If your business is developing any type of device that uses satellite signals, you want to be sure it meets the demands of a real-world environment.
The best way to conduct proper testing of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology is by using GNSS simulation.
What is GNSS simulation? How does it benefit developers? Read on for a brief guide.
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What Is GNSS Simulation?
GNSS is a system that uses satellites to broadcast signals. GNSS receivers process the signals to determine the precise location, time, and speed of a device anywhere around the world. The most well-known use of GNSS is the global positioning system (GPS).
With the rising use of smartphones and other Internet of Things devices, the use of GNSS is growing. The GNSS devices and services market is forecast to grow to $353.17 billion by 2026, from $162.9 billion in 2020.
GNSS simulation is a way for developers to test GNSS receivers before using them in a live environment. Applications include land-based vehicles, ships, planes, and spacecraft, as well as mobile devices.
How Does a GNSS Simulator Work?
A GNSS simulator models the movement of the device and satellites to navigate in a test environment. That enables developers to not only check that the device works, but apply various scenarios to ensure that it can work in the real world without errors.
Why Use a GNSS Simulator?
A GNSS constellation simulator allows developers to generate GNSS constellation signals based on time and location. How? A real-time GNSS simulator generates signals with the current time, enabling developers to save on real-world testing. They can test conditions at any time in the past or future, as well as any location, from the lab.
Developers can also use a GNSS satellite simulator to model how vehicle dynamics and environmental conditions will affect the operation of the device. They can test scenarios with different routes and atmospheric conditions. And they can test for how the device will perform if there are signal errors.
Some of the advantages of using a GNSS simulator include:
- Error removal
- Repeatable testing
- Controlled environment
- Testing all possible capabilities
- Cost-effective
Different testing options are available, each with its own advantages depending on the type of device and the functionality they offer. For some applications, it’s best to supplement GNSS with other technologies to make sure they can meet their performance needs.
GNSS simulator suppliers provide tailored technical support so that the hardware and software systems meet the individual needs of the developer. This ensures there is little downtime if equipment fails, and businesses can save money as their testing needs increase.
Use GNSS Simulation for Your Product Development
GNSS simulation is crucial for the conception and design phase of product development for any application that uses satellite navigation technology. A GNSS simulator allows developers to control the testing environment. In that way, they can recreate errors and repeat testing until the receiver reacts as it should.
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