Datasheet with Product Specification

Datasheet with Product Specification MS9000 Issue 4-00 PROVISIONAL September

2019

Spirent GSS9000 Series GNSS Simulation System

PROPRIETARY INFORMATION

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF SPIRENT COMMUNICATIONS PLC. EXCEPT AS

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INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN CONFIDENTIAL AND SHALL PROTECT SAME IN WHOLE OR IN PART FROM DISCLOSURE AND

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The ownership of all other registered trademarks used in this document is duly acknowledged.

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Purpose of this document

This datasheet describes the functionality of the Spirent GSS9000 Multi-Frequency, Multi-GNSS RF Constellation

Simulator, which sets a new standard of excellence in GNSS RF Simulation for R&D and performance test.

This datasheet also provides technical data and configuration information.

The GSS9000 offers a very wide range of capabilities and options. Please speak to your Spirent sales

representative before ordering to ensure your specific needs are met.

 
 
spirent.com  |  3 
Table of Contents 
Purpose of this document ........................................................................................................................................... 2 
Table of Contents ....................................................................................................................................................... 3 
List of Tables............................................................................................................................................................... 4 
List of Figures ............................................................................................................................................................. 4 
Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................. 5 
Ultimate Flexibility, Supreme Performance, Comprehensive Capability ............................................................... 5 
SimGEN™ scenario definition and simulation control software ................................................................................. 6 
Extensions and Options ......................................................................................................................................... 7 
GSS9000 Feature / Capability Temporary Licensing ............................................................................................ 7 
GSS9000 System Overview ....................................................................................................................................... 8 
GSS9000 Signal Generator Chassis ..................................................................................................................... 8 
GSS9000 C50r SimGEN Host ............................................................................................................................... 8 
GNSS Constellations .................................................................................................................................................. 9 
GPS Simulation ...................................................................................................................................................11 
SBAS Simulation .................................................................................................................................................11 
Galileo Simulation ................................................................................................................................................12 
GLONASS simulation ..........................................................................................................................................12 
BeiDou simulation ................................................................................................................................................12 
Quasi-Zenith (QZSS) Simulation .........................................................................................................................13 
NavIC (IRNSS) Simulation ..................................................................................................................................13 
FLEX Simulation ..................................................................................................................................................13 
Authorised Testing ...............................................................................................................................................14 
GPS authorised testing ...........................................................................................................................................14 
Galileo authorised testing ........................................................................................................................................14 
FPGA Module daughter card ..................................................................................................................................14 
Embedded Multipath Simulation ..........................................................................................................................15 
Multi-Chassis capability .......................................................................................................................................15 
Tailored Multi-output capability ............................................................................................................................15 
Ancillary Components ..........................................................................................................................................16 
Upgrades .................................................................................................................................................................16 
Example composite output GSS9000 systems ........................................................................................................17 
Optional single-RF combination in a dual-RF system .........................................................................................19 
Detailed Performance Specifications ........................................................................................................................20 
Performance in multi-chassis configurations .......................................................................................................26 
Related Brochures, Data Sheets and Specifications ................................................................................................29 
ICD Compliance – Applicable Documents ................................................................................................................30 
Glossary of terms ......................................................................................................................................................31 
For more information ................................................................................................................................................32 
 
   

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Spirent GSS9000 Series GNSS Simulation System

Datasheet with Product Specification MS9000 Issue 4-00 PROVISIONAL September 2019

List of Tables

Table 1 Supported variations for each channel bank .................................................................................................. 9

Table 2 GPS Signals .................................................................................................................................................. 11

Table 3 SBAS Signals ................................................................................................................................................ 11

Table 4 Galileo Signals ............................................................................................................................................... 12

Table 5 GLONASS Signals ........................................................................................................................................ 12

Table 6 BeiDou Signals .............................................................................................................................................. 12

Table 7 QZSS Signals ................................................................................................................................................ 13

Table 8 Nominal Signal Levels ................................................................................................................................... 20

Table 9 Navigation Messages Types per Constellation ............................................................................................. 21

Table 10 Performance Levels for GSS9000 Series.................................................................................................... 23

Table 11 GTx Performance ........................................................................................................................................ 24

Table 12 Signal Generator Connectivity ..................................................................................................................... 27

Table 13 C50r SimGEN Host Connectivity ................................................................................................................. 27

Table 14 Physical and Environmental Properties ....................................................................................................... 28

Table 15 Safety and EMC Compliance ...................................................................................................................... 28

Table 16 Related Product References ...................................................................................................................... 29

Table 17 ICD compliance ........................................................................................................................................... 30

List of Figures

Figure 1 SimGEN scenario definition and simulation control software ......................................................................... 6

Figure 2 GSS9000 system ............................................................................................................................................ 8

Figure 3 GSS9000 Signal Generator Chassis RF Channel Bank configuration (Single and dual composite output

variants shown) ........................................................................................................................................................... 10

Figure 4 Single output, 2-bank system GPS L1 L2 .................................................................................................... 17

Figure 5 Single output, 3-bank system ....................................................................................................................... 18

Figure 6 2-RF Output, 6-bank system ........................................................................................................................ 18

Figure 7: 2-RF output, 10-bank, 320-channel system ................................................................................................ 19

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Introduction

To develop positioning, navigation and timing systems for military, space, and other high precision applications you

require comprehensive, highly sophisticated testing. The updated GSS9000 Series multi-frequency, multi-GNSS

RF constellation simulator sets a new standard of excellence in future-proofed simulation for R&D and performance

testing.

simulation, the GSS9000 Series produces a comprehensive range of emulated RF signals with industry-leading

flexibility, fidelity, performance and reliability.

Ultimate Flexibility, Supreme Performance, Comprehensive Capability

The GSS9000 supports an extensive range of constellation configurations, from GPS L1 C/A through to multi-

GNSS, multi-frequency systems including authorised signals. Configurations are available that support multi-

antennas and multi-vehicles, for example differential-GNSS, attitude determination, interference/jamming and

spoofing and Controlled Reception Pattern Antenna (CRPA) testing.

Some of the GSS9000’s key attributes are:

 World-leading performance in several key areas such as:

 1000 Hz System Iteration Rate (SIR) and Hardware Update Rate (HUR)

 0.3 mm RMS Pseudorange Accuracy

 0 mm uncertainty due to inter-channel bias

 <0.005 Rad RMS Phase Noise

 Highly flexible configurations selectable via a ‘cabinet’ of feature licence keys

 Complete portability of Spirent SimGEN™ scenarios

 In-field upgradeability of principal GNSS functionality and capability

 On-the-fly re-configuration of constellation and signal configurations

 All GNSS constellation types and all frequencies brought into a single chassis

 Multi-RF output options available

 Embedded Interference Sources option (GTx) available

 Backward compatibility with legacy scenarios enabling seamless transition from existing Spirent platforms

 Fully future-proofed for all advances in GNSS systems, signals, modulations, codes and data

A key benefit of the GSS9000 is that the signal performance specification is met under ALL operating

conditions, including the full range of ultra-high dynamics.

In view of the wide range of possible permutations, Spirent recommends that you discuss your current and future

needs with your local sales representative. Spirent will provide specific configuration and pricing information to

meet your needs.

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Spirent GSS9000 Series GNSS Simulation System

Datasheet with Product Specification MS9000 Issue 4-00 PROVISIONAL September 2019

SimGEN™ scenario definition and simulation control software

SimGEN™ is Spirent’s software application suite that supports the GSS9000.

SimGEN™ is the world’s leading GNSS simulation software for test scenario definition, execution, data

management and GNSS RF constellation simulator command and control. With the fullest capability, features and

performance continuously developed in close consultation with GNSS system authorities over more than 30 years,

SimGEN™ supports all the GNSS test parameters and control capabilities needed for comprehensive GNSS

testing for research, development and design of GNSS systems, services and devices across any application.

Figure 1 SimGEN scenario definition and simulation control software

Some of SimGEN’s fundamental performance and modelling capabilities include:

 Fully automatic and propagated generation of precise satellite orbital data, ephemerides and almanac

 Multiplicity of mechanisms for applying declared and undeclared errors and modifications to navigation data,

Satellite clocks and orbits

 SimREMOTE: Comprehensive simulation control and 6-DOF trajectory delivery capability

 Data logging and streaming of signal, time, control, vehicle and trajectory data over a variety of interfaces in

real-time and to file

 Range of models for Multipath reflections

 Terrain obscuration models

 Independent satellite/channel signal power control

 Signal modulation and code control

 Multi-copy constellations for spoofing testing

 Multi-vehicle to 1RF for trajectory spoofing

 Vehicle personalities and motion modelling for aircraft, spacecraft, marine vessels and land vehicles

 Antenna reception gain and phase patterns

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 Satellite transmit antenna pattern control

 Clock g-sensitivity

 Antenna lever arm effects

 INS aiding data

 Ionosphere and Troposphere effects including ionospheric scintillation

 DGPS corrections

 Pseudorange ramps (for RAIM testing)

 Coherent and non-coherent Interference and noise modelling (with optional GSS7765 Interference Simulation

System)

 Leap-second and week roll-over event testing

More information about the capabilities of SimGEN™ can be found in the separate specification document, see

Table 18.

Extensions and Options

Extensions and options are available with the GSS9000 to facilitate development and testing of systems and

applications which use other GNSS codes/signals and alternative technology for position, navigation and time

determination alongside GNSS. These include:

 Authorised GPS and Galileo signal generation for authorised users (see ‘Authorised Testing’ section)

 Signal Flexibility allowing replacement of a signal’s standard ICD-defined content with user-defined values for

Chipping rate, BOC, PRN sequence and Navigation Data

 GBAS VHF Data Broadcast Simulation available with the GSS4150 solution.

 Inertial Test input simulation of several types of Integrated GPS/Inertial (IGI) navigation sensors (also known

as EGIs) and emulation of the presence of Inertial Measurement Units (IMU) with SimINERTIAL™ and

SimAUTO™

 Interference signal generation, using the GSS7765™ Interference Simulation System, where the interference

sources are positioned and dynamically modelled by the GSS9000 system

 Embedded in-band interference (Ground Transmitters – GTx) With a variety of modulations and signal

controls (See Table 13)

 Sophisticated jamming laboratory testing using the GSS7765 Interference Simulation System and spoofing

laboratory testing using Spirent’s SimSAFE™ solution alongside in-built capabilities

GSS9000 Feature / Capability Temporary Licensing

The flexibility of the GSS9000 allows constellations and channels to be temporarily enabled on a time-limited rental

basis. This is particularly useful if the system is to be used for short to medium-term projects requiring an additional

constellations and/or additional satellite channels for a defined period. An existing GSS9000 system can have

additional feature(s) enabled by providing the user with a suitably revised soft licence key, the intention is that a

system is returned to a default condition upon expiry of the temporary licence. If licences are consecutively

renewed for the requisite number of times, the feature becomes permanent and the licence runs in perpetuity.

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Spirent GSS9000 Series GNSS Simulation System

Datasheet with Product Specification MS9000 Issue 4-00 PROVISIONAL September 2019

GSS9000 System Overview

The GSS9000 system consists of a Signal Generator Chassis and dedicated C50r Host Unit running Spirent’s

SimGEN™ scenario definition and simulation control software, as shown in Figure 2.

Figure 2 GSS9000 system

GSS9000 Signal Generator Chassis

The GSS9000 Signal Generator Chassis consists of one or more RF Channel Banks. An RF Channel Bank

consists of 2 cards - a digital signal generator card and an RF up-converter card. Each RF Channel Bank is

licenced to support; 4, 8, 12, 16 or 32 separate channels. Each RF Channel Bank is capable – at any one time –

of supporting any number of licenced GNSS constellations in the same frequency band.

The Signal Generator Chassis is available in 2 main variants:

 Single RF Output - behind which up to 10 RF Channel Banks can be installed

 Dual RF Output - with up to 5 RF Channel Banks installed behind RF Output 1 and up to 5 RF Channel

Banks installed behind RF Output 2.

 Optionally, the Dual RF Signal Generator Chassis can be provided with the capability for the RF

Channel Banks behind RF Output 2 to be configured to operate as interference sources (GTx –

Ground Transmitters), using a dedicated rear panel link cable.

 There are also multi-output versions of the 1-RF and 2-RF chassis, allowing highly flexible

configurations to be tailored to specific needs. Such as the GSS9790 CRPA/Wavefront system

This extensive capacity enables a single Signal Generator Chassis to support up to 320 independent channels. In

addition to this, each primary channel also supports an additional 4 multipath channels that are delayed and

attenuated copies of the primary channel. The delay and attenuation of each path is user-specified and fixed for the

simulation duration of that satellite. This gives up to 640 Multipath channels in one GSS9000 Signal Generator

Chassis.

GSS9000 C50r SimGEN Host

The Signal Generator Chassis is controlled by a dedicated, rack-mountable C50r SimGEN Host, which is a Spirent

proprietary design, multi-processor/core system, configured with a mixed Operating System (OS) environment

(Linux and Windows® 10 Professional for Embedded Systems ESD [Virtualisation Only]) This combination of

processing power and dual OS provides the perfect platform to enable the GSS9000’s new bench-mark

performance levels, and to support Spirent’s SimGEN™ scenario definition and simulation control software

application. The C50r SimGEN Host is supplied with a free-standing monitor, desktop keyboard and mouse.

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GNSS Constellations

The GSS9000 architecture supports GNSS signal generation capability in a very flexible way. With the appropriate

constellation feature licence keys, each generic RF Channel Bank can support – at any one time – any one of the

constellation/frequency variations as shown in Table 1 (for current ICD compliance, see Table 19).

The combinations of constellations generated can vary from scenario to scenario and even between successive

runs of the same scenario, depending on the settings in SimGEN. The principle is that at an instant in time, signals

from any constellation can be generated provided there is a valid feature licence key and an available RF Channel

Bank in the system.

Table 1 Supported variations for each channel bank

Variation

Constellation

Frequency

GPS/SBAS

GPS

GPS/SBAS

Galileo

GLONASS

BeiDou

B1I

BeiDou

B2I

BeiDou

B1C

BeiDou

B2A

BeiDou

B3I

SBAS (note 1)

QZSS

NavIC/IRNSS

Others (note 2)

Notes for Table 1

1. In addition to the support of GPS-based SBAS augmentations (WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS, GAGAN) and

SDCM on any dedicated GPS channel bank, it is possible to have a channel bank solely generating SBAS

augmentations

2. The GSS9000 is technology-ready for support of other future GNSS systems/signals, some of which can

be supported today as Tailored Solutions, and some of which are planned on the current product roadmap. Please

contact Spirent for further information if you have a requirement for capability not explicitly detailed in this

specification.

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Spirent GSS9000 Series GNSS Simulation System

Datasheet with Product Specification MS9000 Issue 4-00 PROVISIONAL September 2019

Figure 3 illustrates the feature licence key/generic RF Channel Bank architecture of the GSS9000:

Figure 3 GSS9000 Signal Generator Chassis RF Channel Bank configuration

(Single and dual composite output variants shown)

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GPS Simulation

The supported ranging signal types of the GPS constellation are shown in Table 2

Table 2 GPS Signals

Carrier

Standard Signal Types

Optional Signal Types

Notes

C/A, L1c Data/Pilot, P, M

Noise, Pseudo Y

Y, MNSA-M, AES-M and

SDS-M-Code via data

server, GTx

“Pseudo-Y” code is generated through

public-domain encryption of P-code to

fully support L1/L2 squaring or ‘Z-

tracking’, with data message.

“M Noise” is a spectrally representative

M-Code signal from each satellite when

enabled, with no data message.

See ‘Authorised Testing’ section for

information on optionally available GPS

authorised signals.

L2c, P, Pseudo Y, M

Noise

Y, MNSA-M, AES-M and

SDS-M-Code via data

server, GTx

C/A code is also supported as on this

carrier as an alternative to L2c.

See ‘Authorised Testing’ section for

information on optionally available GPS

authorised signals.

I, Q

N/A

SBAS Simulation

SBAS (defined as WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS, SDCM and GAGAN) simulation capability is included with GPS

configurations at L1 and/or L5. Note that SBAS uses available GPS channels when choosing channel count for

GPS L1 and L5.

In addition, a separate SBAS licence key can be purchased which allows SBAS to be run on a separate RF

Channel Bank, without the need to ‘use up’ GPS L1 or L5 channels.

The supported ranging signal types of the SBAS constellation are shown in Table 3

Table 3 SBAS Signals

Carrier

Standard Signal Types

C/A

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Spirent GSS9000 Series GNSS Simulation System

Datasheet with Product Specification MS9000 Issue 4-00 PROVISIONAL September 2019

Galileo Simulation

The supported ranging signal types of the Galileo constellation are shown in Table 4.

Table 4 Galileo Signals

Carrier

Standard Signal Types

Optional Signal Types

Notes

PRS Noise, OS Data/Pilot

PRS via ‘PRS[WARE]’

See Authorised Testing for information

on Galileo authorised signals

PRS Noise, CS Data/Pilot

(without encryption)

PRS via ‘PRS[WARE], CS

Data/Pilot (with

encryption)

See Authorised Testing for information

on Galileo authorised signals

E5ab

E5a Data/Pilot, E5b

Data/Pilot

N/A

E5ab signalling employs 8-PSK

modulation of E5a and E5b onto a single

carrier. Appropriate carrier dispersion is

applied from E5a to E5b

Galileo Open Service (OS) ICD support is supplied as standard. Optional support for Galileo Full Operational

Capability (FOC) signalling is available with Spirent’s SimCS™ option, subject to user status.

Galileo PRN data is available form a user definable file. Open Service users are supplied with PRN data for the

E1B/C and E5a signal components, PRN data for other signal types is ‘dummy data’.

FOC authorised users are supplied with PRN data signal for all signal types, except for PRS.

PRS requires the third-party extension PRS[WARE] upgrade, see Authorised Testing.

GLONASS simulation

The supported ranging signal types of the GLONASS constellation are shown in Table 5

Table 5 GLONASS Signals

Carrier

Signal types

C/A, P (Chan Number -7 to +6)

GLONASS is supported in accordance with the SISICD GLONASS Interface Control Document, see Table 19.

BeiDou simulation

The supported ranging signal types of the BeiDou constellation are shown in Table 6

Table 6 BeiDou Signals

Carrier

Signal types

B1 (1.561098 GHz)

B1I

B1 (1.57542 GHz)

B1C

B2 (1.20714 GHz)

B2I

B2 (1.17645 GHz)

B2A

B3 (1.26852 GHz)

B3I

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BeiDou Phase-2 is supported in accordance with the BeiDou-2 Open Service SIS ICD, see Table 19. Spirent’s

implementation includes the B1I signal described in the SIS ICD and offers the same signalling on the B2I

frequency. D1 and D2 navigation data supports the provision of full Ephemerides and Almanacs as well as system

time offsets. As an interim solution,

As at this issue, BeiDou Phase-3 is supported in accordance with Beidou3_ICD_B1C_B2a Beta version, 2017-08.

Customers purchasing BeiDou Phase-3 licence keys for B1C and/or B2A will receive a FOC software upgrade

when the implementation to BDS-SIS-ICD-B1C/B2A-1.0 2017-12 is completed. Spirent plans to complete this

implementation by end Q3-2018

Quasi-Zenith (QZSS) Simulation

The supported ranging signal types of the Quasi-Zenith constellation are shown in Table 7

Table 7 QZSS Signals

Carrier

Signal types

SAIF, C/A, L1c

L2c

I, Q

L61/L62 (Available Q4 2018)

QZSS is supported in accordance with the QZSS Interface Specifications in Table 19.

NavIC (IRNSS) Simulation

The supported ranging signal types of the Quasi-Zenith constellation are shown in Table 8.

Table 8. NavIC (IRNSS) Signals

Carrier

Signal types

C/A

Available as a Tailored Solution only – please contact Spirent

NavIC is supported in accordance with the IRNSS_SPS_ICD see Table 19.

FLEX Simulation

FLEX simulation comprises built in and user parameterizable control and set up of non-current SIS ICD PRN

codes, nav data content, nav data rate, chipping rate, edge shaping, and modulation types

Carrier

Signal types

L1,L2,L5,E1,E5,E6,

B1,B2,QZL1

User-definable codes – See Table 11

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Spirent GSS9000 Series GNSS Simulation System

Datasheet with Product Specification MS9000 Issue 4-00 PROVISIONAL September 2019

Two user-definable codes are supported per channel. Two channels are required per SV to support three codes

(two second channel banks) E5 ALT-BOC not supported on FLEX channels.

Authorised Testing

GPS authorised testing

GPS authorised testing is supported via a range of additional options (see Related Brochures, Data Sheets and

Specifications referenced within this datasheet specification). In all cases, the options are available for

authorised users only.

Selective Availability/Anti-Spoofing (SA/A-S) simulation is available for GSS9000 as an option. The applicable

package is SimSAAS (for customers in USA) or SimCLASS (non-US). These options add additional capabilities -

that includes SA/A-S simulation - to standard GSS9000 systems.

Standard product broadcasts a spectrally representative “M-Noise” signal from each satellite when enabled, with no

data message.

MNSA M-Code requires the SimMNSA option which is available for US-authorised users only

AES M-Code requires the SimMCODE option – available subject to end-user approval by US authorities.

SDS-M-Code requires the SimMCODE and SDS-M-Code via data server option – available subject to end-user

approval by US authorities. Note: SDS-M-Code via data server option is not a customer in-field upgrade.

Further detail is given in Detailed Performance Specifications.

Galileo authorised testing

Galileo FOC authorised testing can be supported with the Public Regulated Signal (PRS) at E1 and E6 and the

encrypted part of the Commercial Service (CS) at E6. Full PRS requires the PRS[WARE] upgrade option. Full CS

requires the SimCS upgrade option, (which also enables Safety-of-Life at E5) Both PRS[WARE] and SimCS

provide the required full PRN data for the respective signals they support (non-authorised users are only supplied

with ‘dummy’ data for these signals).

In all cases, the options are available for authorised users only.

The way PRS is supplied for the GSS9000 has changed. Order processing for the new “PRS[WARE]” solution is

entirely managed by LZE GmbH of Erlangen, Germany, with Munich-based Fraunhofer lIS having complete

responsibility for the current and future development, fulfilment and support of PRS[WARE] operating on the

Spirent GSS9000 (and future) GNSS test solutions.

Fraunhofer lIS is the sole owner of PRS[WARE] software/firmware, therefore, all issues and questions relating to

PRS and PRS[WARE] must be directed to Fraunhofer lIS

Spirent cannot provide any support relating to PRS, please contact LZE and Fraunhofer IIS directly for all questions

relating to the PRS capability and ordering.

LZE can be contacted as follows:

LZE GmbH, Tel: +49 9131 92894-85, contact@prs-ware.de

FPGA Module daughter card

A dedicated FPGA Module daughter card has been developed to work in unison with each signal generator RF

Channel Bank and associated software modules to support authorised testing. The FPGA Modules are designed to

enable:

 GPS: Y code SA/A-S* with SimCLASS* or SimSAAS (US–only) software, MNSA M-code with SimMNSA,

AES-M-code with SimMCODE software and SDS M-Code via data server with an extension to SimMCODE

 Galileo: PRS with PRS[WARE] software, and/or Galileo FOC with SimCS for approved users.

spirent.com | 15

*The procurement and supply of FPGA Modules specifically for GPS SA/A-S (for Non-US customers) involves a

customer’s government to US government Foreign Military Sales (FMS) procurement process.

This process can be lengthy, so customers are strongly advised to discuss their requirements with Spirent

and contact the appropriate department within their government at the earliest opportunity.

Supply of FPGA Modules for AES-M-code with SimMCODE are not subject to an FMS process.

Embedded Multipath Simulation

The GSS9000 can generate up to 4 multipath channels per satellite signal source. These multipath channels are

delayed and attenuated copies of the primary channel. The delay and attenuation of each path is user-specified

and fixed for the simulation duration of that satellite.

A Signal Generator Chassis with ten 16-channel RF Channel Banks can therefore support 640 multipath

channels.

The embedded multipath simulation capability is in addition to the comprehensive multipath modelling supported by

SimGEN™ that uses spare generator channels, see Table 18.

Multi-Chassis capability

The GSS9000 system can be configured to include up to 4 Signal Generator Chassis’ controlled as a coherent

system via a single C50r and one SimGEN scenario. Applications for this configuration include multiple GNSS

antenna simulation where composite, multi-GNSS signals are required on each antenna, and/or an increase in the

number of simulated satellites beyond the 160 supported in a single chassis. For GSS9000 systems consisting of

greater than two chassis, a GSS9367 Distribution Unit is required for management and distribution of various

signals.

Spirent can provide equipment rack solutions to house GSS9000 systems consisting of multiple components.

Please note that the performance of GSS9000 in multi-chassis configurations can vary depending on several

factors. Please refer to the Detailed Performance Specifications section for more information

Tailored Multi-output capability

The GSS9000 architecture supports the provision of a multiple-RF output capability where the signals on each

channel bank can be output via a dedicated ‘N-type- RF connector on the front panel. This provides significant

flexibility in support of various multi-antenna and/or multi-vehicle test configurations.

Also available is a variant called GSS9790 which has been specifically developed to provide the core element in

GNSS test applications that require independent access to each simulated satellite signal at RF. Up to 10

independent signal output ports, each with its own dedicated baseband signal generator channel and RF up-

converter are provided, each port simulating one satellite.

Applications include:

• CRPA - Control unit testing. The system can be integrated with a user-supplied multi-

element RF phase shift or delay matrix to produce an RF wave-front at multiple simulated

antenna elements.

• CRPA - System Testing. The system can be used as the signal generator attached to

multiple transmission antennas installed in an anechoic chamber. The antennas are spatially

distributed to present the appropriate arrival vectors of the simulated satellite signals at the

antenna site. Interference sources can then be located anywhere in the chamber to represent

different test cases. This is the only possible alternative to live testing of a complete CRPA

system, including the actual antenna. By mounting the antenna on a rate table that replicates

the attitude changes of the simulated vehicle platform comprehensive evaluation of all aspects

of the CRPA system can be achieved in a secure environment, free from unintentional

interference, both incoming and outgoing, and free from external observation.

• Radiated Testing. Again, using an anechoic chamber with radiating antennas, the system

can provide spatial signal diversity for testing items such as GPS-equipped mobile telephones

and PDAs through the actual antenna. Items such as reflectors, signal attenuators (a dummy

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Spirent GSS9000 Series GNSS Simulation System

Datasheet with Product Specification MS9000 Issue 4-00 PROVISIONAL September 2019

human head for example) can be physically placed adjacent to the unit under test to emulate

environments.

• Indoor GPS. With appropriate real-world time synchronisation and transmission antennas, the

system can form the basis of an experimental indoor GPS implementation.

If you are interested in GSS9000 multi-output capabilities, please contact Spirent to discuss your requirements.

Ancillary Components

Depending on the system configuration, ancillary components may be required to distribute, synchronise and

combine signals from more than one chassis. These include a Signal Distribution Unit (for systems with more than

two chassis) and a Multi-chassis Combiner Unit. If these elements are required for your system configuration these

will be detailed on the quotation.

Upgrades

The extensibility of the GSS9000 means that in-field upgrading of the system can be achieved easily, flexibly and

in a way which matches the developing needs of your testing requirements as closely as possible.

 Existing RF Channel Banks can be issued with new licence keys, allowing extra channels to be added

 Additional constellation licences can be added allowing other signal types to be enabled

 New RF Channel Banks can be added to enable signal types using existing feature keys

 Both RF Channel Banks and new feature keys can be added in the field. It is not necessary for the system to

be returned to Spirent

This extensibility makes the GSS9000 very flexible in terms of future-upgradeability.

Additional upgrade options are listed in the Related Product References, see Table 18. Please contact Spirent to

discuss your requirements.

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Example composite output GSS9000 systems

Given the highly flexible architecture of the GSS9000, many different system configurations are possible. Some

systems may have the required number of RF Channel Banks to support simultaneous generation of all licenced

signals, some systems may have more licenced signals than RF Channel Banks to support them, and so different

combinations of signals are possible.

This section shows just a few examples of the extensive number of possible combinations and modes of operation.

Your Spirent representative will be pleased to guide you through the process of selecting the best configuration for

you current and future test requirements.

In the configuration shown in Figure 4, there is a 1RF output chassis with 2 RF Channel Banks, 64 channels, a

feature licence key for GPS/SBAS L1, plus a feature licence key for GPS L2. The system can therefore generate

signals for all the licences simultaneously.

Figure 4 Single output, 2-bank system GPS L1 L2

In the configuration shown in Figure 5, there are 3 RF Channel Banks and 6 feature licence keys.

There is a 1RF output chassis with 3 RF Channel Banks, 96 channels, a feature licence key for GPS/SBAS L1,

Glonass L1, Galileo E1, BeiDou B1, GPS L5 an Galileo E5 plus a feature licence key for GPS L2. The system can

therefore generate signals for all the licences simultaneously.

18 | spirent.com

Spirent GSS9000 Series GNSS Simulation System

Datasheet with Product Specification MS9000 Issue 4-00 PROVISIONAL September 2019

Figure 5 Single output, 3-bank system

In the configuration shown in Figure 6, there are 2 RF outputs, allowing signals for either one vehicle with two

independent antennas or, two independent vehicles with one antenna each, to be simulated.

The configuration has 3 RF Channel Banks per RF output and 2 feature keys for each of the desired constellations.

Therefore, the system can generate the licenced signals simultaneously on both outputs.

Figure 6 2-RF Output, 6-bank system

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In the configuration shown in Figure 7, there are 2 RF outputs, allowing signals for either one vehicle with two

independent antennas or, two independent vehicles with one antenna each, to be simulated.

The configuration has 5 RF Channel Banks per RF output, 320 channels and 2 feature keys for each of the desired

constellations. Therefore, the system can generate the licenced signals simultaneously on both outputs.

Figure 7: 2-RF output, 10-bank, 320-channel system

Optional single-RF combination in a dual-RF system

With a dual-RF GSS9000 system it is possible to generate Differential-GNSS signals for GNSS signal types

simultaneously, as each RF Output can have up to 5 RF Channel Banks behind it. However, for some tests, the

user may wish have all GNSS signal types but from just one RF output.

To support this, an RF Link Cable is provided free-of-charge, for use with Dual-RF Signal Generator Chassis.

When required, the RF Link cable is fitted to the rear of the Signal Generator Chassis and it combines all the

signals associated with RF 2 with those of RF 1 and outputs them all at RF 1. The RF Link Cable can only be used

on Signal Generator Chassis without the Front-Panel high-level ports option fitted, and the use of the cable

prevents access to the High-level port for RF 1 signals.

SimGEN allows the user to select an operating mode which compensates for power level and group delay of the

re-routed signal path.

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Spirent GSS9000 Series GNSS Simulation System

Datasheet with Product Specification MS9000 Issue 4-00 PROVISIONAL September 2019

Detailed Performance Specifications

Table 9 Nominal Signal Levels

System

Carrier

Signal

Level

GPS

C/A

-130.0 dBm

L1c Pilot code

-128.25 dBm

L1c Data code

-133.0 dBm

M Noise

-128.5 dBm

L2c or C/A

-136.0 dBm

M Noise

-132.5 dBm

I, Q

-127.9 dBm

Galileo

E1-A

-125.5 dBm

E1-A PRS Noise

-125.5 dBm

E1-B, E1-C

-128.0 dBm

E6-A

-125.5 dBm

E6-A PRS Noise

-125.5 dBm

E6-B, E6C

-128.0 dBm

E5ab

E5a-I + E5a-Q + E5b-I + E5b-Q

-122.0 dBm

GLONASS

C/A

-131 dBm

C/A

-137 dBm

BeiDou

(1.56109

8 GHz)

B1I

-133 dBm

(1.57542

GHz)

B2I

-133 dBm

(1.20714

GHz)

B1C

-130dBm

(1.17645

GHz)

B2A

-127dBm

(1.26852

GHz)

B3I

-133dBm

QZSS

C/A code

-128.5 dBm

-131 dBm

L1c Data + Pilot

-127 dBm

L2c

-130 dBm

I + Q

-124.9 dBm

Nominal signal power levels as defined by Spirent. Through SimGEN, the user has extensive facilities to adjust these nominal

power levels to meet individual GNSS ICD conditions.

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System

Carrier

Signal

Level

L61/L62

-126.82 dBm

NavIC (IRNSS)

C/A

-130dBm

FLEX

All

User Defined

Table 10 Navigation Messages Types per Constellation

Constellation

Message Type

Applicable Signal

Requirements

Notes

GPS

Legacy

C/A, P, Y

Support for Y code requires

SimCLASS/SimSAAS Option

CNAV

L2c, L5-I

CNAV-2

L1c

MNAV

AES-M, M. MNSA

MNSA-M requires SimMNSA

option.

AES-M requires SimMCODE

option.

M requires SimMCODE and

SDS-M-Code via data server

options

Galileo

I/NAV

E1-B, E5b-I

OS Galileo - Excludes SOL

support

FOC Galileo – Includes SOL

support

F/NAV

E5a-I

OS Galileo - Supported

FOC Galileo - Supported

C/NAV

E6-B

Requires 3

party

PRS[WARE] product

G/NAV

E1-A, E6-A

Requires 3

party

PRS[WARE] product

GLONASS

Public

L1-C/A

There is no data

message on the

GLONASS P-Code

BeiDou

D1 and D2

B1I, B2I

D2 does not include

differential corrections

or Iono grid.

B1C, B2A

Legacy

B3I

SBAS

Data

L1, L5-I

The same message is

broadcast at L1 and L5

for any satellite.

QZSS

QZ-Legacy

L1 C/A, L1 SAIF

QZ-CNAV

L2c, L5-I

QZ-CNAV-2

L1c

NavIc

IRNSS legacy

C/A

FLEX

Standard

All

See Table 11

Default power level setting is for Block II satellites

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Spirent GSS9000 Series GNSS Simulation System

Datasheet with Product Specification MS9000 Issue 4-00 PROVISIONAL September 2019

Table 11 FLEX Option Signal Definitions

Parameter

Value

Units

Codes

Three user-definable codes per SV

Code Assignment

+I, -I, +Q, -Q

Code Definition

User-definable memory codes (primary and

secondary)

Base Chip Rate

1.023

MCps

Chip Rate Multiplier

0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

BOC Rates Multiplier

Integer multiple of Chip Rate

Nominal Signal Level

-123 to -133

dBm

Nav Message

Standard for constellation

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Table 12 Performance Levels for GSS9000 Series

Parameter

Detail

Value

Foot note

RF Signal Level

Carrier Level Control Maximum

+20 dB

Minimum

-40 dB

Resolution

0.1 dB

Linearity +20 dB to -30 dB

<0.10 dB

-30.1 dB to -40 dB

<0.20 dB

Absolute Accuracy

Run to Run Repeatability

±0.5 dB

±0.1 dB

Iteration Rates

Supported SimGEN Simulation Iteration Rates (SIR)

10, 100, 250,

500,1000 Hz

Hardware update rate

1000 Hz

Limit of Signal

Dynamics

Relative Velocity

120,000 m/s

Relative Acceleration

192,600 m/s2

Relative Jerk

890,400 m/s3

Angular Rates (at 1.5 m lever arm)

(indicative) (at 0.05 m lever arm)

>15 rad/s

>60 rad/s

Signal Accuracy

Pseudorange Accuracy

0.3 mm RMS

Pseudorange Bias

0 mm RMS

Deltarange Accuracy

< ±1.0 mm RMS

Inter-carrier Bias

< ±2 ns

1PPS to RF Alignment

< ±2 ns

Spectral Purity

Harmonics

< -40 dBc

In-band Spurious

< -182 dBW

12, 13

Phase Noise (single sideband)

< 0.005 Rad RMS

Signal Stability

Internal 10.00 MHz OCX Oscillator (after warm up)

± 5 x 10-10

per day

Static Multipath

Channels

Fixed path-length delay per path

0 to 1245 m

Resolution (approximately)

2.4 m

Maximum signal level of +20dB is available for up to 16 channels per channel bank. A maximum of +17dB is supported for up to 32 channels

per channel bank

The control range extends to -50 dB, but performance is unspecified below -40 dB.

Operation below -20 dB is primarily to support antenna pattern and multipath functionality.

RSS at 21±5°C, +20 to -30 dB. ±1.5 dB 3-sigma, all conditions.

For 6-DOF data externally supplied via SimREMOTE or from data file

When operating at >=250 Hz SIR

For signal acceleration < 450 m/s

, jerk < 500 m/s

, 1000 Hz SIR

Single Channel Bank – supporting up to 32 channels. When the same signal is generated across multiple Channel Banks the inter channel

bank bias uncertainty is +/-230ps (+/-69mm)

Between any RF carrier.

Between any RF carrier at the output port(s). Applicable for both single and multi-output systems.

For relative velocities <50,000 m/s

In-Band Spurious Bandwidths (relative to centre frequency unless otherwise stated):

GPS: L1 ± 20.5 MHz , L2 ± 20.5 MHz , L5 ± 20.5 MHz

Galileo: E1 ± 20 MHz , E6 ± 20 MHz , E5a ± 25.5 MHz , E5b ± 25.5 MHz

GLONASS: (relative to channel frequency 0) L1 ± 20 MHz , L2 ± 20 MHz

BeiDou: B1/B2 ± 20.5 MHz

Value is typical, integrated over a 1 Hz to 10 kHz bandwidth. Worst case < 0.01 rad RMS.

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Spirent GSS9000 Series GNSS Simulation System

Datasheet with Product Specification MS9000 Issue 4-00 PROVISIONAL September 2019

Table 13 GTx Performance

Parameter

Detail

Value

Foot Note

Signal sources

Per Frequency Band

Frequency Bands

Centre frequency

GPS L1

1.57542 GHz

GPS L2

1.2276 GHz

GPS L5

1.17645 GHz

Galileo E1

1.57542 GHz

Galileo E5

1.17645 GHz

Galileo E6

1.27875 GHz

Glonass L1

1.57542 GHz

Glonass L2

1.2276 GHz

BeiBou B1i

1.561098 GHz

BeiDou B2i

1.20714 GHz

BeiDou B2a

1.17645 GHz

BeiDou B1c

1.57542 GHz

BeiDou B3i

1.26852 GHz

Carrier frequency offset

Independent for each

source

Resolution

± 5 MHz

1 kHz

Power

See ‘RF Signal Level’

BPSK

Power

See ‘RF Signal Level’

Main lobe width: Wide

Band

Narrow Band

20.46 MHz

0.1023 MHz

CW Pulse

Power

See ‘RF Signal Level’

Pulse width

1 to 10000 usec

Pulse repetition interval

range

100 to 10000 usec

Pulse repetition interval

resolution

100 usec

Rise time (10% to 90%)

100 nsec (max)

On/Off ratio

min

30 dB

AWGN

Power

See ‘RF Signal Level’

3dB Bandwidth

0.1, 0.5, 1, 2 10, 20 Mhz

Bandwidth accuracy

+/-5%

Subject to licence

In addition to Doppler caused by vehicle motion. Applies to all signal types

At 100% duty cycle. Average power reduces in proportion to duty cycle.

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Parameter

Detail

Value

Foot Note

FM CW

Power

See ‘RF Signal Level’

FM deviation

±0.01 to ±5 MHz

FM rate

0.5 to 10 kHz

FM rate step size

0.5 kHz

Modulating Waveform

Triangle

Power

See ‘RF Signal Level’

Modulation depth

10 to 90%

Modulation depth step

size

10%

AM rate

0.5 to 10 kHz

Modulating Waveform

Sine

Power

See ‘RF Signal Level’

Modulation deviation

±0 to ±5 Radians

PM rate

0.5 to 10 kHz

Modulating Waveform

Sine

RF Signal Level

Single signal

-60dBm (Max)

Multiple signals

-72dBm (Max)

Minimum level per signal

-117dBm

Linearity, per signal, >-

97dBm

<0.1 dB

Linearity: per signal, > –

107 dBm

<0.2 dB

Linearity: per signal, > –

117 dBm

<0.5 dB

Single signal per channel bank

Per signal, up to 16 signals on the same channel bank

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Spirent GSS9000 Series GNSS Simulation System

Datasheet with Product Specification MS9000 Issue 4-00 PROVISIONAL September 2019

Performance in multi-chassis configurations

There is a practical limit to how much data can be reliably processed by the simulation engine at the

designated simulation iteration rate. There are many factors that can influence the processing capacity of the

simulation system, but in practical terms the main sources are:

• The total number of active channel banks (influenced by the number of antenna outputs in the configuration

and the selected signal types)

• The total number of satellite signals (channel density)

• The volume of data logging enabled and the logging rate

The variety of permutations from these contributing factors is extremely difficult to fully characterise. Instead

Spirent provides guidance based on previously explored cases in order to set a reasonable expectation of

the performance that can be achieved.

For a system with a capability of 256 channels or greater:

• The simulation iteration rate shall be 100Hz

• For a 256-channel system, SimGEN ‘truth’ data logging capability, during real-time scenario playback, must

be limited to bulk logging in binary format OR data-streaming UDP output OR nav data binary dump.

• To access scenario ‘truth’ data from any other source, or to employ two or more sources concurrently,

SimGEN should be run in ‘no hardware mode’.

For a system with more than 256 channels, up to and including 512 channels:

• It will be necessary to strike a balance between the increasing channel density and truth data output by:

o Decreasing the real-time data logging rate; or

o Needing to rely solely on UDP data-streaming; or

o Having to disable real-time logging and rely solely on ‘no hardware mode’ pre/post-processing data

capture.

If these operating criteria present a challenge to the intended test application, and for systems of more than

512 channels, Spirent is pleased to discuss the challenges of each user case and to determine whether an

alternative system architecture might be suitable in those circumstances, via a Tailored Solution.

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Table 14 Signal Generator Connectivity

Port

Type

Parameter

Main RF Port

Output

N-type coax female, 50 Ohm, VSWR <1.2:1

AC coupled ±50 V DC, maximum reverse RF 30 dBm

High Level RF Port

Output

N-type coax female, 50 Ohm, VSWR <1.2:1

AC coupled ±50 V DC, maximum reverse RF 30 dBm

Individual RF Ports

Output

N-type coax female, 50 Ohm, VSWR <1.2:1

AC coupled ±50 V DC, maximum reverse RF 30 dBm

Auxiliary RF

Input

N-type coax female, 50 Ohm, VSWR <1.4:1

0.5 to 2 GHz, Insertion Loss 14.5 dB typical

External Frequency

Standard

Input

BNC coax socket, 50 Ohm

-5 to +10 dBm at 1 MHz, 5 MHz, 10 MHz

Internal Frequency

Standard

Output

BNC coax socket, 50 Ohm

10.00 MHz at +5 dBm nominal

1PPS IN

Input

BNC coax socket, 50 ohm, TTL level compatible

1PPS OUT

Output

BNC coax socket, 50 Ohm, TTL level compatible

Trigger IN

Input

BNC coax socket, 50 ohm, TTL level compatible

PCI Express

Private Bus

Cabled PCIe

Table 15 C50r SimGEN Host Connectivity

Interface

Type

Parameter

PCI Express

Private Bus

Cabled PCIe

USB

I/O

Maximum of 4 spare ports for general file access

Ethernet

I/O

RJ-45 Ethernet interface standard. Used for general network access and

available for remote control

Optional GPIB

I/O

Available for remote control and GSS7765 control

Optional ScramNET

I/O

Available for remote control

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Spirent GSS9000 Series GNSS Simulation System

Datasheet with Product Specification MS9000 Issue 4-00 PROVISIONAL September 2019

Table 16 Physical and Environmental Properties

Part

Parameter

Value

Signal Generator

Approximate Dimensions

(H x W x D)

(19” 4U chassis)

175 mm x 445 mm x 620 mm

6.9” x 17.75” x 24”

Typical Weight

<30 kg (66 lb)

(configuration dependent)

Operating Environment

+10 to +40°C (50 to 104°F)

(40-90% RH, non-condensing)

Storage Environment

-40 to +60°C (-90 to 140°F)

(20-90% RH, non-condensing)

Electrical Power

100-120 V

4.0 A

48 to 66 Hz

220-240 V

2.0 A

48 to 66 Hz

Standard C50r

SimGEN Host

Approximate Dimensions

(H x W x D)

(19” 4U chassis)

177.8 mm x 426.0 mm (482.0 mm with Rack Mount installed) x

600.6 mm (Not including front handles and front bezel door

closed)

7.00” x 16.77” (18.98”) x 23.65”

Weight (excl. peripherals)

<20 kg (44 lb)

System Mean Time

Between

(component) Failure

(MTBF)

2,562,327

Hours (per Bellcore 6)

Table 17 Safety and EMC Compliance

Compliance

Applicable Standard

Safety

Low Voltage Directive (LVD) 2006/95/EC

BS EN 60950-1:2006 Information technology equipment. Safety. General requirements

EMC

EMC Directive 2004/108/EC

EN 61326-1:2006 Electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use. EMC requirements.

General requirements

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Related Brochures, Data Sheets and Specifications

Table 18 Related Product References