COTS GPS C/A-code receivers with pseudolites for range PLS application

The authors evaluate the concept of a GPS-instrumented PLS (position location system) solution using commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) GPS (Global Positioning System) equipment. Benefits of the solution include cost savings, nonexisting security issues, smaller size, reduced weight, and less consumed power. The COTS GPS-instrumented PLS derives its accurate positioning location by employing pseudolites for broadcast of differential corrections to players within their localized coverage areas. The pseudolite also provides for an added source of ranging information to enhance GPS system coverage and availability. Blockage and physical effects are modeled in the evaluation of the connectivity among range players supplemented with pseudolites. It is shown that COTS GPS equipment could meet the PLS size, weight, and power requirements, as well as accurate positioning specifications with differential GPS operation using pseudolites. A cost/performance tradeoff supports the viability and applicability of this solution