Ultra-Sensitive, Ultra-Small, Single-Chip GPS Module for Mobile Handsets

The global market for mobile phones with built-in GPS functionality is expected to expand dramatically with the spread of position information services such as pedestrian navigation and systems for locating a user's position in the event of an emergency call. In Japan in particular, all new 3G mobile phones debuting in and after the spring of 2007 are likely to be equipped with a GPS function that enables the user's position information to be identified in the event an emergency call is placed. This likely requirement is driving demand for GPS devices that are capable of quickly and accurately identifying location anytime, anywhere. In response to this demand, Epson independently developed its own positioning algorithm and GPS chipset (which consists of a GPS baseband processor and RF receiver). Then, availing itself of a storehouse of high-density-packaging technology, Epson designed an ultra-sensitive, ultra-compact, one-chip GPS module that is capable of acquiring locations even indoors, in the shadows of tall buildings, and in other places where GPS positioning has traditionally been problematic.

The GPS module supports the three 3GPP-compliant positioning modes (MS-Based, MS-Assisted, and Autonomous), for world-class GPS positioning performance in any application and under any network environment.

Epson is committed to further serving customer needs by expanding and enhancing its line of device products that use the company's GPS and other device technologies.

S4E19863 features
· High sensitivity (-160 dBm) enables acquisition of indoor location
· High-speed satellite search algorithm
· Support for three positioning modes in compliance with the 3GPP specification
· Miniature one-chip package

Epson Develops Ultra-Sensitive, Ultra-Compact GPS Module for Mobile Handsets
Seiko Epson Corporation has developed an ultra-sensitive, ultra-compact global positioning system (GPS) module to meet high demand from manufacturers of mobile phones and other handsets with GPS functionality.
More EU states eyeing ESA
Four countries that joined the European Union (EU) in 2004 are knocking on the door of the European Space Agency (ESA), French Research Minister Valerie Pecresse said here on Tuesday.
New Project To Develop GPS-Like System For Moon
The same Ohio State University researcher who is helping rovers navigate on Mars is leading a new effort to help humans navigate on the moon.
New tracking system boosts pilot safety
Pilots will no longer be out of sight as they fly cross-country thanks to a new tracking system developed by Massey University mechatronics graduate and a former staff member.
EU opens bidding for Galileo satnav network
The European Commission invited bids on Tuesday for contractors to participate in the construction of the European Union's much delayed Galileo satellite navigation network.
Experimental phone network uses virtual sticky notes
The rapid convergence of social networks, mobile phones and global positioning technology has given Duke University engineers the ability to create something they call "virtual sticky notes," site-specific messages that people can leave for others to pick up on their mobile phones.
Interfering with the Global Positioning System
You can't always trust your GPS gadget. As scientists have long known, perplexing electrical activity in the upper atmospheric zone called the ionosphere can tamper with signals from GPS satellites.
Buzz mounts on 3G iPhone as Apple CEO sets appearance
Apple's top executive addresses an industry conference Monday, amid buzzing around the world that the company could announce the next generation of its blockbuster mobile iPhone.

Ultra-Sensitive, Ultra-Small, Single-Chip GPS Module for Mobile Handsets

Related stories:

News discussion: