COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF GEODETIC RECEIVER AND ANDROID SMARTPHONE PARAMETERS IN THE CONTEXT OF GPS, GALILEO AND QZSS CONSTELLATIONS

Abstract

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) provides precise position, navigation and timing data (PNT) for global and regional satellite constellations. Geodetic GNSS receivers used for surveying and geospatial uses have the limitations of high cost and complexity. Compact, lower cost GNSS receivers/ modules, and handheld devices were commercially available for use later on. This paper presents a comparative analysis of signal strength measurements obtained from geodetic receiver and android smartphones across multiple GNSS constellations, including GPS, GALILEO and QZSS. The research aims to assess and compare the performance of geodetic receiver and android smartphones in capturing and processing signals from diverse satellite constellations with implications for positioning accuracy. The experimental methodology involves systematic data collection using single-frequency and dual-frequency android smartphones and the GPStation-6 receiver, situated at the Advanced GNSS Research Laboratory (AGRL), Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, Osmania University, Hyderabad. Both geodetic receiver and android smartphones are subjected to identical testing scenarios, capturing performance metrics such as satellite visibility, Signal-to-Noise ratio (SNR) for each satellite system. The Android smartphone recorded lower Signal-to-Noise ratios (SNR) in contrast to the geodetic receiver. The findings will contribute to advancing our understanding of the practical performance of these devices in realistic situations. Furthermore, the research may inform future developments in GNSS technology, enhancing the accuracy of positioning systems for a wide range of applications in India.