GPS Consortium

UPDATE:  We have completed the integration of decimeter quality GPS receivers that do not require access to a base station or post processing with smart phones and tablet devices running on the Android operating system. Several pilot project are on-going to test the ease-of-use, reliability and functionality of the new system. 

In 2013 we will expand the types of GPS receivers that can be integrated to allow users to select the appropriate accuracy level for specific applications.  

Several years ago, GTI initiated a membership program - called the GPS Consortium - to facilitate the implementation of GPS technology into routine utility operations through information sharing, product testing and demonstrations, pilot projects, and white papers. 

In 2012 the GPS Consortium undertook the challenge of improving the accuracy of GPS for smart phones and tablet computers. In a partnership with NavCom, a John Deere subsidiary, we now have a system that uses an external receiver capable of decimeter quality data - without the need for a base station or post processing.

Past GPS Consortium activities have included demonstrating an inertial navigation technology to map out pipes, developing a Best Practices document for GPS field data collection, creating a procedure for using GPS to record new installation information, pilot projects for new applications, and several workshops to exchange information. 

The GPS Consortium is an open program that utility operators can join for an annual fee.

For more information on the GPS Consortium, please contact Alicia Farag at alicia.farag@gastechnology.org.