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Continuous-Wave Propagation Channel-Sounding Measurement System - Testing, Verification, and Measurements

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Portable global positioning system receivers: static validity and environmental conditions.

Scott Duncan¹, Tom I Stewart, Melody Oliver

¹Human Potential Centre, Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand. scott.duncan@aut.ac.nz

American Journal of Preventive Medicine

|January 22, 2013

Summary

Portable GPS receivers show variable accuracy, performing well in open areas but less reliably in obstructed environments like cities. Signal acquisition times are often longer than advertised.

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Area of Science:

Environmental monitoring
Geospatial technology
Wildlife tracking

Background:

Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers are increasingly used for tracking animal movement.
Limited research exists on how environmental factors affect GPS accuracy in free-living animals.

Purpose of the Study:

To assess the static accuracy of seven portable GPS receiver models.
To compare battery life and signal acquisition times across different environmental conditions.

Main Methods:

Seven GPS models were tested at six geodetic sites with varying obstructions (open sky, urban).
Static validity, battery life, and signal acquisition were recorded and compared to manufacturer specifications.
Data collection occurred in June 2012.

Main Results:

Positional errors varied significantly among GPS models and sites.
Accuracy was highest in open-sky conditions (7.3 ± 27.7 m) and lowest near high-rise buildings (59.2 ± 99.2 m).
Observed signal acquisition times exceeded advertised specifications, while battery life differences were minor.

Conclusions:

Portable GPS receivers are accurate for static locations in unobstructed environments.
Accuracy decreases significantly in obstructed environments, impacting spatiotemporal movement studies.
Advertised signal acquisition times for GPS devices are often underestimated.