EJAE RECEIVERS

Project Abstract

The GPS receiver will use information gathered from GPS satellites to determine user location.  The goal of the project is to produce a GPS receiver that is small, lightweight, cost effective, and power efficient.  If these properties are obtained, then the receiver should be marketable to be used as a component of other products requiring a user location.

The four major design segments of this project are listed below:

1.  Interpret the GPS receiver input string. This will be done using NMEA 1083 format through an RS232 connection. It will receive the data from the receiver and parse the string into manageable variables. These variables will be used to perform functions such as getting the distance from points and the current location.

2.  Incorporate a waypoint tracking feature that will allow the user to track his/her path then be able to backtrack to the original location using the coordinates saved. This will be done using a system that will implement arrays, structures, and counter variables that will keep track of the number and value of the waypoints. The waypoint will be saved when the "save/delete" button is pressed in normal mode and deleted when in waypoint mode.

3.  Generate power that will be enough to run the unit but less than 2 watts. This will be done using a voltage regulator and other circuitry to minimize power consumption. Also, parts will be selected that will minimize power consumption. This can be done by choosing devices that need less supply voltage or draw less current.

4.  Implement a button/switch driven interface. The code will recognize any button being pressed at any point that the receiver is on. This will be done by having a system of flags and indicators that signal that a button has been pressed and prevents the function of the button from being repeatedly done in the case that a button is pressed and held down.