Fast Direct-P(Y) GPS Signal Acquisition Using a Special Portable Clock

Abstract : "What goes around comes around," we have heard it said, and it seems that this is the case for precision Portable Clocks as well. Twenty years ago, the only effective way to transfer Universal Coordinated Time (UTC) from one geographic location to another was with a Portable Clock. Since the advent of GPS however, UTC dissemination is done via satellites, virtually eliminating Portable Clocks. But now a new element is looming on the horizon, which may breathe new life into applications of such devices. This relates to the GPS P(Y)-Code, which is the secure military crypto-keyed signal providing what is referred to as the "Precise Positioning Service" (PPS). More specifically, however, is what a Portable Clock can do to enhance the new functionality of the P(Y)-Code signal acquisition called "Direct-P(Y)", in an environment where the civil C/A-Code signal is not available. Direct-P(Y) refers to the ability for the military receiver to come online without the aid of the civil (in the clear) C/A-Code signal. The Portable Clock can play an important role in quick acquisition of the P(Y)-Code signal, a significant crew safety consideration for our soldiers in the field. No matter what the operational scenario may be, the Portable Clock proves to be an invaluable tool for Direct-P(Y) terminals. For those about to enter hostile territory, "no-one should leave home without one."