ‘off-the-shelf’ digital surface models (DSM), textured 3D mesh and 3D point clouds in the near future.”

    Nearmap will be exhibiting at Autodesk University 2017 in Las Vegas from Nov. 14-16 at booth A503 in the Sands Expo/Venetian Hotel. Nearmap is also hosting a breakout session (“Aerial Imagery Transforming AEC”) on Nov. 15 at 9:15 a.m.

    Nearmap is also exhibiting at the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) at the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center in California from Nov. 13-15. Interested parties can visit Nearmap at booth 441, exhibit hall A.

  • Jackson Labs offers CLAW simulator

    Jackson Labs offers CLAW simulator

    Jackson Labs Technologies Inc. (JLT) is offering the CLAW GPS/GNSS simulator. Designed with small size, weight and power (SWAP), the CLAW is only slightly larger than a standard deck of cards.

    CLAW targets applications that require small, low-power and low-cost GNSS synthesis with repeatable and highly accurate GNSS RF signals such as production testing of GNSS receivers, simulating GNSS anomalies such as leap-second events, 1023 GPS Week roll-overs, simulated operation in inaccessible locations around the world, real-time transcoding of different GNSS systems, and testing using dynamically user-configured RF signal levels.

    jackson_labs-claw-wWith nanosecond-accurate encoding, CLAW is particularly suited to allow easy stress-testing of GPSDO frequency and timing reference products such as JLT’s GNSDOs under various different mission scenarios, the company said.

    The CLAW GNSS simulator is a no-frills solution that contains real-time processing hardware to simulate GPS constellations without the need to connect any external equipment other than a USB power source or power supply.

    Providing a real-time computed RF output signal rather than an offline file-playback differentiates CLAW from competitive solutions that are only capable of recording and playback operation in non-real-time, or require offline computation of data files using external computers that are played back on the simulation device.

    CLAW is a completely self-contained, ruggedized, miniature, real-time hardware GPS simulator.

    Navigation coordinates and 1PPS timing pulses can be provided in real-time through the NMEA and SCPI compatible USB interface or via the built-in RS-232 interface, and are encoded in the CLAW into RF GPS signals in real-time with nanosecond-level accuracy and minimal delay.

    Position, velocity and timing (PVT) information may be provided as a simple NMEA stream from an external source such as an inertial navigation system (INS), Galileo/GLONASS/BeiDou/SAASM GNSS receiver, and CLAW will encode this PVT data into standard L1 C/A GPS RF signals in real-time with minimal phase/position shifts. This allows real-time GNSS transcoding of any other GNSS standard simply by connecting an external GNSS receiver, INS system or PVT source to the RS-232 inputs of the CLAW, allowing retrofit of existing legacy equipment with the latest GNSS systems.

    CLAW includes glueless drivers for Rockwell Collins Remote Secure Receiver (RSR Puck) among others, allowing transcoding of assured, secure L2 P(Y) code into legacy L1 C/A code in real time to retrofit commercial receivers with military P(Y) capability. CLAW also allows user-entry of ephemeris and almanac information, providing a means to simulate any past or future GPS constellation and time/date event, the company added.

    CLAW was designed with a particular emphasis to encoding the optional externally-provided 1PPS GPS system time with nanosecond-level accuracy targets, allowing accuracy testing of GPS timing and frequency devices on top of simply providing a positioning/velocity reference. CLAW initially will support GPS L1 C/A code encoding with up to 12 satellites, and later versions will support additional GNSS systems such as L2 GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou and Galileo.

    A comprehensive cost-free optional user application for Windows will be offered that allows control and monitoring of the unit, creation of simulation scenarios using Google Earth and manual waypoint entry, among other options. The unit also can be controlled via simple serial terminal commands, or various other available public-domain freeware programs.

    Once position information is stored in the units’ NVRAM, the unit will generate GPS RF constellations within seconds upon power-up and thus does not require any user interaction other than plugging in the power supply.

    CLAW contains a highly accurate and stable internal 10-MHz reference oscillator that may optionally be synchronized by an external 1PPS reference, 10-MHz reference, or both. CLAW supports a user-selectable RF signal attenuation range of 63 dB in 0.5-dB steps, allowing a wide range of RF signal levels to be generated with high accuracy and power-level resolution. Antenna DC power consumption also can be controlled via software command.

    CLAW can be powered by its USB interface, or by a 6.5V to 28V DC power feed, and consumes less than 1.7W allowing extended operation of 24 hours or more from low-cost ubiquitous USB consumer battery packs.

  • IFEN offers cost-effective NCS TITAN GNSS simulator

    IFEN GmbH’s Titan GNSS simulator has up to 256 channels (and 1024 multipath channels) and up to 4 RF outputs per chassis, providing flexibility and outstanding performance, according to IFEN.

    The extra complexity and cost of using multiple signal generators is avoided, improving reliability without compromising on functionality, IFEN said in a news release.

    The innovative design of the NCS Titan allows users configure channels for any GNSS signals and allocate those channels to any of the RF outputs fitted. This flexibility enables the same simulator hardware to be used for an extensive range of tests, for all types of GNSS applications.

    The NCS Titan GNSS simulator by IFEN.
    The NCS Titan GNSS simulator by IFEN.

    The NCS Titan sets new standards in the field of GNSS Simulation, in terms of fidelity, accuracy, dynamics, iteration rates and reliability, the company said.

    “The launch of our brand new NCS Titan GNSS Simulator represents another milestone for our NCS GNSS simulator products,” explained Günter Heinrichs, head of customer applications at IFEN. “This shows clearly once again our commitment to ongoing product enhancement and dedication to providing our customers with best GNSS test equipment on the market.”

    The NCS TITAN GNSS Simulator has been developed in cooperation with WORK Microwave GmbH, Germany.

  • CAST releases GPS wavefront generator

    CAST releases GPS wavefront generator

    CRPA and Attitude Determination Receiver Testing

    The CAST-5000 by CAST Navigation produces a single coherent wavefront of GPS RF signals to provide repeatable testing in the laboratory environment or anechoic chamber. The system generates up to seven independent, coherent simulations that reference a single point. With an intercard carrier-phase error of less than one centimeter, the CAST-5000 is extremely accurate, the company said.

    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 is the only Controlled Reception Pattern Antenna (CRPA) tester that 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.

    CAST-5000 Features

    • Generates single coherent wavefront of GPS
    • 6 degrees of freedom (DOF) motion generation capability
    • Complete SV constellation editing
    • Post-mission processing via ICD-GPS-150/153
    • Differential/relative navigation
    • Antenna pattern modeling
    • Waypoint navigation
    • RAIM events
    • Multipath modeling
    • Spoofer simulation
    • Satellite clock errors
    • External trajectory input
    • External ephemeris and almanac
    • Several iono and tropo models
    • Modifiable navigation messag
    • Modeled selective availability
    • Time-tagged satellite events
    • Selectable host vehicle parameters