The dual-band GNSS platform combines L1 and L5 bands for resistance to multipath interference and meter-level positioning accuracy in urban areas.
u-blox, a provider of positioning and wireless communication technologies, has announced the F10, its dual-band Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) platform. This platform combines L1 and L5 bands to provide resistance to multipath interference and deliver meter-level positioning accuracy, making it suitable for urban mobility applications such as aftermarket telematics and micromobility.
Demand for GNSS receivers with precise positioning is increasing, but current models often fall short in urban settings. In these areas, where buildings and foliage can reflect satellite signals, GNSS receivers must overcome multipath effects to ensure accuracy. The receiver’s integration of the L5 band, known for its robustness against these effects, significantly boosts positioning precision. Combined with the L1 band, the dual-band L1/L5 GNSS receiver can achieve positioning accuracy of less than 2 meters (CEP50), compared to approximately 4 meters with only the L1 band. u-blox has conducted drive tests in various urban locations, demonstrating improvements over L1-only GNSS receivers.
The platform’s firmware algorithm gives priority to L5 band signals in areas with weak signals, ensuring dependable positioning accuracy even with small antennas. Additionally, the platform features protection-level technology that provides a real-time estimate of positioning accuracy.
Interference from a cellular modem placed very close to a GNSS receiver can disrupt signal reception. Certain models of the module come with an RF circuit that allows both the GNSS and the cellular modem to operate without interference.
The F10 platform is designed to be compatible with the previous u-blox M10 generation, facilitating migration. It also supports u-blox AssistNow, a real-time online A-GNSS service with global availability, which helps reduce GNSS time-to-first-fix and power consumption.
