Novatel GPStation, User Manual, Page: 20 / 38

3 – Operation
12 GPStation™ User Manual
3 OPERATION
Before using the GPStation for the first time, ensure that you have set up your system as recommended in Section 2. The
following instructions are based on a configuration such as that shown in Figure 9. It is assumed that a personal
computer is used during the initial operation and testing for greater ease and versatility. Furthermore, it should be
understood that communication between the GPStation and a computer is achieved by virtue of the GPS firmware which
resides within the GPStation.
Figure 9 Typical Operational Configuration
GPSAntenna
Models
501, 511 or 521
Power source
+10 to +36 V DC
Radio
or
Modem
COM 1
COM 2
User interface
GPStation enclosure
Power
Power Converter
RF signal
Power to LNA
Data
Data
GPSCard
& OCXO
OCXO WARM-UP
Each time the GPStation is powered up, allow 3-5 minutes for temperature stabilization of the OCXO to occur before
beginning base-station transmissions. This will ensure that the differential corrections sent to remote stations are of the
highest accuracy.
COMMUNICATIONS WITH THE GPSTATION
Communication with the GPStation is straightforward, and consists of issuing commands through the COM1 or COM2
port from an external serial communications device. This could be either a terminal or an IBM-compatible PC that is
directly connected to a GPStation serial port using a null-modem cable. Further information on the GPSCard commands
and logs can be found in the GPSCard Command Descriptions Manual.
SERIAL PORT DEFAULT SETTINGS
For communication to occur, both the GPStation and the PC or terminal have to be configured properly. The GPStation’s
default port settings are as follows:
•
RS232C protocol, 9600 bits per second, no parity, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no handshaking, echo off
Changing the default settings requires the use of the COMn command, which is described in the GPSCard Command
Descriptions Manual. It is recommended that the user become thoroughly familiar with the commands and logs to ensure
maximum utilization of the GPStation’s capabilities.