Spirent Intros Customizable Software for GPS Test, Simulation

Navigation and positioning test system supplier Spirent Communications this week introduced a software suite for the STR4500 GPS simulator, enabling users to generate their own test cases based on motion data that fits their specific requirements, the company said.

Launched in 2001, the STR4500 provides pre-defined test cases for the testing of GPS receivers and systems to be replayed using a PC-based controller with RF signal generator hardware. Typical users of the STR4500 are involved with the selection, integration, verification or production test of GPS L1 C/A code systems, according to Spirent.

The new SimPLEX45 software enables unique test cases to be generated, saved and run directly by the user. SimPLEX45 also enables user-defined motion-data to be used with atmospheric models and the environment around a vehicle, the company said.

“This new software will enable our customers to drive a route and, using logged NMEA data, generate a trajectory for a test case,” stated John Pottle, marketing director for Spirent’s Wireless and Positioning Division. “The user also will be able to define the antenna pattern, atmospheric effect and obscuration due to buildings or other obstructions. We’ve built this capability into the STR4500 to provide our customers with reduced development times via improved tailoring of test scenarios to fit their specific needs.”

The SimPLEX45 is available with new systems or as an easy to install upgrade to existing STR4500 users, Spirent said.