How Differential GPS Works
Differential Correction
removes signal errors caused by satellite and receiver timing errors, and atmospheric
interference. An uncorrected signal is accurate
to 7-8 meters or or about 25-30 feet. There are two differential correction methods: postprocessing
(above) and real-time (below.) The concept is the same.
A base station is surveyed to 1-3cm accuracy. When the satellite signals
reaches a base station, the base station recognizes the difference
between its accurate surveyed position and the error position sent by the
satellites. The correction is either saved to a hard disk for
postprocessing or communicated real-time to the GPS receiver.
.Real-time is valuable for navigation. Postprocessing is more accurate. Consider this information when purchasing
a Trimble GPS receiver.
There are over 200 Trimble base stations world-wide for
postprocessing. Navigation beacons and satellite systems are available for
real-time differential correction.