Multi-Band
- Multi-Band refers to the ability of the GPSr to
receive GNSS satellite signals over multiple frequencies.
- The GPS signals long used by Garmin GPSr for position
calculation are transmitted on the publicly available L1 band
(1575.420MHz).
- Similarly, Galileo equipped devices receive
satellite signals transmitted over the open and free E1 band (1575.420MHz).
- BeiDou equipped devices receive satellite
signals transmitted over the open and free B1 band (1561.098MHz).
- QZSS equipped devices receive satellite
signals transmitted over the open and free L1 band (1575.420MHz).
- Increased demand and advancements in technology have led to the modernization and implementation of enhanced GPS signals.
- Modern GPS satellites transmit this
additional signal over the L5 band (1176.450MHz).
- Galileo satellites also transmit an additional
signal on the E5a band (1176.450MHz).
- BeiDou satellites also transmit an additional
signal on the B2a band (1176.450MHz).
- QZSS satellites also transmit an additional
signal on the L5 band (1176.450MHz).
- Multi-Band capable devices can receive a
combination of GPS L1/L5, Galileo E1/E5a, BeiDou B1/B2a and QZSS L1/L5 signals simultaneously.
Multi-Band Advantages
- GNSS Signals
- All GNSS signals include these essential
components:
- Pseudorandom Noise Code (PRN) - Identifies the
satellite transmitting the signal.
- Almanac - Coarse orbital parameters for all
satellites in the constellation (updates every six days).
- Ephemeris - Precise orbital and clock
correction data specific to the transmitting satellite (updates every two
hours).
- Modern satellite signals (L5/E5a) may also contain
additional optional elements providing:
- Reduced cross-correlation and interference.
- Improved data synchronization.
- Multipath mitigation.
- L5/E5a/B2a vs L1/E1/B1
- When used in combination with L1/E1/B1 signals,
L5/E5a/B2a signals can provide:
- Improved accuracy via real-time ionospheric correction
(WAAS/EGNOS no longer required).
- Superior multipath recognition and
correction capabilities.
- Enhanced robustness via signal redundancy.
- L5/E5a signals exhibit superior detection
characteristics over L1/E1/B1 signals due to:
- Higher signal transmission power level
(-3.6dB).
- Better signal to noise ratio (SNR).
- Greater bandwidth.
- The L5/E5a/B2a frequency band is internationally
recognized and protected.
