GNSS vs GPS: Understanding the Differences and Why They Matter

In the digital age, navigation technology has revolutionized how we move, do business, and interact with our surroundings. Picture a world where delivery drones fly with perfect accuracy, self-driving cars smoothly navigate busy streets, and farmers grow crops with centimeter-level precision. This is the power of modern navigation systems.

While Global Positioning System (GPS) is a familiar term to many, GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) is less known but equally important. Understanding the distinctions between these two systems can unlock a myriad of possibilities for businesses across various industries. This blog delves into the critical differences between GNSS and GPS, exploring why these differences matter and how they can drive innovation and efficiency.

What is GNSS?

GNSS stands for Global Navigation Satellite System. It is an umbrella term encompassing all global satellite positioning systems. These systems include:

• Global Positioning System (GPS) – USA
• Galileo – European Union
• BeiDou – China
• Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS) – Russia
• Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) – India
• Japan Quasi Zenith Satellite System (QZSS) – Japan
• Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (GNOS)

Each system consists of a constellation of satellites orbiting the Earth, transmitting signals that enable receivers on the ground to determine their precise location. Satellite based augmentation system (SBAS) provides accuracy, redundancy, and reliability.

What is GPS?

The United States global position system (GPS) is a specific GNSS developed by the United States Department of Defense. Originally designed for military use, GPS was later made available for civilian purposes. It consists of up to 31 satellites in medium earth orbit (MEO), which constantly send time and location signals. GPS receivers use these signals to determine precise locations, making GPS the most well-known and widely used part of this system.

Key Differences Between GNSS and GPS

GNSS vs GPS: Scope and Coverage

GNSS:

• Uses Multiple Satellites: GNSS includes satellites from various countries like the USA (GPS), Russia (GLONASS), EU (Galileo), China (BeiDou), India (IRNSS), and Japan (QZSS). This variety ensures global coverage and better reliability.
• Works in Tough Environments: GNSS provides accurate location data even in challenging places where GPS might struggle.
• Enhanced with Special Antennas: High-quality GNSS antennas improve signal reception from different satellites, ensuring a strong connection.

GPS:

• Run by the USA: GPS is a satellite navigation system operated solely by the United States, providing reliable coverage globally.
• Part of GNSS: While GPS is a crucial part of global navigation systems, relying only on GPS can be less effective in areas with signal obstructions.
• Supported by GPS Antennas: Specialized GPS antennas are designed to maximize the reception of signals from the GPS constellation, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of GPS-based applications.

GNSS vs GPS: Redundancy and Reliability

GNSS:

• Multiple Satellite Options: GNSS can switch between different satellites if one fails, ensuring continuous and reliable operation.
• Critical for High-Stakes Applications: This reliability is crucial in fields like aviation, maritime navigation, and emergency services where accurate data is vital.
• Boosted by Advanced Antennas: Using advanced GNSS antennas further improves signal reliability in diverse environments.

GPS:

• Relies on NAVSTAR Constellation: : GPS depends on the NAVSTAR constellation, so disruptions can affect GPS-only devices, causing possible downtime or errors.
• Common in Everyday Use: GPS is widely used in simpler tasks like personal navigation and basic mapping, but it’s also trusted in aviation and defense due to its established accuracy.
• Enhanced by High-Quality Antennas: Good antennas are essential for improving GPS signal reception and system reliability.

GNSS vs GPS: Accuracy

GNSS:

• Multi-Constellation Support: GNSS receivers can use signals from multiple satellite systems, which reduces errors from atmospheric conditions and obstacles. Standard receivers are accurate within about 3 meters, while dual or triple-band receivers can improve accuracy to 1.2 to 1.5 meters. With correction methods, they can achieve accuracy down to a few centimeters, which is crucial for tasks requiring precise positioning.
• Essential for Precision Applications: Such precision is crucial for industries like surveying, agriculture, autonomous vehicle navigation, and any application requiring exact positioning data.
• Optimized with GNSS Antennas: The use of optimized GNSS antennas ensures that receivers can effectively utilize signals from multiple constellations, enhancing overall accuracy.

GPS:

• Standard Accuracy: GPS offers good accuracy, generally within ten meters for standard applications. GPS accuracy is comparable to GNSS accuracy, as both systems can achieve similar levels of precision. Survey-grade GPS systems can achieve centimeter-level accuracy, but their performance can still be influenced by environmental factors. High-precision applications often utilize augmentation and correction methods to improve accuracy further.
• Widely Used: GPS is widely used in applications where sub-meter accuracy is sufficient, such as personal navigation, fitness tracking, and outdoor recreational activities.
• Enhanced with GPS Antennas: Using high-quality GPS antennas can improve the accuracy and reliability of GPS-based systems, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.

GNSS and GPS Applications

GNSS Applications

• Autonomous Vehicles: GNSS is fundamental for the safe operation of autonomous driving vehicles. These systems need precise positioning to navigate roads, avoid obstacles, and ensure passenger safety.
• Lawn Mowers: Modern automated lawn mowers use GNSS to navigate and mow lawns accurately without the need for physical boundaries.
• Commercial Drones: GNSS technology is critical for the precise navigation and control of drones. This is essential for tasks such as aerial mapping, agricultural monitoring, and infrastructure inspection.
• Delivery Robots: For companies that rely on delivery robots or drones, GNSS provides the accuracy required for efficient and timely deliveries, ensuring packages reach their destinations with minimal errors.
• Geo-Fencing Pets: Pet owners can use GNSS-enabled devices to create virtual fences, ensuring pets remain within designated areas.

GPS Applications

• Apartments/Offices: GPS technology is used to provide location-based services within apartment complexes and office buildings, ensuring enhanced security and efficient navigation.
• Delivery Robots: GPS enables delivery robots to navigate complex urban environments, providing accurate location data to ensure timely and efficient deliveries.
• Security Robots: For security purposes, robots equipped with GPS can patrol large areas, providing real-time location data to monitor and secure premises effectively.
• Recreational Activities: GPS is widely used in activities such as hiking, geocaching, and sports, providing real-time location tracking and enhancing the overall experience.
• Personal Navigation: GPS technology is integral to personal navigation devices, helping users find their way in unfamiliar locations.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between GNSS and GPS isn’t just technical; it’s crucial for businesses. GNSS provides broader coverage, higher accuracy, and more reliability, making it essential for tasks that need precise and continuous positioning. By adopting advanced GNSS technology, businesses can improve operations, reduce risks, and stay competitive.

For top-quality GNSS and GPS solutions, including customized antennas and receivers, reach out to our sales team. Our products are designed to give your business the accuracy and reliability it needs to succeed in today’s market.