GPS (Global Positioning System) has quickly become an essential tool for security systems around the world since its inception. Capable of providing accurate location information at all times, GNSS/GPS systems are invaluable to armed forces, governments and other high organizations.

There is, however, a threat of interfering technology, such as GPS jamming. The use of CRPA simulators can mitigate the dangers of GPS jamming. But how much can interference disrupt jamming systems?

A threat to national security

Jammers are radio frequency transmitters capable of disrupting various communication platforms like phone calls, Wi-Fi networks, and GPS technologies.

The United States relies heavily on GPS, using it for different applications, from sea and air navigation to mapping and tracking. This is why the mere possession of a signal jammer is a criminal offense that can cost you up to tens of thousands of dollars and lead to imprisonment.

GPS jammers are also getting much more powerful. Recent tests of a military GPS jammer revealed its ability to render satellite navigations useless. If disruptive technology falls into the wrong hands, we are left with a potential security hole.

A daily nuisance

Many are under the assumption that the use of GPS is exclusive to high profile organizations, but this is far from the truth. GPS also affects your daily life, as new cars and mobile devices often have GPS functionality installed.

Signal jammers have become increasingly common in recent years, which makes them all the more dangerous. So common, in fact, that you can find them for sale on eBay for less than $50. The worst part is that anyone can use these jammers, which puts your own GPS navigation system at risk.

Suppose you are using an app like Google Maps to locate a certain destination, signal interference from GPS jammers can mislead you to another location or even shut down your app completely.

There's also the fact that GPS jammers are easy to use, further increasing their potential danger.

An electronic weapon

Aside from cheap GPS jammers retailed online, a powerful GPS jammer can divert large seagoing vessels away from their intended course.

According to Todd Humphreys, a leading specialist in GPS systems, this may pave the way for a new breed of electronic warfare.

Jam test

Many consider the reception-controlled antenna (CRPA) to be the best pre-correlation protection technique against jamming interference. If you are looking to simulate a clear GPS RF signal wavefront without any interference, our CAST-5000 can help you in this endeavor.

Our CAST-5000 CRPA tester, which you can upgrade for anti-jamming test capability, enables comprehensive antenna system testing while specifying interference levels and signal transition.

GPS improves the capabilities of our government and improves our way of life. It is therefore essential to protect the technology from any interference.