Spirent Communications, the leading provider
of navigation, positioning and wireless test solutions, recently announced the
launch of its new Hybrid Location Technology Solution (HLTS). Spirent HLTS is
the first test solution of its kind, combining Wi-Fi, Assisted Global
Navigation Satellite System (A-GNSS), Micro Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS)
sensor and cellular positioning technologies. It provides repeatable and
reliable lab-based characterization of mobile devices supporting the hybrid
location technologies being developed to provide accurate user location
everywhere, including indoors – the most common usage scenario.
Location-Based Services (LBS) are some of the
most widely used services on mobile devices today and continue to gain momentum
– leading to an increase in users’ needs and expectations for improved LBS
performance. As the leader in navigation satellite simulation and location
testing, Spirent recognizes that no singular positioning technology can provide
the “accurate everywhere” location needed by many smartphone applications and
also critical for the next-generation of enhanced emergency services, such as E911
in the United States.
The HLTS not only integrates multiple
positioning technologies but also assists the device developer in optimizing
these technologies for precise location determination. For example, the HLTS
can be used to optimize Wi-Fi/Sensor algorithms and hardware selection to
support indoor positioning where A-GNSS is not available. The solution is
configured and controlled via a single user interface (SimHybrid) which,
without the need for additional coding or scripting, allows a user to easily
create realistic hybrid test scenarios and significantly reduce development
time. The HLTS provides detailed analysis of test results, with comprehensive
debugging tools and logs.
“Spirent is excited to provide the first test
solution that integrates four very different and distinct positioning
technologies and which will accelerate the development of next-generation
location technologies in wireless devices,” said Spirent vice president Hesham
ElHamahmy. “This is testament to Spirent’s long-standing leadership and
commitment to remain at the forefront of testing these technologies.”
Uniquely, the HLTS brings together all
elements of hybrid positioning technology synchronously and simultaneously. It
offers two testing modes: measure and playback, and simulation. Measure and
playback mode allows real-world Wi-Fi, GPS, sensor and cellular data signals to
be measured and recorded in the field, and then processed and played back on
the HLTS in the lab. Simulation mode takes advantage of Spirent’s global leadership
in simulation of the signals used by mobile device location technologies.
As the latest in a long line of location
technology test innovations and market firsts from Spirent, the HLTS is the
first and only solution to provide the device developer with all the tools and
capabilities necessary to deliver “accurate everywhere” location on mobile
devices.
For more information on testing hybrid
location technologies and Spirent HLTS visit http://www.spirent.com/Devices-and-Equipment/HLTS