Evaluating the Dynamic Accuracy of Low-Cost GPS Receivers

Abstract

This study introduces a method of dynamic accuracy testing for DGPS receiversand compares the dynamic accuracy of five commonly used low-cost DGPS receivers. Thedynamic accuracy of five low-cost DGPS receivers (Garmin 16S, Garmin 76, Haicom HI-302,Navman 3420, Holux GM-210) were evaluated and compared while driving on a straight pathunder field conditions. All systems used WAAS as a source of differential signal. Cross-trackerror was calculated from the differences in actual position measured by a RTK GPS andposition data from each DGPS receiver. Tests were conducted in N-S and E-W directions.The results indicated that the proposed method was successful in comparing the dynamicaccuracy of different DGPS receivers under field conditions. The overall cross-track error washigher in the N-S direction than E-W direction for all DGPS receivers in all tests. Overall theHolux GM-210 performed the best in this study. This result is also in agreement with the staticaccuracy reported by each manufacturer.