Chapter 3

Operation

 

 

3.6.2Operational States

The receiver has 6 operating modes:

•Self-Test

•Initialization

•Acquisition

•Navigation

•Dead-Reckoning

•Fault

The receiver switches between modes automatically. The receiver reports the current operating and navigation modes on its host port.

1.Self-Test Mode

The receiver enters Self-Test mode upon request from an external source (please refer to Message ID# 51, Initiated BIT Request in the SUPERSTAR II Firmware Reference Manual). The time duration spent in the Self-Test mode is no more than 15 seconds. On self-test completion, the receiver reports the BIT results on its host port through Message ID# 51. Self-Test mode exits to either Initialization or Fault mode.

2.Initialization Mode

Upon power-up, the receiver enters Initialization mode. During this mode hardware is initialized prior to Acquisition mode entry. The Initialization mode is also initiated upon completion of the Self-Test mode, but always exits to the Acquisition mode.

The SMART ANTENNA retrieves data from both NVM and SRAM (warm start). Integrity checking is done on all data retrieved from the non-operating state.

During initialization, the receiver retrieves the last received valid almanac data and last user position from NVM, the current time from the low-power time source, and predicts which satellites are currently visible. This list of visible satellites is then used in Acquisition mode to program the 12 parallel correlator channels.

3.Acquisition Mode

The receiver is in Acquisition mode when insufficient satellite data is available to produce an initial navigation solution. Acquisition mode is entered from Initialization or Dead-Reckoning mode and exits to Navigation or Fault mode.

To acquire signals from the GPS satellites, the receiver uses:

•Almanac data which describes the satellite orbits

•Time, which in conjunction with almanac data is used to estimate the present position of satellites in their orbits

•The approximate location of the receiver so a prediction can be made as to which satellites are visible

The receiver then collects ephemeris data by decoding the satellite down-link data message. After each satellite in view is acquired, its measurement data set is produced. When a sufficient number of satellites are being tracked, position, velocity and time can be computed and Navigation mode entered.

If the receiver cannot perform an acquisition due to an absence of valid almanac data or user position and/or time, it initiates a "Search the Sky" acquisition. The receiver attempts to acquire all satellites in the GPS constellation. Once a satellite has been acquired, ephemeris data is decoded

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SMART ANTENNA User Manual Rev 6

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Novatel SMART ANTENNA user manual Operational States, Self-Test Mode
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SMART ANTENNA specifications

The Novatel SMART ANTENNA represents a significant advancement in positioning technology, designed to meet the growing demands of various applications, including surveying, agriculture, and autonomous vehicles. Its compact, all-in-one design integrates GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) antennas, a GNSS receiver, and advanced signal processing capabilities into a single unit, thereby streamlining deployment and operation.

One of the standout features of the Novatel SMART ANTENNA is its multi-frequency capability, which allows it to utilize signals from various GNSS constellations, including GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou. This multi-constellation approach enhances reliability and accuracy, even in challenging environments where signal obstructions may occur. The ability to process signals across multiple frequencies significantly reduces the impact of multipath interference and improves positional precision.

The SMART ANTENNA employs sophisticated technologies, such as Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) positioning, which provides centimeter-level accuracy. This makes it ideal for applications that require high precision, such as land surveying or precision agriculture, where slight positional errors can lead to significant discrepancies in output.

Another important characteristic of the Novatel SMART ANTENNA is its rugged, weather-resistant design, making it suitable for a variety of outdoor environments. It has been engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring operational reliability and longevity. This durability is crucial for industries that rely on continuous and accurate positioning data.

Moreover, the device features an easy-to-use interface, simplifying setup and operation for users of all experience levels. Its robust connectivity options, including Bluetooth and serial communications, enable seamless integration with various devices and systems, allowing for versatile usage across multiple platforms.

The Novatel SMART ANTENNA is also equipped with built-in monitoring and diagnostic tools, providing users with real-time feedback on performance metrics. This empowers users to maintain optimal operation and troubleshoot issues as they arise.

In summary, the Novatel SMART ANTENNA is a cutting-edge solution that combines advanced GNSS technology, accurate RTK positioning, and a rugged design. It is an unparalleled choice for industries that demand reliable and precise positioning data, driving efficiency and enhancing workflow across various applications.
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