The Marconi IFR Aeroflex GPS-101 is a GPS satellite simulator for testing and validating GPS receivers and integrated systems. It generates controllable GPS signals on the L1 channel to verify receiver performance under repeatable, controlled conditions. The unit operates in development, manufacturing, and maintenance environments, supporting both integrated receiver-antenna systems and remote antenna installations.
Technical Specifications
RF Signal Generation
• L1 channel at 1575.42 MHz
• Simulates 32 to 37 individual GPS satellites (SV)
• Phase-modulated C/A code (Gold Code) signal transmission
• Five ground station simulation modes
RF Output Power
• Adjustable range: −85 dBm to −145 dBm
• 1 dB step resolution
Doppler Control
• Selectable offsets: no shift, −4 kHz, or +4 kHz
Navigation Data
• 50 Hz NAV data generation with three preset test patterns
• Pattern T1: Programmable almanac, GPS week, and time-of-week data; 30-day valid almanac; YUMA ASCII format download via RS-232
• Pattern T2: Fixed GPS week and time-of-week dataset
• Pattern T3: Repeating 11001100 test sequence
Almanac Management
• Real-time clock maintains UTC time
• User-programmable time setting
• Almanac upload and download capability
Display
• Backlit LCD, high contrast, wide viewing angle
Power
• Battery operation: approximately 6 hours runtime
• Portable battery-powered design
Physical
• Dimensions: 292 mm W × 131 mm H × 412 mm D (excluding handle)
• Weight: 20 lbs
– Key Features
• Single-satellite detection verification
• Direct receiver connection or antenna coupler compatibility
• RS-232 connectivity for remote control and almanac management
• Compact, field-portable configuration
– Interfaces
• RF Output: TNC female
• Auxiliary Port: 25-pin D-Sub male
• RS-232 REMOTE (COMM 1): 9-pin D-Sub male, PC compatible
• RS-232/422 RECEIVER (COMM 2): 25-pin D-Sub male, PC compatible
– Typical Applications
GPS receiver integrity verification; receiver performance validation; GPS-enabled device testing; navigation system commissioning and troubleshooting.
