This research focused on the development of a prototype real-time bi-directional Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) wherein data was passed over a radio frequency (RF) link using Internet Protocol (IP). This development is unique in that it combines; a typical DGPS architecture, where DGPS correction data are sent from a ground reference station to a mobile user; remote measurements functions typically found in remote positioning/monitoring applications; and using an IP via an ethernet interface to apply at a wide variety of RF data link frequencies.
This project demonstrated a proof of concept for an enhanced data link that would use the ethernet interface to communicate with a wireless transceiver operating at 2.4 GHz, thus providing for high data rates and also supporting additional data e.g., weather imagery, voice over IP, etc. The proof of concept was successfully demonstrated in a laboratory in Stocker Center, Ohio University. The simplified set up of the data link allowed for communication between a reference station and a user over IP via the ethernet interface. The data link supports high accuracy position solution and remote positioning of the user by the ground reference station.