• What is All-band GNSS?
• F9 and X20 - comparison
• Video
• X20 key features
• Benefits & Values
• Applications

 

What is All-band GNSS?

The evolution of satellite-based Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) technology has advanced significantly with the addition of new satellite signals across an expanding set of frequency bands. Initially, GNSS systems, such as GPS, operated primarily on the L1 frequency and were used by single-band receivers. 

Over time, this technology has evolved to include dual-band and multi-band receivers, which can access the additional frequencies L2 and/or L5. These improvements have substantially enhanced the accuracy, reliability, and security of the services provided.

All-band GNSS encompasses all operational frequency bands, L1, L2, and L5, while also adding support for the new L6/E6 band. GNSS receivers can leverage the full range of satellite signals and services available through this comprehensive spectrum coverage. With this forefront technology, receivers ensure optimal precision and reliability for sophisticated applications across automotive, industrial, and timing sectors.

The integration of multiple frequencies enhances positioning accuracy, enabling the following: 

• Improve PNT and RTK performance of GNSS receivers 
• Access global precise point positioning (PPP) services, like Galileo high accuracy service (HAS), to provide worldwide coverage
• Enhance fast convergence times in PPP, making these services a viable option for industrial and automotive applications  
• Access a regional PPP service, like MADOCA-PPP in Japan  
• Comply with regional regulations, such as AIS-140 for NavIC in India 
• Increase jamming and spoofing immunity through frequency diversity, especially when used with authentication services like Galileo OSNMA 

With these capabilities, all-band GNSS receivers can meet a broad spectrum of user requirements. They can deliver enhanced performance and enable new applications in a world increasingly reliant on precise and reliable positioning technology.

u-blox X20 all-band platform enables GNSS receivers to access all
L-band signals concurrently, providing numerous benefits for high precision positioning solutions.   

Stay tuned. In a few weeks, we will publish a whitepaper on this topic: All-band GNSS receivers elevate positioning, navigation, and timing performance. 

 

F9 and X20 - comparison

In 2018, u-blox transformed the industry with the launch of the F9 multi-band GNSS platform, making high precision positioning accessible to the mass market. Combined with PointPerfect, u-blox correction service, this solution made centimeter-level positioning easy to deploy and widely accessible. 

Building on the success of u-blox F9, the new X20 all-band platform marks the next step in mass-market positioning technology, setting a new standard in the field.

 

Video

 

X20 key features

Benefits & Values

u-blox X20 is an all-band, high-precision GNSS platform that delivers global centimeter-level accuracy. It offers expanded constellation support across L1, L2, L5, L6, with an integrated L-band receiver for GNSS correction services in a single chip, significantly enhancing the capabilities of the successful F9 platform.

The X20 platform is fortified with advanced security features. It provides system authentication via secure boot and firmware updates, ensuring system integrity against unauthorized modifications. Additionally, it includes built-in secure Root of Trust for message encryption and authentication, along with state-of-the-art anti-jamming and anti-spoofing capabilities. These crucial features maintain the integrity of positioning data, especially when integrating GNSS signal authentication with services like Galileo OSNMA.

Designed to support high update rates, the X20 platform excels in applications requiring real-time responsiveness, such as automotive systems or UAVs, where conditions change rapidly, and low latency is crucial for continuous precise positioning.

Its compact size makes it the most space-efficient solution for precision navigation available today. With an energy-efficient design that doesn’t compromise performance, the X20 platform is ideal for a wide range of applications, including professional sports trackers, where space and power efficiency are critical.

The X20 platform simplifies integration, offering a seamless transition for users who wish to upgrade from the F9 series or incorporate it into new designs. Its compatibility with the well-established ZED form factor ensures ease of design across different product variants based on the platform.

By leveraging modernized signals, u-blox X20 reduces multipath effects, enhancing robustness and resistance to narrowband interference. It provides increased satellite visibility and improves solution quality in obstructed environments.  

The platform’s capability to access RTK and PPP correction services furthers precision in remote areas. With this, u-blox reinforces its commitment to democratizing high-precision GNSS technology for users worldwide. 

Based in Switzerland and with a robust reputation, u-blox continues to lead the way in delivering technological innovations characterized by exceptional quality, reliability, and longevity.

Applications