Differential Beacon Receiver Testing.
Abstract
The Coast Guard's research and development of the Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) led to the creation of a new type of radionavigation equipment, the differential beacon receiver. This device receives the digital broadcast of DGPS corrections over the marine beacon band (285-325 kHz). Its sole purpose is to provide the DGPS corrections to a properly configured GPS receiver which then applies those corrections in its navigation process to yield position accuracy of 2-10 meters. In order to conclude the research effort, the USCG Research and Development (R&D) Center conducted a campaign of testing to validate the methods being used in the Coast Guard DGPS service. The performance testing, conducted at the USCG R&D Center in Groton, CT, tested the receivers abilities under actual atmospheric and man-made interference. Performance was analyzed, with results measured in bit error rate, position accuracy and susceptibility to interference. Coast Guard DGPS broadcast methods were evaluated and found to be sufficient for broadcast of the DGPS corrections. The results also led to the recommendation to change all DGPS broadcasts to 200 bits per second. The benefits of this change would be improved performance for the users of the system and simplification of the system as all beacon broadcasts would be at the same rate.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA317835
Entities
People
- Joseph W. Spalding
- Mark T. Lunday
- Marylouise K. Dowd