GPS (Global Positioning System)

GPS (Global Positioning System) is developed for and is controlled by the US Department of Defense. The system utilizes GPS satellites (NAVSTAR), transmitting out radio waves while flying on an orbit around the earth at an altitude of approximately 21, 000 km (13, 049 mile).

The receiver calculates the travel position in three dimensions (latitude/longitude/altitude) according to the time lag of the radio waves that four or more GPS satellites transmit (three-dimensional positioning). The GPS receiver calculates the travel position in two dimensions (latitude/longitude) with the previous altitude data if the GPS receiver receives only three radio waves (two-dimensional positioning). GPS position correction is not performed while stopping the vehicle.

Fig 1: Identifying GPS Satellite And Receiver System

Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Accuracy of the GPS will deteriorate under the following conditions:

• In two-dimensional positioning, GPS accuracy will deteriorate when altitude of the vehicle position changes.
• The position of GPS satellite affects GPS detection precision. The position detection may not be precisely performed.
• The position detection is not performed if GPS receiver does not receive radio waves from GPS satellites. (Inside a tunnel, parking in a building, under an elevated highway etc.) GPS receiver may not receive radio waves from GPS satellites if any object is placed on the GPS antenna.