Quectel Jan. 7 announced that it sent letters to Telit Cinterion, Thales Group, DBAY Advisors, Liberty Bell Project and Charles Parton demanding that they stop disseminating false and defamatory statements about Quectel regarding risks associated with its products’ security and the company’s purported connections to the Chinese government.
The letters assert that Telit Cinterion, Thales Group, DBAY Advisors, Charles Parton, and entities that Parton is associated with including Royal United Services Institute and the Council on Geostrategy, and the Liberty Bell Project, have conducted coordinated disinformation campaigns against Quectel.
The letters allege that the efforts, which are designed to harm Quectel’s business using malicious falsehoods, constitute inappropriate and unfair business practices and must stop.
“Quectel believes in fair competition and responsible business conduct,” said Jaron Xu, Quectel’s chief sales officer. “We will not tolerate attempts to interfere with our customer relationships and to compete on unfair terms by spreading maliciously false statements in a coordinated fashion under the guise of independent expertise. We will vigorously defend ourselves against competitors’ unfair business practices and we will not tolerate untrue and defamatory practices targeting Quectel and its customers.”
Quectel demanded that the competitors and associates cease such conduct immediately.
Quectel Wireless Solutions has launched a 5G-advanced (5G-A) automotive-grade cellular module, the AR588MA. The module integrates dual-band GNSS supporting both L1 and L5 bands with up to 30 Hz output.
Based on MediaTek’s latest-generation MT2739 platform, the AR588MA supports 5G-A communication technology and complies with the 3GPP R18 standard protocol. It features both NB-NTN and NR-NTN satellite communication capabilities and supports dual-SIM dual-active (DSDA) technology, offering improved stability and reliability on cellular connections. It also includes intelligent driving scenario recognition.
Designed in compliance with the AEC-Q104 Grade 2 automotive standard, it delivers fast, stable connectivity and reliable security for in-vehicle communication and benefits on-roof applications, like smart antennas for automotive, with higher temperature support.
Quectel Wireless Solutions is partnering with Swift Navigation to deliver Quectel’s Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) Correction Solution, which enables cost-effective, centimeter-level positioning accuracy for a new generation of IoT applications.
In January, the companies announced integration of Swift’s Skylark Precise Positioning Service with Quectel’s high-precision GNSS modules.
The collaboration allows Quectel to simplify the complexities of high-precision GNSS by bundling its RTK modules and antennas with Swift’s Skylark Precise Positioning Service, offering equipment manufacturers a streamlined, end-to-end solution for RTK adoption and deployment.
Partnering with Swift enables Quectel to tailor solutions for specific applications, helping equipment manufacturers simplify the complexities of RTK adoption and deployment. The Quectel RTK Correction Solution is designed to support a wide range of mass-market applications, including robotics, automotive, micro-mobility, precision agriculture, surveying, and mining.
Quectel Wireless Solutions, a global IoT solutions provider, launched three smart single board computers Tuesday designed to speed product development and reduce costs.
The QSM368Z, QSM560DR and QSM668SR offer developers connectivity, operating system and memory options for various applications, the company said.
“These boards are fully finished hardware that can be easily integrated inside customers’ larger systems across a wide range of IoT use cases,” said Raymond Wang, head of Smart SoC at Quectel Wireless Solutions. “Provided in a ready-to-use, single, low-cost platform, these boards are helping to simplify and accelerate the development process for IoT devices of all types, significantly reducing development time with rapid prototyping and cutting development costs.”
The QSM368Z features the Rockchip RK3568 IoT processor with a quad-core ARM Cortex-A55 CPU, ARM Mali G52 GPU, 8M ISP HDR and 1 TOPS NPU. The board supports Linux and Android operating systems.
The device includes triple-screen concurrent display support, 1,000 Mbps Ethernet and 4K video encoding. Built-in Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.2 come standard, with optional support for Quectel LTE Cat 1, LTE Cat 4, Wi-Fi 6 and GNSS modules.
The QSM368Z measures 120mm x 100mm x 22.25mm, weighs about 90 g and operates in temperatures from -10 C to +75 C. Applications include IoT gateways, smart displays, industrial terminals, safety monitoring systems, NAS, NVR/DVR and automotive NVR solutions.
The QSM560DR features 12 TOPS NPU and supports Ubuntu, Android and Windows. The platform’s multi-mode 5G capability supports both NSA and SA networks, with 3G and 4G fallback. Wi-Fi 6E with DBS and 2×2 MU-MIMO technologies enable faster data transmission.
The device supports downlink speeds up to 2.5 Gbps on 5G NSA. It measures 120.5mm x 106mm x 22.5mm, weighs approximately 120 g and operates from -35 C to +75 C. Target markets include smart manufacturing, retail analytics, robotics and connected infrastructure.
The QSM668SR supports Android, Linux and Ubuntu and features 1.1 TOPS NPU. The board supports LTE Cat 4, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GNSS. Under LTE Cat 4, the board achieves uplink speeds up to 150 Mbps and downlink speeds up to 50 Mbps. Bluetooth 5.0 is included.
Optional GNSS functionality provides positioning through GPS, GLONASS, BDS, Galileo, QZSS and SBAS satellite constellations.
The device includes HDMI, camera inputs, Ethernet, UART, USB, I²C, RS232, RS485, CAN, SD and SIM interfaces. It measures 102mm x 100mm x 23mm, weighs approximately 97.7 grams and operates from -20 C to +75 C. Applications include IoT gateways, smart home systems, industrial control terminals, retail solutions, safety monitoring, vehicle equipment and logistics devices.
Quectel also provides antennas for cellular, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GNSS networks, plus custom antenna design and optimization services.
Quectel Wireless Solutions has introduced four new GNSS antennas. The new antennas include:
The YFGD000AA high-precision, low-profile antenna which covers all GNSS bands
The YFGD000BA, optimized for triple-band solutions in GNSS L1, L2 and L5 bands
The YFGN000H1AC high-precision, lightweight antenna that again covers all GNSS bands
The YEGT010W1AM, designed for general-purpose reception in non-precision applications.
Quectel’s triple-band and all-band antennas are built to maximize performance with the latest generation of RTK GNSS modules. These include the LC29H dual-band module, designed for cost-sensitive yet precision-critical applications; the LG290P industrial-grade module, delivering centimetre-level accuracy with RTK fix times under five seconds; and the flagship LG580P, which adds L6 support and dual-antenna heading, making it suitable for ADAS, robotics and autonomous systems.
Complementing the hardware, Quectel’s global RTK correction service leverages a network of more than 21,000 base stations to provide consistent centimeter-level accuracy worldwide, ensuring seamless coverage across Asia, Europe and North America, and enabling scalability for industries such as agriculture, logistics and automotive.
The YFGD000AA is a high-performance multi-band active GNSS antenna designed for professional applications requiring ultra-precise positioning across L1, L2, L5, L6 and L-Band frequencies (1164–1300 MHz and 1525–1606 MHz). With dimensions of 78.6mm x 75.6mm x 16.2mm and a screw mounting, the antenna is suitable for vehicular or fixed installations and operates in the -40 °C to +85 °C temperature range. Combining exceptional signal sensitivity with rugged durability, this antenna is engineered for mission-critical deployments in autonomous systems, geodetic surveying and high-accuracy navigation. It is RoHS, REACH and POPS compliant.
The YFGD000BA offers similar capabilities to the YFGD000AA but has been developed to support professional applications with ultra-precise positioning needs across L1, L2 and L5 bands (1164–1238 MHz and 1559–1606 MHz). It shares dimensions, operating temperature range and mounting options with the YFGD000AA and is also RoHS, REACH and POPs compliant. Both the YFGD000AA and YFGD000BA can support high-precision RTK despite their compact size.
The YFGN000H1AC is a high-precision antenna with a higher profile than the YFGD000AA and YFGD000BA but with greater performance and lighter weight of 62g. The antenna covers all GNSS bands, ensuring worldwide compatibility. It delivers 35 ±4 dB gain with a low noise figure of ≤4 dB, making it suitable for weak-signal environments like urban canyons or dense foliage. With a diameter of 122mm and height of 22.5mm, the antenna features a screw mounting so it can be attached to vehicles or fixed installations. It operates in –40 °C to +85 °C temperature range and is RoHS and REACH compliant. Should customers require it, Quectel can supply enclosures to convert the antenna from an internal to external set up.
Finally, the YEGT010W1AM is a GNSS rubber external antenna with a diameter of 10.22 mm and height of 69.5 mm. This ultra-wide-band GNSS antenna provides broad coverage from 1559–1606 MHz and is terminated with an SMA male connector. With omnidirectional capability and linear polarization, YEGT010W1AM is designed for general-purpose reception in non-precision applications, especially where signal direction varies.
The terminal mount design, with a compact, rugged form factor makes it easy to install on gateways, routers or tracking devices in protected environments. Operating in the –40 °C to +85 °C temperature range, the antenna weighs 8.9g and is RoHS compliant. In addition, the antenna’s universal joint design allows customers to easily adjust the polarization direction, helping to mitigate the angle sensitivity commonly associated with linearly polarized antennas in real-world applications, therefore enhancing overall signal stability.
In addition to the antennas, Quectel provides comprehensive antenna design support services such as simulation, testing and manufacturing for custom antenna solutions to meet developers’ and designers’ specific application needs.
Read a roundup of recent products in the GNSS and inertial positioning industry from the April 2025 issue of GPS World magazine.
OEM
INS With three additional GNSS receiver variants
Photo: Topcon
SBG Systems has upgraded its inertial navigation systems — Ekinox, Apogee and Navsight — with new GNSS receiver options. The latest update introduces three additional GNSS receiver variants.
These include:
Marinestar, which supports Fugro Marinestar, delivering precise point positioning (PPP) with centimeter-level accuracy via L-band corrections without requiring a base station. It is optimized for marine applications.
HAS Ready / NavIC, which includes Galileo E6 support for the upcoming Galileo High Accuracy Service (HAS), offering free decimeter-level PPP corrections globally. Additionally, it supports the Indian NavIC system.
Centimeter-Level Augmentation Service, which is tailored for users in Japan; this variant utilizes QZSS L6 signals to provide free PPP corrections without external services.
All GNSS variants integrate seamlessly with SBG Systems’ antenna portfolio and Qinertia post-processing software. Users select the appropriate GNSS variant at purchase to match their operational requirements. These enhancements aim to provide versatile solutions across diverse industries while ensuring reliable performance.
The GNSS receivers in the Teseo VI family use multi-constellation and quad-band signal processing on a single chip, achieving centimeter-level accuracy for various applications. The Teseo VI family includes the STA8600A and STA8610A models. These receivers are designed for automotive applications such as advanced driver assistance systems and autonomous driving, as well as industrial uses, including asset tracking, mobile robots and precision agriculture.
The Teseo VI+ variant can host enhanced positioning engines developed by third-party companies, providing real-time kinematics for centimeter position accuracy.
The LG680P is a multi-constellation, quad-band GNSS module designed for high-precision positioning and to enhance signal quality and precision through concurrent reception of L1, L2 and L5 frequency bands. It supports Galileo E6, QZSS L6 and BDS B2b signals for precise point positioning, ensuring horizontal accuracy of up to 0.8 cm + 1 ppm without requiring local or broadband connectivity.
To ensure signal integrity in environments with electromagnetic interference, the module features professional-grade anti-jamming technology, including built-in NIC algorithms that suppress narrow-band interference. It supports external active antennas for enhanced signal reception and positioning accuracy. It is ideal for applications such as autonomous lawnmowers, delivery robots, surveying equipment and precision agriculture. Quectel complements it with two external GNSS antennas: the YEGR001W8AH geodetic antenna and the YEGD006U1A compact patch antenna.
The New Ellipse firmware upgrade for the Ellipse product line allows the system to now be used as an attitude and heading reference system or inertial navigation system. It is designed to enhance navigation, attitude and heave performance for stable and accurate positioning, even in challenging conditions.
It introduces advanced GNSS-denied capabilities, featuring newly integrated flags that trigger when GNSS jamming or spoofing threats are detected. This allows users to reject or re-enable external sensors — such as GNSS — without resetting the filter. The user-friendly interface allows for fast and flexible configuration using simple command lines, enabling users to tailor the Ellipse to their specific needs and applications.
Localization Solution Operates in GNSS-denied environments
Photo: OxTS
WayFinder is a localization solution designed for GNSS-denied environments. It integrates a GNSS/INS system, onboard processor, lidar scanner and two cameras, enabling precise navigation in areas with limited satellite coverage. The system features Lidar Boost, a software technology that enhances GNSS/INS performance by processing lidar data to compensate for missing or inaccurate GNSS updates in real time. This ensures high-accuracy localization and seamless transitions between GNSS-supported and GNSS-denied environments.
WayFinder enables precise navigation for autonomous vehicles in ports, mining and indoor automotive testing without fixed infrastructure. It also provides reliable positioning for surveyors in areas with limited GNSS coverage.
Virtual Surveyor Version 10 introduces Basic Topographic Design tools, allowing users to document terrain changes such as graded roads, water ponds and building surfaces. The software now features four subscription plans — Valley, Ridge, Mountain and Peak.
Ridge plan: Focuses on surveying a single moment in time using one drone data set.
Mountain plan: Adds Timelines to compare surveys across different times, visualizing changes through Time Steps.
Peak plan: Includes advanced Topographic Design tools for planning future structures by creating new Time Steps. These tools allow users to design features such as roads or ponds directly on UAV-derived models, with automated alignment and volume calculations for cut-and-fill operations.
Version 10 introduces drawing guides, available in the Ridge plan and above, enabling precise drawing of points at specific intervals or angles. Walk Mode, included in all plans, allows users to explore 3D terrain at ground level for better visualization. Timelines, featured in the Mountain and Peak plans, facilitate the comparison of multiple surveys conducted at different times and the integration of future designs. These improvements seek to streamline processes for engineering surveyors, supporting applications in construction, mining and water management.
The Jupiter Laser RTK integrates GNSS, auto-IMU, laser and dual camera systems into a single unit. It incorporates a precise green laser that remains visible even in bright daylight. This feature allows for precise measurements of points in hard-to-reach, signal-blocked or potentially hazardous locations. It also features a night vision camera, allowing users to see feature points even in low-light conditions. The RTK system’s laser range is up to 50 m, making it suitable for challenging surveying environments. It incorporates visual technology to offer surveyors an immersive experience during surveying and stakeout operations, improving working efficiency and productivity.
Version 2.1.0 of AgEagle Aerial Systems’ eBee VISION application software introduces circular and grid mapping features, allowing users to generate 2D or 3D maps using external post-processing software for more comprehensive geospatial data.
The eBee VISION 2.1.0 can continue missions in GNSS-denied environments and allows manual deactivation of GNSS to prevent jamming or spoofing. It implements the STANAG 4609 standard, the official format for motion imagery exchange within the NATO nations. This involves embedding UAV position and camera information into the videos recorded by the UAV and those broadcasted by the Ground Control Station. Its inclusion in the system seeks to enhance interoperability with third-party applications, which is key for military-grade UAVs.
It offers enhanced control over the Silent Tactical Landing feature. Users can now manually adjust the landing position on the map, with the system providing range estimates to inform operators of the UAV’s reach. This functionality offers greater flexibility in mission planning and execution, particularly in tactical scenarios requiring precise landing control. The system is ideal for defense, public safety and utilities applications.
‘Drone-in-a-Box’ Solution Designed for vehicle-mounted deployments
Photo: DJI
The DJI Dock 3 “drone-in-a-box” solution is designed for vehicle-mounted deployments and 24/7 remote operations in various environments. This system is compatible with the Matrice 4D and Matrice 4TD UAVs, which feature advanced cameras and IP-rated protection for challenging conditions. The UAVs are ideal for public safety, emergency response and infrastructure inspection.
This system supports flexible deployment options, including vehicle-mounted setups optimized for emergency operations and long-distance inspections. It enables horizontal calibration and cloud-based dock location adjustments. Two docks can be mounted on a single vehicle to facilitate dual-UAV rotations for enhanced efficiency. In fixed deployments, the D-RTK 3 Relay Fixed Deployment Version can be added to improve video transmission and satellite connectivity.
The Matrice 4D and 4TD UAVs have a wide-angle camera, medium tele camera, tele camera and laser range finder. The Matrice 4D features an advanced camera suite designed for high-precision mapping. The Matrice 4TD includes an infrared thermal camera for public safety and emergency response applications. The system includes a Flight Termination System to support regulatory compliance in strictly controlled airspace. This system can manually or automatically stop drone operations if necessary.
Casia G Release 4.0 is a software update that enables nighttime detection of aircraft, allowing 24/7 beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) UAS operations. The update supports BVLOS flights up to 400 ft at night without requiring hardware modifications, offering detection of both cooperative and non-cooperative aircraft. The system detects aircraft at distances of up to 16.7 km with 360° coverage, ensuring safe nighttime operations. When multiple units are used, triangulation technology provides accurate range, altitude and satellite data for intruding aircraft. The update leverages existing hardware to detect navigation and anti-collision lights at night.
The MAS10 is a 77 GHz FMCW marine radar system designed to enhance navigation safety in congested environments under all weather conditions. The ultra-high-definition W-band radar provides centimeter-level resolution, enabling vessels to detect and identify small hazards in heavily trafficked waterways.
Unlike optical and infrared sensors, W-band radar technology penetrates fog, heavy rain and snow, ensuring reliable detection. It operates effectively in low-visibility scenarios, including complete darkness, intense sunlight and shadowed areas where cameras and lidar may struggle.
The Eagle Series line of spatial 3D scanners feature lidar and imaging sensors and are designed for various applications, including reverse engineering, digital twinning, asset management, extended reality, precision mapping and 3D printing.
The series offers scanning capabilities with a range of up to 140 m and precision within 2 cm at 10 m. The lightweight scanner is designed for portability, with a built-in battery providing up to one hour of continuous use.
The scanners are available in Standard and Max versions. The Max model features four 48 MP cameras, enhancing scanning efficiency and producing vivid 8 K panoramic photos. With a point cloud frequency of 200,000 points per second, the Eagle Series is designed for applications requiring highly detailed spatial data.
Upgraded Mapping Package With Google Maps downloads
Photo: Golden Software
Golden Software has upgraded its Surfer mapping and 3D visualization software. Users can now directly download georeferenced aerial and satellite imagery from Google Maps into projects. The latest version also improves 3D visualization tools, focusing on faster and more intuitive creation of visual models. Users can now colorize 3D drill hole intervals based on text keywords, making it easier to interpret subsurface data. Additionally, contour slices can now be added to the 3D view, offering a clearer representation of data layers.
Golden Software has released a beta version (30.0.135) that introduces multiple light sources for improved 3D viewing and customizable legends for better map presentation. These updates are designed to streamline workflows for professionals in industries such as environmental consulting, resource exploration and geospatial analysis, simplifying the creation of professional-grade maps and models efficiently.
Quectel Wireless Solutions has introduced the LG680P, a multi-constellation, quad-band GNSS module designed to provide high-precision positioning for applications such as precision agriculture, intelligent robotics and surveying. It has a multi-constellation capability for accurate and reliable positioning.
The LG680P supports concurrent reception of L1, L2 and L5 frequency bands, which seeks to improve signal quality and precision. Additionally, it is equipped to support advanced signals such as Galileo E6, QZSS L6 and BDS B2b for Precise Point Positioning (PPP) technology. This feature enables high-precision accuracy without requiring local or broadband connectivity. The module’s ability to integrate these technologies makes it suitable for demanding environments where reliable positioning is critical.
The module achieves horizontal accuracy of up to 0.8 cm + 1 ppm, even in challenging urban environments. It has been tested with dual-band corrections to ensure backward compatibility with existing systems while supporting quad-band corrections for optimal performance. This backward compatibility allows the LG680P to replace older dual-band systems seamlessly, offering enhanced precision and futureproofing without requiring immediate infrastructure upgrades.
Features and Applications
To maintain signal integrity in complex electromagnetic environments, the LG680P incorporates professional-grade anti-jamming and interference detection algorithms. It’s built-in NIC anti-jamming technology suppresses multiple narrow-band interferences, improving signal reception and stability. These features make the module highly robust in environments with significant electromagnetic interference.
The LG680P is compact, with a 22 mm by 17 mm footprint that adheres to a widely used industry form factor. It supports multiple interfaces such as UART, SPI, I2C, and CAN, ensuring seamless integration into diverse platforms. The module also supports external active antennas to optimize signal reception and enhance positioning accuracy.
The LG680P is suited for various applications, including autonomous lawnmowers, delivery robots, surveying equipment, and precision agriculture tools. Quectel also offers two external full-band GNSS antennas compatible with the module: the YEGR001W8AH geodetic GNSS antenna with versatile mounting options and the YEGD006U1A compact patch antenna designed for high-precision positioning.
Swift Navigation and Quectel Wireless Solutions have partnered to enhance GNSS accuracy across various industries. This collaboration integrates Swift’s Skylark Precise Positioning Service with Quectel’s high-precision GNSS modules.
Skylark, a cloud-based GNSS corrections service, is designed to improve standard GNSS accuracy from several meters to a few centimeters. It utilizes advanced atmospheric modeling and a carrier-grade network to provide reliable, scalable, and high-integrity precision.
The partnership offers three Skylark variants: Skylark Cx , Skylark Nx RTK and Skylark Dx. Each variant is tailored to meet specific industry requirements and can be paired with Quectel’s GNSS modules for various applications.
Integration and Applications
Automotive: Quectel’s LG69T module with integrated inertial measurement units combined with Skylark Cx offers lane-level accuracy for intelligent driving systems.
Outdoor Robotics: The LG290P module paired with Skylark Nx RTK offers centimeter-level accuracy for autonomous robots such as robotic lawnmowers.
Micromobility: Quectel’s LC29H module with Skylark Dx achieves decimeter-level accuracy for e-bikes and scooters in urban areas.
UAVs: The LG290P module with Skylark Nx RTK offers high accuracy for fast-moving UAV applications.
Quectel’s LG290P is a quad-band GNSS module designed to deliver high performance for demanding applications, ensuring RTK availability and quality even in challenging environments. When paired with Skylark Nx RTK, the LG290P achieves the centimeter-level accuracy needed to ensure the precision required for applications such as precision agriculture, robotic lawnmowers, surveying and personal robots.
The LC29H module is a dual-band multi-constellation solution with optional dead-reckoning capabilities that supports seamless integration with all Skylark variants and comes in a standard 12.2mm × 16.0mm footprint. Developers can transition from standard positioning to high-precision GNSS without hardware changes while choosing the Skylark variant that meets their specific requirements.
Quectel Wireless Solutions has expanded its antenna portfolio with the introduction of 5G antennas and high-performing GNSS antennas, designed to improve positioning and navigation capabilities for Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices.
The YEGB000Q1A and YEGN000Q1A active GNSS L1 and L5 antennas are designed to precisely tap into L1 and L5 frequency bands, which is crucial for advanced navigation applications. These antennas, operating within the 1164-1189MHz and 1559-1606MHz frequency bands, are designed to support a variety of installation methods, catering to diverse application needs with options for screw mount, adhesive mount, magnetic mount and various cable connections.
Quectel’s GNSS antennas are part of a broader release that includes the YEMN016AA and YEMN017AA 5G 5-in-1 combination antennas, which also feature GNSS capabilities.
These GNSS antennas are crucial for applications that require high levels of navigation accuracy, such as autonomous vehicles, UAV delivery systems and precision farming.
In addition to the GNSS-focused antennas, Quectel introduced external 5G antennas, the YECN001J1A and YECT000WBA, designed for omnidirectional high-speed data transmission. They are compatible across 5G NR Sub-6 GHz, 4G, 3G, 2G and LPWA bands, offering flexibility and high efficiency for wireless communication devices.
Quectel provides extensive support for its antennas, including custom antenna solutions tailored to users’ specific needs. This support includes design, simulation, testing and manufacturing services to offer optimal integration with Quectel’s wide range of modules for IoT deployments.
Quectel’s upcoming webinar, “High-precision GNSS for industrial applications: best practice for design and implementation — North America” will take place Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024, from 12:00 to 2:00 EST.
High-precision GNSS can be the difference between success and failure for industrial applications – equating as it does to increased efficiency, heightened safety, and superior performance. For example, it enables robotic lawnmowers navigating a lawn with cm-level precision, e-scooters gracefully weaving through bustling urban environments, or handheld devices with pinpoint GNSS location data for informed decision-making. For some industrial applications, including these and many others, high-precision GNSS isn’t just a commercial advantage – it is a necessity.
This webinar offers attendees a unique opportunity to understand high-precision GNSS and how it can revolutionize industrial applications from UAVs to handheld devices. Speakers Victor Pinzo, antenna PDM and Chang Xu, GNSS product manager at Quectel, cover the core components of high-precision GNSS – including GNSS modules, antennas, correction services, and connectivity.
A roundup of recent products in the GNSS and inertial positioning industry from the April 2023 issue of GPS World magazine.
TIMING
Image: Furuno
Global Timing Module Supports L1 and L5 GNSS signals
GT-100 is compatible with all GNSS constellations. The GT-100 realizes high robustness and standard of time accuracy and stability. The GT-100 features advanced multipath mitigation, anti-jamming and anti-spoofing as well as short-term holdover, ensuring superior performance even if L1 or L5 are jammed. The module delivers nanosecond precision for 5G wireless systems, radio communications systems, smart power grids and grand master clocks. Along with the GT-100, GT-9001 and GT-90 achieve a level of time stability of 4.5ns (1σ) and offer superior features and performance. Furuno, furuno.com
Image: UTStarcom
PTP Grandmaster Designed for mobile networks
The SyncRing XGM30E precision time protocol (PTP) grandmaster is designed for mobile networks and other applications requiring accurate time and frequency synchronization. It is an addition to the SyncRing line of network synchronization equipment. The SyncRing XGM30E is an indoor PTP grandmaster offering echo time accuracy of more than ±40 ns, which can meet the stringent timing requirements of demanding applications, including 4G and 5G networks. The clock complies with the PTP IEEE 1588-2008 standard, supporting major ITU-T frequency and phase and time profiles. SyncRing XGM30E supports synchronous Ethernet (SyncE) output on all service interfaces for accurate frequency synchronization, and SyncE input for enhanced time holdover operation during GNSS outages. The grandmaster includes an indoor rack-mount design and power supply redundancy with AC or DC built-in options and has flexible management options. The SyncRing XGM30E is available now.
UTStarcom, utstar.com
Image: Huber+Suhner
Copper-Free Data System For precise timing synchronization for high-performance networks
The GNSS and Power over Fiber GPSoF System receives, transmits and expands GNSS timing signals for the purpose of timing synchronization in data centers, central offices, distributed antenna systems or enterprise applications. It enables greater distances between the radio frequency source and the receiver system. It is also immune to RFI, EMI and EMP, contains remote control and monitoring via a web interface, and supports infrastructure installation due to direct GNSS signal evaluation.
Huber+Suhner, hubersuhner.com
Image: ADVA
M-Code Device With advanced timing for military applications
The OSA 5422 grandmaster clock meets key requirements of military networks by providing advanced positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) capabilities and improved resilience. The OSA 5422 grandmaster clock is integrated with a highly reliable M-code receiver, which meets stringent frequency and phase synchronization needs. The device is equipped with multi-band, multi-constellation GNSS receivers for when M-code is not available. The OSA 5422 also has long holdover and precision time protocol backup, which enables it to maintain accurate timing even in the event of M-code disruption. The OSA 5422 supports legacy interfaces such as BITS and IRIG and features eight field-upgradable 10G bit/s ports and 1G bit/s interfaces. The device is suitable for most demanding military edge applications.
ADVA, adva.com; Brandywine Communications, brandywinecomm.com
AUTONOMOUS
Image: CHC Navigation
GNSS RTK Steering System Suitable for agriculture applications
The NX510 SE Auto-Steer is an automated steering system that retrofits several types of new and old farm tractors and other vehicles. It can be connected to local real-time kinematic (RTK) networks or GNSS RTK base stations. NX510 SE is a guidance controller powered by multiple corrections sources and five satellite constellations: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou and QZSS. It has a built-in 4G and UHF modem that connects to all industry-standard differential GPS and RTK corrections to achieve centimeter-accuracy steering. NX510 SE contains GNSS and inertial navigation system terrain compensation technology, which maintains high accuracy in challenging environments and terrain. This makes NX510 SE suitable for ditching, planting and harvesting applications. In addition, AgNav multilingual software, operating on a 10.1 in industrial display, supports multiple guideline patterns that include AB line, A+ line, circle line, irregular curve and headland turn. CHC Navigation, chcnav.com
Image: Trimble
Module for Rail Monitoring For automated and semi-automated rail monitoring
The T4D Rail Module enables simple data collection and reduces office work required to automate movement detection for rail monitoring projects. The T4D software offers four main elements for automated monitoring: sensor management and data integration for GNSS; total station, geotechnical, vibration and environmental sensors; geodetic processing and adjustments for accurate results; analysis and visualization through several tools that provide real-time updates to support in-depth analysis and data presentation; and alarming and reporting. The T4D Rail module enables integration of rail as-builts collected with the Trimble GEDO system or with a track measuring bar paired with the Trimble Access Gauge Survey app. It also can automate calculations for track geometry parameters, generate analysis charts, and trigger alarms. The T4D software is offered in five editions to fit various project requirements. The editions include T4D Access, T4D Field, T4D Intermediate, T4D Geotechnical and T4D Advanced. T4D Access and T4D Advanced are the two editions that support the add-on Rail Module. Trimble Geospatial, geospatial.trimble.com
Image: Airobotics
C-UAV Device Anti-UAV protection device
The Iron Drone system is an advanced counter-UAV device, designed to defend against hostile drones in complex environments with minimal damage. Iron Drone is an automated intercepting system designed to eliminate small drones without using GPS or radio frequency jamming. The Iron Drone system is launched from a designated pod and flies autonomously towards targets under radar guidance. It identifies the target using computer vision capabilities. The intercepting UAV follows the target then uses a net and a parachute to incapacitate it, capture it and lower it to the ground.
Airobotics, airoboticsdrones.com
Image: Rohde & Schwarz
Drone-based analyzer For UAV inspections
EVSD1000 VHF/UHF nav/drone analyzer provides highly accurate UAV inspection of terrestrial navigation and communications systems. The EVSD1000 VHF/UHF nav/drone analyzer is a signal-level and modulation analyzer for medium-sized UAVs. It features measurements of instrument landing systems, ground-based augmentation systems and VHF omnirange ground stations. The mechanical and electrical design is optimized for UAV-based, real-time measurements of terrestrial navigation systems with up to 100 measurement data sets per second. The analyzer provides high-precision signal analysis in the frequency range from 70 MHz to 410 MHz. This also includes the needed measurement repeatability to ensure that results from UAV measurements can be compared to flight and to ground inspections in line with ICAO standards. The EVSD1000 VHF/UHF nav/drone analyzer reduces runway blocking times, provides necessary measurement repeatability and offers measurement precision and GNSS time and location stamps. While streaming measurement data during a drone flight via the data link to a PC on the ground, the analyzer can also buffer data internally to ensure no results are lost if the data link is lost. Rohde & Schwarz, rohde-schwarz.com
SURVEYING & MAPPING
Image: SiLC
Coherent Vision Solution Suitable for advanced products
The Eyeonic Vision System is a frequency-modulated continuous wave lidar solution, which delivers high levels of vision perception to identify and avoid objects with low latency. At the core of the system is a fully integrated silicon photonics chip. It provides more definition and precision than legacy lidar solutions, with roughly 10 milli-degree of angular resolution coupled with millimeter-level precision. These features enable this solution to measure the shape and distance of objects with high-precision and at a large distance. The system combines the Eyeonic Vision Sensor and a digital processing solution based on a powerful field-programmable gate array. The flexible architecture enables synchronization of multiple vision sensors for unlimited points per second. The compact, powerful, vision solution is suitable for autonomous vehicles, smart cameras, robotics and other advanced products. It is available now. Pricing varies depending on configuration.
SiLC Technologies, silc.com
Image: SBG Systems
GNSS-Aided INS Easily integrated with lidar or other third-party sensors
Quanta Plus is a GNSS-aided inertial navigation system (INS). The device combines a MEMS inertial measurement unit (IMU) with a resilient GNSS receiver to get reliable position and attitude, as well as providing real-time kinematic (RTK) fixes. Quanta Plus includes motion profiles, which enable users to optimize the sensor parameters to suit different use cases. The built-in precise time protocol server ensures sub-microsecond synchronization with external devices such as lidar. The device also has a built-in datalogger, Ethernet interface for easy integration, and a web configuration interface for simple setup and control. The INS can be integrated with Qinertia, SBG System’s post-processing software. Qinertia improves the performance of acquired data during a mission using reliable RTK corrections from a wide range of continuously operating reference station networks, or by importing base-station data during the process. Quanta Plus also improves the accuracy of the position and attitude using forward and backward processing and by integrating a tight coupling between GNSS and IMU data. SBG Systems, sbg-systems.com
Image: Inertial Labs
Survey Laser Suitable for remote-sensing applications
The Resepi Hesai XT32 laser is designed for accurate remote-sensing applications. It can be used with commercially available lidar scanners, including Velodyne, Quanergy, Ouster, RIEGL, LIVOX and Hesai, as well as with UAVs. Resepi is completely modular, so users have full control for customization. The remote-sensing device uses a GPS-aided inertial navigation system with a NovAtel RTK/PPK single- or dual-antenna GNSS receiver, integrated with a Linux-based processing platform. It also comes with a 2 TB USB memory drive and has an embedded Wi-Fi cellular modem. Resepi has 3 cm to 5 cm point-cloud accuracy and can reach heights of more than 200 m above ground level. It is compatible with most UAV models; however, it is typically used with DJI M300, DJI M210 or DJI M600 models. The device is suitable for scanning and mapping, precision agriculture with lidar, simultaneous localization and mapping algorithm development, utility inspection and construction site monitoring. Resepi-supported software includes Hexagon NovAtel, PCPainter and PCMaster. Inertial Labs, inertiallabs.com
Image: CHC Navigation
IMU-RTK GNSS Receiver Provides robust and accurate positioning
The i90 GNSS receiver combines a GNSS real-time kinematic (RTK) engine, a high-end inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor and advanced GNSS tracking capabilities to increase RTK availability and reliability. The embedded 624-channel GNSS receiver is compatible with GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou signals. The i90 GNSS combines high-end connectivity modules: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, 4G and a UHF radio modem. The internal UHF radio modem allows long-distance base-to-rover surveying up to 5 km. The built-in IMU ensures interference-free and automatic pole-tilt compensation in real time. An accuracy of 3 cm is achieved with pole-tilt range of up to 30°. The i90 GNSS receiver is suitable for construction and land surveying projects. CHC Navigation, chcnav.com
Image: CHCNAV
Field Application For Android devices
LandStar8 is designed to be flexible and user-friendly for surveying and mapping tasks. It is versatile, modular and customizable for topographic tasks such as surveying, stake out, cadastral, mapping and geographic information systems (GIS). Building on the legacy of LandStar7, the LandStar8 provides features such as a refined user interface, streamlined workflows, faster operation, and integrated cloud services. Cloud connectivity is built in for backup, data storage or remote technical support. LandStar8 has a simple and intuitive layout with large map windows and sharp graphics. Users can hide features they rarely use and display only those they need. They also can copy coordinate settings, control and staking points from another handheld controller by scanning a QR code. Projects can be edited and sorted by history and attributes. Custom coordinate systems, geoid models and coding libraries can be updated at any time by using resource packages. LandStar8 also features a terrain calibration wizard designed for non-expert users. CHCNAV, chcnav.com
Image: Position Partners
Survey Rover For accurate, survey-grade aerial mapping and photogrammetry
SmartSurveyor facilitates accurate, survey-grade aerial mapping and photogrammetry without the need for a connection between a camera shutter and a GNSS receiver. The fully compact, handheld aerial mapping survey rover is compatible with DJI Mavix 2 and 3 series and Phantom 4 Pro UAVs. The design is dissimilar from other UAV mapping systems in that it works from a UAV or smartphone and with two or more ground control points (GCPs) while using an ultra-matching technique. Once SmartSurveyor captures data, all photos and the GNSS file are uploaded to a PC and analyzed through the Agisoft UltraMatch workflow to confirm their accuracy before they are exported. Data can be managed in the cloud or on a local PC using software designed by MapSender. Additionally, this mapping tool works in tandem with the AllDayRTK subscription GNSS network service so that collected data can be uploaded to Tokara to remotely manage a project.
NB-IoT Industrial Module Complete with GNSS geo-location capabilities
Image: STMicroelectronics
The ST87M01 is a fully programmable, certified LTE Cat NB2 NB-IoT industrial module that covers worldwide cellular frequency bands and integrates advanced security features. The ST87M01 is an integrated native GNSS receiver with multi-constellation access, which ensures enhanced and accurate localization. The module has a diminutive 10.6 mm x 12.8 mm land grid array footprint, making it suitable for applications where a small form factor is key. The STM8701 offers flexibility for product developers, presenting a fully programmable internet of things (IoT) platform enabling users to embed their own code into the module for simple applications. A variety of protocol stacks are available to handle popular IoT use cases. It targets wide-ranging IoT applications that require ultra-reliable low-power wide-area network connectivity and has ultra-low power consumption with less than 2 µA in low-power mode and transmit output power up to +23 dBm. Suitable applications for the module include smart metering, smart grid, smart building, smart city and smart infrastructure applications, as well as industrial condition monitoring and factory automation, smart agriculture and environmental monitoring. The module also can be combined with a separate host microcontroller, permitting many more use cases. STMicroelectronics, st.com
Image: Quectel
GNSS Module Designed for battery-operated, ultra-low power GNSS devices
The LC76G module is a compact, single-band, ultra-low power GNSS module that features fast and accurate location performance. The module can concurrently receive and process signals from the GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo and QZSS constellations. The LC76G has an internal surface acoustic wave filter and integrated low-noise amplifier, which can be connected directly to a passive patch antenna and provides filtering against unwanted interference. With a compact size of 10.1 mm × 9.7 mm × 2.4 mm, the footprint of the LC76G is compatible with other industry solutions, as well as Quectel’s legacy L76 and L76-LB modules. The LC67G is designed for battery-operated, ultra-low power GNSS devices, such as wearable personal trackers, wildlife and livestock tracking, toll tags, portable container trackers, as well as several traditional markets such as shared mobility and low-cost asset trackers. Quectel Wireless Solutions, quectel.com
The INS-DH-OEM. (Photo: Inertial Labs)
Inertial Navigation System Incorporates NovAtel and Honeywell technology
The INS-DH-OEM utilizes a dual-antenna NovAtel GNSS receiver and a Honeywell HG4930-CA51 inertial measurement unit (IMU). The INS-DH-OEM contains Inertial Labs’ on-board sensor-fusion filter, navigation and guidance algorithms, and calibration software. The INS-DH-OEM has three axes, a full operational temperature range, advanced MEMS accelerometers and new-generation tactical-grade MEMS gyroscopes to provide accurate position, velocity, heading, pitch and roll. It is small and lightweight, measuring 85.5 mm x 67.5 mm x 52.0 mm and weighing 280 g. The dual-antenna NovAtel GNSS receiver is operational with GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou and QZSS constellations. The INS-DH-OEM is compatible with most commercially available lidars including Velodyne, Riegl and Faro. The algorithms are suitable for different dynamic motions of vessels, ships, helicopters, UAVs, gimbals and land vehicles. Inertial Labs, inertiallabs.com
Image: MSO
Speed Sensor Multi-use sensor for workflow
The Speed Wedge MKII is a true-ground speed sensor and active motion detector for moving objects, based on radar doppler technology. This sensor is suitable for use in indoor and off-highway vehicles, conveyor belts, material flow and open channel water surface flow. The sensor contains a dead-reckoning system component for inertial measurement units and integrated management systems (IMS) in GPS/GNSS-denied environments such as in tunnels and underground mining operations. It also features sensor fusion with GNSS and IMS improving positioning accuracy, quality and reliability. Speed Wedge MKII deploys a radar front-end with planar antennas continuously emitting electro-magnetic waves at 24 GHz. It is designed for contactless measurement of speed and distance travelled independent on wheel/drive slip. For demanding applications Speed Wedge MKII is sealed and potted in a rugged encasing. Speed Wedge MKII is available in variants with pulse, serial RS232 and CAN-Bus output. High-speed up to 200 km/h is available.
MSO, mso-technik.de/home-en.html
Image: Orolia
GNSS Simulations Software For simulation and testing needs
Skydel GNSS simulation software can now generate more than 500 simulated satellite signals. This platform is suitable for GNSS users, experts and manufacturers, as well as users needing a low-Earth-orbit-capable simulation system. Skydel contains a feature that includes multi-constellation and multi-frequency signal generation, remote control from user-defined scripts, and integrated interference generation. In addition to generating a high channel and satellite count, Skydel also can produce navigation warfare signals without any additional hardware. Orolia, orolia.com
Image: Mikroe
Compact Add-On Board Provides access to L-band GNSS corrections
LBand RTK Click is a compact add-on featuring the NEO-D9S-00B, a professional-grade, satellite data receiver for L-band corrections from u-blox. Operating in a frequency range from 1,525 MHz to 1,559 MHz, the NEO-D9S-00B decodes the satellite transmission and outputs a correction stream. This enables a high-precision GNSS receiver to reach accuracies down to centimeter-level. An independent stream of correction data, delivered over L-band signals, ensures high availability of position output. LBand RTK Click also uses several mikroBUS pins. In addition, LBand RTK Click contains an SMA antenna for connecting a Mikroe-brand antenna. This antenna easily allows positioning in space, supporting GNSS L-band frequencies. LBand RTK Click implements advanced security features such as signature and anti-jamming mechanisms. It also can be integrated with other GNSS receivers from the u-blox F9 platform. Mikroe, mikroe.com
Quectel Wireless Solutions’ LC76G GNSS module has been named a Product of the Year byElectronic Products.The annual awardsrecognizeproducts that represent a significant advancement in technology or its application, an exceptionally innovative design, a substantial achievement in price/performance, improvements in design performance, and a potential for new product designs/opportunities.
Image: Quectel
The LC76G module is a compact, single-band, ultra-low power GNSS module thatfeaturesfast and accurate location performance. The module can concurrently receive and process signals from all satellite constellations including GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo and QZSS.
Image: Quectel
The LC76G has an internal surface acoustic wave (SAW) filter and integrated low-noise amplifier (LNA), which can be connected directly to a passive patch antenna and provides filtering against unwanted interference. With a compact size of 10.1 mm × 9.7 mm × 2.4 mm, the footprint of the LC76G is compatible with other industry solutions, as well as Quectel’s legacy L76 and L76-LB modules.
The LC67G is designed for battery-operated, ultra-low power GNSS devices, such as wearable personal trackers, wildlife and livestock tracking, toll tags, portable container trackers, as well as several traditional markets such as shared mobility and low-cost asset trackers.
