Small device with big applications

A tiny module, weighing just 17 grams, developed indigenously by a software company has found critical applications in key defence and space sectors.

The modular receiver is useful in aircrafts, helicopters, mobile vehicles, boats, ships and survey applications. The component fabricated by the Bangalore-based, Accord Software & Systems company also has civilian use and can be produced in large numbers at a low cost.

Accord Software carried out research and development in the areas of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). Its miniaturised module called G3oM has all the available satellite constellations of GPS (global positioning systems), GLONASS (global navigation satellite systems) and GAGAN (India’s own global navigation system).

It has been developed for the Defence Research and Development Organisation.

The module was formally handed over to the Director-General, DRDO, V.K. Saraswat recently. G{+3}oM is a state-of-the-art technology receiver which integrates both GPS and Indian SBAS GAGAN and GLONASS systems, a press release said.

The module with dual antenna architecture augments the receiver performance during vehicle maneuvers when only one antenna may have the unobstructed view at any given time. Multi constellation support removes dependency on GPS or GLONASS alone for Navigation system. It also enhances the reliability, integrity and availability of the navigation output as compared to a single constellation receiver.

V.K. Saraswat, Scientific Advisor to Raksha Mantri, described it an example where DRDO in collaboration with private industry has carried out research in advanced areas and developed a product which finds its application extensively in civilian sectors.

J. M. Sundaresan, Managing Director, Accord Software said that the company’s in-house R&D initiatives over the past two decades have resulted in leadership in the area of GNSS technology.

> somasekhar.m@thehindu.co.in