Spirent Introduces Wi-Fi Positioning Test Solution

Spirent has introduced a Wi-Fi Positioning Access Point Simulator to test Wi-Fi positioning capabilities in suitably-enabled devices and chipsets. Wi-Fi positioning can be used in addition to existing location technologies such as A-GPS and Cell ID, to provide subscribers with location information more quickly and in more places.


Spirent's GSS5700 software allows real-world test scenarios, including simultaneous simulation of up to 48 Wi-Fi access points in the lab. This approach greatly reduces the need to conduct large-scale field trials while adding essential capabilities such as full user control and test repeatability. The GSS5700 can be combined with Spirent's GPS and multi-GNSS Simulation Systems to test hybrid Wi-Fi and GPS/GNSS technologies, with the unique ability to simulate motion of a mobile device through environments where both sets of signals are present. The GSS5700 will also integrate with Spirent's 8100 ULTS and C2K-ATS Location Technology Solutions to form part of a complete, integrated solution for testing hybrid location technologies in UMTS and CDMA mobile devices.


Google Maps and Nokia's Ovi Maps, as well as personal electronic devices such as the Apple iPad, are now taking advantage of Wi-Fi positioning.


"The wide availability of signals from Wi-Fi access points lowers the barriers to deploying Wi-Fi positioning, however, effective verification and testing is critical to ensure that the user experience meets the expectations of today's demanding consumer," said Peter Boulton, Chief Technology Officer for Spirent's Positioning Technology Division. "Spirent is uniquely situated to make sure that Wi-Fi implementations work well across a wide range of real-world scenarios, especially those where GPS performance is likely to be compromised".
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