DAB-DGPS Technology

Differential GPS requires realtime data transfer from the fixed network of reference stations to the mobile GPS rover.  

The data rate influences the attainable accuracy. A 4 kbit/s service permits a sub-meter positioning accuracy within a mid-sized region (~200x200km). The same bitrate used within a smaller zone (~40km of diameter) permits positioning down to the centimeters range (RTK services).

Every industrial GPS receiver and part of the consumer devices support differential GPS operation. Wireless carriers for differential GPS data are mainly the Radio Data System (RDS) and the longwave "Beacon" system for lower accuracy requirements. GSM point-to-point connections are being used for high-precision positioning services (RTK).

A DAB network can supersede the conventional transmission technology. Any DAB data transmission channel (PAD, packet mode, FIDC) is suitable for carrying DGPS data. This allows flexible usage of any given DAB network.

The advantages when using DAB are:

  • High DGPS accuracy (RTK) due to the high broadcast data rates DAB permits
    (8...128 kBit/s)

  • Good coverage in both cross-country and urban environments

  • No interconnection fees (unlike GSM)

  • No security issues (unlike with Internet-based DGPS methods) 

  • Very reliable data deployment (higher than with RDS / LW).


Esslinger is your qualified support partner if  you are planning provide DAB-DGPS services. Please contact us - we look forward to hearing from you.

Interfacing GPS receivers to DAB

Board for DAB-DGPS

Esslinger Data Engineering supplies
the entire technology and know-how
to seamlessly interface DAB receiver
modules to industrial GPS receivers.
This provides a turnkey receiver solution
for DAB-DGPS.

Leica industrial GPS receiver

Leica industrial GPS receiver.
Pictured on the rightmost side is the GSM modem unit for differential GPS.
Photo: Leica

Trimble Pathfinder GPS system

Trimble GPS Pathfinder ® System.
Photo: Trimble
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