The full form of DGPS is Differential Global Positioning System.
Understanding DGPS
DGPS, or Differential GPS, is a technology that significantly improves the accuracy of standard GPS positioning. Standard GPS can have errors of several meters, while DGPS reduces these errors substantially, often to just centimeters. This enhanced precision is achieved by using a network of fixed reference stations with known locations. These stations receive GPS signals and calculate the differences between the GPS-indicated positions and their actual known positions. These corrections are then transmitted to GPS receivers, allowing them to adjust their positional data for increased accuracy.
How DGPS Works:
- Reference Stations: Fixed GPS receivers at known locations constantly monitor GPS signals.
- Correction Calculation: These stations compare their known positions with the positions indicated by the GPS signals, identifying any discrepancies (errors).
- Correction Transmission: The calculated corrections are transmitted to GPS receivers, usually via radio signals.
- Receiver Application: DGPS receivers receive these corrections and apply them to their own GPS data, resulting in a more accurate position.
Applications of DGPS:
DGPS finds applications in various fields requiring high-precision location data, including:
- Marine Navigation: Improving the accuracy of ship positioning for safer and more efficient navigation.
- Surveying and Mapping: Producing highly accurate maps and surveying data.
- Air Navigation: Assisting aircraft navigation, especially in approaches and landings.
- Precision Agriculture: Guiding farming machinery for optimized planting, spraying, and harvesting.
Several sources confirm this definition. For instance, BC Technologies states that "The full form of DGPS is Differential Global Positioning System," while Wartsila's Encyclopedia describes DGPS as "An advanced form of GPS navigation which provides greater positioning accuracy than the standard GPS." Further, FullForms.com also corroborates this definition.
