u-blox recently unveiled its new X20 all-band high-precision GNSS platform, setting a new standard for accuracy, performance, and security. Building on the success of the company’s established F9 GNSS platform, the X20 addresses the growing demand for high-precision GNSS worldwide, while its future-proof design ensures compatibility with emerging technologies and standards. The platform is intended for use in industrial automation, automotive applications, and other sectors requiring centimetre-level positioning accuracy in difficult environments, as well as time synchronisation for critical infrastructure systems.
The X20 platform supports all GNSS frequency bands (L1/L2/L5/L6) and integrates an L-band receiver, enabling it to access all available GNSS satellite signals and deliver high-precision positioning, even in challenging signal conditions. It includes the standard L1 and L2 bands, alongside the L5 band, which operates at a lower frequency and benefits from enhanced signal robustness. Additionally, the X20 platform supports the L6 band, utilised for both navigation and correction services that improve positioning accuracy.
With built-in support for a variety of correction services, the u-blox X20 offers flexibility to suit different applications. It supports local base stations, RTK (real-time kinematics), Network RTK, and PPP-RTK correction types, and also introduces the option of using PPP (precise point positioning) corrections. The platform’s scalability allows users to choose the most appropriate solution, balancing cost and precision for their specific needs. Applications range from port logistics and construction machine control to emerging industries like UAVs and autonomous ground robotics, including lawnmowers.
“X20 combines the unique capabilities of u-blox GNSS chips, software, modules and correction services for a new offering that outperforms alternative solutions in accuracy, performance and security,” said Stephan Zizala, CEO, u-blox. “Our X20 platform will make centimetre-level GNSS technology accessible to the mass markets globally. Together with a future PPP variant of PointPerfect, our customers will be able to take advantage of homogeneous correction data performance across all continents.”
The X20 platform is software-upgradeable, ensuring that users can adapt to changes in technologies and standards, making it a future-proof solution. Designed with a strong focus on security, it includes comprehensive end-to-end security features such as secure boot, secure firmware updates, message authentication, and encryption with a secure root of trust (RoT). Furthermore, the platform supports Galileo OSNMA authentication and incorporates advanced jamming and spoofing detection and mitigation measures.
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