Communication System

June 28, 2011

Global Positioning System

Hassan Fraz BEEE-8

Hassan Fraz

BEEE-8

F-2639

Abstract: The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite-based navigation system made up of a network of 24 satellites placed into orbit by the U.S. Department of Defense. GPS was originally intended for military applications, but in the 1980s, the government made the system available for civilian use. GPS works in any weather conditions, anywhere in the world, 24 hours a day. In this paper I will discuss about the scope, significance, architecture, main features, applications and the parallel technologies to the GPS. GPS satellites circle the earth twice a day in a very precise orbit and transmit signal information to earth. GPS receivers take this information and use triangulation to calculate the user's exact location. Essentially, the GPS receiver compares the time a signal was transmitted by a satellite with the time it was received. The time difference tells the GPS receiver how far away the satellite is. Now, with distance measurements from a few more satellites, the receiver can determine the user's position and display it on the unit's electronic map. Many issues surround the future of Global Positioning System technology and operability. The most certain aspect of the future of GPS is its increased usage and its expansion into new areas of application. Bradford Parkinson, from the University of Minnesota Center for Transportation Studies, predicts that by 2010 there will be more than 50 million GPS users that perform applications relating to the automobiles, ships, farm vehicles, aircraft and military systems fields. As one would expect from the term GPS tracking, GPS tracking systems can help you specifically to keep tabs on your loved ones and even your beloved pets. Some GPS tracking systems are even small enough to be attached without too much trouble to a cat or dog. So, if your dog or cat slips away, you can easily find the errant critter without spending much time and hassle. Perhaps one of the most common uses for the GPS tracking systems is in cars. The reason behind this application is that GPS tracking systems can help the driver pinpoint his or her exact location without any trouble. It doesnt end there, however. GPS tracking systems are also great solutions to track the vehicles should it be stolen. There are even some devices like the popular OnStar that can employ a GPS tracker in your car to send emergency help in the event of a car wreck. This system also works in the event of the drivers incapacity

Hassan Fraz

BEEE-8

F-2639

Architecture: GPS is a complex system that comprises space, control, and user segments. This section highlights the major features of the three segments: the aim is to delineate the translation of the basic navigation concept. The current GPS consists of three major segments. These are the space segment (SS), a control segment (CS), and a user segment (U.S.). the selected GPS constellation contains 24 satellites in six orbital planes (see Figure 3.2). Each plane hosts four satellites. The satellites have a period of 12 hours sidereal time, corresponding to about 11 hours and 58 minutes, and a height of about 20,163 km above the Earth. Orbits are inclined at 55 with respect to the equatorial plane and have a nearly circular shape (the eccentricity is about 0.01). GPS satellites weigh about 930 kg and are 5.2m long with the solar panels extended. They adopt thrusters for orbit adjustment and have a design life of 7.5 years. The payload is designed to transmit properly in time the composite L-band signals, L1 and L2, containing the navigation data, which provide users with the necessary information to determine the positioning, velocity, and timing measurements The navigation data are periodically (up to twice a day) updated onboard through the S-band tracking, telemetry and command (TT&C) system by on-ground control segment and stored in the satellite memory.

Hassan Fraz

BEEE-8

F-2639

Features of GPS Tracker: The GPS Tracker is a compact and can be used for fleet management and tracking. This board uses high performance AT&S GPS module and dual band GSM/GPRS module. The GPS Tracker board is capable of receiving the navigational data from the GPS module and stores into the micro SD card. This stored data can be sent through the GSM/GPRS data communication to a central location for tracking purposes. The power management is achieved through on-board digital accelerometer. The digital accelerometer output forces this board into active state. The Li-On battery can be charged through the USB port. GPS Tracker Hardware Features Board Size: 86.6 x 54.6 mm Highly Sensitive eMD3620 / OPUS III e-Ride GPS Module Micro SD socket 25mm ceramic patch antenna for GPS Reception On-board antenna for GSM/GPRS communication Supplied with rechargeable Li-Ion Battery Mini-USB Connector for charging and data access Digital Accelerometer for power management

Hassan Fraz

BEEE-8

F-2639

Future of GPS: The future of global positioning system is bright as predictions range from its' increased usage to expansion into new areas of application. It is estimated that there will be 50 million users of the global positioning system by 2010 that perform applications in the following fields:
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Ships Aircrafts Military systems Farm vehicles Automobiles

Positional accuracy and reliable calculations are also predicted in the GPS technology. It is hoped that additional civil frequencies and civil codes will be developed to meet the requirements of civilian users. GPS users have also considered the benefits of interoperating the GALILEO and NAVSTAR systems. The advantages of interoperability include improved signal redundancy and more available signals that enable users to access satellites from remote areas. The research universe of Global Positioning Systems is on the verge of getting a huge lift. Or launch, depending on how you look at it. Though, it will take a while before that technology trickles down to your cell phone. From the surface of the ocean to the height of an aircraft or satellite you can use GPS, said Richard Langley, professor of geomatics at the University of New Brunswick and a GPS expert. Langley is preparing to reinforce that statement with the 2011 launch of a satellite that will carry five GPS devices far above the Earth. This is a satellite that is going to study the Earths upper atmosphere, but it is also going to test new broadband technology, or how to get massive amounts of information from one area to another, said Langley.

Hassan Fraz

BEEE-8

F-2639

Applications: GPS has a wide range of applications. All of them fall under five basic categories:
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Location Navigation Tracking Mapping Timing

Combining GPS with current and future computer mapping techniques would enable us to identify and manage our natural resources. Smart vehicle location and GPS navigation systems are GPS systems that would help us find efficient routes to our destinations, save a substantial amount of money and reduce air pollution to a large extent. Businesses would be able to manage their resources more efficiently, thus reducing consumer costs. Traveling aboard ships and aircrafts will be safer in all weather conditions. There are two 'public' Global Positioning Systems (GPS systems):
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NAVSTAR GLONASS

The NAVSTAR is a GPS device owned by the United States, it managed by the NAVSTAR GPS Joint Program Office located at Los Angeles Air Force Base. The civilian point of contact for the NAVSTAR system is the United States Coast Guard's Navigation Center (NAVCEN). The GLONASS system is owned by the Russian Federation. The point of contact for GLONASS information is the Russian Space Forces' Coordinational Scientific Information Center (CSIC).