Weird GPS Connection Situation

[wmp]

Hi

I have an electric outboard motor with integrated GPS. It successfully connects to GPS (only uses GPS) satellites quickly at my house in Seattle WA. Problem is I use the outboard 5 hours away in eastern WA state. I cannot get a connection there (tried multiple locations - all with clear unobstructed views of the sky). I have tried everything - power cycling, waiting over 2 hours for a connection, etc. The menu on the outboard shows that the GPS is live, but that 0 satellites are connected. I can't figure out what is going on. Neither can the outboard manufacturer.

I have a Garmin fish finder that also has integrated GPS. When sitting side by side to my outboard it connects right up to GPS (only uses GPS also) satellites... so I know I can see the satellites.

Anyone have any ideas?

 

[Nuvi-Nebie]

It's hard to explain why the outboard GPS won't find satellites in the eastern WA state when the Garmin GPS in the same location will, I would look for other differences (apart from location) between Seattle WA where it works and eastern WA where it doesn't, eg :- temperature or power supply, you may find the unit only works when it is warm or the power supply at home is OK but the 'away' supply is too high / low / noisy

 

[wmp]

Thanks for your thoughts. There isn't any material difference in ambient temperatures in the locations (not at this time of year!). I am using the same battery as the source of power (48V Epoch) in both locations. I am truly baffled, because it just doesn't make sense. I have a GPS antenna/booster on order - I am going to try that out and see if a better antenna and amplified signal solve the problem...

 

[Nuvi-Nebie]

I appreciate the difficulty of testing a GPS that is part of an outboard motor, but It would be interesting to know if it successfully gets a satellite 'fix' in a other location apart from home

 

[wmp]

Understanding the Problem:

Before diving into solutions, it's essential to pinpoint the exact nature of the problem. Are you experiencing:

• Inaccurate location: Your GPS is showing you in the wrong place.
• Slow GPS lock: It takes a long time for your device to acquire GPS satellites.
• Frequent GPS drops: The GPS connection is intermittent.
• GPS signal interference: You suspect something is blocking the GPS signal.

Common Solutions:

1. Check GPS Settings:
   • Ensure GPS is enabled: Go to your device's settings and verify that GPS is turned on.
   • High accuracy mode: For precise location, enable "High accuracy" mode in your location settings. This typically uses GPS, Wi-Fi, and mobile network data for better positioning.
2. Restart Your Device:
   • A simple restart can often resolve temporary software glitches.
3. Clear GPS Cache and Data:
   • Go to your device's app settings, find the GPS app (or a related app like Google Maps), and clear its cache and data. This can help resolve software-related issues.
4. Update Software:
   • Ensure your device's operating system and GPS-related apps are up-to-date. Updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements.
5. Check for Physical Obstructions:
   • If you're indoors or in a densely populated area, physical obstructions like buildings or trees can interfere with GPS signals. Try moving to a more open area.
6. Verify Network Connectivity:
   • GPS can use cellular data or Wi-Fi for assisted GPS (A-GPS). Ensure you have a strong network connection.
7. Check for GPS Interference:
   • Some devices or nearby equipment can interfere with GPS signals. Try moving away from potential sources of interference.
8. Use a GPS Status App:
   • Download a GPS status app to monitor satellite acquisition and signal strength. This can help identify specific issues.
9. Hardware Check (If Necessary):
   • If the problem persists, consider checking for hardware issues, especially if your device has recently been damaged or exposed to moisture.

 

[wmp]

Truly not helpful. You don't think I've done my research and tried the obvious before posting here?