Tag: Spirent Federal Systems

2022 Simulator Buyers Guide
In our 11th annual Simulator Buyers Guide, we feature simulator tools, devices and software from 11 prominent companies that aid GNSS receiver manufacturers in product design.

SPIRENT FEDERAL SYSTEMS OROLIA OROLIA DEFENSE & SECURITY LABSAT

CAST NAVIGATION IFEN TELEORBIT GMBH WORK MICROWAVE

QASCOM M3 SYSTEMS JACKSON LABS TECHNOLOGIES SYNTONY

SPIRENT FEDERAL SYSTEMS

Alternative PNT, CRPA, M-code & Y-code, Non-GNSS Sensors & Anechoic Chamber Testing

Alternative RF Navigation Simulator (Photo: Spirent Federal Systems)

New Alternative RF Navigation Simulator. Authorized users of Spirent’s alternative PNT simulation system can generate alternative RF navigation signals individually or concurrently with GNSS signals.

GSS9000. The GSS9000 Series multi-frequency, multi-GNSS RF constellation simulator is Spirent’s most comprehensive simulation solution. It can simulate signals from all GNSS and regional navigation systems and has an unrivaled update rate of 2 kHz (0.5 ms), enabling ultra-high-dynamic simulations with accuracy and fidelity. The GSS9000 supports M-code, Y-code, alternative PNT and non-GNSS sensors, and comes with built-in jamming, spoofing and flex power.

SimMNSA. Spirent Federal has the first fully approved MNSA M-code simulator. Authorized users of the GSS9000 series of simulators will be able to utilize the advanced capabilities of SimMNSA to create robust military GPS user equipment (MGUE) solutions.

Spirent GSS9000 Series constellation simulator (Photo: Spirent Federal Systems)

CRPA Test System. The CRPA Test System is scalable, testing antennas from 4 to 16 elements and beyond. More than 1,000 independent GNSS, jamming and spoofing signals can be generated/simulated across a phase-calibrated precise wavefront.
SimINERTIAL. Supporting the leading embedded GPS/inertial systems (EGI) and inertial measurement units (IMU), SimINERTIAL enables the controllable generation of inertial sensor outputs, synchronous with simulated GNSS, to test integrated GPS/inertial systems in the lab.

Anechoic Chamber Testing. Spirent’s GSS9790 multi-output, multi-GNSS RF constellation wavefront simulator system can be used in both conducted (lab) and radiated (chamber) conditions.

Mid-Range Solutions. Spirent offers solutions for every application and price point. The GSS7000 multi-constellation simulator provides an easy-to-use solution for GNSS testing that can grow with users’ requirements. The GSS6450 RF record-and-playback system enables replay of real-world GNSS tests in the lab.

[email protected]
spirentfederal.com
801-785-1448

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OROLIA

Skydel GSG-8 (Photo: Orolia)

Essential to Advanced GNSS Simulator Solutions

Based on the Skydel GNSS Simulation Engine, Orolia’s advanced and essential GNSS simulators offer a wide breadth and depth of tools to test mission-critical positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) applications and scenarios.

Skydel Simulation Engine. The highly flexible, high-performance Skydel Simulation Engine transmits GNSS signals in real time to many kinds of software-defined radios. Skydel uses graphics processing units (GPUs) to compute the digital GNSS signal of all simulated satellites, easily scaling from simple to complex use cases. Skydel simulates civil signals from global and regional navigation satellite systems with a 1000-Hz update rate, many kinds of GNSS receiver trajectories with high dynamics, and advanced jamming and spoofing. The Skydel ecosystem also includes features such as open-source plug-ins and API, and the ability to create custom signals. The custom-signal feature allows users to experiment with new signals, such as navigation from low-Earth-orbit satellite systems.

GSG-8. A scalable software-powered turnkey simulation solution, GSG-8 is configurable to meet virtually any testing requirements. It can support multi-constellation, multi-frequency and hundreds of signals with a 1000-Hz iteration rate. This advanced hardware platform is suitable for space trajectories, custom PNT signals, hardware-in-the-loop, multi-antenna simulation, and more. Encrypted EU signals will be available soon.

Skydel CRPA Testing. With self-calibration, integrated advanced jamming and spoofing, and the ability to generate thousands of signals, Skydel CRPA test systems provide everything needed to test CRPA systems, with a focus on ease of use and the testing experience from the user point of view. Two flexible configurations, Skydel Anechoic and Skydel Wavefront, have been carefully designed to provide the advanced simulation features required for CRPA testing in a well-thought-out package. Both provide COTS hardware benefits: configuration flexibility and cost-effectiveness.

GSG-5 and GSG-6. Orolia’s essential simulation platform is a proven, cost-effective simulation solution. Combined with the freely available StudioView software, these simulators provide high-end capabilities in a standalone, portable system that allows operation via a front panel interface. GSG-5 and GSG-6 are available with support for multi-frequency and multi-constellation GNSS signal simulation, pre-built scenarios and test packages, and the features neded to integrate it into ATE systems.

[email protected]
www.orolia.com

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Orolia defense & Security

BroadSim 4U, Advanced NAVWAR simulations, MNSA and Y-Code (Photo: Orolia)

Advanced GNSS Simulation for Government & Defense

BroadSim

Powered by the Skydel Simulation Engine, BroadSim provides superior NAVWAR performance, sharing the same benefits and key features of its software-defined platform.

Key Applications

BroadSim Solo: Multi-GNSS simulations on the desktop. (Photo: Orolia)

MNSA M-Code. BroadSim offers a fully flexible implementation of the Modernized NavStar Security Algorithm, giving you full control over scenario settings with the real encryption used on the M-code signal. Any aspect of your scenario can be changed, such as time, date, location, constellation, downlink data, signal configuration, and visible satellites. It is security-approved by SMC Production Corps and shipping as soon as today.

CRPA Testing. BroadSim leverages Skydel’s CRPA testing solution to up the ante for demanding NAVWAR scenarios. BroadSim Anechoic allows you to test an entire system as-is. Skydel auto- calibrates the system, maps the antennas, and is designed to streamline chamber setup and reduce hardware. Broadsim Wavefront tests the antenna electronics, prioritizing the ability to have dynamic trajectories and allowing you to model any scenario with an unlimited number of interferences. The system is scalable from 4 to 16 elements, is phase coherent, performs real-time automated phase calibration, and has built-in jamming and spoofing.

BroadSim Wavefront: Phase-aligned NAVWAR simulator for CRPA (Photo: Orolia)

Advanced Jamming and Spoofing. With Advanced Jamming, users can add ground- and space-based emitters to scenarios, generate an unlimited number of jamming signals on 1 RF output, and simulate flight profiles where interference power levels at the UUT dynamically change depending on the scenario motion. With Advanced Spoofing, users can simulate multiple spoofers simultaneously. Each spoofer can generate any GNSS signal and has an independent trajectory and antenna pattern. Signal dynamics between each spoofer and receiver antenna are automatically determined so no time is wasted.
More Features. Inertial and alternative RF navigation, built-in Flex Power, real-time performance with ultra-low latency of 5ms, high dynamics, terrain modeling, and RMF STIG compliance.

[email protected]
www.oroliads.com

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LABSAT

LabSat 3 (Photo: LabSat)

Test Anywhere with LabSat 3 Wideband and SatGen Simulation Software

LabSat 3 Wideband. The LabSat 3 Wideband is a compact yet powerful multi-constellation and multi-frequency GNSS testing solution. The easy-to-use, one-touch record-and-replay function provides an efficient way to test and develop GNSS-based technology without the cost and limitations of live-sky signals.

It is lightweight and portable, enabling easy collaboration with colleagues by sharing scenario files over the internet, and making it a suitable test partner for remote working. Additionally, the removeable solid-state drive (SSD) of up to 7 terabytes and a two-hour runtime provided by an internal battery is ready for field testing in any environment.

LabSat 3 Wideband can record and replay up to three different channels at 56-MHz bandwidth across all major constellations and signals, including:
- GPS: L1/L2/L5
- Galileo: E1/E1a/E5a/E5b/E6
- GLONASS: L1/L2/L3
- BeiDou: B1/B2/B3
- NavIC: L5/S-band
- QZSS: L1/L2/L5
- L-band correction services including SBAS
- 2x CAN and 4x digital input channels tightly synchronized with GNSS data
- future signal launches are also supported, including L2C, L5 and L1C
SatGen Simulation Software. SatGen software allows users to quickly create bespoke, accurate scenarios with their own time, location and trajectory that can be replayed via a LabSat GNSS simulator.

The latest version of SatGen can be used to create a single scenario containing all the upper and lower L-band signals for GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, BeiDou and NavIC.

[email protected]
www.labsat.co.uk

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CAST NAVIGATION

Intuitive graphical interface (Photo: CAST Navigation)

Accurate, repeatable simulation solutions

When getting the job done right the first time — and every time — matters, CAST Navigation’s suite of simulator solutions delivers precision, accuracy and repeatability. From simple integration testing to complex mission simulations, CAST Navigation solutions scale to meet user requirements.

Powered by multi-frequency, multi-constellation GNSS and interference signal-generation technology, CAST Navigation simulators provide coherent, highly accurate and fully programmable signals. Advanced, configurable vehicle trajectory capabilities meet project requirements ranging from antenna testing to simulations of squadrons maneuvering in contested environments.

Intuitive Graphical Interface. A comprehensive and intuitive graphical interface unifies all simulator capabilities so users can configure complex simulation scenarios quickly. For example, CAST Navigation simulators can model many vehicle types with static and dynamic motion profiles: airborne, terrestrial, aquatic or space-based. Using configured scenario profiles or vehicle truth data, CAST Navigation simulators create high-dynamic, 6-DOF real-time trajectories.

High-Fidelity Simulations of Real-World Conditions. CAST Navigation solutions can reproduce terrain, sea-state and atmospheric effects to simulate missions with high fidelity. Jamming capabilities recreate natural, urban and hostile interference to produce precisely controlled waveforms with high output power and exceptionally low intermodulation noise.

Multi-Frequency, Multi-Constellation Simulations. The GPS/GNSS simulators generate accurate, programmable signals to each antenna element with up to 16 satellites in view from as many as four constellation types. GPS simulations can generate any positioning signal (C/A-code, P-code, Y-code, SAASM, M-code AES and M-code MNSA).

Modular, Scalable Solutions. Proprietary synchronization technology lets CAST Navigation configure customer solutions with multiple simulator capabilities — GPS/GNSS, inertial, jamming, and CRPA — to meet specific project needs. As those needs evolve, these solutions do not become obsolete. Rather than replace a functioning system, customers can rely on modular architecture to meet their new requirements.

[email protected]
www.castnav.com
978-858-0130

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iFEN

NCS NOVA GNSS simulator (Photo: IFEN)

NCS NOVA GNSS Simulator

The NCS NOVA GNSS simulator is a high-end, powerful and easy-to-use satellite navigation testing and R&D device. It is fully capable of multi-constellation and multi-frequency simulations for a wide range of GNSS applications. It is one of the leading solutions on the market, providing multiple GNSS frequencies in one box.

Because of the modern and flexible software-defined radio (SDR) design of this simulator, testing requirements will be met with the minimum of equipment, facilitating logistics and reducing the cost of ownership. The innovative multi-constellation and multi-frequency simulation capability sets new standards in the field of GNSS simulation in terms of fidelity, performance, accuracy and reliability. Designed to deliver maximum flexibility, users are no longer faced with configuration limitations.

The NCS NOVA GNSS simulator is also able to coherently generate GNSS RF signals on two independent RF outputs simultaneously. The user may freely allocate GNSS signals and RF channels to each of the RF outputs. This feature allows simulation of GNSS signals at two antenna locations simultaneously (this could be two antennas on a vehicle, two separate vehicles maneuvering independently, or a static location plus a mobile unit).

A new key enhancement to the NCS NOVA GNSS simulator is comprehensive support of new Galileo OS signal message improvements on E1B. By enabling real-time simulation of the Galileo OS message improvements, the NCS NOVA expands a user’s Galileo signal capability.

In the future, the NCS NOVA also will fully support the new Galileo E1B OS Navigation Message Authentication (OS-NMA) and Galileo E6B High Accuracy Service (HAS) capabilities.

The NCS NOVA GNSS simulator is the first choice in signal simulation for a wide range of applications including space, aviation, automotive (including autonomous driving testing) and many others.

About IFEN. IFEN is a leading provider of GNSS navigation products and services. Its technology portfolio includes GNSS RF-signal simulators, GNSS software receivers, simulation and data processing tools. IFEN’s outstanding satellite navigation expertise is provided to customers for services including GNSS system studies, research and development of navigation and integrity algorithms, design and development of GNSS software and hardware, on up to engineering of turnkey facilities and systems.

[email protected]
www.ifen.com
+49-(0)8121-2238-10

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TeleOrbit GmbH

MGSE REC/REP 2.0 (Photo: FhG IIS)

MGSE REC | MGSE REC-REP 2.0 | MGSE SIM-REP | GNSS DCP Antenna | GOOSE-OSNMA

The MGSE product family creates a versatile GNSS test and simulation environment that improves the development, qualiﬁcation and certiﬁcation process of GNSS receivers within development phases and for validation and certification in end-to-end tests.

MGSE enables mobile and stationary interference monitoring, for example, for protecting critical infrastructures. It can be used for interference mitigation if combined with TeleOrbit’s GNSSA-6E (six-element antenna array) or its GNSS DCP (dual circularly polarized)antenna.

With MGSE REC-REP 2.0 users can, among other tasks, record Galileo PRS signals in a real user environment and replay them for Galileo PRS receiver testing.

MGSE SIM-REP supports the development of software-defined radios/receivers or specialized algorithms by creating a simulation environment that provides the possibility and flexibility to use synthetically generated GNSS data and recorded real-world samples.

For jamming and spoofing test and evaluation, TeleOrbit offers a sophisticated solution based on the MGSE simulation, recording and replaying product family. For spoofing mitigation, the GOOSE-OSNMA receiver platform is available.

Technical Background

The multi-band RF front-end (MGSE REC) receives the GNSS RF signals in different frequency bands simultaneously to obtain digital IF data, which can be used for GNSS multi-system signal analysis and comparison. All GNSS L-band frequencies and the NavIC S-band are supported.

The MGSE Replay Unit includes a flexible multi-band RF replay device that streams simulated and recorded raw IF data to a digital baseband output or to an analog RF signal. Up to two independent RF channels and up to four GNSS signals (L1, E1, B1, G1) can be provided.

GOOSE is a powerful yet compact GNSS receiver lab and the rapid prototyping solution for leading-edge GNSS receiver development.

The GNSSA-DCP (dual circularly polarized antenna) receives RHCP and LHCP signals simultaneously (full L-band). It clearly detects signals which have been corrupted by diffraction and reflections.

Jürgen Seybold, CTO
[email protected]
teleorbit.eu/en/satnav/

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WORK Microwave

Xidus Signal Module (Photo: Work Microwave)

Xidus GNSS Simulator — Modular and flexible

WORK Microwave’s Xidus is well-known for meeting all requirements regarding multi-GNSS; for its multi-frequency and multi-RF signal generation; for its innovative Signal Extension and Enhancements (SEE) technology; for its advanced customization and configurability; and for world-class remote support with updates, training and even scenario execution.

Xidus Signal Module

Compact and powerful, the Xidus Signal Module provides new capabilities of signal generation. Users can perform rigorous and extensive testing of present and future positioning systems when conducting navigation research or developing products.
- Possible applications: pseudolite generation, massive multipath or navigation signal generation on various orbits.
- Extensive increase of supported channels: >250.
- Unlimited number of multipath channels with delay >3,000km.
- Interference signal generation on up to four independent frequencies.
- Acts as a software-defined radio (SDR) to replay signals.
Xidus-648 (Photo: Work Microwave)

Xidus Hardware Series

Xidus-424 GNSS Simulator
- Up to 4 signal modules
- 2 RF outputs
- Wide dynamic power range
Xidus-648 GNSS Simulator
- Up to 8 signal modules
- 4 RF outputs
- 1,000 Hz update rate
Xidus-Studio Client Software

Xidus-Studio provides a user-friendly graphical interface to configure any GNSS scenario. Its advanced and outstanding features include:
- multipath, antenna patterns, jamming/spoofing configuration.
- logging of simulation output on user-defined IP networks.
- concurrent user access to the hardware.
- visualization of shared scenarios on multiple desktop PCs.
[email protected]
www.work-microwave.com
+49-8024-6408-222

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Qascom

Photo: Qascom

QA707 cyber-security simulator

QA707 is the cutting-edge solution for global threat GNSS awareness and management. It is a GNSS simulator specifically designed to test cyber-attacks and authentication, and includes the simulation of GNSS interference, deception, jamming, spoofing and advanced cyber-threats such as data- and code-level attacks.

The high flexibility in the creation of the scenarios and the definition of the type of attacker allow cyber-threat and vulnerability testing for several applications,These applications may include, for example, autonomous driving and vehicle tracking, aeronautics and high dynamics applications, space GNSS receivers and timing.

OSNMA Support. The Galileo Open Service Navigation Message Authentication (OSNMA) simulation is an opportunity to test the new Galileo data protected service against several known vulnerabilities in GNSS applications. The OSNMA simulator is also available as a standalone tool, allowing the generation of OSNMA data that can be used with third party simulators.

PC-capable. QA707 runs on a standard PC. It is compatible with several third-party hardware RF up-converters, including National Instruments’ USRP. Additionally, it can support customer-specific hardware through the hardware API interface.

QA707 Main Features
- Multi constellation (currently GPS L1, GALILEO E1, SBAS L1)
- Galileo OSNMA
- RF simulation, binary file dump, signal record and replay
- Support to SDR platforms and open API for custom RF upconverters
- Runtime streaming of scenario information over UDP (motion, channel data)
- Data level cyber-attacks
- Accurate spoofing signals control, trajectory spoofing, signal replay attacks
- Narrow band, wide band, frequency modulated jamming
- Integrity threats (on request): evil waveform, erroneous ephemerides, code/carrier divergence, low satellite signal power, excessive range acceleration
- Built-in editing tools: Rinex editor, trajectory editor
[email protected]
www.qascom.it

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M3 Systems

The StellaNGC all-in-one testing platform. (Photo: M3 Systems)

High-end multi-constellation and multi-frequency GNSS Simulator and Record & Playback

M3 Systems offers a fully integrated all-in-one testing solution for GNSS. Thanks to a versatile SDR approach, StellaNGC provides on a single HW platform GNSS simulation and GNSS record & playback functionalities. It answers user challenges from aerospace, defense, ground transportation and telecommunication fields when testing the PNT functions of their GNSS-based systems.

StellaNGC Plug & Play. This fully scalable and customizable simulator is based on a layered architecture to provide PNT data to the user at different levels (RF, IQ, GNSS raw data, trajectory).

Based on COTS platforms from National Instruments (NI), StellaNGC P&P allows the simulation of civil signals from GNSS as well as ground-based and satellite-based augmentation systems. It covers terrestrial, aerial and spatial trajectories (including high dynamics). It also enables assessment of GNSS solution robustness with jamming, meaconing and spoofing capacity.

StellaNGC P&P Main Features
- Multi-constellation, multi-frequency GNSS simulation
- Multi-antenna (CRPA applications) and multi-trajectories
- Jamming and spoofing simulation
- Cm-level positioning
- Low latency HIL simulation
- SBAS and RTK augmentation systems
- 3D multipath generation
- IMU sensors modelization
- Configuration of all scenario parameters
- Signal control during run-time
- Intuitive and easy to use GUI
StellaNGC Record & Playback. As a complement to simulation, StellaNGC RP allows test and validation of PNT functions through high-fidelity record-and-playback of GNSS signals. It allows recording by selection of a center frequency (65 MHz–6 GHz) or with a predefined list of GNSS frequencies for each of its 4 RF channelw, with a bandwidth of up to 120 MHz.

StellaNGC R&P Main Features
- Multi-bands record & playback
- Programmable center frequency and bandwidth
- Single or multi-channel (up to 4) simultaneous records
- Easy-to-use graphical interface
- Access and command through API
- Automatic gain control
- Smart I/Q recording (event-based record)
[email protected]
m3systems.eu/en/home/

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Jackson Labs Technologies (JLT)

CLAW (Photo: Jackson Labs Technologies)

Miniature simulator and scenario generator

The 18-channel miniature full-constellation CLAW GPS Simulator is a fully self-contained, low size, weight, power and cost (SWaP-C) miniature GPS simulator. It is very popular in manufacturing environments as well as R&D applications that require consistent and repeatable local GNSS signals at low price points.

The CLAW simulator does not require external computers for processing and control — it works fully self-contained by simply applying power, and storing location/time/date data in internal non-volatile memory, or by storing complex vector data to simulate highly dynamic scenarios. The CLAW also can be used to transcode NMEA or SCPI position/velocity/time (PVT) data into GPS RF signals. For 2022, JLT added driver support for a large number of additional GNSS front-end receivers when using the hardware-in-the-loop (transcoding) feature of the unit to, for instance, transcode from one GNSS system to another.

JLT offers an easy-to-use, highly configurable and cost-free SimCon Windows application program that is downloadable from the JLT website. SimCon allows random scenario generation and is thus usable to simulate leap-second events, Week 1023 rollover events, or any other GPS live-sky scenarios, including highly complex yet easy-to-create dynamic vector simulations.

For authorized U.S. government users, a version that does not have altitude and velocity limitations is popular for low-Earth-orbit (LEO) simulations. Multipath simulation allows use of the entire 18-channel simulator capability.

The unit can be field-upgraded with an easy-to-use in-field software upgrade feature. The CLAW is also very useful in GNSS receiver sensitivity testing for R&D or mass-production assembly lines as it allows accurate control of RF output power ranging from –100 dBm to less than –130 dBm with 0.1-dB resolution and typically better than 1-dB accuracy over the controllable power range.

The CLAW GPS Simulator also has a built-in RF signal generator with sweep, CW and random noise functions that are useful in simulating GNSS jamming scenarios, as well as GPS spoofing scenarios. The simulator comes in an FCC-certified metal desktop enclosure with numerous accessories.

The CLAW firmware has been updated to allow live-sky almanac and ephemerides to be automatically uploaded from various externally connected GNSS receivers. This makes simulations using real-time live-sky constellations (such as used in simulating spoofing attacks) an easy task. A free firmware update is available from JLT.

[email protected]
www.jackson-labs.com
702-233-1334

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SYNTONY GNSS

High-end GNSS simulation solutions for R&D, integration and product testing

Syntony GNSS specializes in GNSS/PNT software-defined receiver (SDR) technologies, operating from receivers to test and measurements solutions. Its products and solutions address multiple markets and use cases in the space, defense and transportation industries.

Constellator. (Photo: Syntony)

Constellator GNSS Simulator. Scalable, cost-effective, and high-fidelity SDR software-based platform supporting multi-constellation signals and frequencies (open, restricted and custom), hundreds of signals at 1-kHz iteration rate at zero effective latency, space trajectories and high dynamics. Multiple upgradable hardware configurations are available.

Constellator CRPA. Synchro-phase SDR by design, advanced jamming and spoofing, thousands of signals, 4 to 16 elements.

Echo. (Photo: Syntony)

Echo Recorder & Replayer. High-fidelity record-and-replay devices characterizing group-delay, scintillation, and jamming and spoofing interference, from space to ground market segments.
- 3 RF channels of 200Mhz sampling rate
- 16 bit I/Q
- Up to 1.6 GB/s write/read speed.
SubWAVE manager. (Photo: Syntony)

SubWAVE GNSS/GPS Coverage Extension. Universal and seamless GPS/GNSS coverage extension for rail, road and mining infrastructures. SubWAVE signals are natively compatible with every GNSS-enabled device, and the solution uses existing telecom infrastructure to broadcast GNSS signals.

www.syntony-gnss.com
[email protected]

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March 31, 2022
Spirent Federal launches alternative RF navigation simulator

Photo: Spirent

Spirent Federal has launched an alternative RF navigation simulator. As GPS jamming and spoofing continue to rise, interest in complementary sources of positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) data has likewise increased.

Recent government directives recommend a layered, multi-source approach, with much of the attention focused on non-GNSS radio frequency signals. These RF signals, coined alternative RF navigation, offer unique PNT capability in GPS-degraded or denied environments. The signals are secure and resilient and can act as an effective complement to GPS signals.

Spirent Federal’s product can simulate resilient alternative RF navigation signals on its own or concurrently with GNSS signals. Testing can be static or dynamic, with stationary, pedestrian and ground vehicle trajectories available.

“As a result of our extensive research and development incorporating a variety of assured PNT technologies, we’re pleased to be the first to provide this capability to our customers,” said Roger Hart, director of engineering. “Our product enables developers to test early and often, from the first stages of R&D to integration and field testing. Solutions can be tested with edge cases, hardened against interference, and deployed faster with greater confidence they will work for our warfighters.”

Spirent is actively engaged with several alternative RF navigation technologies and technology providers to incorporate signal simulation capability. To learn more, contact Spirent Federal to discuss fielded configurations.

A U.S. Marine Corps radio operator grounds an during long-range HF radio training in Kuwait Oct. 7, 2020. (Photo: U.S. Marine Corps/Capt. Joshua Hays)

Collaboration with Xona Space Systems

Spirent Federal Systems also announced that it is collaborating with Xona Space Systems to develop simulation and test capabilities for Xona signals produced by small satellites (smallsats) operating in low Earth orbit (LEO). Xona is a San Mateo-based startup developing a smallsat constellation for a dedicated PNT service.

Xona’s patent-pending approach using small satellites in LEO is intended to improve global PNT resilience and accuracy by both enhancing GNSS and operating as an independent system. Xona’s high-power signals utilize advanced signal structure and security techniques, improving jamming and spoofing resistance as well as multipath mitigation.

“We do all we can to protect, toughen, and augment PNT and are eager to work with emerging companies like Xona who are developing a next-gen navigation and timing architecture,” said Jennifer Smith, senior director of Business Development at Spirent Federal. “Our simulators provide critical support to developers and integrators by enabling testing and validation before the product deploys.”

The space and defense sectors also benefit from Spirent Federal’s expertise in generating high fidelity RF signals using quadrature (I/Q) data. Spirent test tools allow the full customization of I/Q data. Customers can generate unique I/Q data corresponding to experimental modulation schemes and use Spirent Federal’s signal generation capabilities to create the corresponding RF. Such rapid prototyping allows for quick turnaround times and shorter iteration cycles.

Alternatively, scenarios created using Spirent Federal’s proprietary SimGEN software can be saved as I/Q data which can be processed by software-implemented receivers.

“Building a new generation of satellite navigation and timing services goes far beyond just the satellites,” said Brian Manning, CEO of Xona Space Systems. “It requires building an entire ecosystem from ground stations to chipset manufacturers to end users and systems integrators. Having reliable and trusted simulation capabilities is critical to support all of these areas which is why we are thrilled to be working with Spirent to provide a robust solution to our partners.”

August 24, 2021
PNT powers unmanned vehicles for transportation, ag and more
UNMANNED SOLUTION, a South-Korean company based in Seoul, develops autonomous vehicles, including driverless shuttles, autonomous agricultural equipment, robots, and educational platforms. (Image: SBG Systems)

What is complementary / alternative positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT)? In this month’s cover story, five of our marketing partners share their perspective on this question and explain how their products address it.

The four global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), two regional navigation satellite systems and public and private augmentation services continue to provide exceptional levels of accuracy and reliability for positioning, navigation and timing (PNT). Yet their well-known vulnerabilities also continue to fuel the need for alternative/complementary sources of PNT data, especially for new and rapidly expanding user segments such as autonomous vehicles.

What constitutes a complementary service to GNSS for PNT and what constitutes a true alternative is partly a matter of definition and opinion. In a January report, the U.S. Department of Transportation stated

…suitable and mature technologies are available to owners and operators of critical infrastructure to access complementary PNT services as a backup to GPS. To achieve the parallel objective of resilience, as described in Executive Order (EO) 13905, that path should involve a plurality of diverse PNT technologies. Promoting critical infrastructure owner/operator use of those technologies that show strong performance, operational diversity, operational readiness, and cost-effectiveness is worthwhile. Based on this demonstration, those technologies are LF and UHF terrestrial and L-band satellite broadcasts for PNT functions with supporting fiber optic time services to transmitters/control segments. (Andrew Hansen et al., Complementary PNT and GPS Backup Technologies Demonstration Report, prepared for the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology, Department of Transportation, January 2021, p. 195.)

A portion of the former USCG Loran Support Unit in Wildwood, New Jersey, with its iconic Loran antenna. (Image: UrsaNav, Inc)

For this year’s Q&A on complementary / alternative PNT, I asked five companies in the GNSS/PNT space to tell us how they define the issue, what solutions they prioritize, what markets they target, and which of their products specifically address the need to make PNT more resilient.

The participants are:
- Roger Hart, Director of Engineering, Spirent Federal Systems
- David Sohn, Solution Architect, Orolia
- Matthieu Noko, Product Manager, SBG Systems
- Jacob Amacker, Product Engineer, OxTS
- Charles Schue, Founder & CEO, UrsaNav
How do you define alternative PNT?

Roger Hart: The deep adoption of the state-sponsored, space-based global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) defines them as the primary PNT source at this time. Inertial navigation, long predating GNSS, does provide an independent navigation solution but does not provide time. In today’s conversation, alternative PNT generally refers to deriving position and timing from existing signals not purposed for navigation, to ground-based location systems, and also to emerging satellite systems that operate at higher power — or out of the GNSS band — to provide a diversity of PNT sources.

David Sohn: Simply put, alternative PNT is usually anything that is not GNSS. So, this includes PNT derived from low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites; vision, radar, lidar combined with inertial measurement units (IMUs) and map matching; positioning off cellular WiFi, digital TV signals and other signals of opportunity; legacy nav aids like VORTAC, ILS, DME and eLoran; and new dedicated infrastructure positioning systems like Locata, NextNav or RFID.

Matthieu Noko: Here at SBG Systems, for 15 years we have been developing navigation systems based on smart coupling of GNSS technology and inertial sensors. From our perspective, inertial sensors as well as sensors such as odometers or DVL, combined with high-end algorithms and RAIM, build consistent alternatives to GNSS-only systems in the vast majority of outdoor applications. Inertial sensors dramatically enhance GNSS-only navigation systems, making it possible to provide navigational data during GNSS outages in urban environments or to reject false GNSS measurements due to multipath effects.

As its entry into the driverless category of the Formula Student Germany car race, AMZ modified the car it has used in competition since 2015 to be driverless. (Image: SBG Systems)

The hybridization of several technologies makes it possible to reach a sufficient reliability level for the majority of commercial applications. However, in some indoor applications or in case of intentional jamming or spoofing, a higher resiliency is required. Using visual odometry can then complement quite effectively the navigation system, although this technology is still at a research level. Compared to infrastructure-based alternative PNTs — such as WiFi, Bluetooth or ultra wideband (UWB) ranging — visual odometry has the great advantage of not requiring any infrastructure.

Jacob Amacker: GNSS remains the dominant method of PNT in terms of market applicability and performance, but there are many rival technologies that have great potential and will compete with GNSS going into the future. The most important changes in PNT will be methods of position localization that are able to replace GNSS, and we will likely see these technologies integrated into huge systems, making use of ubiquitous technologies such as lidar. Whereas GNSS still provides the most accurate timing, as systems get more complex, time synchronization becomes a bigger issue, so different methods of this need to be explored.

There are many ways of improving the navigation data overall. Most commonly an IMU and a Kalman filter will be employed to stabilize any errors in the position localization method. A Kalman filter is a method of processing data from a range of sources—say, GNSS, an IMU, and a wheel speed sensor—and using them in such a way as to arrive at the position with a greater accuracy and precision than either source alone would be able to achieve. This process, however, requires precise timing for each data stream. Therefore, one area in which alternative PNT has to compete with GNSS is timing precision. GNSS makes use of atomic clocks used on satellites that are as accurate as you will get. There are also several ways of synchronizing time. A timing system can only be as precise as the most precise clock on the network, but there have been developments, such as Precision Time Protocol (PTP) that can synchronize timings across a network of clocks over Ethernet connections. Traditionally, PPS has been used and whereas this is still very precise it is not able to compete with PTP on convenience or sophistication.

Charles Schue: The common definition these days for “alternative PNT” seems to be with respect to, or as compared to, GPS or GNSS. Even the U.S. DOT’s website speaks to PNT as related to GPS.

I used alternative, complementary and backup somewhat interchangeably during my entire career with the U.S. Coast Guard. In recent years, I injected “co-primary” into the conversation as well. Prior to GNSS becoming ubiquitous, alternative, complementary and backup were not technology-based terms, but were instead operationally based. For example, “the prudent mariner” or “the prudent aviator” should use all means at their disposal to safely navigate their platform. For the navigator, this would include visual, audible and electronic signals or aids. The solution of choice obviously was the one that provided the highest accuracy, availability, integrity and continuity. However, prudence required always checking the solution of choice against other readily available alternatives, preferably that complemented each other, to ensure safety and continuity of operations. At one time, shipboard navigators might have at their disposal Loran-C, OMEGA, GPS, INS, radar, sextant, visual bearings (such as lights and landmarks), beacons, and soundings. Similar alternatives were available on aircraft.

Although always in the mix, timing was often in the background until around 2000. Then it started to become as important as positioning and, in many areas, even more important than positioning. Today’s incredible dependence on technology, and interdependence between technologies, means that knowing your “when” has become as important as knowing your “where”.

Whatever the terminology, the definition of alternative PNT should include some key features. Firstly, we should accept that the solution of choice today is GNSS, and we should define it as primary or co-primary. Next, we should acknowledge that when the primary solution is available and trustworthy, it should always be used, or at least considered. Finally, the primary solution should continually be compared with alternatives to ensure safe and secure provision of PNT to the user. Thus, an alternative PNT solution is one that is readily available; provides an easy and seamless transition to/from the primary or other alternatives; allows continuity of operation at a possibly degraded, yet usable, level of accuracy, availability, integrity or continuity; and is dissimilar enough from alternatives to withstand the effects that might be affecting the primary solution.

Do you agree with the U.S. DOT’s assessment, cited above, of what it will take to make the national PNT much more resilient and reliable? If you do, how do your offerings fit into that framework?

RH: While there are intricate differences in the signals generated by the primary PNT systems, they are all quite similar in terms of frequency and power and are all vulnerable to the same types of interference. Achieving the most resilient solutions will require the use of alternative RF bands and non-RF sources. Having a variety of alternative PNT sources will allow users to integrate the method most applicable to their platform constraints. Integration across the various PNT sources will need time synchronization to take full advantage of the alternate PNT systems. Our offerings work concurrently with GNSS, providing simulation and testing of GNSS and alternative PNT as true complements, while also offering the ability to measure timing accuracy in real time.

DS: Yes, we agree with the DOT’s assessment. However, to be clear, the DOT does not require “LF and UHF terrestrial and L-band satellite broadcasts for PNT functions with supporting fiber-optic time services to transmitters/control segments.” It stated that to achieve resilience, systems “…should involve a plurality of diverse PNT technologies…that show strong performance, operational diversity, operational readiness and cost-effectiveness.” Their demonstrations showed that those technologies they called out meet these criteria. Our solutions have been leading this resilient approach by offering several diverse, alternative PNT references.

We have fielded time-server equipment that operates from both GNSS and eLoran. Our standard offering time servers are equipped with multiple references from GNSS, network-based time services from NTP, PTP and PTP WR; internal references from disciplined atomic clocks; wireline references from IRIG, 1PPS or ASCII time code; and LEO PNT reference from the STL signal.

(Image: SimonSkafar_E+_Getty Images)

L-band or more generally the use of geostationary satellites was until very recently the only communication link for PNT augmentation services, although these signals are weak and easily disturbed or masked, especially at high latitudes. Resilient navigation will clearly need to allow multiple downlinks for corrections such as terrestrial networks (4G/5G) or satellite-based internet. In the mid-term, we expect the correction delivery over IP to become the standard, and L-band corrections to be used as a backup only. All our high-performance products already include an NTRIP client able to handle the IP corrections very easily.

JA: This is certainly one option. Largely, it is borne out of a need to compensate for the disadvantages of GNSS. This larger range of frequencies would provide a range of satellite-borne signals that have different penetration characteristics and information carrying properties but the same core purpose. Therefore, somebody making use of such a system will be better able to receive these signals even when under obstructions. Of course, some obstructions will still be impenetrable to GNSS signals and there is a long way to go to developing a comprehensive solution that can deal with timing differences when the signals travel through objects. It is likely that some other source of timing information, for example through the proposed fiber-optic services, will be necessary to smooth out these issues. Although we will see this much-needed upgrade to cover the shortfalls of GNSS employed, many other alternatives will start to take prominence. It is difficult to say which solution will win out, and it is likely that an upgraded GNSS will continue to dominate for the next decade or two at least. In terms of our offerings, we are exploring all possibilities and keep our core technology open to any position localization method. Of course, we will welcome any new technology that is a viable and improved method of PNT.

CS: I have long been an advocate of a system-of-systems approach simply because there is no PNT solution available yet that works everywhere, under all conditions, for all users, all the time. Many solutions provide only a component of PNT: an INS provides position (the “PN”), and an atomic clock provides time (the “T”). However, an INS does not know “where” it is without initialization and updates, and an atomic clock does not know “when” it is without initialization and updates. Fiber is awesome but is not wireless. Many alternatives depend upon GPS/GNSS as a necessary input. Others are augmentations that depend upon GPS/GNSS as inputs and not direct alternatives, such as space-based or land-based augmentation systems. Some are mode-dependent — such as VOR, DME, ILS, and TACAN for aviators — and thus not useful to other modes: time/frequency, maritime, land-mobile or handheld.

So, yes, we agree with the government’s assessment that low-frequency (LF), generally referring to eLoran in the United States, is the best, very wide area, terrestrial, wireless alternative, and is an essential component of any resilient PNT framework. Irrespective of whether the implementation is Loran-C, eLoran or LFPhoenix, LF is the lowest cost terrestrial PNT solution per million square miles of coverage. All our offerings are focused on the LF portion of the resilience framework. Our offerings easily integrate with any existing PNT technology and have proven in real-world government testing their ability to survive heavy jamming and spoofing environments.

What markets and applications do you target?

RH: Spirent Federal provides simulation test solutions to U.S. government and affiliated organizations. Applications range from core GNSS receiver development to real-time, hardware-in-the-loop system integrations. We have a long history of supplying the U.S. government and contractors with first-to-market products, from Y-code, SAASM, inertial and M-code, to sensor fusion of the latest alternative signals and sensors. We provide test solutions to safety-critical applications that are expected to have the same level of operational performance both in GNSS-available and GNSS-denied environments. Providing a single test platform that can help validate performance in both environments has received positive responses from users in the autonomous vehicle industry.

DS: Aerospace and defense, data-center and communication networks, public safety, industrial control, search and rescue, and space.

Autonomous self-driving mobility solutions move people and goods at appropriate speeds in urban and campus environments. (Image: SBG Systems)

MN: SBG targets a large range of applications including from a relatively small BVLOS drone for remote operation to large hydrographic vessels or airborne survey. We divide the applications into two main categories:
- Surveying and mapping, where the inertial navigation system is used to stabilize the measurements from a lidar, sonar or camera to generate high-precision maps.
- Control applications, where the PNT and orientation solution is used in real time to feed autopilot or to stabilize a camera. These applications include unmanned vehicles, machine control, camera pointing and more. High resilience is then critical to ensure safe navigation.
JA: Two main applications we are targeting with alternative PNT are surveying and ADAS systems. Both of these applications often make extensive use of lidar systems. We are therefore looking at lidar-based simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) algorithms to aid PNT or to provide relative position localization without GNSS. In cases when GNSS is totally unavailable, it is usually possible to set up ground control points. Although these cases are limited, they give much more flexibility in options. Anticipating a future where autonomous driving is the norm and not the exception, new building projects will need to be planned with the adequate systems in place to allow for them, and this will include a system such as UWB.

CS: Our employees have been involved in the design, development, deployment or sustainment of every Loran-C and eLoran system site in the world (transmission, control or monitor) since the mid-1970s, including components of the Russian Chayka system. Our service provider and end-user technologies are operationally proven in commercial and military environments. We specifically target the maintenance and upgrade of existing systems, as well as the implementation of new systems, globally.

Which of your products directly address the need for alternative PNT?

RH: In a broad sense, Spirent offers a market-proven and innovation-driven solution portfolio for the simulation of inertial sensors through the SimINERTIAL and SimSENSOR product lines, seamlessly integrated with our GNSS simulation. Spirent is actively engaged with several alternative RF vendors to incorporate signal simulation capability and will offer an alternative RF navigation product in 2021 called SimAltNav Replay. This product will allow for concurrent GNSS and alternative RF signal simulation. Additionally, Spirent offers many other alternative PNT solutions for testing resilient systems for connected vehicles and sensor-fusion algorithms for tactical and military-grade systems. We are developing new products to incorporate an open Ethernet interface allowing for open-source Ethernet-based sensor simulation.

Remotely controlled rovers are used to test and practice complex tasks in Mars-like desert environments. (Artist’s Rendering: Stocktrek Images_Stocktrek Images_Getty Images)

DS: Our time servers are equipped with high-quality precise internal time references such as OCXOs or atomic clocks and then disciplined by external references such as GNSS. They are resilient because they can operate precisely for long periods in GNSS-denied situations as standalone devices in holdover mode or from multiple alternative references, such as:
- network-based NTP, PTP and PTP WR time services
- wireline references from IRIG, 1PPS or ASCII time code
- LEO PNT reference from the STL signal
- eLoran when available
They are also resilient because they detect and mitigate interference from the GNSS signal before it can corrupt the PNT solution.
Our GNSS simulators are adding alternative PNT features to provide a complete test and evaluation solution for resilient PNT systems. We have recently added INS/IMU test features and have integrated with Anritsu’s cellular test stations to evaluate and qualify combined GNSS/cellular location functions. Orolia GNSS simulators support generation of custom GNSS signals and playback of IQ waveforms, and provide complete toolsets for GNSS jamming and spoofing testing. This allows creation of the threat environment to allow evaluation of alternate PNT signals as backup or alternative to GNSS. Orolia offers an open-source framework allowing any end user to develop their own sensor plug-in leveraging the Skydel simulation engine.

Our Resilient PNT for Defense product line includes the VersaPNT, which uses alternate non-GNSS PNT sensors such as IMUs, barometers, wheel ticks, INS and non-GPS-based LEO satellites. Alternate RF navigation or non-GNSS sources of radio frequency (RF) are of interest in highly degraded or contested signal environments. Interest is focused on low-Earth-orbit (LEO) constellations. These systems offer high receiver signal power (relative to GNSS) and a secure and resilient link to augment GNSS.

MN: All our products are designed to answer to challenging GNSS conditions, starting with our Ellipse series, which includes an industrial-grade IMU capable of coping with short-term GNSS outages. Its miniature size allows integration in robotics and also makes it suitable for cost-sensitive applications. Our Apogee and Horizon series, with their navigation-grade IMUs, are the most resilient systems in the event of GNSS outages. These products reach very high-end performance in real time, but become exceptional when used with our post-processing software Qinertia. Tightly coupled algorithms make the solution capable of coping with long-term GNSS outages.

JA: We have previously created solutions using retroreflective strips for path following with driving robots. and we are also compatible with Locata’s system, a large infrastructure solution popular for automation in shipping ports. More recently, we have released an offering for UWB in an integration with Pozyx. This is perfect for GNSS-denied environments as a direct replacement for what GNSS can provide in terms of position information. We are also exploring alternative ways to synchronize clocks and get timing information. This year we have developed PTP functionality on all of our devices. Alternative PNT is going to be vital as we look to the future of navigation and thinking about how we can navigate flawlessly anywhere and address more complex environments, particularly urban areas.

CS: We are focused on the provision of terrestrial low-frequency equipment and systems for primary, co-primary, alternative, complementary and backup PNT. We provide all the products and services required to design, develop, install, certify, operate and maintain Loran-C, eLoran and LFPhoenix equipment and systems. We provide the technology to perform coverage diagrams and site surveys; all the equipment required at a transmission site; all the equipment required at a differential reference station or quality-of-service site; all the equipment required for a monitor and control site; ASF measurement and analysis equipment; and various models of end-user equipment (including receivers and antennas) for the timing/frequency, maritime, aviation, land-mobile and handheld markets.
August 16, 2021
BAE Systems chooses Spirent Federal CRPA test system
For controlled reception pattern antenna (CRPA) testing and M-code testing for military GPS receivers

Image: Spirent Federal

BAE Systems has selected Spirent Federal Systems to provide a CRPA Test System to support M-code military GPS technology development.

BAE Systems is developing an advanced military GPS receiver and improving the capabilities of size-constrained and power-constrained military GPS applications, including precision-guided munitions and handheld devices.

Spirent Federal is qualified to provide essential test equipment and support in the pursuit of resilient, accurate PNT data in GPS-degraded Navigation Warfare (NAVWAR) situations, Spirent stated in a press release.

The Spirent CRPA Test System is a development of its GSS9000 Series platform. It can test
- controlled reception pattern antennas (CRPAs)
- MNSA and AES M-code
- jamming and spoofing threats and mitigation
- ultra-high-dynamic vehicle applications
- inertial navigation systems
- additional encrypted military signals, Y-code and SAASM
- and more
CRPAs provide proven and effective protection against jamming in high-interference environments. The Spirent CRPA Test System can simulate 16+ individual elements with a separate RF output per antenna element.

For the 16-element test system, concurrent simulation of GNSS signals, signals from spoofers and repeaters, and interference from multiple jammers — including Blue Force Electronic Attack (BFEA) jamming waveforms — results in more than 1,000 simultaneous independent channels and signals simulated across a phase-calibrated precise wavefront.

“The CRPA Test System is the culmination of over 35 years of R&D and industry leadership and is perfectly positioned to help with next-generation MGUE modernization,” said Ellen Hall, president/CEO of Spirent Federal. “Our robust M-code test capabilities support BAE Systems’ advances in M-code technology.”

Spirent can provide GNSS and interference signal simulation solutions for every stage in the CRPA design and verification process. To learn more, visit Spirent Federal’s CRPA Test System page.
July 13, 2021
How inertial and alternative PNT can mitigate GPS vulnerabilities
While GPS will always be an integral and irreplaceable part of positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) technology, assured PNT must take a layered approach for true resiliency.

A GPS World webinar sponsored by Spirent Federal Systems will explore this topic. Registration is now open for the free webinar, which will be held June 24.

Join experts from Spirent and Northrop Grumman as they examine
- the future of inertial navigation in assured PNT and GPS augmentation
- EGI-Modernization
- coherent GNSS and inertial sensor emulation
- exploring and simulating emerging alternative space-based PNT RF signals.
Expert presentations will be followed by a question-and-answer session; questions will be accepted both before and during the webinar.

To register for the webinar, visit this link. Registration is free.

Content Marketing Webinar

GPS Vulnerability Mitigation: Using Inertial & Alternative RF PNT

Date: Thursday, June 24, 2021
Time: 1 p.m. EDT / 10 a.m. PDT / 7 p.m. (1900h) Central European Time
Duration: 60 minutes + extra time for Q&A
Sponsored content by: Spirent Federal

Speakers

Jennifer Smith
Director, Business Development
Spirent Federal Systems

Jennifer Smith joined Spirent Federal in 2004. Jen has responsibilities in business development as well as in general operations. She has experience in project management and contract negotiations.

Smith has a B.A. and a J.D. and is a member of the Utah Bar Association.

Naveen Joshi
Director, BD & Strategy, Navigation & Cockpit Systems
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems

Naveen Joshi leads the Strategy and Business Development for Northrop Grumman’s Navigation and Integrated Cockpit business. He sets product strategy, shapes technology roadmaps, and advises Northrop Grumman leaders on the application of PNT technologies. His previous roles at Northrop include program director, program manager, engineering manager and various roles in engineering.

Outside of Northrop Grumman, Joshi held roles in management consulting and eCommerce, and ran an entrepreneurial venture.

Joshi earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Cornell University and an MBA from UCLA’s Anderson School of Management.

Mark Holbrow
Senior Director, Engineering & Product Development
Spirent Communications

Mark Holbrow’s 30-year professional career has concentrated on the innovative design, development, and successful commercialization of electronic test equipment.

In his current role, he is responsible for the technical team management, new product design, and future direction of Spirent’s portfolio of world-leading positioning, navigation, and time (PNT) test solutions.

Holbrow has a passion for the sometimes overlooked discipline of “test methodology” and thoroughly enjoys the technical and business development demands required to identify, and innovatively solve, complex test challenges.

Roger Hart
Director, Engineering
Spirent Federal Systems

Roger Hart joined Spirent Federal in 2015. Roger has responsibilities in engineering development and support, sales and customer training. He has worked in development of spacecraft navigation systems, including GPS, for civil, NASA and defense applications since 1986.

Hart has a Bachelor of Arts in physics and Master of Science in mechanical engineering (space track) from Utah State University.
To register for the webinar, visit this link. Registration is free.
May 26, 2021
2021 Simulator Buyers Guide
In our 10th annual Simulator Buyers Guide, we feature simulator tools, devices and software from 10 prominent companies that aid GNSS receiver manufacturers in product design.

SPIRENT FEDERAL SYSTEMS CAST NAVIGATION OROLIA

LABSTAT SYNTONY GNSS WORK MICROWAVE OHB DIGITAL SOLUTIONS

QASCOM JACKSON LABS TECHNOLOGIES TELEORBIT GMBH

SPIRENT FEDERAL SYSTEMS

The GSS6450 RF record and playback system. (Photo: Spirent)

GSS9000, SimMNSA, CRPA test system, anechoic chamber testing, mid-range testing

Spirent Federal Systems provides PNT/GNSS test equipment that covers all applications, including research and development, integration/ verification, and production testing.

GSS9000. The GSS9000 Series Multi-Frequency, Multi-GNSS RF Constellation Simulator is Spirent’s most comprehensive simulation solution. It can simulate signals from all GNSS and regional navigation systems and has a recently-enhanced system iteration rate (SIR) of 2 kHz (0.5 ms), enabling higher dynamic simulations with more accuracy and fidelity. The GSS9000 supports restricted/classified signals, Alt RF, and other non-GNSS sensors. Users can evaluate the resilience of navigation systems to interference and spoofing attacks, and have the flexibility to reconfigure constellations, channels, and frequencies between test runs or test cases.

The GSS9000 Constellation Simulator. (Photo: Spirent)

SimMNSA. Spirent Federal has the first fully-approved MNSA M-code simulator. Authorized users of the GSS9000 series of simulators will be able to utilize the advanced capabilities of SimMNSA to create more robust solutions for their customers. SimMNSA has been granted security approval by the Global Positioning System Directorate.

CRPA Test System. Spirent’s Controlled Reception Pattern Antenna (CRPA) Test System generates both GNSS and interference signals. Users can control multiple antenna elements. Null-steering and space/ time adaptive CRPA testing are both supported by this comprehensive approach.

Anechoic Chamber Testing. Spirent’s GSS9790 Multi-Output, Multi-GNSS RF Constellation Wave-Front Simulator System is a development of the GSS9000. The GSS9790 provides the core element for GNSS applications that require a test system that can be used in both conducted (lab) and radiated (chamber) conditions.

Mid-Range Solutions. Spirent also offers solutions that cater to intermediate GPS/GNSS testing needs. The GSS7000 multi-constellation simulator provides an easy-to-use solution for GNSS testing that can grow with users’ requirements. The GSS6450 RF record and playback system enables repeated replay of a real-world GNSS/GPS test in the lab.

[email protected]
spirentfederal.com
801-785-1448

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CAST NAVIGATION

Photo: CAST Navigation

Wavefront simulation solutions

CAST-CRPA. The CAST-CRPA Simulation System produces a coherent wavefront of GPS RF signals to provide repeatable testing in the laboratory environment or anechoic chamber. The CAST CRPA system is configurable for any number of coherent outputs that users want.

With an intercard carrier-phase error of less than 1 millimeter, the CAST-CRPA Simulation System is extremely accurate.

The system generates a wavefront of GPS signals 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 signal generator cards in each bank. The CRPA antenna, the antenna electronics and the GPS receiver can be tested as a unit with or without radiating signals.

CAST-CRPA features
- Generates single coherent wavefront of GPS signals
- 6-degrees-of-freedom motion generation capability
- Complete space vehicle constellation editing
- Post-mission processing
- 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 message
- Modeled selective availability
- Time-tagged satellite events
- Directional jamming
castnav.com
[email protected]
978-858-0130

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OROLIA

Skydel GSG-8 (Photo: Orolia)

Advanced simulators for both defense and OEM

Orolia advanced GNSS simulators offer a wide breadth and depth of simulation tools to test mission-critical positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) applications and scenarios. They are feature-rich and easy to use, providing a way to harden GPS/GNSS-based systems without the limitations of live-sky testing.

Skydel — Advanced Software-Defined Simulators

Skydel Simulation Engine. This flexible, high-performance simulator transmits GNSS digital signals in real time to many kinds of software-defined radios. Skydel uses graphics processing units (GPUs) to compute the digital GNSS signals of all simulated satellites, scaling from simple to complex use cases. Skydel simulates civil signals from global and regional navigation satellite systems, many kinds of GNSS receiver trajectories with high dynamics, and advanced jamming and spoofing. All Skydel models offer these features:
- Easy configuration with intuitive UI and automation
- Support for global constellations and frequencies
- Support for jamming, spoofing and repeating, including jamming waveforms
- Comprehensive API (Python, C#, C++, LabVIEW)
- Advanced signal customization and scenario creation
- Ability to integrate interference with no additional hardware
- 1000-Hz simulation iteration rate
- IQ file generation and playback
- Ability to record and export user interactions as Python script
GSG-8. This software-defined system GSG8 is a globally available hardware platform for aerospace and critical infrastructure applications. It will support future EU encrypted signals. The rack-mounted unit has the option of one to four RF outputs and is configurable.

BroadSim. Designed for military NAVWAR applications, the BroadSim software-defined simulator supports encrypted military codes (Y-code, M-AES and M-MNSA) and provides documentation and procedures for classified operations. BroadSim has two GPUs and four RF outputs. It runs on a custom Linux operating system, with RMF STIG support coming soon.

Skydel Anechoic. This simulator system for radiated over-the-air testing is designed for testing CRPA/multi-element antennas, antenna electronics and entire PNT systems in an anechoic chamber.

Skydel Wavefront. This GNSS simulator system for conducted wavefront testing is designed to test the jamming/spoofing resiliency of CRPA and multi-element antenna electronic systems, and for applications with high dynamics.

GSG 5/6 Scenario-Based Simulators. The GSG 5/6 enable testing of smart applications such as drones, the internet of things, connected cars and cellular. They provide a comprehensive set of pre-defined scenarios and the ability to create scenarios. They simulate all constellations and frequencies as well as movements and trajectories anywhere on or above Earth.

Application packages are available for real-time kinematic, eCall, high-velocity, jamming and sensors.

orolia.com
[email protected]

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LABSAT

Photo: Racelogic

Labsat 3 wideband and satgen software

LabSat 3 Wideband. The LabSat 3 Wideband is a compact yet powerful multi-constellation and multi-frequency GNSS testing solution. The easy-to-use, one-touch record-and-replay function provides an efficient way to test and develop GNSS-based technology without the cost and limitations of live-sky signals.

It is lightweight and portable and makes it easy to collaborate with colleagues by sharing scenario files over the internet — making it a suitable testing partner for remote working. Additionally, the removeable solid-state drive (an SSD of up to 7 terabytes) and a two-hour runtime provided by an internal battery is ready for field testing in any environment.

LabSat 3 Wideband can record and replay up to three different channels at 56-MHz bandwidth across all major constellations and signals, including:
- GPS: L1/L2/L5
- Galileo: E1/E1a/E5a/E5b/E6
- GLONASS: L1/L2/L3
- BeiDou: B1/B2/B3
- NavIC: L5/S-band
- QZSS: L1/L2/L5
- L-band correction services including SBAS
- 2x CAN and 4x digital input channels tightly synchronized with GNSS data
- Future signal launches are also supported, including L2C, L5 and L1C
SatGen Simulation Software. SatGen software allows users to quickly create bespoke, accurate scenarios with their own time, location and trajectory that can be replayed via a LabSat GNSS simulator.

The latest version of SatGen can be used to create a single scenario containing all the upper and lower L-band signals for GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, BeiDou and NavIC.

[email protected]
labsat.co.uk

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Syntony GNSS

Photo: Syntony GNSS

High-end GNSS simulation solutions for R&D, integration and product testing

Constellator. Syntony’s GNSS simulator Constellator supports all constellation signals available and provides a high level of service in different ranges. It covers, in a single unit, a wide spectrum of use cases from entry-level with L1C/A up to very demanding configurations such as multifrequency and up to 660 L1C/A-equivalent signals. Extensively used in aeronautics, space and defense industries, Constellator answers complex requirements:
- Standalone mode (on the ground and in space)
- Multi-frequencies
- All constellations and their signals, including BeiDou, Navic/IRNSS and QZSS
- Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) mode with zero effective latency and 1000-Hz update rate
- CRPA generation capability
- Capability to generate “Restricted Signals” through a dedicated interface, called PRN-Link
In the space industry, Constellator implements the advanced models (Earth gravity, drag, 3D ionospheric models, side lobes, etc.) needed to achieve accurate simulations for all kinds of orbits (from LEO to GEO and SSTO). Combined with other Syntony GNSS simulation products (interference generator, Echo recorder and player), Constellator can tackle challenging use cases such as testing of jamming, spoofing, multipath and multiple antennas. It is based on a software-defined radio, making it hardware-ready for future constellations, signals and codes. It is easily upgradeable and versatile.

GNSS Recorder and player. Echo is an ultra-high-fidelity GNSS record-and-playback solution that captures real-life signals and environments — for instance, from airplanes — and then replays them for R&D or production tests. Echo offers:
- 3 RF channels of 100-MHz bandwidth each (for the whole set of GNSS signals from all constellations)
- 16-bit resolution (I&Q)
- From seven to more than 1,000 hours of record/replay capabilities depending on the configuration
The Echo platform allows full 16 bits of I/Q recording at 100 Mhz for three channels, simultaneously. As such, it provides the highest achievable record/replay fidelity. Echo-R can also record complex and very long realistic scenarios from a simulator. Echo-P can replay them with very high fidelity for long-run or production tests.

Please contact Remy Thellier (based in San Francisco) for North America at 415.599.9230, or contact the EMEA Sales team at:
[email protected]
syntony-gnss.com
+33.5.81.319.919

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Work Microwave

Xidus-648 (Photo: Work Microwave)

Xidus GNSS Simulator — adaptable, flexible, extensible

The advanced customization and configurability of Xidus enables users to perform rigorous and extensive testing of GNSS systems.

Test scenarios. Xidus meets all requirements regarding multi-GNSS, multi-frequency and multi-RF signal generation out of the box. Innovative Xidus signal extension and enhancement (SEE) technology allows users to integrate bespoke generation blocks into the signal generation path. In addition, Xidus’ advanced support capabilities allow remote support and updates, remote training and even remote scenario execution.

Easy hardware or software upgrades. Xidus has modular signal generation hardware that allows easy and robust field upgrades. New modules are automatically calibrated, allowing users to accomodate multiple concurrent navigation development projects.

Expert background. WORK Microwave has been designing and building GNSS simulators for more than 15 years. The Xidus hardware leverages WORK Microwave’s 35+ years of experience in the design and manufacturing of bespoke digital and analogue microwave products.

Xidus-Studio (Photo: Work Microwave)

Xidus-424 GNSS Simulator. The Xidus-424 has up to 128 LOS channels, 512 multipath channels and two RF outputs. It supports all GNSS frequencies and signals. It supports an update rate up to 100 Hz and has very wide dynamic power range configurability.

Xidus-648 GNSS Simulator. The Xidus-648 provides all the capabilities of the Xidus-424 plus additional features: up to 256 LOS channels, 1,024 multipath channels, four RF outputs and a 1000-Hz update rate.

Xidus-Studio client software. The software provides everything for testing GNSS systems: different vehicle models with 6DOF, multiple vehicle simulation, spoofing and meaconing, multiple TX antenna patterns, multiple RX antenna patterns, industry-standard error models and runtime distortions on individual channels. Xidus-Studio also allows the design of bespoke satellite orbits ranging from LEO to GEO. Available on Linux and Windows.

Xidus Series. Connect up to four Xidus units to produce a simulator capable of mega-constellation simulation, with precise phase synchronization across units.

work-microwave.com
[email protected]
+49 8024 6408 222

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OHB Digital Solutions

Photo: OHB

GIPSIE-RTX (GNSS Multisystem Performance Simulation Environment – Real Time Extension)

GIPSIE-RTX is a fully featured GNSS signal generator with real-time streaming functionality, including real-time control of the simulation environment. It consists of a high-quality signal simulator as the hardware platform and a flexible and powerful GNSS simulation environment.

The multi-system and multifrequency-capable GIPSIE-RTX simulates arbitrary satellite orbits using a sophisticated orbit integrator. It is able to model all error sources, delays and propagation effects. These include various models for satellite clocks, ionosphere and troposphere, multipath, signal power, antenna patterns and noise. In addition, multiple types of signal interference, like jamming and spoofing, can be defined. Customized navigation message formats and contents can be used to simulate future GNSS signal features.

Besides generating RF signals, GIPSIE-RTX is also capable of directly simulating digital signals, taking into account user-defined modeling of a radio-frequency front end. Comprehensive data logging of all intermediate results is available for detailed analyses.

GIPSIE-RTX provides a real-time input interface and thus supports hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, such as for automotive applications.

GIPSIE-RTX Features
GIPSIE-RTX is a new compact multi-channel high performance platform for complex and versatile GNSS testing. Features include:
- Highly reproducible scenarios
- Modeling of all error sources, delays and propagation effects
- Interference (jamming and spoofing) simulation
- HIL simulation
- Synchronization of multiple simulators for advanced testing (e.g., array antenna)
- Two separate RF outputs per device
- Supported GNSS signals:
  - GPS: L1 C/A, L2C, L5
  - Galileo: E1 B/C, E5a-I/Q, E5b-I/Q
  - GLONASS: G1 C/A, G2 C/A
  - BeiDou: B1, B2
  - NavIC: L5 SPS, S-Band SPS
  - QZSS: L1 C/A, L2C, L5
  - SBAS: L1 C/A
- Constellation update rate: up to 250 Hz
- Number of channels: up to 128
ohb-digital.at
[email protected]
+43-316-890971-0

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Qascom

Photo: Qascom

QA707 cyber-security simulator

QA707 is the cutting edge solution for global threat GNSS awareness and management. It is a GNSS simulator specifically designed to test cyber-attacks and authentication, and includes the simulation of GNSS interference, deception, jamming, spoofing and advanced cyber-threats such as data and code level attacks.

The high flexibility in the creation of the scenarios and the definition of the type of attacker allow cyber-threat and vulnerability testing for several applications,These applications may include, for example, autonomous driving and vehicle tracking, aeronautics and high dynamics applications, space GNSS receivers and timing.

OSNMA support. The Galileo Open Service Navigation Message Authentication (OSNMA) simulation is an opportunity to test the new Galileo data protected service against a number of known vulnerabilities in GNSS applications. The OSNMA simulator is also available as a standalone tool, allowing the generation of OSNMA data that can be used with third party simulators.

PC-capable. QA707 runs on a standard PC. It is compatible with several third-party hardware RF up-converters, including National Instruments’ USRP. Additionally, it can support customer-specific hardware through the hardware API interface.

QA707 main features
- - Multi constellation (currently GPS L1, GALILEO E1, SBAS L1).
  - Galileo OSNMA
  - RF simulation, binary file dump, signal record and replay
  - Support to SDR platforms and open API for custom RF upconverters
  - Runtime streaming of scenario information over UDP (motion, channel data)
  - Data level cyber-attacks
  - Accurate spoofing signals control, trajectory spoofing, signal replay attacks
  - Narrow band, wide band, frequency modulated jamming
  - Integrity threats (on request): evil waveform, erroneous ephemerides, code/carrier divergence, low satellite signal power, excessive range acceleration
  - Built-in editing tools: Rinex editor, trajectory editor
[email protected]
qascom.it

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Jackson Labs Technologies (JLT)

CLAW (Photo: Jackson Labs Technologies)

Miniature simulator and scenario generator

The 18-channel miniature full-constellation CLAW GPS Simulator is a fully self-contained, low size, weight, power and cost (SWaP-C) miniature GPS simulator. It is very popular in manufacturing environments as well as R&D applications that require consistent and repeatable local GNSS signals at low price points.

The CLAW simulator does not require external computers for processing and control — it works fully self-contained by simply applying power, and storing location/time/date data in internal non-volatile (NV) memory, or by storing complex vector data to simulate highly dynamic scenarios.

The CLAW also can be used to transcode NMEA or SCPI position/velocity/time (PVT) data into GPS RF signals. JLT offers an easy to use, highly configurable and cost-free SimCon Windows application program that is downloadable from the JLT website.

The SimCon application allows random scenario generation and is thus usable to simulate leap-second events, week 1023 rollover events, or any other GPS live-sky scenarios, including highly complex yet easy-to-create dynamic vector simulations.

For authorized U.S. government users, a version that does not have altitude and velocity limitations is popular for low-Earth-orbit (LEO) simulations. Multipath simulation allows use of the entire 18-channel simulator capability.

The unit can be field-upgraded with an easy to use in-field software upgrade feature. The CLAW is also very useful in GNSS receiver sensitivity testing for R&D or mass-production assembly lines as it allows accurate control of RF output power ranging from –100 dBm to less than –130 dBm with 0.1-dB resolution and typically better than 1-dB accuracy over the controllable power range.

The CLAW GPS Simulator also has a built-in RF signal generator with sweep, CW and random noise functions that are useful in simulating GNSS jamming scenarios, as well as GPS spoofing scenarios. The simulator comes in an FCC-certified metal desktop enclosure with numerous accessories.

For 2021, the CLAW firmware has been updated to allow live-sky almanac and ephemerides to be automatically uploaded from various externally connected GNSS receivers. This makes simulations using real-time live-sky constellations (such as used in simulating spoofing attacks) an easy task. A free firmware update is available from JLT.

[email protected]
jackson-labs.com
702-233-1334

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TeleOrbit GmbH

MGSE REC/REP 2.0 (Photo: ©Fraunhofer IIS)

Versatile GNSS test and simulation environment

The MGSE product family creates a versatile GNSS test and simulation environment that improves the development, qualiﬁcation and certiﬁcation process of GNSS receivers within development phases and for the validation and certification in end-to-end tests.

MGSE enables mobile and stationary interference monitoring, such as for protecting critical infrastructures (based on MGSE REC), and can be used for interference mitigation if combined with TeleOrbit’s GNSSA-6E (six-element antenna array) or its GNSSA-DCP (dual circularly polarized antenna).

With MGSE REC-REP 2.0 users can, among other tasks, record Galileo PRS signals in a real user environment and replay them for Galileo PRS receiver testing. It is also possible to replay simulated GNSS signals.

MGSE SIM-REP supports the development of software-defined radios/receivers (SDR) or specialized algorithms by creating a simulation environment that provides the possibility and flexibility to use synthetically generated GNSS data and recorded real-world samples — both exactly reproducible.
For jamming and spoofing test and evaluation, TeleOrbit offers a sophisticated solution based on the MGSE simulation, recording and replaying product family.

Technical background. The multi-band RF front-end (MGSE REC) receives the GNSS RF signals in different frequency bands simultaneously to obtain digital IF data, which can be used for GNSS multi-system signal analysis and comparison.

MGSE REC also includes a reception board to receive and process the NavIC S-band signal in addition to other L-band frequencies.

The MGSE Replay Unit (MGSE REP) includes a flexible multi-band RF replay device that can stream simulated and recorded raw IF data to a digital baseband output or to an analog RF signal.

MGSE REP simultaneously supports up to two independent RF channels and up to four GNSS signals, such as L1, E1, B1, G1.

Jürgen Seybold, CTO, [email protected]
teleorbit.eu/en/satnav/
March 5, 2021
Editorial Advisory Board PNT Q&A: Autonomous vehicles & GNSS

How is the completion of Galileo and BeiDou affecting the development of autonomous vehicles?

Ismael Colomina, chief scientist, Geonumerics

“GNSS has had a limited impact on the development of AVs because their developers regard it as insufficiently accurate, reliable, and ubiquitous. Only a minority of them are aware of the benefits that the new/modernized constellations bring. More and improved signals and new services— both commercial and public—such as Galileo’s HAS, NMA and CAS will enable and complement visual, lidar and radar sensors for SAE levels of automation 2 and higher and for ASIL D safety levels.”
Ismael Colomina
GeoNumerics

Ellen Hall, Spirent Federal System

“Safety is critical to the implementation of AVs and this safety relies upon PNT accuracy, availability and robustness. These three requirements all benefit from constellation diversification in terms of multiple signals, frequencies, satellites, and constellation providers. In addition to the four civilian signals available on three frequencies from the GPS constellation, signals from Galileo and BeiDou provide suitably equipped receivers with extra satellites, signals and ground segment diversity.”
Ellen Hall
Spirent Federal Systems

Brad Parkinson

“The economic potential of self-driving vehicles is the major driver for their development. Can they be made affordable, safe, dependable, and useful? More operational GNSS constellations may help resolve these issues favorably, but GNSS progress should not significantly influence the large number of developers. My favorite such application is long-haul trucking, which may have some very favorable profit and safety benefits.”
Bradford W. Parkinson
Stanford Center for Position, Navigation and Time

December 14, 2020
A look at Spirent Federal’s enhanced GSS9000 GNSS simulator

At ION GNSS+ 2019, Spirent Federal Systems’ Jeff Martin and Spirent Communications’ Adam Price discuss the company’s latest product: the GSS9000 GNSS simulator series. According to the company, the simulator boasts up to 320 channels and 10 independent RF outputs.

December 1, 2020
Spirent Federal to support NASA for GNSS testing

Photo: Elen11/iStock / Getty Images Plus/Getty Images

NASA has selected Spirent Federal Systems for testing GNSS for lunar exploration.

The U.S. Space-Based Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT) Policy tasked the NASA Administrator to develop and provide requirements for the use of GPS and its augmentations to support civil space systems. NASA is exploring the viability and enhancement of GPS and GNSS signals in the Space Service Volume and beyond to support operational U.S. missions and civil space systems. Spirent GNSS solutions and expertise will support testing of the GNSS receivers intended to be deployed in the upcoming lunar exploration, the company said.

“For over two decades, NASA and other space users have selected us to provide leading-edge test and development solutions for missions ranging from short suborbital flights to weeks-long orbits beyond geosynchronous altitudes,” said Ellen Hall, president at Spirent Federal Systems. “Working collaboratively with our customers enables us to meet their demanding test and development needs with the trusted solutions for which Spirent is known.”

November 17, 2020
Simulator suppliers discuss latest technology and trends

The number of GNSS constellations, satellites and signals is constantly growing. The threats to GNSS — from unintentional radio frequency interference (RFI), jamming, spoofing, multipath… and Federal Communications Commission rulings — are increasing, as are the public’s expectations of GNSS accuracy.

All these factors contribute to the need for ever more powerful and advanced simulators that can realistically simulate a wide range of optimal and suboptimal environments. That is why simulators are a rapidly growing sector of the GNSS industry.

At present, the main defense against jamming are continuous radiation pattern antennas (CRPA). Therefore, it is essential that simulators be able to accurately reproduce signals from CRPAs. They are even more useful when they can generate M-code (MNSA) signals, which not all simulators do.

Additionally, the development of autonomous vehicles requires engineers to simulate driving millions of miles, under a variety of environmental and traffic circumstances. To accomplish this in a reasonable amount of time requires them to run simulations faster than in real time, or run many simulations in parallel.
Finally, there is an increasing need to simulate alternative positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) signals being developed as supplements to and substitutes for GNSS signals in circumstances that make the latter unavailable or unreliable.

These are some of the challenges facing manufacturers of GNSS simulators. What follows are their brief descriptions of the approaches they are taking and the innovations they are introducing.

CAST Navigation Orolia Racelogic

Rohde & Schwarz Spirent Federal Systems Syntony GNSS

CAST Navigation

John Clark
VP of Engineering

What is your most recent innovation?
Our latest simulator innovations contain wave-front generation signal technology, which allows you to generate GNSS and interference signals that represent the received signals for each antenna element in a phased array antenna manifold, usually referred to as a controlled radiation pattern antenna (CRPA). Our modular design approach enables users to simulate IMU data commensurate with the wave-front signals for a complete coherent GNSS/IMU simulation that is ideal for stimulating receivers that contain CRPA and IMU capabilities. Our simulators also contain proprietary synchronization technology that allows users to synchronize multiple systems to produce a “wave-front” of GNSS and IMU signals for multiple vehicles, or even an entire fleet.

Photo: CAST Navigation

What is your approach to jamming and spoofing?
CAST Navigations’ family of GNSS simulators are capable of realistically simulating a wide range of suboptimal conditions—such as jamming/spoofing, multipath, RF interference and satellite constellation perturbations—for virtually any commercial or military environment. Our interference signals or “jammers” can be located at any terrestrial location and can be static or dynamic in nature. A distinguishing feature of CAST Navigations’ simulation systems is that our interference signals are phase-controlled and coherent, allowing for proper phase transmission of each signal type for each receiving antenna element. You can also add an INS capability to any of our systems. These types of systems are perfect for testing GNSS and GNSS/INS types of navigation equipment.

What’s coming by 2023?
One of the key trends is the ability to generate M-code (MNSA) signals. Jamming and spoofing are becoming more prevalent, not just to the military but also to consumers. Every day, the military, as well as people like you and me, are starting to encounter more instances of interference that can deny GNSS equipment and even phones the ability to track some GNSS satellites or that transmit incorrect GNSS data, causing receivers to display incorrect position solutions. So, our focus is on products and capabilities that enable our customers to simulate those types of environments and help them to mitigate those kinds of events.

Orolia

Lisa Perdue
Product Manager

What is your most recent innovation?
At Orolia we continue to evolve our innovative software-defined simulator approach. Our most recent innovation is our advanced spoofing option. We have taken our ability to define multiple jamming transmitters, each with their own trajectory and antenna pattern, and added the ability for the transmitters to send spoofing signals as well. By utilizing our capability to run multiple simulations on a single system, we give the user the ability to control every parameter of the generated spoofing constellation(s). The system automatically calculates the signal time of flight and the propagation loss, making this advanced capability powerful and easy to use.

What is your approach to jamming and spoofing?
Simulation of threat environments is a critical component of GNSS receiver testing. As awareness of the impact that jamming and spoofing can have on a GNSS-based system rises, so does the need to test. That is why we have implemented advanced jamming and spoofing options into our Skydel simulator’s core engine. Replication of degraded environments with threats ranging from one to hundreds is possible using the same hardware and software used for generating GNSS signals. No third-party hardware or software is required for complete testing against jamming and spoofing because we feel that this capability should be part of the core system, not an afterthought.

Photo: Orolia

What’s coming by 2023?
In the coming years, we expect to see more requirements for simulation of alternative positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) signals. As governments and organizations continue to investigate alternate technologies, it will become necessary to simulate low Earth orbit (LEO) PNT, ground-based transmitters, and other signals being considered.

Another growing trend is the adoption of controlled reception pattern antennas (CRPAs) for their anti-jam capabilities. These anti-jam antenna systems can only be tested by specialized simulation systems, so we can imagine these simulation systems being commercialized for a broader market around 2023.

Racelogic

Julian Thomas
Managing Director

What is your most recent innovation?
Recognizing the need of our customers to test their products with a simple solution that uses the latest GNSS signals, we have updated our SatGen software to create accurate simulations using all satellite data currently being transmitted across the various constellations. We have also optimized the performance of SatGen so that a standard desktop PC can be used to simulate these signals in real time. Also, the simulation can now be driven using an external NMEA stream, allowing full remote control of the trajectory.

What is your approach to jamming and spoofing?
The LabSat 3 Wideband records and replays all available GNSS signals in high fidelity, allowing jamming and spoofing signals to be reproduced accurately on the test bench.

Photo: Racelogic

What’s coming by 2023?
With so many employees now working from home due to COVID-19, the pressing concern for many companies developing GNSS technology is how to provide employees with suitable equipment that is required for them to carry out their jobs efficiently away from the office. Usually these employees would utilize the shared resources of a well-equipped office, with experts on hand to help, but working from home has made access to these devices challenging. Due to LabSat 3’s small size, low cost and ease of use, we have seen a significant increase in sales to companies furnishing their employees with a suitable method of testing their GNSS devices while working from home.

With the advent of a new breed of high-performance, low-cost GNSS receiver, many new applications are being developed in new and exciting sectors, utilizing a level of accuracy previously considered too expensive to be a commercial proposition. The number of GNSS engines will therefore increase rapidly in the marketplace, with a corresponding increase in demand for cost-effective signal simulation for test and development.

Rohde & Schwarz

Markus Irsigler
Product Manager Signal Generators, Power Meters

What is your most recent innovation?
We further improved multi-frequency, multi-constellation simulation capabilities in our high-end segment. The GNSS high-end simulator R&S SMW200A provides signals for all GNSS frequency bands on a single RF output. A second internal RF path can be used for advanced interferer simulation, testing the receiver’s resilience to spoofing or to address dual-antenna scenarios. This keeps setups simple and compact. When more than two RF paths are required, two or more R&S SMW200A can be operated together in a master/slave configuration. Such setups are required for multi-antenna receiver test applications where the signals’ relative carrier phases are analyzed, like CRPA or attitude determination tests. Our new RF ports alignment software automates alignment of the GNSS signals and guarantees correct amplitude, time and phase relations at the RF inputs of the device under test. We also increased the maximum channel count to more than 600 channels to improve testing of multi-constellation, multi-frequency receivers against multipath, jamming and spoofing.

What is your approach to jamming and spoofing?
Besides our recent innovations, Rohde & Schwarz plans to provide new interference simulation capabilities within the GNSS simulator. This new feature will allow the user to replay recorded jammer signals as well as user-defined waveforms. The R&S Pulse Sequencer software helps with the definition of most complex interferer scenarios.

Photo: Rohde & Schwarz

What’s coming by 2023?
Developments in the field of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) aiming for fully autonomous vehicles raise new challenges for reliable PNT solutions. Simulation of interference and jamming scenarios will hence become important in the automotive market. Antenna arrays have proven suitable to counteract RF interference (RFI) by incorporating spatial-processing techniques and might therefore find greater entry into the automotive market. Test solutions must address requirements for simulating all kinds of intentional and unintentional RFI for multi-constellation, multi-frequency and multi-antenna receivers. Apart from simulating GNSS and interference sources, test solutions for autonomous driving will require several other techniques and signals to be applied or simulated, such as RTK/PPP or outputs from other vehicle sensors to perform sensor fusion.

Spirent Federal Systems

Jeff Martin
Vice President, Sales

What is your most recent innovation?
Launched in 2018, SimMNSA became the first MNSA simulator to achieve GPS Directorate security approval. The software enables users to simulate true MNSA M-code with real-time code and message generation, removing the constraints imposed by simulator data sets (SDS). SimMNSA v2.0 does even more. It is able to broadcast nominal M-code conditions and recreate SDS-defined events. It incorporates an advanced editor to edit military navigation (MNAV) content, allows users to craft and define scenarios, and much more.

What is your approach to jamming and spoofing?
Spirent offers numerous capabilities for emulating GNSS signals in the presence of interference and spoofing attacks. Our solutions provide accurate, repeatable and quantifiable signals, enabling customers to conduct accurate tests with trusted results. We can test against internally generated interference enabling multiple “fields” of jammers with various interference types; hundreds of interference signals using external IQ blended with simulator-generated GNSS, and Blue Force Electronic Attack jamming waveforms for testing MGUE devices operating in GPS-denied environments. Spoofing capabilities include signal, navigation data and cyber-level attacks via manipulation of up to 12 copies of each primary GNSS constellation, each fully editable; intuitive spoof attack generation via Spirent’s SimSAFE software option — which also allows live sky synchronization/spoofing, and more.

Photo: Spirent

What’s coming by 2023?
Threats to reliable and accurate GNSS navigation and timing are developing rapidly. Fortunately, innovative solutions for resilient PNT are in development and will continue to challenge the industry for years to come. The ability to simulate these threats and the mitigation techniques to overcome them is changing the landscape for the simulator industry. It’s more important than ever to have up-to-date test tools. Robust signals along with frequency and constellation diversity will continue to drive the market in addition to GNSS backup systems, or AltNav. The FCC has certainly presented the GNSS industry with an immense challenge.

Syntony GNSS

Sylvain Daubas
Simulator Activity Manager

What is your most recent innovation?
Yesterday, GPS systems had to “work.” Today, they must work fine. This is the difference, and all equipment vendors have realized this. It is no longer acceptable to have 200 meters or more of error in an urban environment. Because of the extreme complexity of the electromagnetic situation in the GNSS spectrum, making a reliable and precise location system requires more and more powerful and advanced simulators. This is why the GNSS simulator market is booming.

Among the many new features implemented in Syntony’s GNSS simulator this year, two stand out.

First, 1000-Hz hardware-in-the-loop now allows an accurate simulation for high-dynamic receivers (up to more than 100 Gs!), with zero artifact and zero-effective latency. This is the ultimate in trajectory management.
Second, signal computing capacity has made a significant leap forward due to hardware and software optimizations. Constellator can now simultaneously generate up to 660 L1 C/A-equivalent signals. And this level of performance can be unlocked remotely, without a hardware update.

Photo: Syntony GNSS

What is your approach to jamming and spoofing?
Simulating a GNSS environment with a set of jamming or spoofing signal sources today is the standard. But what about a simulation of an extremely complex urban scene with 50 or 100 jamming/spoofing sources? The only reasonable solution to implement this would be a massive parallel software-defined radio (SDR)-based simulator solution. This is what Syntony can and will do, thanks to its full software GNSS simulator architecture, which can be distributed on a server farm.

What’s coming by 2023?
A revolution is arriving: the possibility of generating a full GNSS simulation including many hundreds of satellites and signals, in real time and in pure software. This is now possible, and Syntony has demonstrated it with the Constellator. This will change the simulation world. First of all, Moore’s law will bring significant improvements to this domain year after year. More importantly, new systems and services will be possible: massive parallel scenario simulation including jamming and spoofing, floating simulator licenses, software as a service, etc. In this trend, playback machines will be needed, and obviously a strong internet connection will be necessary to download hundreds of gigabytes of I/Q files overnight.

Feature image: Samuel King Jr./United States Air Force

October 12, 2020
Webinar to highlight GPS program updates, SMC space enterprise architecture

GPS World, in conjunction with Spirent Federal Systems, will be hosting a webinar on Oct. 8 that will cover GPS program updates, as well as the program’s role in the Space and Missile Systems Center’s (SMC) space enterprise architecture.

The event will also discuss the effects of COVID-19 and any future plans for the GPS program.

Event speakers will include Col. Ryan Colburn, director of SMC’s Spectrum Warfare Division; Shawn Ryan, BAE Systems Navigation & Sensor Systems director of business development for SMC; Mike Shepherd, associate director of business development at Collins Aerospace Mission Systems; and Christopher Hogstrom, engineer at Spirent Federal Systems.

Col. Ryan Colburn leads a team charged with designing and integrating the United States Space Force’s current and future integrated satellite communications and position navigation and timing enterprise architectures. He works with military, commercial, allied and government partners to ensure SMC is able to design, acquire, integrate and field the space systems needed to support today’s warfighters.

Shawn Ryan provides local leadership for all SMC and Los Angeles Industrial NSS efforts and engagement. NSS, headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, develops, designs and manufactures the most advanced GPS receivers and anti-jam GPS antenna electronics for military applications.

Mike Shepherd leads integrated business development for A-PNT, FVL, TITAN and JADC2. Previously, he was the senior manager of the ground U.S. military GPS receiver business and managed major accounts for all branches of the U.S. military users of GPS and A-PNT systems.

Christopher Hogstrom joined Spirent Federal in 2020. He currently supports various engineering efforts as well as customer trainings and product demos. He has worked extensively with adaptive beamforming and its applications in GPS anti-jam technologies. Hogstrom received his Bachelor and Master of Science in Electrical engineering from Brigham Young University.

Register for the event here.

October 2, 2020
Spirent Federal announces M-code updates with SimMNSA v2.0

Photo: Spirent Federal

GNSS simulator company Spirent Federal Systems will soon release SimMNSA 2.0. The release adds advanced scenario controls that enable full recreation of government test vectors while retaining the simple key and fly option of the initial release.

Spirent Federal developed software that supports M-code signals using the Modernized Navstar Security Algorithm (MNSA). SimMNSA 1.0 was released in 2018 and is now used in laboratories throughout the country with receivers from all M-code manufacturers.

“SimMNSA is the first MNSA-based M-code signal simulation to receive government security approval,” said Ellen Hall, President and CEO. “We pride ourselves in being leaders in innovation and we will continue to push ourselves to meet the growing needs of our customers.”

Release 2.0 of Spirent Federal’s SimMNSA is scheduled for later this year. It will be available to authorized users of the GSS9000 Series, at no additional cost to current SimMNSA users under maintenance contracts.

September 15, 2020