C-Nav Hardware Reference Guide
C-Nav Hardware Reference Guide
[Link]
C-Nav Hardware Reference Guide
Contact Information
If you have a problem and cannot find the information you need during the installation or
operation of a C-Nav product, contact:
C-Nav Support:
Phones are answered 24 hours, 7 days a week, with on-call technical support engineers
available.
E-mail: [Link]@[Link]
Web: [Link]
C-Nav Technical Support normal operational hours are 7am to 5pm, Monday through Friday
Central US Standard Time. In addition, our regional offices can provide first line support for the
C-Nav GPS System.
Please reference your unit serial number (located on sticker on the front of the GPS receiver)
when making any service calls.
Notices
C-Nav GPS Systems Hardware Reference Guide
Revision B
October 2009
© C&C Technologies, C-Nav World DGPS, 2009.
Revision History
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C-Nav Hardware Reference Guide
Table of Contents
Contact Information................................................................................................................................ 2
Notices ..................................................................................................................................................... 2
Revision History ..................................................................................................................................... 2
Table of Contents ................................................................................................................................... 3
List of Tables........................................................................................................................................... 5
List of Figures ......................................................................................................................................... 5
Chapter 1 Overview................................................................................7
C-Nav and the Global Positioning System........................................................................................... 7
Differential GPS Positioning .................................................................................................................................7
Sources of GPS Error ...........................................................................................................................................7
Measuring GPS Accuracy.....................................................................................................................................9
Common Values Used with GPS........................................................................................................................10
C-Nav Corrections Service .................................................................................................................................11
How to Access the C-Nav Corrections Service...................................................................................................12
L-band Correction Signal ....................................................................................................................................14
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C-Nav Hardware Reference Guide
List of Tables
Table 1-1: Common Accuracy Measures Used with GPS....................................................................................................................10
Table 1-2: L-band Correction Identifiers and Modes ............................................................................................................................14
Table 2-1: Acceptable Coaxial Cable Lengths .....................................................................................................................................21
Table 3-1: C-Nav3050 Physical and Environmental.............................................................................................................................23
Table 3-2: C-Nav3050 I/O Messages ...................................................................................................................................................23
Table 3-3: C-Nav3050 Connector Assignments ...................................................................................................................................23
Table 3-4: C-Nav3050 Standard, Base, and Airborne Antenna Specifications ....................................................................................24
Table 3-5: C-Nav3050 High-Latitude L-band Helix Antenna ................................................................................................................28
Table 3-6: C-Nav3050 Signal Combiner (High Latitude L-Band Antenna Kit)......................................................................................30
Table 3-7: C-Nav1010 Physical and Environmental.............................................................................................................................33
Table 3-8: C-Nav1010 I/O Messages ...................................................................................................................................................33
Table 3-9: C-Nav1010 Connector Assignments ...................................................................................................................................33
Table 3-10: C-Nav1010 Standard Antenna Specifications ...................................................................................................................34
Table 3-11: C-Nav1010 L-band Antenna Specifications (45° - 25°) .....................................................................................................35
Table 3-12: C-Nav1010 L-band Antenna Specifications (<25°) ...........................................................................................................37
Table 3-13: C-Nav2050 Physical and Environmental...........................................................................................................................40
Table 3-14: C-Nav2050 I/O Messages .................................................................................................................................................40
Table 3-15: C-Nav2050 Connector Assignments .................................................................................................................................40
Table 3-16: C-Nav2050 Standard Antenna ..........................................................................................................................................42
Table 3-17: C-Nav2050 Airborne Antenna ...........................................................................................................................................42
Table 3-18: C-Nav2050R Antenna .......................................................................................................................................................45
Table 4-1: Coax-Seal Product Specifications .......................................................................................................................................84
List of Figures
Figure 1-1: C-Nav Corrections Service Network Coverage .................................................................................................................13
Figure 2-1: C-Nav2050 Antenna Properly Installed on Mast................................................................................................................16
Figure 2-2: C-Nav2050 Antenna on Mast – Hose Clamp Installation ..................................................................................................17
Figure 2-3: C-Nav Antenna Mounting Pole Dimensions ......................................................................................................................18
Figure 2-4: C-Nav2050 Antenna TNC Connector ................................................................................................................................20
Figure 2-5: C-Nav2050 Antenna and Coaxial Cable............................................................................................................................20
Figure 3-1: C-Nav3050 Base Plate Dimensions Without Mounting Brackets ......................................................................................22
Figure 3-2: C-Nav3050 Base Plate Dimensions With Mounting Brackets ...........................................................................................22
Figure 3-3: C-Nav3050 Standard GNSS Antenna Offset.....................................................................................................................25
Figure 3-4: C-Nav3050 Standard (P/N NAV82-001020-3001) Antenna Dimensions ..........................................................................25
Figure 3-5: C-Nav3050 Airborne (P/N NAV82-001022-3001LF) Antenna Dimensions .......................................................................26
Figure 3-6: C-Nav3050 Base (P/N NAV82-001021-3001LF) Antenna Dimensions.............................................................................26
Figure 3-7: C-Nav3050 Standard & Airborne Antenna Radiation Pattern............................................................................................27
Figure 3-8: C-Nav3050 Base Antenna Radiation Pattern ....................................................................................................................27
Figure 3-9: C-Nav3050 High-Latitude L-Band Helix (P/N NAV82-001003-0002LF) Antenna Dimensions..........................................29
Figure 3-10: C-Nav3050 High-Latitude L-band Helix Antenna Radiation Pattern................................................................................29
Figure 3-11: C-Nav3050 P/N NAV82-051001-0001LF Combiner Dimensions ....................................................................................30
Figure 3-12: GNSS Port Notch.............................................................................................................................................................31
Figure 3-13: C-Nav Port BANDPASS ..................................................................................................................................................31
Figure 3-14: C-Nav1010 Receiver without Mounting Brackets ............................................................................................................32
Figure 3-15: C-Nav1010 Receiver with Mounting Brackets .................................................................................................................32
Figure 3-16: C-Nav1010 Power Supply ...............................................................................................................................................34
Figure 3-17: C-Nav1010 Standard Antenna Dimensions.....................................................................................................................35
Figure 3-18: C-Nav1010 Standard Antenna Radiation Pattern............................................................................................................35
Figure 3-19: C-Nav1010 L-band Antenna Dimensions (45° - 25°).......................................................................................................36
Figure 3-20: C-Nav1010 NAV82-001018-0001LF Antenna Mounting (45° - 25°)................................................................................36
Figure 3-21: C-Nav1010 NAV82-001018-0001LF Radiation Pattern (45° - 25°) .................................................................................37
Figure 3-22: C-Nav1010 NAV82-001003-0001LF Antenna and Mounts (<25°) ..................................................................................38
Figure 3-23: C-Nav1010 NAV82-001003-0001LF Radiation Pattern (<25°)........................................................................................38
Figure 3-24: C-Nav2050 Front View ....................................................................................................................................................39
Figure 3-25: C-Nav2050 Top View.......................................................................................................................................................39
Figure 3-26: C-Nav2050 Power Supply ...............................................................................................................................................41
Figure 3-27: C-Nav2050 RS-232 to DP RS-422 MOXA Converter (MOXTCC-801)............................................................................41
Figure 3-28: C-Nav2050 Isolation Mount Adaptor................................................................................................................................41
Figure 3-29: C-Nav2050 Standard Antenna Phase Center Dimensions..............................................................................................43
Figure 3-30: C-Nav2050 Antenna Dimensions [inches (mm)]..............................................................................................................43
Figure 3-31: C-Nav2050 Airborne Antenna Dimensions......................................................................................................................43
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C-Nav Hardware Reference Guide
Figure 3-32: C-Nav2050 Standard & Airborne Antenna Radiation Patterns ........................................................................................44
Figure 3-33: C-Nav2050 Antenna Mounting Pole Adaptor Dimensions...............................................................................................44
Figure 3-34: C-Nav2050R Antenna Dimensions and Mounts ..............................................................................................................45
Figure 3-35: C-Nav2050R Antenna Radiation Pattern.........................................................................................................................46
Figure 3-36: C-Nav2050R Antenna LNA Wide-band Response .........................................................................................................46
Figure 3-37: C-Nav1000 Receiver Front View (mm)............................................................................................................................47
Figure 3-38: C-Nav1000 Receiver Top View (mm) ..............................................................................................................................47
Figure 3-39: C-Nav1000 Receiver Clearance Area .............................................................................................................................47
Figure 3-40: C-Nav1000 RS-422 to DP RS-232 MOXA Converter (MOXTCC-801)............................................................................48
Figure 3-41: C-Nav1000 Display Front View (mm) ..............................................................................................................................48
Figure 3-42: C-Nav1000 Display Top View (mm) ................................................................................................................................48
Figure 3-43: MGL-4 (H-field) Antenna..................................................................................................................................................49
Figure 3-44: MGL-3 Antenna and Mounting Pole ................................................................................................................................49
Figure 3-45: Gimbal Mount Clearance Area ........................................................................................................................................50
Figure 3-46: Panel Mount Frame Dimensions (mm) ............................................................................................................................50
Figure 3-47: Clearance Distance Behind the Display (Panel Mount)...................................................................................................50
Figure 3-48: Panel Mount Hole Dimensions (mm) ...............................................................................................................................51
Figure 3-49: Panel Mounting C-Nav1000 Display................................................................................................................................51
Figure 3-50: C-Nav1000 Display Panel Mounted.................................................................................................................................51
Figure 3-51: MBX-4 Receiver with Mounting Bracket (Top Mounted).................................................................................................53
Figure 3-52: Bottom-view MBX-4 With Mounting Bracket (Bottom Mounted) ......................................................................................53
Figure 3-53: IALA Receiver Mounting Bracket Dimensions .................................................................................................................53
Figure 3-54: C-NaviGator II Display (Front View) ................................................................................................................................55
Figure 3-55: C-NaviGator II Side-panel Connectors ............................................................................................................................55
Figure 3-56: C-NaviGator II Power Supply...........................................................................................................................................55
Figure 3-57: RAM 100 75 VESA Base (w/ Steel Reinforce) / RAM-D-246U-IN1 .................................................................................57
Figure 3-58: RAM Double Socket Arms...............................................................................................................................................57
Figure 3-59: RAM 11" X 3" Base (w/ Steel Reinforce) / RAM-D-111B-IN1U (left) &............................................................................57
Figure 3-60: Flat Screen Table Stand (for C-NaviGator II) / CHIFSB018BLK .....................................................................................58
Figure 3-61: Tilting VESA Wall Mount (for C-NaviGator II) / PEEST630 .............................................................................................58
Figure 3-62: Front Mount Kit (for C-NaviGator II) / SYNIWO-6710-7CRBR2 ......................................................................................59
Figure 3-63: 19” Mounting Kit (for C-NaviGator II) / SYNIWO-6710-7CBR9 .......................................................................................60
Figure 3-64: C-NaviGator II (side USB-port model) Outline Diagram (mm).........................................................................................61
Figure 3-65: C-NaviGator II Cut-out Diagram (mm) .............................................................................................................................62
Figure 3-66: C-NaviGator II rev. A (front USB-port model) Outline Diagram (mm)..............................................................................63
Figure 4-1: Huber + Suhner Model No. 3403.17.0045.........................................................................................................................66
Figure 4-2: Huber + Suhner Model No. 3402.17.0070.........................................................................................................................68
Figure 4-3: Moxa TCC-80I Converter Dimensions...............................................................................................................................72
Figure 4-4: TCC-82 Converter Dimensions..........................................................................................................................................73
Figure 4-5: LMR400 Attenuation vs. Frequency Graph .......................................................................................................................75
Figure 4-6: LMR400 Connectors..........................................................................................................................................................75
Figure 5-1: Components for Termination of Coaxial Cable..................................................................................................................77
Figure 5-2: Prep/Strip Tool (large end) ................................................................................................................................................77
Figure 5-3: Duburring Tool ...................................................................................................................................................................78
Figure 5-4: Prep/Strip Tool (smaller end).............................................................................................................................................78
Figure 5-5: RMA Flux Application ........................................................................................................................................................79
Figure 5-6: Soldering............................................................................................................................................................................79
Figure 5-7: Connector Installation ........................................................................................................................................................80
Figure 5-8: Ferrule Crimping ................................................................................................................................................................80
Figure 5-9: RG-59U Coaxial Cable ......................................................................................................................................................81
Figure 5-10: Coaxial cable with Barrel Connector................................................................................................................................81
Figure 5-11: Coax-seal Roll .................................................................................................................................................................82
Figure 5-12: Coax-seal Application ......................................................................................................................................................82
Figure 5-13: Coaxial Cable Fully Sealed..............................................................................................................................................83
Figure 5-14: Coax-seal Cross-section..................................................................................................................................................83
Figure 6-1: DTE to DCE RS-232 Pin Assignments ..............................................................................................................................96
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C-Nav Hardware Reference Guide
Traditional Differential GPS (DGPS) relies on the concept that errors in position at one location
are similar to those for all locations within a given (local) area. By recording GPS measurements
at a point with known coordinates, the local GPS observation errors can be quantified and one
pseudorange correction for each GPS satellite observation can be computed. By transmitting
these pseudorange corrections to remote mobile users and applying them in real-time, the
remote mobile user accuracy of GPS for instantaneous horizontal positioning is reduced to less
than 5 meters (and even sub-meter with modern commercial survey grade GPS receivers) 95%
of the time.
In order to minimize any errors that may be introduced, it is imperative that the reference station
and the mobile user are able to track the same GPS satellites and thus the maximum baseline
distance is one limiting factor with traditional DGPS. Another is that the accuracy of the mobile
user’s position will be degraded as the baseline distance separation between the reference
station and the mobile user increases. This is due to geographic spatial de-correlation errors
introduced by the different ionospheric delays and GPS satellite orbit biases between the DGPS
reference site and each individual mobile DGPS user. The reference station (or network)
computes not only a pseudorange correction (PRC) for each satellite, but also a range rate
correction (RRC). Thus, the mobile user is able to model the time varying characteristics of the
pseudorange corrections over the time intervals in which they are periodically generated at the
reference station and applied at the mobile location (age of correction). DGPS pseudorange
corrections combine together all errors produced by the GPS satellite; ephemeris, clock, and
atmospheric delays, at one time for the reference station position.
GPS user range error and bias sources can be identified as follows:
Ephemeris Data: Errors in the tracked location of a GPS satellite in its orbit
Satellite Clock: Errors in a satellite’s atomic clock signal
Ionosphere: Errors caused by ionospheric path delay
Troposphere: Errors caused by tropospheric path delay
Multipath: Errors caused by reflected signals received by the GPS antenna
Receiver: Errors in the measurement of time/range caused by thermal noise, computation
accuracy, and inter-channel biases
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C-Nav Hardware Reference Guide
Ephemeris error occurs when the broadcast GPS message for the satellite’s orbital location is
inaccurate. It is typical that the radial component of this error is the smallest; the along-track and
cross-track errors are larger by an order of magnitude. The ‘line of sight’ projections of the GPS
satellite positioning error affect each GPS observation differently. Ephemeris errors reflect a
position prediction and tend to grow with time from the last GPS Ground Control Segment
station upload.
Satellite Clocks are fundamental to the GPS system so that the one-way ranging measurement
process can be accomplished. Each satellite broadcasts it’s own clock adjustment values to
allow the user to develop accurate GPS satellite clock predictability models. These satellite
clock errors affect both the C/A and P-code users in the same way, which result in a residual
clock error for each GPS satellite. All GPS observers receive an identical satellite clock error.
Ionospheric errors or delays are unique to the local area for each GPS observer, and are
introduced due to free electrons in the ionosphere. The modulation on the signal is delayed in
proportion to the number of free electrons encountered. The ionosphere is usually reasonably
well behaved and stable in the temperate zones; however, near the equator or magnetic poles it
can fluctuate considerably. This local error can be resolved by the use of dual frequency, L1 and
L2, observations by the GPS observer.
Survey-quality receivers will correct the raw pseudorange for the ionospheric delay. The
simplest correction employs an internal diurnal model of these delays. For Single Frequency (L1
only) GPS users, the parameters can be updated using information in the GPS correction
'communications message'. The effective accuracy of this modeling is about 2-5 meters in
ranging for users in the temperate zones.
A second technique for dual-frequency P-code receivers is to measure the signal at both
frequencies and directly solve for the delay. The difference between L1 and L2 arrival times
allows a direct solution. This dual-frequency technique typically provides 1 meter or better in
ranging accuracy, due to the ionosphere, for a well-calibrated receiver.
A third technique relies on a real-time ionospheric model providing corrections with accuracy of
1-2 meters or better in temperate zones.
Note: The solar 11-year activity cycle also affects the ionosphere and causes 'scintillation'
effects, which are problematical along the geo-magnetic equator when the solar cycle is at its
peak.
Tropospheric errors are deviations in the velocity of the GPS signal as it passes through the
troposphere, and are unique to the local area for each GPS observer. Variations in temperature,
pressure, and humidity all contribute to variations in the speed of radio waves. Both the code
and carrier will show the same delays, and use of a reliable model can reduce most of this error.
For most users and circumstances, a simple model should be effectively accurate to about 1
meter or better.
Multipath Errors are caused by reflected signals entering the antenna of the GPS receiver and
masking the real correlation peak. These effects tend to be more pronounced in a static receiver
near large reflecting surfaces. The first line of defense is to use the combination of antenna cut-
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C-Nav Hardware Reference Guide
off angle and antenna location in order to minimize the problem. A second approach is to utilize
software algorithms within the receiver to minimize the impact of multipath on range tracking
accuracy. With proper location and antenna selection, the net impact to a moving user should
be less than 1 meter under most circumstances.
Receiver Errors vary from GPS unit to GPS unit. Initially most commercial GPS receivers were
'sequential', in that one or two tracking channels shared the burden of locking on to four or more
satellites. As chip technology improved, it was common to place three or more tracking
channels on a single chip. As the size and cost have decreased, techniques have improved and
'parallel' multi-channel receivers are common. Most modern GPS receivers use an all-digital
design allowing very low signal noise and phase tracking solutions. This produces a precision of
better than 0.3 meter. Inter-channel bias is minimized with digital sampling and all-digital
designs. The net result is that survey-quality GPS receivers now contribute less than 0.5-meter
error in bias and less than 0.2 meters in noise.
The fundamental and basic requirement of comparing geographic locations and coordinates is
that the reference coordinate system and datum transformation are known. The GPS system
functions within the Earth-Centered, Earth-Fixed World Geodetic System 1984 (WGS84)
ellipsoid and Cartesian coordinate system. GPS receivers internally transform the Cartesian
data into degrees (Latitude and Longitude) with the vertical height expressed in meters above
the reference ellipsoid. Therefore, when comparing coordinate values for any location in the
world, such as a map position or feature, a physical survey marker or reference location, the
data and observations must be referenced to the same datum and coordinate system.
For example, in North America, there are two different datum models in common usage. These
are the North American Datum of 1927 (NAD27) and the North American Datum of 1983
(NAD83). A physical geographic feature on the surface will have entirely different coordinate
latitude and longitude values when expressed in each of the NAD-27 and NAD-83 datums.
The GPS user is entirely responsible for understanding that a measured position using the GPS
system (WGS84)requires transformation if the final coordinates are to be expressed in a
geodetic system other than WGS84. Ignorance of this fact will lead to significant errors in the
desired positional output and is often considered to be a result of the greatest source of error in
GPS, human error.
Another major factor affecting an autonomous GPS position is the GPS Satellite position
geometry and visibility to the user, and a quality measure given by the Dilution of Precision
(DOP) indices provided by all GPS receivers.
• GDOP - Geometric Dilution of Precision
• TDOP - Time Dilution of Precision
• PDOP - Position Dilution of Precision
• HDOP - Horizontal Dilution of Precision
• VDOP - Vertical Dilution of Precision
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C-Nav Hardware Reference Guide
The following table describes some of the statistical formulas and measures commonly used for
GPS positional accuracy measurement:
Table 1-1: Common Accuracy Measures Used with GPS
Probable
1D PE 50%* 0.674 σ** N/A
Error
2nd, less
Twice common
Distance Varies, 95.4 Radius: 2σ† definition: 2
2D 2drms
Root Mean – 98.2%† σ = √ σ2x + σ2y dimensional
Square rms (circle’s
radius 1 σ)
Defined by:
Error
3D N/A 19.9%* σx, σy, σz & N/A
Ellipsoid
correlations
SEP – also
Spherical Radius:
called
3D Error SEP 50%* 0.513 (σx + σy +
spherical
Probable σz)*
probably error
*(Mikhail, 1976) †(Langley, 1991) **(National Geodetic Survey, 1986)
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C-Nav Hardware Reference Guide
Description
The C-Nav Corrections Service is a global system
for the distribution of SBAS corrections giving the
user the ability to measure their position anywhere
in the world with exceptional reliability and
unprecedented accuracy. Because the SBAS
corrections are broadcast via INMARSAT geo-
stationary satellites, the user needs no local
reference stations or post-processing to get this
exceptional accuracy. Furthermore, the same
accuracy is available virtually any where on the
Earth's surface (land or sea) from 76°N to 76°S
latitude, due to the worldwide coverage of these
geo-stationary satellites.
Infrastructure
The C-Nav Corrections Service utilizes the GPS satellite system, L-band communication
satellites, and a worldwide network of reference stations to deliver real-time high precision
positioning.
To provide this unique service, C-Nav has built a global network of dual-frequency reference
stations, which constantly receive signals from the GPS satellites as they orbit the earth. Data
from these reference stations is fed to two U.S.-based processing centers in Torrance,
California and Moline, Illinois where they are processed to generate the corrections.
From the two processing centers, the correction data is fed via redundant and independent
communication links to satellite uplink stations at Laurentides, Quebec, Canada; Perth,
Australia; Burum, the Netherlands; Santa Paula, California; Auckland, New Zealand and
Southbury, Connecticut for rebroadcast via the geostationary satellites.
The key to the accuracy and convenience of the C-Nav system is the source of the SBAS
corrections. GPS satellites transmit navigation data on two L-band frequencies. C-Nav
reference stations are all equipped with geodetic-quality, dual-frequency receivers. These
reference receivers decode GPS signals and send precise, high quality, dual-frequency
pseudorange and carrier phase measurements back to the processing centers together with the
data messages.
At the processing centers, proprietary differential processing techniques are used to generate
real time precise orbits and clock correction data for each satellite in the GPS constellation. This
proprietary Precise Point Positioning algorithm is optimized for a dual-frequency system such as
C-Nav, in which dual-frequency ionospheric measurements are available at the reference
receivers. It is the use of dual-frequency receivers at the reference stations together with the
advanced processing algorithms, which makes the exceptional accuracy of the C-Nav
Corrections Service possible.
Creating the corrections is just the first part. From our two processing centers, the differential
corrections are then sent to the Land Earth Station (LES) for uplink to L-band communications
satellites. The uplink sites for the network are equipped with modulation equipment, which
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C-Nav Hardware Reference Guide
interfaces to the satellite system transmitter and uplinks the correction data stream for
broadcast across the coverage area. Each L-band satellite covers more than a third of the earth.
Users equipped with a C-Nav precision GPS receiver actually have two receivers in a single
package, a GPS receiver and an L-band communications receiver. The GPS receiver tracks all
the satellites in view and observes the pseudorange measurements from the GPS satellites.
Simultaneously, the L-band receiver receives the correction messages broadcast via the L-band
satellite. When the corrections are applied to the GPS measurements, a position measurement
of unprecedented real time accuracy is produced.
Reliability
The entire system meets or exceeds a target availability of 99.99%. To achieve this, every part
of the infrastructure has a built-in back-up system.
All the reference stations are built with duplicate receivers, processors and communication
interfaces, which switch automatically or in response to a remote control signal from the
processing centers. The data links from the reference stations use the Internet as the primary
data link and are backed up by dedicated communications lines, but in fact the network is
sufficiently dense that the reference stations effectively act as back up for each other. If one or
several fail, the net effect on the correction accuracy is not impaired.
There are two continuously running processing centers, each receiving all of the reference site
inputs and each with redundant communications links to the uplink LES. The LESs are
equipped with two complete and continuously operating sets of uplink equipment arbitrated by
an automatic fail over switch. Finally, a comprehensive team of support engineers maintains
round the clock monitoring and control of the system.
The network is a fully automated self-monitoring system. To ensure overall system integrity, an
independent integrity monitor receiver is installed at every reference station to monitor service
quality. Data from these integrity monitors is sent to the two independent processing hubs in
Torrance, California and Moline, Illinois. Through these integrity monitors the network is
continuously checked for overall SBAS positioning accuracy, L-band signal strength, data
integrity and other essential operational parameters.
C-Nav is a subscription service. The user pays a subscription, which licenses the use of the
service for a predetermined period of time.
Subscriptions can be purchased for any predetermined period of time and are available via a C-
Nav authorized representative, or by contacting C-Nav at: [Link]@[Link]
An authorized subscription will provide an encrypted key, which is specific to the Serial Number
of the C-Nav receiver to be authorized. This is entered into the receiver using the provided
controller solution. Typically the initial license is preinstalled at the factory, and the user will
install subsequent licenses.
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C-Nav Hardware Reference Guide
When contacting C-Nav regarding subscription or deactivation of service, please have the
following information available:
Company Name and Contact Information
PO/Reference No.
Vessel Name, Location and No. (if applicable)
Required Start/Stop Date or Period
Service Type (Land or Offshore/Activation or Deactivation)
Operational Region
Receiver Type
The only piece of equipment needed to access the C-Nav system is a C-Nav receiver. C-Nav
offers a variety of receivers configured for different applications. Details of all the C-Nav
receivers are available from a C-Nav authorized local representative or on the C-Nav website at:
[Link]
For online activation and deactivation, go to: [Link]
C-Nav GPS Receivers can obtain C-Nav signals from six (6) separate and independent geo-
stationary communication satellites.
The Satellite Based Augmentation System (SBAS) signals obtained from geo-stationary
communication satellites are selected by GPS L1 PRN ID.
The L-band Identifiers for the tracking and decoding of these corrections by C-Nav GPS
Receivers are as follows:
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C-Nav Hardware Reference Guide
Always wear appropriate protective equipment, including a certified fall arrestor harness
and hardhat when working at heights to prevent injury to personnel, or death. Prior to
commencing any work on the mast, ensure that all radar systems are switched off and
isolated.
Antenna Location
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C-Nav Hardware Reference Guide
Active antennas (those with LNA’s or amplifiers) create an electrical field around the
antenna. These radiated emissions can interfere with other nearby antennas. Multiple
GPS antennas in close proximity to each other can create multipath and oscillations
between the antennas. These add to position error or the inability to process the satellite
signals
Use satellite prediction software with a recent satellite almanac to assess the impact on
satellite visibility at your location. An L-Band Communication Satellite Locator tool is
available on C-Nav’s website to aid in determining potential obstructions to C-Nav
Corrections Service Signals: [Link]/satellite_calculator
A clear line of sight between the antenna and the local INMARSAT satellite is required to
track C-Nav signals. INMARSAT satellites are geo-synchronized 35,786kms above the
Equator, currently at Longitudes:
142° West, 97.65° West, 15.5° West, 25° East, 109° East, 143.5° East.
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C-Nav Hardware Reference Guide
Antenna Installation
1. Once the antenna location has been determined based on the previously mentioned
criteria, mount the antenna onto the antenna mounting pole. This should be done on
deck prior to climbing the mast as mounting the antenna aloft poses potential risks to
personnel and equipment due to possible dropped object hazards. (Note: C-Nav2050
Antenna requires an Antenna Mounting Adaptor, supplied).
The threads of all antenna mounting poles are 1”-14 in size
2. Install the antenna with the antenna mounting pole in the predetermined location. The
pipe can either be welded to the mast for a more permanent installation, or secured
using stainless steel hose clamps. In the figure below, hose clamps have been used.
Coaxial
Notice Cable
Antenna Connected
has 360° to
view of the Antenna
sky
Hose
Clamps
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C-Nav Hardware Reference Guide
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C-Nav Hardware Reference Guide
Coaxial Cable
Proper installation of coaxial cables is important to ensure successful communication between
the antenna and the GPS Receiver.
Cable Route
When choosing a cable route for coaxial cable, consider the following:
Avoid running coaxial cable across, or parallel too power cables and high power RF
cables.
Ensure that the cable route is free of and sharp edges or places where the cable could
become pinched or damaged in any way.
Determine the manufacturers specifications for the coaxial cable in use. This should
include: impedance, diameter, attenuation in dB/100ft and dB/100m at the applicable
frequency, velocity of propagation and the minimum bend radius of the cable.
Ensure the cable does not exceed the recommended minimum bend radius suggested
by the manufacturer.
Ensure there is sufficient space at the cable entry point to the bulkhead as to not
damage the connector during installation.
Measure the length of the cable route and refer to Table 3 for acceptable cable lengths
in relation to attenuation loss at the frequencies in use. For best performance, do not
allow more than 7dB (18dB for C-Nav1000) of cable loss between the antenna and the
receiver; lower elevation satellite tracking suffers the most with more than 7dB insertion
loss.
In-line amplifiers suitable for all GPS frequencies may be used to increase the length of
the antenna cable, but care should be exercised that tracking performance is not
degraded due to multiple connections, noise from the amplifier, and possible ingress of
moisture and dust to the in-line amplifier. In-line amplifier or splitter devices must pass
DC power from the receiver to the antenna, or source the appropriate voltage and
current to the antenna In-line amplifiers may also over-saturate the receiver front-end if
improperly used.
1. Prior to connecting the coaxial antenna cable to the antenna, ensure that all connections
are free of dirt and other debris. Apply silicone grease to the connector threads and wipe
off any excess, ensure not to get any lubricant on the contact. Connect the coaxial cable
and tighten firmly. Wrap the connection with self-amalgamating tape or another weather
sealant such as Coax-seal® to prevent water ingress. 3.
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2. Slacken the coaxial cable and attach to the antenna mounting pole with a zip-tie. This
will prevent any undue strain on the cable connector and antenna.
3. With the cable connected to the antenna, run the cable down the mast, securing with zip
ties every 3 or 4 feet.
Zip-ties securing
coaxial cable in
place (cable runs
along opposite
side of mast)
Excess Coaxial
Cable neatly
Figure 2-5: C-Nav2050 Antenna and Coaxial Cable stowed
4. Carefully lay the cable along the chosen route to further detect any potential kinks,
bends or spots where the cable may become damaged.
5. Secure the cable along the cable route with tape or zip ties and place a label at the GPS
receiver end of the cable for identification purposes.
6. Connect the coaxial cable to the TNC connector on the GPS receiver. Ensure that any
slack in the cable is neatly stowed and that the minimum bend radius is not exceed
during this process.
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*Note: 18dB Loss Point applies to the C-Nav1000 System only, all other C-Nav GPS Systems should not experience
signal loss greater than 7dB
Lightning Protection
GPS Receiver
GPS receivers are best installed using the mounting brackets provided. When choosing a
location for GPS Receiver installation, consider the following:
Avoid placing the receiver in direct sunlight, places with inadequate ventilation, or where
it might be subject to excessive dust.
Ensure the receiver is mounted securely to a flat surface in an area with little vibration.
Shock isolators suitable for 1.8kg (4lbs) may be necessary for environments with high
vibration.
Do not place the receiver in a confined space or where it may be exposed to excessive
heat, moisture, or humidity.
Install the receiver in a location with easy access to both the front and back panels.
Refer to applicable C-Nav Users Manual for GPS Receiver setup and configuration
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C-Nav3050
C-Nav3050 Receiver
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Temperature (ambient)
Operating: -40ºC to +70ºC (-40º to +158º F)
Storage: -40ºC to +85ºC (-40º to +185º F)
Humidity: 95% Non-Condensing
MIL-STD-810F
Vibration:
Method 514.5
MIL-STD-810F
Shock:
Method 516.5
Ingress Protection: IP67
Marine Equipment: Marine Equipment Directive (MED) 96/98/EC
Table 3-2: C-Nav3050 I/O Messages
Control Commands
NavCom proprietary commands (refer to TRM)
(Input Only):
RTCM 2.3 and 3.0, RTCM types 1, 3, and 9, SBAS (WAAS/EGNOS/ MSAS/
Differential Correction (I/O):
GAGAN), and C-Nav
1
CMR/CMR+, RTCM types 18-22, and 1001-1006, 1009-1012, 1014-1017 ; NCT
RTK Correction Data (I/O):
types 0x5B, 0x5C, 0x5D, and 0x5E (hex)
NMEA-0183 Messages
ALM, MLA, GBS, GGA, GLL, GRS, GSA, GST, GSV, RMC, RRE, VTG, ZDA
(Output Only):
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C-Nav3050 Antennas
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• Figure B1 is a drawing of the label on the Standard GNSS antenna (P/N NAV82-
001020-3001LF). The phase center provided is based on NGS test results. NGS does
not currently provide GLONASS calibrated values.
• To achieve the greatest level of accuracy, the absolute phase center values
must be incorporated into your processing. Phase center information on all C-
Nav3050 antennae is found on the NGS website:
[Link]
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1.00 (25.4)
9.50 (241.3)
0.50 (12.7)
3.25 (82.6)
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Table 3-6: C-Nav3050 Signal Combiner (High Latitude L-Band Antenna Kit)
Part Number P/N NAV82-051001-0001LF
Port Pass Band (MHz) Rejection Band (MHz); 25dB min
1170 to 1610
Input 1 (GNSS) 1520 to 1568
except Rejection Band
Input 2 (C-Nav) 1520 to 1568 1170 to 1610 except Pass Band
Output (GNSS + C-
1170 to 1610
Nav)
DC Supply Passes DC power to each antenna connected on the input ports; 5VDC, 100mA rating
Gain (on combined
6dB min; 10 dB max
output; overall)
LNA Power 5VDC, ± 1.7VDC; 30mA max
Noise Figure (system) < 2.5 dB
Gain Flatness < 1.0 dB
VSWR 1.5:1
Connector Type TNC Female; all ports
• The port labeled GNSS is for the Rover antenna. The port labeled SF is for the Tall L-
Band antenna.
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C-Nav1010
C-Nav1010 Receiver
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Connectors:
I/O Ports: 2 x 9 pin Circular
DC Power: 1 x 9 pin Circular
GPS/L-band Antenna: TNC-F
L-band Antenna: TNC-F (C-Nav1010R Only)
Antenna Power:
ANT 1: 5.0 VDC, 150mA
ANT 2 (C-Nav 1010R Only): 5.0 VDC, 150mA
Temperature (ambient)
Operating -30º to +70º C
(-22º to +158º F)
-40º to +85º C
Storage:
(-40º to +185º F)
Humidity: 95% non-condensing
MIL-STD-810F, Method 510.4, Procedure I (Dust)6h 1750 +/- 175ft/min blowing
Dust
dust at 10.6 +/- 7g/m³ at 25°C and 70°C.
MIL-STD-810F, Method 510.4, Procedure 2;
Sand
90 mins 18-29m/s blowing sand at 2.2 +/- 0.5g/m³ from front and back.
MIL-STD-810F, Method 506.4, Procedure I;
Precipitation
30min of 40mph 0.5mm-4.5mm droplets front and back.
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C-Nav1010 Antennas
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5”
[127mm]
2.3”
1.5” [59mm]
[38mm]
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Ø 3.5
[88.9]
1.344
[34.12]
Ø 0.20 [5.1]
Ø 0.385 [9.78]
100°
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C-Nav2050
C-Nav2050 Receiver
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C-Nav2050 Antennas
Table 3-16: C-Nav2050 Standard Antenna
Part Standard Antenna
Part Number 8250001-0
Frequency 1525-1585 MHz, GPS L1, plus INMARSAT C-Nav Correction Service
1217-1237 MHz, GPS L2
L1 Phase Centre 58.7mm
Polarization Right Hand Circular (RHCP)
Pre–Amplifier 39dB gain (+/-2dB)
Noise Figure <2.5dB
Impedance 50 Ohms
VSWR / RL ≤ 2.0:1 / 9.54 dB min.
Band Rejection 20 dB @ 250MHz
RF Power Handling 1 Watt
Input Voltage 4.2 to 15.0 VDC
Power Consumption 0.3W
60mA +10mA @ 5VDC
Cable Connector TNC Female
Operating Temp -55°C to +85°C
Altitude 70,000ft; 21,336m
Finish Fluid resistant Ultem, UV stable
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• To achieve the greatest level of accuracy, the absolute phase center values must be
incorporated into your processing. Phase center information on this antenna is found
on the antenna bottom, and in the figure below.
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6.5dB @ 90º
32º
24º
-4dB @ 5º -4.5dB @ 5º
0dB 0dB
07-00008-A
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C-Nav1000
C-Nav1000 Receiver
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C-Nav1000 Antennas
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Gimbal Mount
Panel Mount
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Operational Specifications
Item Specification
Frequency Range 283.5 - 325 kHz
Gain 20 dB
Pre-Amplifier Integral Low Noise Amplifier
Power Specifications
Item Specification
Input Voltage 10-14 VDC supplied by receiver
Input Current 10 mA
Mechanical Characteristics
Item Specification
Enclosure Fiberglass and threaded nylon
Mounting Thread 1-14-UNS-2B
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C-NaviGator II
C-NaviGator II Control and Display Unit
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Mechanical Specifications
Size (L x W x H) 82.2mm (3.2”) x 340mm (13.4”) x 260mm (10.2”)
Weight 4.8 kg (10.6 lbs)
Display 10.4” TFT LCD, 1024x768, 400 nit, Resistive TS
CPU 1.0 GHz VIA 7C, 512 MB, 2GB CF
Power Supply
Size (L x W x H) 31mm (1.2”) x 110mm (4.3”) x 62mm (2.4”)
Connector Conxall, Micro-Con-X 16282-2SG-311
Input Voltage 90 – 264 VAC
Power 60 W
Frequency 47 - 63 Hz
Output Voltage 12 VDC (+/- 5%)
Operating Temperature 0º C ~ +40º C
Storage Temperature -20º C ~ +65º C
Humidity Operating: 20 ~ 80% RH; Storage: 10 ~ 90% RH
Connectors
DC Power Conxall, Micro-Con-X 17282-2PG-300
I/O Ports 4 x 9 pin RS-232 DBM (RS232-422 converter available)
Keyboard/Mouse PS/2
LAN 1 x 100/1000 Mbps
USB 2 x 2.0
VGA 1 x 15 pin DBF
Printer, Parallel 1 x 25 pin DBF
Environmental Specifications
Operating Temperature 0º C to +60º C
Storage Temperature -20º C to +85º C
Humidity 5 - 90% @ 60º C, non-condensing
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Option #1: Allows mounting from ceiling, wall or desktop with fully adjustable positioning.
Figure 3-57: RAM 100 75 VESA Base (w/ Steel Reinforce) / RAM-D-246U-IN1
This piece fits to the standard VESA mounting holes on the back of the C-NaviGator.
Choose from one of the arms above. We recommend the medium length.
Figure 3-59: RAM 11" X 3" Base (w/ Steel Reinforce) / RAM-D-111B-IN1U (left) &
RAM 3.68 DIA. BASE (w/ Steel Reinforce) / RAM-D-202U-IN1 (right)
This piece is fixed to the ceiling, counter top or wall.
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Figure 3-60: Flat Screen Table Stand (for C-NaviGator II) / CHIFSB018BLK
Figure 3-61: Tilting VESA Wall Mount (for C-NaviGator II) / PEEST630
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Use this adaptor if unable to secure display from the back. Appropriate hardware is included to
secure the C-NaviGator to the Front Panel Mount prior to mounting. Bolt thread size is M4 x
6mm
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Use this adaptor if installing the C-NaviGator to a rack. The 19” Rack Mount takes up 7U of rack
space and is 12 ¼” in height. Appropriate hardware is included to secure the C-NaviGator to the
Rack Mount prior to mounting. Bolt tread size is M4 x 6mm
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Figure 3-66: C-NaviGator II rev. A (front USB-port model) Outline Diagram (mm)
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LCD screens are not like ordinary monitor screens in that they are not made of glass, rather
they are made up of a soft film that can easily be damaged by abrasive cloth or paper, chloride
and other chemicals found in ordinary tap water. LCD screens are delicate and they must be
handled with the utmost care.
• Use a commercial cleaner specially designed for LCD displays, such as Klear Screen
[Link] (P/N: IK-8/MK-COM). If a commercial cleaner is unavailable, use
distilled water as tap water may leave mineral spots. Eyeglass cleaner can also be used
if absolutely necessary, however it may contain some alcohol which could dry out the
screen and cause it to go cloudy.
• Use a soft, lint-free, anti-static cloth such as eye-glass cloths, Microfiber cloth, Chamois,
or a clean cotton T-shirt. Dampen cleaning cloth with your solution and apply very gentle
pressure using a circular motion.
Do not:
• Spray cleaner directly on screen. It could possibly leak inside a non-sealed unit and
cause damage.
• Use solution which contains ammonia (e.g. Windex). It can etch the screen surface and
cause the plastic to go cloudy.
• Use paper towels, tissues, dish cloths. Paper products contain micro-particles of wood
and will cause tiny scratches that you may not see, but will be harmful.
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MOXA Converters
TCC-80I
TCC-80I Specifications
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TCC-80I Dimensions
TCC-82
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TCC-82 Specifications
TCC-82 Dimensions
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LMR400 Specifications
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Coaxial Cable
Terminating Coaxial Cable (Times Microwave Systems)
1. Flush cut the cable squarely
2. Slide the heat shrink boot over the end of the cable, followed by the ferrule. Slide
the first end of the prep/strip tool over the end of the cable and rotate it
clockwise. Spin the tool until it spins freely. Remove the tool and any residual
plastic from the center conductor by rotating a knife around the circumference of
the center conductor at the face of the core.
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4. Insert the cable into the opposite end of the prep/strip tool and rotate clockwise
until the tool spins freely. Remove the tool (If you are using a knife to complete
this step, be careful not to nick the braids).
5. Apply a small amount of RMA flux around the exposed center conductor.
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6. Place a piece of solder into the pin until it bottoms. Trim the solder flush with the
back of the pin with a knife. Place a shim over the cable and up against the core
(a razor blade will do). Now place the pin over the center conductor and heat the
base of the pin with a soldering iron while monitoring the weep hole in the pin.
Remove the heat when you have seen the solder has flowed and wetted
properly.
it protrudes between the ferrule and the connector. Trim the braid at this
impression with scissors.
8. Make sure that the connector is bottomed. Bring the ferrule all the way up to the
back of the connector. Check the pin height with a pin gauge. Crimp the ferrule
close to the connector with a crimping tool. DO NOT CRIMP TWICE. A second
crimp further back on the ferrule will end up compressing the core and cause
degradation of performance. Slide the boot up to the back of the coupling nut and
shrink with a heat gun until a lip of adhesive can be seen at both ends of the
boot.
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1. Shown below is a short pigtail of RG-59U coax cable terminated in a Snap and
Seal "F" connector which is then joined to a female-female adapter or barrel
connector.
2. The next few photos will show how this barrel connector is used in a splice and
how it is waterproofed for marine use.
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3. The second cable with connector is attached to the barrel adapter and was
tightened. The connector on the right has an O ring and is sealed to the coax
internally with silicone grease.
5. Note that the first wrap comes back on itself exactly and the second run starts
the diagonal wrap. Wrap from the coax cover toward the fitting with one half
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overlap with each winding. The last wrap again comes straight back over the
previous wrap without a diagonal. The seal is slightly sticky and should be
molded now by hand to remove any gaps and to ensure that all the wraps are
blending together.
6. At some point the wrap will almost fuse together and the material may have to be
cut away from the cable.
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PACKAGING: • 60” consumer rolls, 3/32" thick x 1/2" wide, in retail packaging for
pegboard or counter display.
• Pre-cut strips, 3/32" thick x 1/2" wide, in 10” and 4” lengths, bulk-packed.
• 10” strip or (2) 4” strips in envelope, with complete instructions for use.
DESCRIPTION: Easily applied, hand-moldable, tacky black plastic mastic, on peel-away paper
backing, suitable for waterproofing a wide variety of connections. Adheres to
vinyl and PVC outer jackets. Product is non-conductive, non-contaminating and
non-toxic, and UV-stable.
APPLICATIONS: Provides a long-lasting, waterproof seal for coaxial cable fittings and many
other connections. Use for TV and radio antennas, satellite dishes, CATV,
wireless networks, marine electronics, feed lines, radar and microwave
installations, and many other applications.
SOLVENTS: None
OTHER PROPERTIES: Material is non-staining to paint; stays flexible and maintains a waterproof seal
over an extreme range of temperatures. Will not crack at -200° F, will not slump
1 hr. @350° F.
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Troubleshooting
The following information is provided for the use and operation of C-Nav GPS Systems. This
section provides information on frequently asked questions and troubleshooting. It is
recommended that you read through this chapter before calling C-Nav Support. Refer to p. 2 for
C-Nav 24/7 support contact information.
The receiver must have sufficient satellites and signal from either SBAS (WAAS/ EGNOS) or C-
Nav correction sources to achieve advertised accuracies. The geometry also plays an important
role in navigation, meaning that the GNSS signals received must have good dispersion. This
dispersion reduces errors by providing wide angles for trilateration algorithms to more
accurately compute position.
• Elevation Mask - Raising this mask prevents the receiver from using some low
elevation satellites, often a source of inaccurate positions.
• Dilution of Precision (DOP) Mask - Decreasing the DOP mask prevents GPS satellites
of poor geometry from contributing to inaccurate positions.
• GPS Mode - Three-dimensional positions are more accurate than two-dimensional
positions, so changing the receiver to Manual 3D prevents 2D positions from being
computed.
Local conditions may have an impact on accuracy. Interference, such as harmonics from
collocated transmitting antennas, and multipath, induced by reflective surfaces in the proximity
of the antenna, can be harmful to the quality of the measurements used within navigation. A
relatively uncontrolled source of position inaccuracy is multipath noise, caused by reflections of
the GPS signals from nearby structures, buildings and flat surfaces. For best accuracy, mount
the GPS antenna so it has a clear view of the sky. Accuracy is best when operating away from
structures. The same problem of masking can also occur in the reception of C-Nav Signals from
the geo-stationary communication satellites. The user must take care to ensure that a clear and
unobstructed view of the sky is maintained for C-Nav GPS Antennae, and that no RF
interference sources are present.
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If the antenna is connected properly, ensure that it is mounted on the highest point so that no
GPS signals are blocked. Depending on the location of the C-Nav GPS antenna, the satellites
and possible obstructions, one or more satellites may be blocked. The C-Nav GPS receiver
must be mounted so that it has a clear view of the sky. It should be on the center-line of the
vessel, and away from any sources of interference such as electric motors, radar antennas, L-
band communication antennas, cellular radio telephone antennas, radio voice or data
communication towers or satcom domes. If the C-Nav GPS antenna location seems fine, check
the GPS configuration parameters. If they are set to extreme levels, the C-Nav GPS receiver
could ignore valid satellite data.
While strong magnetic fields have no effect on GPS signals, some computers and other
electronic equipment radiate electromagnetic energy that can interfere with C-Nav GPS
antennas or with the corrections data link. If you suspect interference from a local magnetic
field, move the C-Nav GPS receiver away from any electronics while observing the C-Nav GPS
receiver’s output.
The ionosphere can also cause loss of signal especially along the geomagnetic equator of the
earth. The 11-year solar cycle can interfere with L-band transmitted correction signals, as can
instances where the sun is directly in line with the view of a geo-stationary communications
satellite. Often, simply selecting another L-band communication satellite will resolve the
reception of the C-Nav corrections for the period of the ionospheric disturbance.
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All C-Nav proprietary software (C-Monitor, C-Setup) will retain any port configuration
parameters and GPS configuration information when the power is turned off or removed.
FAQ
What is the C-Nav Corrections Service Network?
C-Nav is the World's first commercial Global Satellite Based Augmentation System (GSBAS). C-
Nav uses a global tracking network of approximately 60 reference stations and software
originally developed by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory to calculate very precise and
accurate real-time orbits and clocks for all the GPS satellites. These are transmitted via Geo-
Stationary communication satellites to C-Nav receivers who use the corrections with C-Nav's
geodetic quality L1/L2 engine measurements and proprietary C-Nav positioning algorithm. Real-
time positioning accuracy is typically a decimeter horizontally and two decimeters vertically.
Performance may be better depending upon the local conditions.
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USA and Puerto Rico, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) for
Europe, the Multi-Function Satellite Augmentation System (MSAS) and the Satellite Navigation
Augmentation System (SNAS) for China. Corrections can be received outside their network but
should only be used within their designated operational area due to accuracy and reliability
measures. All C-Nav receivers are capable of receiving and using SBAS signals.
Why is SBAS performance so much better with C-Nav receivers than other receivers?
C-Nav manufactures dual frequency GPS receivers. The GPS frequency measurements on
both L1 and L2 allow the ionospheric errors to be corrected prior to navigation. This technique is
much more accurate than using the SBAS ionospheric models. The rover positioning algorithm
for C-Nav has been adapted to work with SBAS corrections providing greatly enhanced
positioning performance. C-Nav has also implemented a patented method which allows for the
repression of high-frequency noise associated with these types systems, named Refraction
Corrected Phrase (RCP). In addition, C-Nav's patented multi-path suppression and high quality
of measurements result in superior position accuracy.
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What is the difference between ‘M’ and ‘R’ model C-Nav2050/1010 receivers?
The ‘M’ model uses a single antenna to receive both C-Nav and GPS signals. The ‘R’ version
uses two antennas; one for GPS and a separate high-gain antenna for the C-Nav signal that is
capable of tracking at higher latitudes. Please contact C-Nav’s Product Support group for more
information pertaining to look angles, or feel free to visit C-Nav’s online L-band Communication
Satellite Locator to better estimate the look angles for the intended usage area
([Link]/satellite_calculator).
What benefits does the C-Nav binary language provide for RTK?
C-Nav's proprietary binary language is exceptionally compact without compromising the
resolution of the measurements. This results in very low bandwidth for the RTK communication
link without loss of accuracy and precision. It also allows additional information, not included in
the RTCM messages, to be transmitted to the rover, providing additional robustness and quicker
ambiguity resolution.
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Abbreviations
1PPS - 1 Pulse Per Second
2dRMS – Twice the distance Root Mean Square
A/S – Antispoofing
APC – Antenna Phase Center
BER - Bit Error Rate
bps – bits per second
BSW – British Standard Whitworth
C/A – Coarse/Acquisition
CEP – Circular Error Probable
CDU – Control Display Unit
COM – Communication
CMR - Compact Measurement Record
Db - Decibel
DCE – Data Communications Equipment
Deg - Degree
DGPS – Differential Global Positioning System
DOP – Dilution of Precision
DTE – Data Terminal Equipment
ECDIS – Electronic Chart Display & Information System
ECEF – Earth Centered, Earth Fixed
EGNOS – European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service
FCC – Federal Communications Commission (U.S.)
GAGAN - GPS Aided Geo Augmented Navigation
GDOP – Geometric Dilution of Precision
GIS – Geographic Information System
GMT – Greenwich Mean Time
GNSS – Global Navigation Satellite System
GPS – Global Positioning System
HDOP – Horizontal Dilution of Precision
HF – High Frequency
HOW – Hand Over Word
Hz – Hertz
I/O – Input/Output
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IGN - Ignition
IMO – International Maritime Organization
INMARSAT – International Maritime Satellite Consortium, Ltd.
INS – Inertial Navigation System
IODC – Issue of Data, Clock
ITRF – International Terrestrial Reference Frame
JPL – Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Kbps – Kilobits per second
KHz - Kilohertz
LAN - Local Area Network
Lat – Latitude
LCD - Liquid Crystal Display
LED – Light Emitting Diode
LES – Land Earth Station
LF – Low Frequency
Long – Longitude
LORAN – Long Range Navigation System
LNA - Low Noise Amplifier
MSAS- MTSAT Satellite-based Augmentation System
MSL – Mean Sea Level
NAD27 – North American Datum 1927
NAD83 – North American Datum 1983
NASA – National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Nav – Navigation
NGS – National Geodetic Survey
NOAA – National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (U.S.)
P/N – Part Number
PCM – Pulse Code Modulation
PDOP – Positional Dilution of Precision
PPS – Precise Positioning Service
prn – pseudorandom noise
PVT – Position, Velocity, Time
RAIM – Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring
RHCP – Right-hand Circular Polarization
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Definitions
1 Pulse Per Second (1PPS) is a precision electronic pulse output (at TTL levels) from the GPS
receiver that marks exact second intervals. It is used for precise timing and to synchronize
sensors and acquisition computers.
.yym files see meteorological files (where yy = two digit year data was collected).
.yyn files see navigation files (where yy = two digit year data was collected
.yyo files see observation files (where yy = two digit year data was collected).
Absolute Positioning is the ability of a GPS receiver to produce positional values without
another receiver for reference.
Accuracy is the degree of conformity of a measured or calculated quantity to a standard or true
value. Accuracy is therefore related to the quality of the results.
Almanac is found in subframe 5 of the Navigation Message. It is a data file that helps the
receiver track, and lock-on to satellites as it contains a summary of orbital parameters for all
GPS satellites. The almanac can be acquired from any GPS satellite.
Altitude is the vertical distance above the ellipsoid or geoid. It is always stored as height above
ellipsoid in the GPS receiver but can be displayed as height above ellipsoid (HAE) or height
above mean sea level (MSL).
Ambiguity is the unknown number of whole carrier wavelengths between satellite and receiver.
Antenna is a device used to collect and amplify the electromagnetic GPS signals broadcast by
a satellite. These electromagnetic waves are then converted into electrical currents that are
decoded by the receiver. Patch, or Microstrip antennas are most commonly used in GPS.
Antenna Phase Center (APC) is the point in an antenna where the GPS signal from the
satellites is received. The height above ground of the APC must be measured accurately to
ensure accurate GPS readings. The APC height can be calculated by adding the height to an
easily measured point, such as the base of the antenna mount, to the known distance between
this point and the APC.
Antispoofing (A/S) is an encryption technique developed by the US Department of Defense
(DoD) that when implemented, denies access to the P-Code by any unauthorized users. With
Antispoofing on, the user will need a DoD issued “key” in order to gain access to the P-Code.
Apogee is the point in the orbit of a satellite about the earth that is the greatest distance from
the center of the earth.
Autocorrelation in reference to code is a plot of the scalar product of the noise sequence with
a delayed copy of itself.
Autonomous positioning (GPS) is a mode of operation in which a GPS receiver computes
position fixes in real time from satellite data alone, without reference to data supplied by a
reference station or orbital clock corrections. Autonomous positioning is typically the least
precise positioning procedure a GPS receiver can perform, yielding position fixes that are
precise to 100 meters with Selective Availability on, and 30 meters with S/A off.
Average Deviation is a measure of variability in a data set but it is more robust than standard
deviation. It is not related to the bell-shaped curve. It is the average of the absolute deviations
of the values from the mean. The data values are subtracted from the mean producing a list of
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deviations from the mean. The deviations are not squared like they are for the standard
deviation; the absolute values of the deviations are used.
Azimuth the azimuth of a line is its direction as given by the angle between the meridian and
the line measured in a clockwise direction from the north branch of the meridian.
Bad Packets refer to the number of bad C-Nav Corrections Service packets received since the
unit was turned on.
Bandwidth is a measure of the width of the frequency spectrum of a signal expressed in Hertz.
Baseline is the resultant three-dimensional vector (V) between any two stations from which
simultaneous GPS data have been collected and processed. Generally given in earth-centered
Cartesian coordinates where: V=(∆x, ∆y, ∆z)
Base station see reference station.
Baud Rate (bits per second) is the number of bits sent or received each second. For example,
a baud rate of 9600 means there is a data flow of 9600 bits each second. One character roughly
equals 10 bits.
Beat Frequency is either of the two additional frequencies obtained when two signals of two
frequencies are mixed, equal to the sum or difference of the original frequencies.
Binary Biphase Modulation is a phase change on a constant frequency carrier of either 0 or
180 degrees. These represent the binary digits 0 and 1, respectively.
Binary Code is a system used in communication where selected strings of 0’s and 1’s are
assigned definite meanings.
Binary Pulse Code Modulation is a two-state phase modulation using a string of binary
numbers or codes. The coding is generally represented by 1 and 0 with definite meanings
attached to each.
Bits per second see baud rate.
Broadcast Ephemeris is the ephemeris broadcast by the GPS satellites.
British Standard Whitworth (BSW) is a type of coarse screw thread. A 5/8” diameter BSW is
the standard mount for survey instruments. (1” Mount included).
C/A code see Coarse Acquisition code.
CAN BUS is a balanced (differential) 2-wire interface that uses an asynchronous transmission
scheme. Often used for communications in vehicular applications.
Carrier is a high-frequency radio wave having at least one characteristic (frequency, amplitude,
or phase), which may be varied by modulation from an accepted value. In general, the carrier
wavelength is much shorter than the wavelength of the codes.
Carrier Beat Phase is the difference between the phase of the incoming Doppler shifted
satellite carrier signal and the phase of the nominally constant reference frequency generated in
the receiver.
Channel a channel of a GPS receiver consists of the circuitry necessary to receive the signal
for a single GPS satellite.
Chip a. The minimum transition time interval for individual bits of either a 0 or 1 in a binary pulse
code usually transmitted in a pseudo-random sequence. b. A tiny square piece of thin
semiconductor material on which an integrated circuit is formed or is to be formed.
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Circular Error Probable (CEP) is a measurement of precision using standard deviation that is
applicable in horizontal stations. Probability for CEP is 50%, meaning that if 100 observations
are made, half of them will be within the circular error probable with
Radius = 0.5887 (ơx + ơy)
Civilian code see Coarse Acquisition code.
Clock Bias is the difference between GPS Time and UTC.
Coarse Acquisition code (C/A or Civilian code) is the pseudo-random code generated by
GPS satellites. It is intended for civilian use and the accuracy of readings using this code can be
degraded if selective availability (S/A) is introduced by the US Department of Defense.
Collimate is to physically align a survey target or antenna over a mark.
COM is the shortened form of the word Communications. Indicates a data communications port
to/from the GPS sensor to a controller or data collection device.
Compact Measurement Record (CMR/CMR+) is a standard format for DGPS corrections used
to transmit corrections from a reference station to rover sensors. See Related Standards in
Notices.
Controller is a device consisting of hardware and software used to communicate and
manipulate the I/O functions of the GPS sensor.
Control Point is a point to which coordinates have been assigned. These coordinates can then
be held fixed and are used in other dependant surveys.
Control Segment is a worldwide network of GPS monitoring and control stations that ensure
the accuracy of the GPS satellite orbits and operation of their atomic clocks. The original control
segment consists of control facilities in Diego Garcia, Ascension Island, Kwajalein, and Hawaii,
with a master control station at the Consolidated Space Operations Center (CSPOC) at
Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Convergence Period (C-Nav) is the time necessary for the received C-Nav signal corrections
to be applied and the position filtered to optimal performance. The convergence period is
typically 30 to 45 minutes to achieve decimeter accuracy.
Cycle Ambiguity see Ambiguity.
Cycle Slip is a discontinuity in measured carrier beat phase resulting from a temporary loss of
lock in the carrier-tracking loop of a GPS receiver.
Datum A reference datum is a known and constant surface, which can be used to describe the
location of unknown points. Geodetic datums define the size and shape of the earth and the
origin and orientation of the coordinate systems used to map the earth.
DB9P a type of electrical connector containing 9 contacts. The P indicates a plug pin (male).
DB9S a type of electrical connector containing 9 contacts. The S indicates a slot pin (female).
DCE Data Communications Equipment. Defined pin assignments based on the IEEE RS-232
signaling standard. See Figure 50:
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Modem
`
DTE DCE
RJ45 DB25 DB9 Straight-Through Cable DB9 DB25
DCD
6 8 1 1 8
RD
5 3 2 TD
2 3
4 2 3 3 2
DTR
2 20 4 4 20
GND
3 7 5 5 7
DSR
6 6 6 6
RTS
1 4 7 7 4
CTS
8 5 8 8 5
07-00041-A
Deflection of the Vertical is the angle between the perpendicular to the geoid (plumb line) and
the perpendicular to the ellipsoid.
DGPS see Differential GPS.
Differencing is a technique used in baseline processing to resolve the integer cycle ambiguity
and to reduce a number of error sources including oscillator variations and atmospheric and
orbital modeling errors. This technique “differences” the measurement of the carrier beat phase
across time, frequency, receivers, satellites, or any combination of these. The most popular
differences are single, double and triple.
Differential GPS (DGPS) is a positioning procedure that uses two receivers, a rover at an
unknown location and a reference station at a known, fixed location. The reference station
computes corrections based on the actual and observed ranges to the satellites being tracked.
The coordinates of the unknown location can be computed with sub-meter level precision by
applying these corrections to the satellite data received by the rover.
Dilution of Precision (DOP) is a class of measures of the magnitude of error in GPS position
fixes due to the orientation of the GPS satellites with respect to the GPS receiver. There are
several DOP’s to measure different components of the error. Note: this is a unit-less value. See
also PDOP.
Doppler Aiding is a signal processing strategy that uses measured Doppler shifts to help the
receiver smoothly track the GPS signal, allowing more precise velocity and position
measurement.
Doppler Shift is the apparent change in frequency of a received signal due to the rate of
change of the distance between the transmitter and receiver.
Double Difference between receivers and between satellites is found by differencing the single
difference for one satellite with the single difference for another satellite where both single
differences are from the same epoch.
Dual-Frequency is a type of GPS receiver that uses both L1 and L2 signals from GPS
satellites. A dual-frequency receiver can compute more precise position fixes over longer
distances and under more adverse conditions because it compensates for ionospheric delays.
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Dynamic Mode when a GPS receiver operates in dynamic mode, it assumes that it is in motion
and certain algorithms for GPS position fixing are enabled in order to calculate a tighter position
fix.
Dynamic Positioning (GPS) is the determination of the position of a moving receiver such as
one mounted on a boat. Generally, each set of coordinates is computed from a single data
sample. The GPS was originally conceived for dynamic positioning of a single receiver,
however, it may be used in a differential mode to increase relative accuracy.
Eccentricity is the ratio of the distance from the center of an ellipse to its focus on the semi-
major axis.
Elevation is the distance above or below Local Vertical Datum.
Elevation Mask the lowest elevation, in degrees, at which a receiver can track a satellite.
Measured from the horizon to zenith, 0º to 90º.
Ellipsoid is a mathematical model approximating the earth’s surface, generated by rotating an
ellipse on its minor axis. GPS positions are computed relative to the WGS-84 ellipsoid. An
ellipsoid has a smooth surface, which does not match the earth’s geoidal surface closely, so
GPS altitude measurements can contain a large vertical error component. Conventionally
surveyed positions usually reference a geoid, which has an undulating surface and
approximates the earth’s surface more closely to minimize altitude errors.
Ephemeris is a tabulation of the positions of all GPS satellites at given points in time.
Epoch is a period of time or a date selected as a point of reference.
Error Ellipse is a statistical measure of the positional error at a given point computed from the
propagation of all errors affecting the position solution and expressed by its semi-major and
semi-minor axis (vectors of greatest and least magnitude) and the covariance (rotation angle in
the reference coordinate system). Two-dimensional errors are typically propagated at one
standard deviation (39.4% probability that the positioning lies on or within the ellipse) or 2.1447
times the standard deviation (95% confidence) level.
European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) a European satellite system
used to augment the two military satellite navigation systems now operating, the US GPS and
Russian GLONASS systems.
Fractional Instantaneous Phase Measurement is a measurement of the carrier beat phase that
does not include any integer cycle count.
Frequency Band is a range of frequencies in a region of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Frequency Spectrum is the distribution of signal amplitudes as a function of frequency of the
constituent signal waves.
Galileo is the navigation satellite system currently being developed and implemented by the
European Space Agency, the European Union. Initial operation is planned for 2008.
Geodetic Leveling Network is a network of vertical control or benchmarks whose heights are
known as accurately as possible, and whose horizontal position is known only approximately.
Geoid is the gravity-equipotential surface that best approximates mean sea level over the entire
surface of the earth. The surface of a geoid is too irregular to use for GPS readings, which are
measured relative to an ellipsoid. Conventionally surveyed positions reference a geoid.
Calculating the distance between the geoid and ellipsoid at each position and subtracting this
from the GPS altitude measurement can obtain more accurate GPS readings.
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Geoidal Height is the undulation of the geoid above or below the reference ellipsoid.
Geographical Information System (GIS) is a computer system capable of assembling, storing,
manipulating, updating, analyzing and displaying geographically referenced information, i.e.
data identified according to their locations. GIS technology can be used for scientific
investigations, resource management, and development planning. GIS software is used to
display, edit, query and analyze all the graphical objects and their associated information.
Global Positioning System (GPS) geometrically, there can only be one point in space, which
is the correct distance from each of four known points. GPS measures the distance from a point
to at least four satellites from a constellation of 24 NAVSTAR satellites orbiting the earth at a
very high altitude (approximately 20,200km). These distances are used to calculate the point’s
position.
GPS Aided Geo Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) is an Indian satellite system that provides
a set of corrections for the GPS satellites, which are valid for the Indian region. They incorporate
satellite orbit and clock corrections.
GPS Time is a measure of time. GPS time is based on UTC, but does not add periodic ‘leap
seconds’ to correct for changes in the earth’s period of rotation. As of April 2008 GPS time is 14
seconds ahead of UTC.
Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) is the local time of the 0° meridian passing through Greenwich,
England.
Handover Word is the word in the GPS message that contains time synchronization
information for the transfer from the C/A-code to the P-code.
Horizontal Geodetic Network is a network for which the horizontal, coordinate, latitude, and
longitude of the control points in the network are determined as accurately as possible, and
heights are known only approximately.
Independent Baseline those baselines that provide a unique position solution for a given
station.
Integer-cycle Ambiguity is the unknown number of whole carrier cycles between the satellite
and the receiver.
Ionosphere is the region of the earth’s atmosphere between the stratosphere and the
exosphere approximately 50 to 250 miles above the earth’s surface
Ionospheric Refraction Delay is a delay in the propagation of the GPS signal caused by the
signal traveling through the ionosphere.
Issue of Data, Clock (IODC) indicates the issue number of the data set and thereby provides
the user with a convenient means of detecting any change in the correction parameters. The
transmitted IODC will be different from any value transmitted by the satellite during the
preceding seven days.
Kalman Filtering is a linear system in which the mean squared error between the desired
output and the actual output is minimized when the input is a random signal generated by white
noise. The Kalman filter looks at a target to remove the effects of the noise and get a good
estimate of the location of the target at the present time (filtering), at a future time (prediction),
or at a time in the past (interpolation or smoothing). The Kalman filter is a recursive estimator
with two phases: predict and update. The predict phase uses the estimate from a previous state
to produce an estimate of the current state. The update phase uses the current state
measurements to arrive at a new more accurate estimate.
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or more objects—the ground, a vehicle, boat, building or some other surface—and once
received by the antenna, will yield a larger pseudo-range estimate and increase the error.
Multipath Error is a positioning error resulting from interference between radio waves that has
traveled between the transmitter and the receiver by two paths of different electrical lengths.
Navigation Code uses the two GPS carrier waves and operates on a very low frequency (about
50Hz). This code communicates the GPS message (a string of data) from the GPS satellites to
the GPS receivers on L1 and L2 carrier waves.
Navigation (.YYn) files one of the three file types that make up the RINEX file format. Where
YY indicates the last two digits of the year the data was collected. A navigation file contains
satellite position and time information.
Navigation Message is the 1500-bit message broadcast by each satellite at 50bps on both L1
and L2 beacons. This message contains system time, clock correction parameters, ionospheric
delay model parameters, and the vehicle’s ephemeris and health. This information is used to
process the GPS signal to obtain user position and velocity.
NAVSTAR is the name given to GPS satellites, originally manufactured by Rockwell
International.
Observation (.YYo) files one of the three file types that make up the RINEX file format. Where
YY indicates the last two digits of the year the data was collected. An observation file contains
raw GPS position information.
P-code is the extremely long pseudo-random code generated by a GPS satellite. It is intended
for use only by the U.S. military, so it can be encrypted to Y-code, and then denies unauthorized
users access.
Parity is a method of detecting communication errors by adding an extra parity bit to a group of
bits. The parity bit can be a 0 or 1 value so that every byte will add up to an odd or even number
(depending on whether odd or even parity is chosen).
PDOP Mask is the highest PDOP value at which a receiver computes positions.
Perigee is the point in the orbit of a satellite about the earth that is the least distant from the
center of the earth.
Phase Center is the point in an antenna where the GPS signal from the satellites is received.
The height above ground of the phase center must be measured accurately to ensure accurate
GPS readings. The phase center height can be calculated by adding the height to an easily
measured point, such as the base of the antenna mount, to the known distance between this
point and the phase center.
Phase Lock is the technique where the phase of a signal is set to replicate the phase of a
reference signal by comparing the phase of the two signals and then using the resultant phase
difference to adjust the reference oscillator to eliminate the difference.
Phase Measurement is measurement expressed as a percentage of a portion of a wave (e.g. a
sine wave). For example, a complete wavelength
Position is the latitude, longitude, and altitude of a point. An estimate of error is often
associated with a position.
Position Dilution of Precision (PDOP) is a measure of the magnitude of Dilution of Position
(DOP) errors in the x, y, and z coordinates.
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Post-processing is a method of differential data correction, which compares data logged from
a known reference point to data logged by a roving receiver over the same period of time.
Variations in the position reported by the reference station can be used to correct the positions
logged by the roving receiver. Post-processing is performed after the user collects the data and
returns to the office, rather than in real time as data is logged, so it can use complex,
calculations to achieve greater accuracy.
Precise code see P-code.
Precise Ephemeris is the ephemeris computed after the transmission of the satellite signal and
based on satellite tracking information. It is used in post-processing of collected GPS data.
Precision is the degree of agreement or repeatability among a series of individual
measurements, values, or results. The precision of a numerical value can refer to the number of
significant digits used to express a quantity or that an instrument can measure to. Precision is
related to the quality of the operation through which the result is obtained.
PRN (Uppercase) typically indicates a GPS satellite number sequence from 1 – 32.
Projection is a mathematical formula that transforms feature locations between the earth’s
curved surface and a map’s flat surface. A projected coordinate system includes the information
needed to transform locations expressed as latitude values to x,y coordinates. Projections
cause distortion in one or more of these spatial properties-distance, area, shape and direction.
Protected code see P-code.
Pseudo-Random Noise (prn) is a sequence of data that appears to be randomly distributed
but can be exactly reproduced. Each GPS satellite transmits a unique PRN in its signals. GPS
receivers use PRNs to identify and lock onto satellites and to compute their pseudoranges.
Pseudorange is the apparent distance from the reference station’s antenna to a satellite,
calculated by multiplying the time the signal takes to reach the antenna by the speed of light
(radio waves travel at the speed of light). The actual distance, or range, is not exactly the same
because various factors cause errors in the measurement.
Radio Technical Commission for Maritime Services (RTCM) is a standard format for
Differential GPS corrections used to transmit corrections from a base station to rovers. RTCM
allows both real-time kinematic (RTK) data collection and post-processed differential data
collection. RTCM SC-104 (RTCM Special Committee 104) is the most commonly used version
of RTCM message.
Range is the distance between a satellite and a GPS receiver’s antenna. The range is
approximately equal to the pseudorange. However, errors can be introduced by atmospheric
conditions, which slow down the radio waves, clock errors, irregularities in the satellite’s orbit,
and other factors. A GPS receiver’s location can be determined if you know the ranges from the
receiver to at least four GPS satellites. Geometrically, there can only be one point in space,
which is the correct distance from each of four known points.
Real Time GIPSY (RTG) is a processing technique developed by NASA’s Jet Propulsion
Laboratory to provide a single set of real time global corrections for the GPS satellites.
Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) is a GPS system that yields very accurate 3D position fixes
immediately in real-time. The base station transmits its GPS position to roving receivers as the
receiver generates them, and the roving receivers use the base station readings to differentially
correct their own positions. Accuracies of a few centimeters in all three dimensions are possible.
RTK requires dual frequency GPS receivers and high speed radio modems.
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secure. Because spread spectrum signals are so wide, they can be transmitted at much lower
spectral power density (Watts per Hertz), than narrow band signals.
Standard Deviation is a measure of how widely values are dispersed from the mean. The
larger the standard deviation is, the more spread out the values are from the mean. It is the
square root of the average squared deviations of each of the values from the mean.
Time Tag is when a time value is appended to an actual measurement.
Triple Difference between receivers, between satellites, and between epochs (time) is the
difference between a double difference at one epoch and the same double difference at the
following epoch.
Troposphere is the inner layer of the atmosphere, located between 6 and 12 miles above the
earth’s surface.
Twice Distance Root Mean Square (2dRMS) is a measurement that varies in its probability
from 95.4% to 98.2%, meaning that if 100 observations are taken, between 95 and 98 of those
observations will be within the 2dRMS where approximation = 2ơ
Universal Time Coordinated (UTC) a time standard maintained by the US Naval Observatory,
based on local solar mean time at the Greenwich meridian. GPS time is based on UTC.
User Segment is the portion of the GPS system with major components that can be interfaced
by the user (e.g., GPS receivers).
Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) is a set of corrections for the GPS satellites, which
are valid for the Americas region. They incorporate satellite orbit and clock corrections.
Wide Area Differential GPS (WADGPS) is a set of corrections for the GPS satellites, which are
valid for a wide geographic area.
World Geodetic System 1984 (WGS84) is the current standard datum for global positioning
and surveying. The WGS-84 is based on the GRS-80 ellipsoid.
Y-code is the name given to encrypted P-code when the U.S. Department of Defense uses
selective availability.
Z-count Word is the GPS satellite clock time at the leading edge of the data subframe of the
transmitted GPS message.
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