Experimental Validation of a Reconfigurable GPS RF Sampling Receiver

In Wireless GNSS navigation, there is a high demand for a potential multi-standard receiver capable to improve the performance and decrease the complexity. The key solution to achieve a better accuracy position is to integrate new structure based on RF sampling (RFS). In this paper, this novel structure is introduced, analyzed and implemented using discrete components. Notably, the proposed architecture has the potential to be reconfigured in a sample, flexible and cost-effective manner. To evaluate the operational and the functionality of the designed receiver, experimental tests are accomplished. Three kinds of signals are expound 1) recorded signals reproducing the original ones are played. It can be arranged in such a way that signal is recorded on a standalone device, such as the one by Spirent system 2) simulated signals arranged by the Rohde & Schwarz systems including PRN code of satellites (4,10,31) 3) using a real constellation of GPS L1 while testing signals from GPS antenna. The GPS RF signal tested which assume values in band L1 (fc=1575.42 Mhz) and L2 (fc=1227.6MHz) is down converted to intermediate frequency signals (FIF) at a rate sampling frequency (Fs) varied with the RF signal’s input. The resulting signal crossing the RF front end and a BandPass sample (BPS) ADC device is acquired by employing the parallel code phase search acquisition algorithm (PCPA) which can determine visible satellites then tracked and used them for positioning. The experimental sensitivity measured for the R&S is −110 dBm and −95 dBm for Spirent simulator