Precision, Cross Correlation, and Time Correlation of GPS Phase and Code Observations

Abstract

In high-precision Global Positioning System (GPS) relative positioning applications, the stochastic properties of the GPS observables play a crucial role. The misspecification of the a priori covariance matrix can lead ton non-optimal results and false decisions. In this article, the noise characteristics of seven commonly used GPS receivers are examined. The main areas of our study are the precision of the observations, the time correlation of the observations, and the correlation between the different observation types.

In order to examine these characteristics, an experiment was carried out, which will be briefly discussed. As results, the autocorrelation functions, standard deviation, and correlation numbers will be given for the undifferenced observations of the seven receivers. The standard deviation of the phase observation is usually at the submillimeter level, and that of the code observations is some centimeters to decimeters. It will be also shown that none of the receivers are free from correlation between observation types and time correlation, especially the code observations, which suffer from time correlation. The results presented can help to refine stochastic models currently in use. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.