17
Using the GPS Function
The transceiver is equipped with an internal GPS receiver to acquire and display the
position information. The GPS information can be used as described in the following
examples:
Display the location information of the partner station in digital mode
Refer to “Real-Time Navigation Function” (Page 18)
Save the position information in the memory and use it for navigation purposes
Refer to “Backtrack Function” (Page 18)
Save your location information and display the trajectory on your computer
Refer to “Saving GPS Information (GPS Log Function)” (Page 20)
Save the DP-ID of frequently contacted stations and check whether they are
within the sphere of communications
Refer to the separate “Operating Manual GM Edition”
Exchange position information and messages through data communications
with other stations
Refer to the separate “Operating Manual APRS Edition”
Positioning Using GPS
The built-in GPS receiver function is enabled when the power of the
FTM-300DR/DE
is turned ON. The satellite search will begin and the “
” icon will be shown at the top
of the display. The
FTM-300DR/DE
automatically obtains the internal clock setting, and
your location information setting from the GPS data.
• It may take several minutes to acquire the GPS satellites.
• When three or more satellites cannot be acquired, the “
” icon will disappear. In this
case, positioning is not possible, and the position information cannot be used.
About Positioning by GPS
“Positioning” refers to calculation of your current position from the satellite orbit infor-
mation and radio propagation time. At least 3 satellites must be acquired for successful
positioning. If positioning fails, move away from buildings as far as possible and posi-
tion the GPS receiver in an area with open sky.
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About errors
The measurement environment may result in positioning errors of several hundred
meters. Under favorable conditions, positioning can be performed successfully using
only three satellites. However, under the following poor conditions, the positioning
accuracy can decrease, or positioning can fail:
• Between tall buildings
• Narrow paths between buildings
• Indoors or near large buildings
• Between trees such as in forests or woods
• Under elevated roads or high voltage power lines
• Inside a tunnel or underground
• Through heat reflective glass
• Areas with strong magnetic fields
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When not in use for a long time
When using the GPS functions for the first time after purchase, or when it has
been unused in a while, a few minutes may be required to acquire the satellites.
Also, if the GPS function has been turned OFF for several hours, a few minutes
may be required to search for satellites.
