Trimble’s Catalyst software-based positioning service now harnesses the GLONASS positioning constellation. Image courtesy of Trimble.

Trimble has updated its software-based GNSS receiver for Android devices to support the GLONASS constellation. 

Trimble Geospatial’s daring positioning-as-a-service offering has received a major upgrade to receive signals from the GLONASS GNSS satellite constellation, in a move that Trimble says highlights the advantages of a software-based GNSS solution.

The Catalyst product makes consumer devices capable of centimetre-accurate data collection with the addition of a digital antenna ans subscription to the service.

“Adding GLONASS to Trimble Catalyst provides productivity improvements and more robust positioning for Catalyst users,” said Gareth Gibson, Catalyst business development manager at Trimble.

“In addition, since the service is provided via an Android app, performance updates are available through the Google Play store. As a user, receiving updates is easy and automatic.”

Catalyst users should see decreased convergence times in the field, as access to an entire new constellation will improve the ability to maintain lock on the minimum number of satellites when sky visibility is limited or obstructed, such as in urban canyon environments or under tree canopy cover.

Trimble products are distributed in Australia by Ultimate Positioning Group (UPG).