Geneq iSXBlue II GNSS Series Product manual

iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS Series
Technical Reference Manual
Release Date: September 2014 (rev 1)

iSXblue/SXBlue II GNSS Series Technical Reference Manual ii
Copyright Notice
Copyright 2012 Geneq inc. All rights reserved. No part of this manual may be stored in a retrieval
system, transmitted, or reproduced by any means, including, but not limited to photocopy, photograph,
digitizing, or otherwise, without the prior written permission from Geneq inc.
Trademarks
The Geneq logo, SXBlue II GNSS™, iSXBlue II GNSS™ are trademarks of Geneq inc. The Bluetooth™
trademarks are owned by Bluetooth SIG Inc., USA. All other trademarks are the property of their
respective owners.
FCC Notice
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference.
(2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to
part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in
a residential installation.
This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance
with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to
correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Geneq inc.
10700, Secant Street
Montreal, Quebec, Canada H1J 1S5
Telephone number: [phone]
Toll Free: [phone] (North America)
Fax number: [phone]
E-mail address: [email protected]
Web Sites: www.sxbluegps.com , www.geneq.com

iSXblue/SXBlue II GNSS Series Technical Reference Manual iii
Geneq Limited Warranty
Geneq inc. hereby warrants solely to the end purchaser of the Products, subject to the exclusions and
procedures set forth herein below, that the Products sold to such end purchaser shall be free, under normal
use and maintenance, from defects in material and workmanship for a period of 24 months from delivery
date to such end purchaser. Repairs and replacement components are warranted, subject to the exclusions
and procedures set forth below, to be free, under normal use and maintenance, from defects in material
and workmanship for 90 days from performance or delivery, or for the balance of the original warranty
period, whichever is greater. Battery packs are warranted for a period of 90 days.
Purchaser’s Exclusive Remedy
The end purchaser’s exclusive remedy under this warranty shall be limited to the repair or replacement, at
the option of Geneq, of any defective Products or components thereof. The end user shall notify Geneq or
a Geneq approved service center immediately of any claimed defect. Repairs shall be made through a
Geneq approved service center only.
Exclusions
Geneq does not warrant damage occurring in transit or due to misuse, abuse, improper installation,
neglect, lightning (or other electrical discharge) or fresh/salt water immersion of Products. Repair,
modification or service of Geneq Products by any party other than a Geneq approved service center shall
render this warranty null and void. Geneq does not warrant claims asserted after the end of the warranty
period. Geneq does not warrant or guarantee the precision or accuracy of positions obtained when using
Products. Products are not intended for primary navigation or for use in safety of life applications. The
potential accuracy of Products as stated in Geneq literature and/or Product specifications serves to provide
only an estimate of achievable accuracy based on:
•Specifications provided by the US Department of Defense for GPS Positioning,
•GPS OEM Receiver specifications of the appropriate manufacturer (if applicable), and
•DGPS service provider performance specifications.
Geneq reserves the right to modify Products without any obligation to notify, supply or install any
improvements or alterations to existing Products.
No Other Warranties
THE FOREGOING WARRANTY IS EXCLUSIVE OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, WHETHER
WRITTEN, ORAL, IMPLIED OR ARISING BY STATUTE, COURSE OF DEALING OR TRADE
USAGE, IN CONNECTION WITH THE DESIGN, SALE, INSTALLATION, SERVICE OR USE OF
ANY PRODUCTS OR ANY COMPONENTS THEREOF, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.

iSXblue/SXBlue II GNSS Series Technical Reference Manual iv
Limitation of Liability
THE EXTENT OF GENEQ’S LIABILITY FOR DAMAGES OF ANY NATURE TO THE END
PURCHASER OR ANY OTHER PERSON OR ENTITY WHETHER IN CONTRACT OR TORT AND
WHETHER TO PERSONS OR PROPERTY SHALL IN NO CASE EXCEED, IN THE AGGREGATE,
THE COST OF CORRECTING THE DEFECT IN THE PRODUCT OR, AT GENEQ’S OPTION, THE
COST OF REPLACING THE DEFECTIVE ITEM. IN NO EVENT WILL GENEQ BE LIABLE FOR
ANY LOSS OF PRODUCTION, LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF USE OR FOR ANY SPECIAL,
INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR CONTINGENT DAMAGES, EVEN IF GENEQ
HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. WITHOUT LIMITING THE
FOREGOING, GENEQ SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES OF ANY KIND
RESULTING FROM INSTALLATION, USE, QUALITY, PERFORMANCE OR ACCURACY OF
ANY PRODUCTS.
Governing Legislation
To the greatest extent possible, this warranty shall be governed by the laws of the Province of Quebec
(Canada). In the event that any provision hereof is held to be invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction,
such provision shall be severed from this warranty and the remaining provisions shall remain in full force
and effect.
Obtaining Warranty Service
In order to obtain warranty service, the end purchaser must bring the Product to a Geneq approved dealer,
along with the end purchaser’s proof of purchase. For any questions regarding warranty service or to
obtain information regarding the location of any of Geneq’s dealers, contact Geneq at the following
address:
Geneq inc.
10700, Secant Street
Montreal, Quebec, H1J 1S5
Canada
Telephone number: [phone]
Toll Free: [phone] (North America)
Fax number: [phone]
E-mail address: [email protected]

iSXblue/SXBlue II GNSS Series Technical Reference Manual v
Table of Contents
List of Figures................................................................................................................................................................... x
List of Tables ................................................................................................................................................................... xi
Organization .................................................................................................................................................................. xiii
Customer Service........................................................................................................................................................... xiv
World Wide Web Site.................................................................................................................................................... xiv
Document Conventions.................................................................................................................................................. xiv
Notes, Cautions, and Warnings........................................................................................................................................xv
1. Getting Started................................................................................................................................................................ 1
1.1 Unpacking your iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS Receiver ............................................................................................. 1
Standard Package Content................................................................................................................................. 1
1.2 Getting Familiar with your iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS ........................................................................................... 2
1.2.1 System Overview .................................................................................................................................. 2
1.2.2 Battery Pack .......................................................................................................................................... 4
1.2.3 Precision and Survey Antennae............................................................................................................. 5
1.3 Getting Ready for the Field ..................................................................................................................................... 5
1.3.1 Default Parameters ................................................................................................................................ 6
1.3.2 Configuring Bluetooth Communication ................................................................................................ 8
1.3.2.1 Windows Mobile 5.0 and 6.x with Microsoft drivers.............................................................. 9
1.3.2.2 Windows Mobile with Socket Communication driver........................................................... 14
1.3.2.3 Windows Mobile with WidComm driver .............................................................................. 16
1.3.2.4 Microsoft Windows with IVT Corporation’s BlueSoleil driver ............................................ 18
1.3.2.5 Microsoft Windows with Widcomm’s My Bluetooth Places driver...................................... 19
1.3.2.6 iOS Apple Bluetooth communication.................................................................................... 21
1.3.2.7 Android Bluetooth communication ....................................................................................... 24
1.3.3 Installing the USB Drivers for Microsoft Windows.............................................................................25
1.4 In the Field .............................................................................................................................................................27
1.4.1 Setting up for Submeter Work..............................................................................................................28
1.4.1.1 Using the Nylon Carrying Case............................................................................................. 28
1.4.1.2 Using the Softhat ................................................................................................................... 28
1.4.1.3 Rangepole Setup.................................................................................................................... 29
1.4.3 Antenna Phase Center ..........................................................................................................................31
1.4.3.1 GNSS Precision Antenna (all models)................................................................................... 32
1.4.4 Definition of the LED Indicators..........................................................................................................33
1.4.5 GIS Field Data Collection and Datum Considerations.........................................................................34
1.4.5.1 Generic Field Data Collection Software Configuration......................................................... 34
1.4.5.2 General Guidelines for Submeter GIS Field Data Collection ................................................ 34
1.4.6 Available Software and Utilities ..........................................................................................................35
1.4.6.1 SXBlue Config ...................................................................................................................... 35
1.4.6.2 SXBlue RTN ......................................................................................................................... 35
1.4.6.4 SXBlue Server....................................................................................................................... 35
1.4.6.5 SXBlue Mirror....................................................................................................................... 36
1.4.6.6 RINEX Converter.................................................................................................................. 36
1.4.6.7 Geneq EZSurv ....................................................................................................................... 36
1.4.6.8 Geneq iSXBLue View on iOS devices .................................................................................. 36
1.4.6.9 Bluetooth GPS Utility on Android devices................................................................................ 36
2. Features and Performance ............................................................................................................................................37
2.1 GPS ........................................................................................................................................................................37

iSXblue/SXBlue II GNSS Series Technical Reference Manual vi
2.1.1 Satellite Tracking .................................................................................................................................37
2.1.2 Positioning Accuracy ...........................................................................................................................37
2.1.3 Update Rates ........................................................................................................................................38
2.2 SBAS......................................................................................................................................................................38
2.2.1 Automatic Tracking and Ranging ........................................................................................................38
2.2.2 SBAS Performance ..............................................................................................................................38
2.3 GLONASS .............................................................................................................................................................40
2.3.1 Satellite tracking...................................................................................................................................40
2.3.2 GLONASS Performance ......................................................................................................................40
2.4 COAST™, G-Dif™ and SureTrack™ Technologies .............................................................................................41
2.5 Real-Time Differential Options..............................................................................................................................41
2.5.1 The “MFA” Application.......................................................................................................................42
2.5.2 Auto-Dif – Autonomous Differential / RTCM Base Station Option ....................................................42
2.6 Post Processing.......................................................................................................................................................44
2.7 Evaluating the iSXBlue/SXBlue GNSS II Performance.........................................................................................44
2.8 Communication ......................................................................................................................................................46
2.8.1 Interface ...............................................................................................................................................46
2.8.2 Bluetooth, USB and Serial Ports ..........................................................................................................46
2.8.3 Event Marker, 1 Pulse per Second and 5Vdc Power ............................................................................47
2.8.3.1 One Pulse per Second (1PPS)................................................................................................ 47
2.8.3.2 Event Marker Input (EM)...................................................................................................... 48
2.8.3.3 5Volt DC Output (PWR) ....................................................................................................... 48
2.9 Environmental Requirements .................................................................................................................................48
3. Advanced Operations ....................................................................................................................................................49
3.1 Communicating with the iSXBlue/SXBlue II Receiver .........................................................................................49
3.1.1 NMEA 0183 Interface..........................................................................................................................49
3.1.2 Binary Messages ..................................................................................................................................50
3.1.3 RTCM SC-104 Protocol.......................................................................................................................50
3.2 Configuring the iSXBlue/SXBlue II Receiver........................................................................................................51
3.2.1 Using HyperTerminal...........................................................................................................................51
3.2.1.1 HyperTerminal Setup ............................................................................................................ 51
3.2.1.2 Sending Individual Commands.............................................................................................. 53
3.2.1.3 Sending Configuration Files to the Receiver ......................................................................... 54
3.2.2 Using SXBlue Config...........................................................................................................................55
3.2.2.1 Quick Config Mode............................................................................................................... 55
3.2.2.2 Advanced Mode .................................................................................................................... 56
3.3 Firmware Architecture ...........................................................................................................................................57
3.3.1 Available Applications.........................................................................................................................57
3.3.2 Activating an Application or Option ....................................................................................................58
3.3.3 Interpreting Subscription Date Codes...................................................................................................60
4. Differential Correction Operations ..............................................................................................................................61
4.1 Automatic Differential of the MFA Application ....................................................................................................61
4.1.1 Principle of Operation ..........................................................................................................................61
4.1.2 Datum Considerations..........................................................................................................................62
4.2 RTK Operations .....................................................................................................................................................62
4.2.1 Guideline for Base Station Operation...................................................................................................62
4.2.1.1 Automatic and Manual Reference Points .............................................................................. 62
4.2.1.2 Base Station Configuration.................................................................................................... 63
4.2.1.3 SXBlue Config Base Menu ................................................................................................... 64
4.2.2 Guideline for RTK Rover Operation....................................................................................................65
4.2.2.1 Using RTK Networks ............................................................................................................ 66
4.2.2.2 Using Local Corrections........................................................................................................ 66

iSXblue/SXBlue II GNSS Series Technical Reference Manual vii
4.3 Auto-Dif (Autonomous and Base Station Modes)..................................................................................................67
4.3.1 Start-up.................................................................................................................................................67
4.3.2 Calibration............................................................................................................................................67
4.3.3 Auto-Dif Performance..........................................................................................................................67
4.4 Recording Raw data and converting to RINEX......................................................................................................68
4.4.1 Using SXBlue Config to Log Raw Data ..............................................................................................68
4.4.2 Converting to RINEX Format ..............................................................................................................69
5. Complete NMEA Interface ...........................................................................................................................................70
5.1 NMEA Message Elements .....................................................................................................................................70
5.2 General Commands ................................................................................................................................................70
5.2.1 $JASC,D1 ............................................................................................................................................71
5.2.2 $JAIR ...................................................................................................................................................72
5.2.3 $JASC,VIRTUAL................................................................................................................................72
5.2.4 $JALT ..................................................................................................................................................73
5.2.5 $JLIMIT...............................................................................................................................................74
5.2.6 $JAPP...................................................................................................................................................74
5.2.7 $JBAUD...............................................................................................................................................75
5.2.8 $JCONN...............................................................................................................................................76
5.2.9 $JDIFF .................................................................................................................................................76
5.2.10 $JK .......................................................................................................................................................77
5.2.11 $JPOS...................................................................................................................................................77
5.2.12 $JQUERY, GUIDE ..............................................................................................................................78
5.2.13 $JRESET..............................................................................................................................................78
5.2.14 $JSAVE................................................................................................................................................79
5.2.15 $JSHOW ..............................................................................................................................................80
5.2.16 $JT .......................................................................................................................................................81
5.2.17 $JBIN ...................................................................................................................................................82
5.2.18 $JI.........................................................................................................................................................82
5.2.19 $JBOOT ...............................................................................................................................................83
5.2.20 $JFORCEAPP......................................................................................................................................83
5.2.21 $JMODE ..............................................................................................................................................84
5.2.22 $JNMEA, GGALLGNSS.....................................................................................................................84
5.2.23 $JNMEA, PRECISION........................................................................................................................85
5.2.24 $JPRN, EXCLUDE..............................................................................................................................85
5.2.25 $JRELAY.............................................................................................................................................85
GPS Commands...............................................................................................................................................................85
5.2.26 $JASC ..................................................................................................................................................86
5.2.27 $JAGE..................................................................................................................................................87
5.2.28 $JOFF...................................................................................................................................................87
5.2.29 $JMASK...............................................................................................................................................87
5.2.30 $JNP.....................................................................................................................................................88
5.2.31 $J4STRING..........................................................................................................................................88
5.2.32 $JSMOOTH .........................................................................................................................................88
5.2.33 $JTAU..................................................................................................................................................89
5.3 SBAS Commands...................................................................................................................................................90
5.3.1 $JWAASPRN.......................................................................................................................................91
5.3.2 $JGEO..................................................................................................................................................92
5.3.3 $JRD1 ..................................................................................................................................................92
5.3.4 $JASC,RTCM ......................................................................................................................................93
5.4 DGPS Beacon Commands (SXBlue II-B GPS)......................................................................................................93
5.4.1 $GPMSK..............................................................................................................................................94
5.4.2 $PCSI,1 and $PCSI,2 ...........................................................................................................................95

iSXblue/SXBlue II GNSS Series Technical Reference Manual viii
5.4.3 $PCSI,3,2 .............................................................................................................................................96
5.4.4 $PCSI,3,3 .............................................................................................................................................96
5.4.5 $PCSI,0 ................................................................................................................................................97
5.4.6 $PCSI,8,NITRAM................................................................................................................................97
5.4.7 $GPCRQ,MSK ($CRMSK) .................................................................................................................98
5.4.8 $GPCRQ,MSS ($CRMSS)...................................................................................................................98
5.5 OmniSTAR Commands (SXBlue II-L GPS)..........................................................................................................99
5.5.1 $JLBEAM ............................................................................................................................................99
5.5.2 $JLXBEAM .......................................................................................................................................100
5.5.3 $JFREQ..............................................................................................................................................101
5.5.4 $JOMS ...............................................................................................................................................102
5.5.5 $JHP...................................................................................................................................................102
5.6 Auto-Dif Commands in Autonomous Mode ........................................................................................................103
5.6.1 $JRAD,1.............................................................................................................................................103
5.6.2 $JRAD,1,P .........................................................................................................................................104
5.6.3 $JRAD,1,lat,lon,alt.............................................................................................................................104
5.6.4 $JRAD,2.............................................................................................................................................105
5.6.5 $JRAD,3.............................................................................................................................................105
5.7 Auto-Dif Commands in Base Station Mode.........................................................................................................105
5.7.1 $JRAD,1.............................................................................................................................................106
5.7.2 $JRAD,1,P .........................................................................................................................................106
5.7.3 $JRAD,1,lat,lon,alt.............................................................................................................................106
5.7.4 $JRAD,2.............................................................................................................................................107
5.7.5 $JRAD,3.............................................................................................................................................107
5.7.6 $JRAD,9.............................................................................................................................................108
5.8 Local Differential Commands ..............................................................................................................................108
5.8.1 $JRTK,1 .............................................................................................................................................110
5.8.2 $JRTK,1,P..........................................................................................................................................110
5.8.3 $JRTK,1,R .........................................................................................................................................110
5.8.4 $JRTK,1,lat,lon,alt .............................................................................................................................110
5.8.5 $JRTK,5 .............................................................................................................................................111
5.8.6 $JRTK,6 .............................................................................................................................................111
5.8.7 $JRTK,9 .............................................................................................................................................112
5.8.8 $JRTK,17 ...........................................................................................................................................112
5.8.9 $JASC,DFX .......................................................................................................................................112
5.8.10 $JASC,CMR ......................................................................................................................................113
5.8.11 $JRTK,12 ...........................................................................................................................................113
5.8.12 $JRTK,18 ...........................................................................................................................................114
5.8.13 $JQUERY,RTKPROG.......................................................................................................................114
5.8.14 $JQUERY,RTKSTAT........................................................................................................................114
5.8.15 $JRTCM3,EXCLUDE .......................................................................................................................115
5.8.16 $JRTCM3,INCLUDE ........................................................................................................................115
5.8.17 $JRTCM3,NULLANT .......................................................................................................................115
5.8.18 $JRTCM3,ANTNAME ......................................................................................................................116
5.9 Output Data Messages..........................................................................................................................................117
5.9.1 GNS Data Message ............................................................................................................................117
5.9.2 GGA Data Message............................................................................................................................118
5.9.3 GLL Data Message.............................................................................................................................119
5.9.4 GSA Data Message ............................................................................................................................119
5.9.5 GST Data Message.............................................................................................................................120
5.9.6 GSV Data Message ............................................................................................................................120
5.9.7 RMC Data Message ...........................................................................................................................121

iSXblue/SXBlue II GNSS Series Technical Reference Manual ix
5.9.8 RRE Data Message.............................................................................................................................121
5.9.9 VTG Data Message ............................................................................................................................122
5.9.10 ZDA Data Message ............................................................................................................................122
5.9.11 GRS Data Message.............................................................................................................................122
5.9.12 RD1 Data Message.............................................................................................................................123
5.10 RAIM Command and Message ............................................................................................................................124
5.10.1 $JRAIM Command ............................................................................................................................124
5.10.2 $PSAT,GBS Data Message................................................................................................................125
6. Binary Data ..................................................................................................................................................................126
6.1 Binary Message Structure.....................................................................................................................................126
6.1.1 Bin 1...................................................................................................................................................127
6.1.2 Bin 2...................................................................................................................................................128
6.1.3 Bin 80.................................................................................................................................................129
6.1.4 Bin 93.................................................................................................................................................129
6.1.5 Bin 94.................................................................................................................................................130
6.1.6 Bin 95.................................................................................................................................................130
6.1.7 Bin 96.................................................................................................................................................131
6.1.8 Bin 97.................................................................................................................................................132
6.1.9 Bin 98.................................................................................................................................................132
6.1.10 Bin 99.................................................................................................................................................133
7. Frequently Asked Questions .......................................................................................................................................136
7.1 General .................................................................................................................................................................136
7.2 Support and Repairs .............................................................................................................................................137
7.3 Troubleshooting ...................................................................................................................................................137
7.4 Power, Communication, and Configuration .........................................................................................................140
7.5 GPS Reception and Performance .........................................................................................................................142
7.6 SBAS Reception and Performance.......................................................................................................................142
7.7 Auto-Dif ...............................................................................................................................................................143
7.8 External Corrections.............................................................................................................................................143
7.9 Installation............................................................................................................................................................144
8. Troubleshooting ...........................................................................................................................................................145
8.1 Troubleshooting Checklist....................................................................................................................................145
8.2 Using the LEDs to Troubleshoot..........................................................................................................................145
Appendix A - Specifications ................................................................................................................................................148
Appendix B - Interface ........................................................................................................................................................149
Appendix C - Introduction to GPS and DGPS Services ...................................................................................................152
Appendix D - Resources ......................................................................................................................................................163
Index .....................................................................................................................................................................................167

iSXblue/SXBlue II GNSS Series Technical Reference Manual x
List of Figures
Figure 1-2 Package Contents ................................................................................................................................................. 1
Figure 1-3 iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS Main Components .................................................................................................... 3
Figure 1-4 Battery contacts .................................................................................................................................................... 4
Figure 1-5 Precision and Survey Antennae........................................................................................................................... 5
Figure 1-6 Carrying Case......................................................................................................................................................28
Figure 1-7 Removing the Magnet Adaptor..........................................................................................................................29
Figure 1-8 Using the Softhat .................................................................................................................................................29
Figure 1-10 Using the L-Shaped Bracket.............................................................................................................................30
Figure 1-11 Mounting on a Rangepole .................................................................................................................................31
Figure 1-14 Phase Center – Precision GNSS Antenna (GESXB3GLANT).......................................................................32
Figure 1-16 iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS Front Panel ............................................................................................................33
Figure 2-1 Sample Extrapolated Ionospheric Grids ...........................................................................................................40
Figure 2-2 Auto-Dif Error Drift ...........................................................................................................................................43
Figure 2-3 RS-232 Connector Pin-out ..................................................................................................................................47
Figure 3-1 Sample Config. File .............................................................................................................................................54
Figure B-1 Serial Interface..................................................................................................................................................149
Figure B-2 RTCM Data Output From Serial Port............................................................................................................150
Figure B-3 RTCM Data Input to Serial Port.....................................................................................................................151
Figure C-1 WAAS Ground Segment (end of 2007)...........................................................................................................159
Figure C-2 EGNOS Ground Segment (end of 2007) .........................................................................................................160
Figure C-3 Worldwide SBAS Coverage.............................................................................................................................161
Figure C-4 Worldwide SBAS Ionospheric Coverage........................................................................................................161
Figure C-5 Broadcast and Extrapolated Ionospheric Correction Map...........................................................................163

iSXblue/SXBlue II GNSS Series Technical Reference Manual xi
List of Tables
Table 1-1 Default Applications .............................................................................................................................................. 6
Table 1-2 Default Port Settings.............................................................................................................................................. 7
Table 1-2 Default Port Settings.............................................................................................................................................. 7
Table 1-3 Default GNSS NMEA Message Output................................................................................................................ 7
Table 1-4 Default Parameters ................................................................................................................................................ 7
Table 1-5 LED Indicators Definitions ..................................................................................................................................33
Table 2-1 Differential and Global Options ..........................................................................................................................42
Table 2-2 Horizontal Accuracy Probability Statistics.........................................................................................................44
Table 2-3 Horizontal Accuracy Statistic Conversions ........................................................................................................45
Table 2-4 Serial Port Pin-out, RS-232C Interface Level.....................................................................................................47
Table 5-1 NMEA Message Elements ....................................................................................................................................70
Table 5-2 General Commands ..............................................................................................................................................71
Table 5-3 GPS Commands ....................................................................................................................................................86
Table 5-4 SBAS Commands..................................................................................................................................................91
Table 5-5 SBAS Commands..................................................................................................................................................94
Table 5-6 SBAS Commands..................................................................................................................................................99
Table 5-7 Auto-Dif Commands in Autonomous Mode .....................................................................................................103
Table 5-8 Auto-Dif Commands for Base Station Operation.............................................................................................106
Table 5-10 Local Differential Commands..........................................................................................................................109
Table 5-11 Output Data Messages......................................................................................................................................117
Table 5-12 GNS Data Message Defined .............................................................................................................................118
Table 5-13 GGA Data Message Defined.............................................................................................................................118
Table 5-14 GLL Data Message Defined .............................................................................................................................119
Table 5-15 GSA Data Message Defined .............................................................................................................................119
Table 5-16 GST Data Message Defined..............................................................................................................................120
Table 5-17 GSV Data Message Defined .............................................................................................................................120
Table 5-18 RMC Data Message Defined ............................................................................................................................121
Table 5-19 RRE Data Message Defined .............................................................................................................................121
Table 5-20 VTG Data Message Defined .............................................................................................................................122
Table 5-21 ZDA Data Message Defined .............................................................................................................................122
Table 5-22 GRS Data Message Defined .............................................................................................................................123
Table 5-23 RD1 Data Message Defined..............................................................................................................................123
Table 5-24 $PSAT,GBS Data Message Defined.................................................................................................................125
Table 6-1 Binary Message Structure..................................................................................................................................126
Table 6-2 Bin 1 Message......................................................................................................................................................127
Table 6-3 Bin 2 Message......................................................................................................................................................128
Table 6-4 Bin 80 Message....................................................................................................................................................129
Table 6-5 Bin 93 Message....................................................................................................................................................129
Table 6-6 Bin 94 Message....................................................................................................................................................130
Table 6-7 Bin 95 Message....................................................................................................................................................131
Table 6-8 Bin 96 Message....................................................................................................................................................131
Table 6-9 Bin 97 Message....................................................................................................................................................132
Table 6-10 Bin 98 Message..................................................................................................................................................133
Table 6-11 Bin 99 Message..................................................................................................................................................134
Table 8-1 Troubleshooting ..................................................................................................................................................145
Table 8-2 LED Functions ....................................................................................................................................................146
Table A-1 SXBlue II GPS Receiver Specifications............................................................................................................148
Table C-1 Worldwide SBAS Constellation (end of 2007) .................................................................................................162

iSXblue/SXBlue II GNSS Series Technical Reference Manual xii
Preface
Welcome to the iSXBlue/SXBLue II GNSS Series Manual and congratulations on purchasing this high-
performance receiver.
The iSXBlue/SXBLue II GNSS Series provides a high level of performance, delivering either sub-meter
positioning using the built-in SBAS demodulator, submeter positioning using RTK, at up to a 20Hz
optional output. The iSXBlue/SXBLue II GNSS Series features raw measurement output and delivers
excellent phase measurement quality for mono-frequency post-processing and RTK applications. It also
offers independent Bluetooth, USB and serial communication ports.
This document is meant to assist a customer in becoming familiar with the iSXBlue/SXBLue II GNSS
receiver functionality and system operation, but also with GPS / SBAS / OmniSTAR®/ RTK concepts.
The chapters that follow provide detailed information on the receivers, including the hardware and
software interface, in addition to various descriptions of technologies and features that they support.
iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS Series
Model iSXBlue II GNSS SXBlue II GNSS
GPS ●●
GLONASS ●●
SBAS ●●
OmniSTAR®X X
iOS Compatible ●X
External Differential ●●
RTK Base/Rover Option ●●
10Hz Output Option ●●
20Hz Output Option ●●
Battery Autonomy
(Approximate) 8 hours 8 hours

iSXblue/SXBlue II GNSS Series Technical Reference Manual xiii
Some notable features of the iSXBlue/ II GNSS Series are:
•Tracks L1, GPS and GLONASS (GNSS models only)
•L5 ready
•3 channels dedicated to SBAS tracking
•Sub-meter (2dRMS) horizontal accuracy with SBAS
•Raw measurement output (via documented binary messages) or RINEX converter
•Position and raw measurement update rates of up to 1Hz (standard) 10Hz and 20Hz (optional)
•COAST™ technology provides consistent performance with old correction data and guarantees an all-day
DGPS solution even in forestry applications (with suitable SBAS)
•GDif and SureTrack technologies (GNSS models only) enable the use of GLONASS satellites in the code
DGNSS and phase RTK solution respectively, without receiving GLONASS correctors from the differential
source (SBAS, RTK, GPS-only base station, etc).
•Optional Auto-Dif: A base station-free way of differentially positioning for submeter applications
•Optional Sub-20cm Local-Dif or Sub-5cm RTK with Base-Rover configuration
•SBAS (WAAS/EGNOS/MSAS/GAGAN/etc.) and external differential sources depending on model
•Quick time to first fix
•One internal Serial Port Profile (SPP) Bluetooth module allows a modular GPS system configuration with the
use of any up-to-date handheld/tablet/computer and software combination
•One USB 2.0 compliant port and One full-duplex Serial Port, can be used for configuration, or to
output/receive RTCM corrections and/or NMEA messages
•Internal, field-replaceable Li-Ion battery for full day operation
Organization
This manual contains the following chapters:
Chapter 1: Getting Started - provides information to help you get your system running quickly.
Chapter 2: Features and Performance - introduces you to the iSXBlue/SXBLue II GNSS Series and some
of its main features.
Chapter 3: Advanced Operations - provides details on the fundamental operating modes of the
iSXBlue/SXBLue II GNSS receivers and describes how to configure and operate them.
Chapter 4: Differential Correction Operations – presents the steps involved in setting up the receiver for
differential correction applications (realtime and post-processing)
Chapter 5: Complete NMEA Interface - describes the subset of NMEA 0183 commands and messages
supported by the iSXBlue/SXBLue II GNSS Series.
Chapter 6: Binary Data - describes the Binary messages supported by the iSXBlue/SXBLue II GNSS
receivers.
Chapter 7: Frequently Asked Questions - this chapter provides answers to frequently asked questions
about your receiver.
Chapter 8: Troubleshooting - provides you with diagnostic information to aid in determining a source of
difficulty for a particular installation.

iSXblue/SXBlue II GNSS Series Technical Reference Manual xiv
Appendix A – Specifications - details the technical characteristics of the iSXBlue/SXBLue II GNSS
models.
Appendix B – Interface - provides instructions to interface the iSXBlue/SXBLue II GNSS receivers
with external devices.
Appendix C – Introduction to GNSS, DGNSS and RTK Services - provides both general and
specific information relating to GPS, GLONASS, SBAS and RTK Networks.
Appendix D – Resources - This appendix lists a number of different resources that may be useful for
the advanced user.
The Index provides a listing of the locations of various subjects within this manual.
Customer Service
If you encounter problems during the installation or operation of this product, or cannot find the
information you need, please contact your dealer, or Geneq Customer Service. The contact numbers and
e-mail address for Geneq Customer Service are:
Telephone number: [phone]
Toll Free: [phone] (North America)
Fax number: [phone]
E-mail address: [email protected]
Technical Support is available from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM Eastern Time, Monday to Friday.
To expedite the support process, please have the product model and serial number available when
contacting Geneq Customer Service.
In the event that your equipment requires service, we recommend that you contact your dealer directly.
However, if this is not possible, you must contact Geneq Customer Service to obtain a Return
Merchandise form before returning any product to Geneq. If you are returning a product for repair, you
must also provide a fault description.
World Wide Web Site
Geneq maintains World Wide Web home pages at the following addresses:
www.sxbluegps.com and www.geneq.com
A corporate profile and product information are available at these sites under the Geomatics section.
Document Conventions
Bold is used to emphasize certain points.

iSXblue/SXBlue II GNSS Series Technical Reference Manual xv
Notes, Cautions, and Warnings
Notes, Cautions, and Warnings stress important information regarding the installation, configuration, and
operation of the iSXBlue/SXBLue II GNSS receiver.
Note - Notes outline important information of a general nature.
Cautions - Cautions inform of possible sources of difficulty or situations that may cause damage to
the product.
Warning - Warnings inform of situations that may cause harm to you.

iSXblue/SXBlue II GNSS Series Technical Reference Manual 1
1. Getting Started
The purpose of this chapter is to help you get your iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS receiver running quickly.
This chapter is not intended to replace the balance of this reference manual and it assumes that you have a
reasonable amount of knowledge with installation and operation of GNSS navigation systems.
If you are new to GPS/GNSS, SBAS, RTK or OmniSTAR®Services, we recommend that you consult
Appendix C for further information on these services and technologies.
1.1 Unpacking your iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS Receiver
If you find that any of these items listed below are damaged due to shipment, please contact the freight
carrier immediately for assistance. When you unpack your iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS receiver, please
ensure that it is complete by comparing the parts received against the packing slip.
Standard Package Content
iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS receiver with battery pack
2.
1.
AntennaL1, G1 L-Band
3. Two-section Antenna Cable
4. Spare Antenna Cable
5.
6.
7.
Soft hat for Antenna
8.
Nylon Carrying Case with belt clip and shoulder strap
9.
Li-Ion Battery Charger with international adapters
USB Data Cable
Serial Data Cable
Figure 1-2 Package Contents
3
1
2
4
5
67
8
9

iSXblue/SXBlue II GNSS Series Technical Reference Manual 2
Note - If, for some reason, you find a discrepancy between your packing slip and the contents of
your shipment, please contact immediately the authorized reseller with whom you have placed your
order.
1.2 Getting Familiar with your iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS
The iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS is composed of three main parts:
-The receiver with user interface (LED’s, Communication ports, Antenna connector)
-The battery pack with Battery Fuel Gauge
-The external Antenna with Cable
1.2.1 System Overview
Figure 1-2 shows the various components of the receiver and battery pack.
The connections required by the iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS are very straightforward. All cables
necessary for complete operation are provided.
-The RS-232 port is a D-Sub 9-pin female connector
-The USB port is a Type-B female connector
-The Bluetooth port is a Class 1 type.
The iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS offers three communication options: Serial RS-232, USB and Bluetooth.
In order to use the USB port, a driver (supplied on CD-ROM with the unit, downloadable from the
www.sxbluegps.com web site or from Microsoft Updates) must be installed on your computer. Refer to
section 1.3 for instructions on how to install the drivers. In order to use the Bluetooth (wireless)
communication of the iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS, you must use a Bluetooth-enabled
handheld/tablet/computer. If you have a handheld/tablet/computer that does not support Bluetooth
natively, you can supplement your computing device with a Bluetooth card (CF, PCMCIA, SD) or USB
dongle. When configuring your Bluetooth device for communication with the iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS,
make sure that pairing (or bonding) with password (or passkey) is not activated. A miniature DIP switch
(see Figure 1-3) allows powering off of the Bluetooth radio when the receiver is operated in places where
the use of wireless communication is prohibited. Refer to section 1.3 for some sample Bluetooth setups.

iSXblue/SXBlue II GNSS Series Technical Reference Manual 3
Figure 1-3 iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS Main Components
Charger Jack
ON/OFF Button
GPS LED Indicator
s
Battery Gauge
Indicator
Battery Gauge
Button
RS
-
232 Port
USB
Port
GPS Antenna
Connector
SXBlue I
I Receiver
Battery Pack
Battery
Thumb
Screws
(x4)
Serial Number

iSXblue/SXBlue II GNSS Series Technical Reference Manual 4
1.2.2 Battery Pack
The Lithium-Ion battery pack attaches to the receiver with four thumb screws. Modular contacts are used
to supply power to the receiver. Even though the Li-Ion battery pack has a built-in protection circuitry,
care must be taken not to short-circuit the contacts
on the battery pack. Membrane vents are used on
both the receiver and battery pack. These small holes
should not be punctured, obstructed or covered by
labels or stickers.
The battery pack features an intelligent battery “fuel
gauge” that shows the level of charge (see Figure 1-
2). On initial usage, it might take one or two
charge/discharge cycles for the gauge to reflect the
proper charge level. When unit is not used for an
extended period of time, it is normal that the battery
pack discharges. The field autonomy of the pack is
roughly 7 to 10 hours depending on the model and
after 500 cycles, battery capacity starts decreasing to
about 80%.
Figure 1-4 Battery contacts
Since the iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS uses Li-Ion battery chemistry, there is no memory effect as with
NiMH or NiCad batteries; therefore it is not necessary to discharge the pack before recharging it. Only
the Geneq-supplied Li-Ion battery charger must be used with the iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS battery.
Using any other type of charger might result in explosion and injuries. The iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS
battery pack specification is: 2s2p, 7.2V, 3,900mAh Li-Ion. If using a different charger than the supplied
charger, the following specifications must be followed: 2-cell Li-Ion charger, maximum current of 2A,
charger plug to fit a 1.7mm positive center-pin jack with 5mm OD.
Charge time with supplied charger is about 4 to 5 hours when battery is empty. The charger is equipped
with a charge indicator LED that will switch to a steady Green when battery is fully charged. The charger
supports input voltages of up to 240VAC.
Warning – Use only supplied charger with the iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS battery pack.
Do not disassemble, modify, puncture, mutilate or incinerate or heat battery pack.
Do not store the battery inside vehicles in direct sunlight and in hot weather.
Do not short-circuit battery contacts.
Do not puncture or obstruct membrane vents.
Battery should be stored at room temperature, charged to about 30-50% capacity.
Charge battery once every 3 months to prevent overdischarge.
Battery must be charged only when its temperature has settled between 0°C and 45°C.
Temperature range over which battery can be discharged is between -20°C and 60°C. Use of the
battery outside of the specified range reduces performance and life expectancy.
When battery reaches end-of-life, insulate terminals with adhesive tape or similar material before
disposal.
Membran
e Vents
Bluetooth DIP Switch

iSXblue/SXBlue II GNSS Series Technical Reference Manual 5
1.2.3 Precision and Survey Antennae
The Precision GPS (SXBlue II GPS), GPS/L-Band (SXBlue II-L GPS), GNSS (iSXBlue/SXBlue) and
Survey Antennae (all models) supplied with the SXBlue II Series have been designed to provide reliable,
stable and consistent sub-meter and centimeter positioning. All antenna models are capable of providing
reliable cm-level accuracy, but for surveying work, permanent base station, RTK rover used in long
baselines (more than 20km), RTK Network with VRS corrections, the use of the Survey antenna is highly
recommended and might increase performance during the phase ambiguity resolution process.
The Precision antennae feature a female SMA connector, whereas the Survey antenna features a TNC
female connector. The bottom part of the Precision Antenna is magnetic and can be detached by removing
the 3 or 4 screws (except for the GPS/L-Band antenna). For better performance the use of the supplied 4”
external magnet (as opposed to the removable magnetic adapter) is suggested for vehicle applications.
Magnetic mount is optional for the Survey antenna.
Using different antennae than the ones supplied, might degrade the performance of the iSXBlue/SXBlue
II GNSS Series. Shall a different antenna be used, a maximum of 30dB gain is recommended. When
using longer antenna cable, it is important to take into account the cable loss (dB/m) to allow at least
21dB at the RF input of the receiver. The voltage supplied by the receiver to the antenna is 5Vdc.
Figure 1-5 Precision and Survey Antennae
Caution – By default, the iSXBlue/SXBlue II GNSS receiver supplies 5.0 VDC across its RF
connector to power an active GPS antenna’s low noise amplifier (LNA). Connection to a GNSS
antenna that doesn’t support a 5 VDC input could damage the antenna.
1.3 Getting Ready for the Field
L1/L2 GPS Antenna L1/L2/OmniSTAR GPS Antenna L1/L2/OmniSTAR GNSS Antenna
L1/L2/L5/G1/G2/E1/E5/OmniSTAR
GNSS Survey Antenna