GPS Antenna Design Characteristics for High‐Precision Applications
Publication: Journal of Surveying Engineering
Volume 115, Issue 1
Abstract
Antenna characteristics required for geodetic and subcentimeter accuracy GPS (Global Positioning System) applications are discussed, including the types of measurements needed for precise antenna calibration. The antenna phase characteristics over the upper hemispherical coverage region, which are of greatest importance in precise applications, are described in terms of a best‐fit (least mean square sense) sphere with associated residuals that may then be used for very precise correction of direct GPS carrier phase measurements. A criterion of phase ripple (maximum) and overall 5° rms deviation from the best‐fit sphere is presented for acceptable high‐accuracy performance. Measured phase responses are presented for two representative commercial GPS antennas; a quadrifilar helix (volute) at L1 frequency and a microstrip patch at L1 and L2 frequencies. Theoretical results obtained from analytic models are presented to identify the major factors that affect precise GPS antenna performance, including the electrical feed network balance, the use of ground planes, and signal multipath.
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References
1.
Bletzacker, F. R. (1985). “Reduction of multipath contamination in a geodetic GPS receiver.” Proc. First Int. Symp. on Precise Positioning With the Global Positioning System, ASCE, Rockville, Md., 413–422.
2.
Evans, A. G. (1988). “Comparison of GPS pseudorange and biased doppler range measurements to demonstrate signal multipath effects.” Proc. Fourth International Geodetic Symp. on Satellite Positioning, U.S. Defense Mapping Agency and National Geodetic Survey, Austin, Tex.
3.
Kilgus, C. C. (1968). “Multi‐element fractional turn helices.” Trans. Antennas and Propagation, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, AP‐16, 499–501.
4.
Kilgus, C. C. (1970). “Resonant quadrifilar helix design.” The Microwave J., 13(2), 49–53.
5.
Tranquilla, J. M., and Colpitts, B. G. (1986). “The microstrip antenna with finite ground plane for use with satellite positioning systems.” Proc. ANTEM 86: Symposium on Antenna Tech. and Applied Electromagnetics, University of Manitoba.
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Published In
Journal of Surveying Engineering
Volume 115 • Issue 1 • February 1989
Pages: 2 - 14
Copyright
Copyright © 1989 ASCE.
History
Published online: Feb 1, 1989
Published in print: Feb 1989
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