Dual-Frequency GPS: Unlocking Precision for High-Value Asset Tracking

Dual-Frequency GPS: Unlocking Precision for High-Value Asset Tracking

2024-06-17

Traditional GPS trackers that rely solely on the L1 frequency struggle to meet the ever-increasing demands for pinpoint accuracy. Multipath errors, ionospheric delays, and other interference, especially in urban environments with dense buildings, can significantly affect performance. However, the introduction of the L5 civil signal has revolutionized this landscape.

Fig. 1 Multipath Effect and Ionospheric Delays

Since its activation for civil use, the L5 frequency has attracted considerable attention. Many manufacturers, recognizing its potential, are actively incorporating it into their hardware. This new signal not only aligns with the Galileo (EU), BeiDou (China), and GLONASS (Russia) systems but also promises improved compatibility and positioning accuracy across various platforms.

Dual-Frequency GPS Trackers vs. Traditional Trackers

Dual-frequency GPS trackers offer several key advantages over traditional trackers:

  • Receiving Frequency Difference: Dual-frequency GPS trackers receive satellite signals from both the L1 and L5 frequency bands, while single-frequency trackers are limited to the L1 band.
  • Enhanced Positioning Accuracy: Dual-frequency trackers utilize the difference in ionospheric delay effects between the L1 and L5 bands to more precisely eliminate these effects, resulting in significantly improved positioning accuracy compared to traditional trackers.
  • Faster Resolution of Integer Ambiguity: Dual-frequency trackers leverage observations on both frequencies to accelerate integer ambiguity resolution, further improving both speed and accuracy.

Overall, dual-frequency GPS trackers offer superior performance, making them a valuable choice for applications that require highly accurate and reliable location data.

Introducing the VL101G: A Game Changer in GPS Tracking

Embracing this technology leap, we’re proud to introduce the VL101G – our first dual-frequency GPS tracker. Designed for precision-critical applications, the VL101G can receive L1/L5 dual-frequency GNSS signals, delivering:

  • Faster Time To First Fix (TTFF): Our field tests demonstrate significantly faster TTFF in both open and obstructed environments compared to traditional trackers.
  • Improved Positioning Accuracy: Dual-frequency technology minimizes signal interference, resulting in more accurate location data for your high-value assets.

Real-World Testing: VL101G vs. Traditional Tracker

To demonstrate the capabilities of the VL101G, we conducted a side-by-side comparison with a traditional tracker (GT06N as an example) in two controlled environments:

  • Open Area: The VL101G consistently achieved faster TTFF and tracked a significantly higher number of visible satellites compared to the traditional tracker.
  • Under Roof: Even with obstructed satellite signals, the VL101G maintained superior TTFF and tracked more satellites than the traditional tracker.

Static Test Results in Open Area

Fig. 2 Test Environment

Table 1 TTFF by Start Type and Device

ItemNo.VL101GGT06N
Cold Start12536
22329
31852
41939
51424
61936
71828
81936
91828
101974
Average Time*/18.18235.5
Hot Start12.2180.985
21.8282.016
30.7813.094
41.5161.969
51.6092.047
61.4533.516
71.7353.031
81.7823
92.3281.984
101.5785.062
Average Time*/1.7152.582
*The max. and min. values are discarded when calculating the average time.

Fig. 3 VL101G Positioning Effect Rendering

Fig. 4 GT06N Positioning Effect Rendering

Table 2 Number of Visible Satellites by GNSS Frequency and Device

GNSSFrequencyVL101G GT06N
GPSL1910
BeiDou217
GLONASS7/
Galileo7/
QZSS4/
GPSL53/
BeiDou9/
GLONASS//
Galileo7/
QZSS4/
Total Visible Satellites/6417
The above tables and figures show that the VL101G outperforms the traditional tracker, achieving nearly 17 seconds faster TTFF speed in cold starts and 1 second faster in hot starts. This translates into superior performance, as the VL101G tracks nearly four times more satellites simultaneously, ensuring reliable and accurate positioning.

Static Test Results Under Roof

Fig. 5 Test Environment

Table 2 TTFF by Start Type and Device

ItemNo.VL101GGT06N
Cold Start13263
23146
33355
43617
53455
642169
73058
83636
92757
1031108
Average Time*/32.87559.8
Hot Start13.6723.171
23.4062.015
33.3613.031
42.253.11
53.3287.031
64.253.984
73.3446.125
84.2187
93.0473.968
104.1713.984
Average Time*/3.5684.797
*The max. and min. values are discarded when calculating the average time.

Fig. 6 VL101G Positioning Effect Rendering

Fig. 7 GT06N Positioning Effect Rendering

Table 3 Number of Visible Satellites by GNSS Frequency and Device

GNSSFrequencyVL101G GT06N
GPSL176
BeiDou72
GLONASS1/
Galileo2/
QZSS2/
GPSL52/
BeiDou5/
GLONASS//
Galileo2/
QZSS1/
Total Visible Satellites/298
The above tables and figures show that the VL101G’s performance shines under challenging conditions (under the roof in this case). Compared to the traditional tracker, it achieves nearly 17 seconds faster TTFF in cold starts and over 1.2 seconds faster TTFF in hot starts. This is a significant advantage, as the VL101G tracks over 3.5 times more satellites simultaneously in such an environment, ensuring reliable and accurate positioning.

Dual-Frequency GPS – The Future of Precision Tracking

While the initial cost of dual-frequency trackers may be higher due to the need for specialized dual-band receive antennas with multiple feed points, the benefits in accuracy and reliability make them a worthwhile investment for high-value asset tracking and other demanding applications.

As dual-frequency technology becomes more widely adopted, it will transform the way we track and manage critical assets, ensuring greater efficiency and accuracy across multiple sectors.

WHY JIMIIOT

JimiIoT is a global leader in innovative IoT solutions. We provide cutting-edge hardware and software tailored to enhance efficiency and connectivity. Our range of products includes advanced GPS tracking devices, asset management solutions, smart vehicle dashcams, and telematics platforms. With a focus on technological excellence and customer satisfaction, we empower businesses to optimize operations and gain valuable insights from data-driven analytics. Trust JimiIoT to drive positive change and unlock growth opportunities in the digital age.

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